Discuss the concept of karma and rebirth in Jainism.

In Jainism, the concept of karma and rebirth plays a significant role in understanding the cycle of life and achieving spiritual liberation. Karma refers to the consequences of one's actions, both physical and mental, which accumulate and determine the quality of one's future existence. It is believed that every action, intention, and thought leaves an imprint on the soul, known as karma particles.

According to Jainism, the ultimate goal is to break free from the cycle of birth and death, known as samsara, and attain liberation, called moksha. Rebirth is seen as a result of accumulated karma, where the soul transmigrates into a new physical body after death. This cycle continues until the soul achieves spiritual purification and liberation.

Jainism emphasizes the importance of leading a righteous and ethical life to minimize the accumulation of negative karma. The practice of non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-attachment (aparigraha) are essential in reducing the karmic bondage.

Jains believe that the quality of rebirth is determined by the nature and intensity of one's karma. Good actions lead to a higher birth in a heavenly realm, while bad actions result in a lower birth in a hellish or animal realm. However, even a heavenly birth is considered temporary and subject to suffering, as it is still within the cycle of samsara.

To attain liberation, Jains practice intense asceticism, self-discipline, and meditation. By purifying the soul from all karmic particles, one can break free from the cycle of rebirth and achieve moksha, which is the ultimate goal of Jainism.