Jain Theism

SR No.: 006509
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Hemant Shah
Publisher: Hemant Shah
Publication Year: 1997
Total Pages: 218
Language: English
Classification: Book_English, Philosophy, & Religion
File Size: 10 MB

Page 90

71
Jain Logic 3.3.7 Theistic Implication of Syādvāda
Syādvāda inspite of its vital importance as a solution to metaphysical and epistemological problems, has great significance to the moral life of a Jain. In fact Jain logic is not simply a mental or intellectual exercise. It leads to a way of life, to an approach to reality which would be conducive to the ultimate aim of life. The spiritual of this approach, however, guards him at all times from extreme viewpoints, especially illusionism (māyāvāda, the basis of many Hindu sects), determinism (Niyativāda, in which Jair. includes all forms of theism) and annihilationism (Ucchedavāda, best represented by modern materialism"72 A person, having an Anekānta outlook, remains away from the extremes. This leads him to be sober and considerate towards others even if they do not agree or corelate. To consider temporary as permanent, false as true, and vice as virtue is extreme. It leads a person to a life of dogmatic cruelty and vices. The theistic implication of Syādvāda ir that he is saved from such extremes if he practices Anekāntavāda mentally, physically and vocally.
One of the theistic implications of Syıdvāda, as observed, is the tolerance it brings to one who adopts it. Dr. Rajendra Prasad says, "it consists of catholic views along with the capability to appreiate others' approaches to reality73 Thus Syādvāda of Jains has been the greatest fosterer of mutual toleration. Morever, one who follows the Jain concept of Anekāntavāda” will have the spirit to discriminate between right and wrong in his own and in the opposite views and try to work for a greater synthesis"74 Thus the spirit to understand the other and other's standpoint and to learn to tolerate the conflicting or contrary situation helps a lot towards the higher development of right conduct (Symyak Cāritra). It broadens the mind and makes person quite objective and open in his thinking. Such a person. like Jain monks, read extensively the treatises of other schools. It proves to be a good training to identify extreme views and to apply the proper corrections."75 Thus here also, we find Syādvāda a great help towards right knowledge ( Samyak jñāna), and right conduct. The first one is not possible without the rest two. Syādvāda by moulding a person towards better conduct and higher knowledge, proves to be of great theistic significance. 72. P. S. Jaini, Jain path of Purification (1979) p. 96 73. Dr, I P. Jain, Religion and Culture of the Jains (1977) p. 72 74. Ibid., P. 71 75. P. S. Jaini, The Jain Path of Purification (1979) p. 96