Which of the following statements is/are applicable to Jain doctrine? 1. The surest way of annihilating Karma is to practice penance. 2. Every object, even the smallest particle has a soul. 3. Karma is the bane of the soul and must be ended. Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

Jain doctrine is centered on the relationship between the soul (jiva) and matter (ajiva). Statement 1 is correct as Jainism teaches that the cycle of birth and rebirth is shaped by karma, and practicing penance (tapas) and asceticism is the essential way to annihilate accumulated karmic matter [2]. Statement 2 is correct because Jain philosophy asserts that every object, including plants and microscopic organisms, possesses a soul. Statement 3 is correct as karma is viewed as a physical substance or 'bane' that attaches to the soul, obscuring its purity and binding it to the cycle of misery; thus, it must be exhausted to achieve liberation [1]. The process of shedding this karma (Nirjara) through austerities is fundamental to attaining moksha. Therefore, all three statements accurately reflect Jain theological principles.

Sources

1. [1] History , class XI (Tamilnadu state board 2024 ed.) > Chapter 3: Rise of Territorial Kingdoms and New Religious Sects > Tenets of Jainism > p. 40
2. [2] THEMES IN INDIAN HISTORY PART I, History CLASS XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings > 3.Beyond Worldly Pleasures The Message of Mahavira > p. 88