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JAINA THEORY OF SKANDHAS OR MOLECULES
N. L. JAIN* Skandha : Definition of a Specific Term
Primarily, the postulate of two classes of mattergy-anu (atom) and skandha (molecules) based on basic conceptual structure of matter is inost important among the many classifications. The molecules of the current times are now equated to skandhas. They are comparatively gross and perceivable. They could therefore be studied and described in an intelligible way. They are treated first in preference to finest anus or atoms. They are like trunk of a tree supporting the material universe.
The term skandha is a typical and specific term in Jaina philosophy representing a unit of matter different from atoms but composed of them. The scriptures define the term quite clearly with the following points :
(i) Molecules are aggregates or combination of atoms. They are
non-natural modifications dependant on other objects.2 (ii) They are gross and fine in forms. Some of them are visible
to the eye while others may not be visible. (iii) The molecules in the matter are in a state of motion caused
internally or externally. 8 (iv) They can be taken by hand, recieved or bonded with others
and handled as desired.4 (v) There are smaller molecular entities too like those formed from
aggregation of two atoms. They may not be satisfying (iv) above, still by interpolation, they are also called molecules-of
course fine ones,5 (vi) They are characterised by the sound, bonding, division, fineness,
grossness, shape, darkness, shadow, sunshine, moonlight,
motion and touch, tatse, smell and colours etc.8 (vii) There are infinite number of molecules. They can be classified
in many ways. (viii) They are produced by association, dissociation and a mixed
process. The sense perceptible ones are produced by the
mixed process.? (ix) These molecules are supposed to be embodying all characteri
stics of the piece of matter to which they belong. * Jain Kendra, Rewa (M. P.).
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