Jaina Epistemology

SR No.: 006738
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Indra Chandra Shastri
Publisher: Parshwanath Vidyapith
Publication Year: 1990
Total Pages: 516
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 21 MB

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Epistemology of Jainas
uoiverse. A person striving for the knowledge of reality may or may not possess the knowledge of the universe; which is as discursive as lower types of knowledge. One has to rise above the stage of omniscience for attaining liberation. But, the path leading to omniscience i. e. the knowledge of universe and that leading to the knowledge of reality is roughly the same in all systems. The person who obtains universal knowledge is not far from perfect knowledge, which he must attain in the same life. Generally, the Indian systems are not particular in describing the way to omniscience but to the knowledge of reality or perfection. The omniscience is gained by the way in the journey of spiritual progress. Omniscience and Buddhism
According to Buddhism, the knowledge of ultimate truth is attained through constant contemplation on the four noble truths. When contemplation reaches the highest and most perfect stage, the aspirant has a most distinct vision; of these truths. It is perceptual and not conceptual. Dharmakirti holds that good and bad qualities of mind can be increased infinitely through practice. Knowledge also is a quality of the mind as compassion, nonattachmeot etc. So, it can be developed to the degree of perception. Omniscience is the development of prajñā which is a quality of mind. Santa Rakṣita maintains that knowledge (prajñā) means the cognition of dharmas. It is incomplete as long as eveo a single dharma remains unknown. It gets perfection when all the dharmas are known.2
Dharmakirti's view is challenged by the Mimā msaka on two issues : firstly, he says, that the practice in a particular act may increase the capacity of the doer, but it is possible within a limit only. A person practising in long jump may increase his capacity by a few feet or yards. But, however high his skill and practice may be, he cannot jump over miles toge1. Nyāyabindu 1. 11. 2. Pramāna Vārtika 1. 132 see also Tattvasamgraha K. 3441-43;
Kandali 196; Saomati tika p. 60