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## Chapter One: The Meaning of Tattvartha
**112 (12)**
The meaning of the word "Tattvartha" is established as follows: "Tattvena arthaḥ tattvarthaḥ" (Tattvartha is the meaning of the truth). Alternatively, it can be understood as "bhaavena bhaavavato'bhidhaanam" (the expression of the essence through the essence itself), as the essence is inseparable from the essence. Therefore, "tattvameva arthaḥ tattvarthaḥ" (the truth itself is the meaning of the truth).
The faith in Tattvartha is called "Tattvartha-shraddhaan" and it is to be understood as "samyag-darshan" (right perception). The Tattvartha, which will be discussed further, includes the soul (jiva) and other entities.
**11.**
**Doubt:** Since the word "darshan" is derived from the root "drish" which means "light," how can it be used to denote faith?
**Resolution:** Roots have multiple meanings. Therefore, there is no fault in interpreting the root "drish" as "shraddhaan" (faith).
**Doubt:** Why is the common meaning of "drish" (light) abandoned here?
**Resolution:** Because this is a discussion of the path to liberation (moksha). Faith in Tattvartha is a transformation of the soul and is considered a means to liberation, as it is found only in the worthy souls (bhavyas). Light, however, is caused by the eyes and other senses, and is common to all beings in the cycle of birth and death. Therefore, it is not appropriate to consider it as the path to liberation.
**12.**
**Doubt:** Would it be sufficient to simply say "artha-shraddhaan" (faith in meaning) in the sutra?
**Resolution:** This would lead to the inclusion of all meanings of the word "artha," such as wealth, purpose, and object of expression, which is not appropriate. Therefore, the sutra does not simply say "artha-shraddhaan."
**Doubt:** Should we then only accept "tattva-shraddhaan" (faith in truth)?
**Resolution:** This would lead to the inclusion of only the essence. Some (Vaisheshikas) interpret the word "tattva" as encompassing existence, substance, quality, and action. If the sutra were to only say "tattva-shraddhaan," it would imply that faith in all these aspects constitutes right perception, which is not correct. Alternatively, the word "tattva" can be interpreted as signifying oneness. In this case, the sutra would imply that accepting everything as one is right perception. Some have even argued that "purusha eva idam sarvam" (the soul is everything). However, this contradicts both perception and inference. Therefore, to avoid these contradictions, the sutra uses both "tattva" and "artha."
Right perception is of two types: **saraga samyag-darshan** (right perception with attachment) and **vitaraaga samyag-darshan** (right perception without attachment). The first is characterized by calmness, emotions,