________________ The concept of Paryaya : Its Ethico-Spiritual Significance Kokila H. Shah Jainism is a system of thought built on the strong foundations of Metaphysics. It is one of the oldest religious traditions of India. 'Its rationalistic metaphysics and value-oriented ethics are intrinsically connected. To a seeker after truth, Jaina philosophy offers a satisfactory solution to many problems. The concept of Paryaya is peculiar to Jainism. Paryaya in Jainism is a technical term which means mode of existence or modification of substance. Appearance, disappearance, origination and decay, becoming or difference can be said to be equivalents of the term Paryaya. The problem of substance has long fascinated scholars of Philosophy. Substance is a dynamic entity which possesses qualities and modes according to Jaina metaphysics. The doctrine of reality and substance leads to the consideration of the concept of Paryaya which has special significance in Jaina thought. The term dravaya according to the Jaina Metaphysics denotes any real that is changing though persistent. Dravya is dynamic having 'permanent substantiality which manifests itself though change of appearance and disappearance. The thing itself has enduring character in spite of changes. It is said that "reality or existence possesses origination, decay and permanence."1 Paryaya implies change. The trinity of origination; cessation and permanence are the fundamental basis of the Real. This subtle concept of Paryaya must be understood in the context of the concept of substance.
