Jain Studies and Science

SR No.: 006923
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Mahaveer Raj Gelada
Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati
Publication Year: 2007
Total Pages: 272
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 6 MB

Page 144

134 / JAIN STUDIES AND SCIENCE
1.1. Significance of Numeral Eight (8)
In above table there is striking importance of numeral eight. We can notice the use of multiples of eight up to the measurement of Angul, after which the units assume different multiples. This must have been done with a definite purpose. If we bifurcate the dimensions, we have a clear demarcation -
1. Measurements before Angul
2. Measurements after Angul
If we put all the pieces of mathematical jigsaw puzzle together, a clear picture emerges. In the Jain canonical texts, geographical extent and relative positions of heavenly bodies (cosmology) are described in the units of Angul and beyond. This indicates that the unit Angul is utilized for linear, single dimensional measurements. Whereas, all the units smaller than Angul are indicative of Volume of the particle as a whole. This is inferred from the fact that the Jain mathematics considers 2 as the smallest number. Numeral 8 is derived from 23. Therefore, increment in the multiples of 8 suggests that the units are indicative of increasing volume. Writing in equation form --
23 = 2 x 2 x 2 = 8
This is clearly a three dimensional measurement. The only possible explanation to this demarcation in units could be that at infinitesimal and minute levels, individual linear dimension has no significance as the particles retain their spherical shapes which can be better described in volume terms rather than length.
1.2. Electron, Proton and Quark
Physicists of the current generation find themselves back at the square one as far as identification of tiniest particle is concerned. Scientists are still puzzled by the behavioural observation of infinitesimally small particles. Initially, an atom was considered as the smallest building block. But, soon electrons, protons and neutrons were discovered. Later on quarks were experimentally detected during the transitional phases but they were not found to exist independently. Recently, a new particle comprising five quarks has been identified by the scientists, which they believe existed since the time of big-bang. However, the tiniest particle is so enigmatic that its discovery still looks elusive.
Jain Literature can provide a helping hand to the modern scientists in this subject. Mahapragya writes that the Sukshma (Nishchay) Pudgal, as