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What is moksha
Moksha in Jainism is the complete liberation of the soul (jiva) from the cycle of birth and death (samsara). It means the end of all karmic bondage and the soul living in its true nature forever.
Key points:
- What it is: a state of perfect freedom, where the soul has infinite knowledge, perception, bliss, and energy (kevala jnana, kevala darshan, anant sukha, anant virya).
- Where it is: the liberated soul rises to Siddhashila, the highest realm at the top of the universe, and remains there as a siddha.
- How it is attained: by shedding all karma through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct (the Ratnatraya: samyak darshan, samyak jnana, samyak charitra) and by living with non-violence, truth, non-attachment, and disciplined vows.
- Important nuance: Moksha and Nirvana are often used as synonyms in Jain texts; the liberated soul is called siddha. There are differences in emphasis between Digambara and Shwetambara traditions, but both agree that moksha is the ultimate goal and the end of rebirth.
