Karma as subtle substance

What it is: In Jainism, karma is not only an abstract moral law, but a subtle substance that binds to the soul because of passions and actions.

How the tradition understands it: Karma obscures knowledge and keeps the soul bound to the cycle of rebirths. For this reason, ethics, asceticism, and discipline are means to prevent new accumulation and to eliminate old karmas.

Textual basis and context: This doctrine strongly distinguishes Jainism from other Indian traditions by materializing the karmic process in a particular way.

Debates and variations: There are complex technical classifications of types of karma, their effects, and their duration.

Supportive

Tattvartha Sutra 8.1

jainism,karma,soul,tattvartha-sutra

Karmic influx into the soul.

Reference: Tattvartha Sutra 8.1.
Content: The text introduces the theme of the influx of karma and its bond with the soul.
Use in debate: It is central to the Jain doctrine of karma as a reality that affects the soul.

Tattvartha Sutra 8.2

jainism,karma,passions,ethics

Actions and passions as causes of karmic bondage.

Reference: Tattvartha Sutra 8.2 and its context.
Content: The text links passions and activity to karmic bondage.
Use in debate: It clarifies the ethical structure of the doctrine of karma.

Neutral

Samayasara

jainism,samayasara,jiva,moksha

An important work on the nature of the soul and liberation.

Reference: Kundakunda, Samayasara.
Content: The work discusses the essence of the soul and the discernment between true being and karmic bonds.
Use in debate: It is important for doctrines of jiva and moksha, especially in the Digambara tradition.