Tattvartha Sutra: 08 Bondage Of Karma - The Cause Of Transmigration

We have examined in chapter six how Karma is acquired. That acquisition results in bondage. This chapter explains how the bondage of Karma occurs and describes the categories, duration, intensity and plenitude thereof. When one makes out that he has been wandering in the worldly life by virtue of the bondage, he would be inclined to figure out what causes that bondage. If he deeply thinks over that, he can make out that internal defilement, which is known as Kashāy and unduly exercising of mind, speech and body, which is termed as Yog are the main causes of bondage. The degree of Kashāy determines the duration and intensity of bondage, while Yog determines its categories and plenitude. Wrong perception leads to ignorance of the Self and the absence of restraints gives rise to Kashāy. As such, wrong perception, absence of restraints, defilement and undue exercise of the faculties are the main factors that cause the bondage of Karma.