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Inference
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can lead to a valid inference of probanda which may be positive as well as negative. For the detailed discussion of the problem the reader is referred to consult Pramānanayatattvālokālankāra, 3/54109 and Bhikṣunyāyakarņikā, Appendix 1.
Inferential Limbs or Syllogistic Premises.
The Jaina logicians considered this problem from the standpoint of non-absolutism or relativism as they usually do with regard to all problems of logical importance. As regards the nayas, their view is that they (nayas) should be explained in accordance with the competence of disciples. This is exactly the method followed by them in regard to the use of the limbs of a syllogism. It appears that in ancient times examples occupied a place of importance as is evident from the citation of a large number of instances for the proof of the probandum. The probantia were used for the enlightened and advanced students, 'The words of the jina', says Bhadrabāhu, the reputed author of the Niryuktis, ‘are selfevident truths. But even then for the sake of immature tyros the use of examples was felt necessary. For a mature student the use of probans alone was recommended.''
The said author has mentioned five or ten limbs with regard to the use of syllogistic premises and has given five alternatives of their uses
Two Limbs1. Thesis (pratijña) 2. Example (udāharana)
Three Limbs1. Thesis 2. Probans 3. Examples
Five Limbs1. Thesis 2. Probans 3. Example 4. Application (upanaya, upasamhāra) 5. Conclusion (nigamana)
Ten Limbs1. Thesis
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