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
of those virtues. They also cannot be included into the category of an apta. Apta parīkṣā contains 124 kārikās. The kārikās from 87 to 109 discuss the question of omniscience.
(7) Satyaśāsana pariṣa: This is an unpublished work, thought to be the last composition of Vidyananda. It begins with a promise of examining the different monistic systems holding soul, sound, consciousness or mind as the only reality; the systems of Carvaka, Buddha, Sankhya, Yoga, Nyaya, Vaiseṣika, Bhatta Prabhakara, Tattvopaplava and non absolutism; but ends with an incomplete description of Prabhakara. It appears that Vidyananda could not complete the remaining portion. It is one of the most important works on comparative philosophy. Vidyananda has composed it after a ripe experience and balanced views. It is unfortunate that such an excellent work was lying unnoticed so far. Its publication would add a precious jewel to the treasury of not only Jaina but, Indian philosophical literature.
The above mentioned four critiques and the two commentaries are a great asset of Jaina philosophy. We can say that Vidyananda's contribution towards Jaina logic and epistemology is superseded by none.
(8) Śrīpura Pārsvanātha stotra: It is a philosophical eulogy by Vidyananda, like the eulogies of Samantabhadra; containing 30 stanzas.
(9) Vidyananda Mahodaya: It is not available except in references.
ANANTAVIRYA (9th cent.) :
He is known through his commentary on the Siddhiviniścaya. He has made the composition of Akalanka easily accessible. Vidyananda and Anantavirya are regarded as the highest authorities on Akalanka; but there is a lot of difference between the two. The commentary of Vidyananda is not merely an explanation of the original text, it is also new contribution. We can compare him with Vacaspati Miśra in his Bhāmatt on