________________
[ 49 ]
advancement consists in both being right and consistent.
Coming back to the question of the first beginnings of philosophy, we say that primitive systems, in search of reality; are satisfied when they postulate a simple substance for the explanation of the complexity of the universe. This kind of reflection, though primitive, is an improvement on the spirit of conquest, devastation, and extirpation Centuries of peace, industry and reflection develop better culture and higher civilization. The history of all nations bears ample testimony to this fact. India is no exception to this rule.
In orthodox Hindu philosophy, the search for the First cause is recommended, because it is supposed to land us in the realm of reality, the idea being that effects are unreal, and the true reality is the First cause." The reality which, being indescribable, is always mentioned in the Upanishads as it. (Tat), is Brahmin; material manifestations being but shadows of the Eternal Ens, clothed in name and form (Maya-illusion)." Hence, to realise that I am and always have been Brahma is the summum bonum. The Jain view is that the “realization" of the Primal substance, Shree Sudharmaswami Gyanbhandar-Umara, Surat www.umaragyanbhandar.com
