Concept of Matter in Jaina Philosophy

SR No.: 001663
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: J C Sikdar
Publisher: P V Research Institute Varanasi
Publication Year: 1987
Total Pages: 412
Language: English
Classification: Book_English, Philosophy, & Physics
File Size: 23 MB

Page 20

Preface
the views of the physical science on them by making a comparative analysis of them with those of Matter as conceived by other Indian systems of thought. Properties are the characteristic qualities of Matter. Colour, taste, smell and touch are general qualities inherent in atom as well as molecule. Certain physical properties are stated to be possessed by molecules only, such as, grossness, shape, weight, divisibility, porosity, compressibility, density, elasticity, etc. Cohesiveness (attractive force) and dryness (repulsive force) impenetrability and extension are the common properties belonging to both atoms and molecules. Besides, Matter is possessed of the nature of mobility and immobility. Motion of a material body is determined by its successive positions in time. There takes place oscillation in atoms and molecules, and their motion occurs along with a straight line as well as a curved line. There take place uniform horizontal and vertical motions of free fall and translatory, curvilinear, rotatory and complex motions of Matter.
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The sixth chapter makes a study of the effects and modifications of Matter in the light of the views of the physical sciences on them in comparison with those of other Indian philosophies regarding them. Matter exists in Nature occupying some volume in perceptible and imperceptible conditions in various forms of effects and modifications within the sensuous and supersensuous experiences. Its effects are stated to be earth, water, fire, air, vegetation and bodies of mobile beings, body, organs of speech, mind and respiration, while its modifications manifest themselves as sound, combination, fineness, grossness, shape, division, darkness, shadow, heat, light, etc. Modification belongs to both substance and its quality (dravya and guna). There are stated to be infinite modifications of Matter from the points of view of substance, state, immersion, duration and quality-colour, taste, smell and touch, etc.
A study of the modifications of Matter from these standpoints appear to be thought-provoking when compared to the