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Saptabhangi
181
decipher whether the difference is of the nature of mutual contradiction. If it is not so, we have to examine as to how there is absence of contradiction in the apparent contradiction. To state in other words, the origin of this Saptabhangi lies in this, When, in case of a matter under description, differences in view are visible in matters of dharma, the differences should be co-ordinated with proper modes of proof and due justice should be given to these views by arranging the genuine views in proper order.
The Fuoction of Saptabhangi-repudiation of contradictions
Let us take one example. There is difference of opinion with regard to the eternality of the substance that is Ātman, Some take it to be eternal, others refuse to look upon it as such. Again others state that it is a substance far beyond the pale of words, In this way, three views are known with regard to Ātman. We have therefore to think on these lines. Is it only eternal and its non-eternality is devoid of proof ? Is it, again, only non-eternal and its eternality is bereft of proof ? Or, instead of knowing it as eternal or non-eternal, will it be proper to designate it as just indescribable ? As we examine these three optional views, we must remove their mutual contradictions if all the three are correct, We cannot claim the unity of mutual contradictions in one till opposition persis13. The Saptabhangi therefore diverts its attention first and foremost to the repudiation of opposition. It settles that Ātmā is eternal but not in absolute perspective. It is eternal from the point of view of fundamental reality. This is because it would not be correct to state that this fundamental Reality was not ever-existent and was born later. It is therefore eternal as beginningless and that is precisely its eternity. Again, it is nop-eternal too, but its state of being non-eternal is not from the point of view of fundamental Reality, but from the point of view of its states. States continue to change every time following circumstances. It is not possible even to imagine of an element that has no transformation whatsoever, in which the difference in states does not persist in continuum. That is the reason why we bave to believe in
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