First Steps to Jainism Part 2

Author(s): Sancheti Asso Lal, Manakmal Bhandari
Publisher: Sancheti Trust Jodhpur

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First Steps to Jainism
sophic methodology and like anekantavad has been subject of favourable comment as also of criticism.
29. As has been stated above reality has manifold aspects, which, for obvious reason of limitation of speech, cannot be described fully and simultaneously. Any statement is therefore likely to contravene or contradict the principle of Anekantvad and therefore, can become false unless the speech is properly qualified, at the same time embracing all points of view. To ensure such qualification the particle 'Syat' is used with each of the statements or predications which are seven in number. As such it is called the Doctrine of Sevenfold Predicates (Sapt-Bhangi) and Syadvad. Before taking up the discussions of this doctrine, it may be mentioned that while Anekantavad relies on Nayavad-doctrine of standpoints in the sphere of thought; in the field of speech, it depends upon Sapıhbhangi and Syadvad. However, both the doctrines are manifestations of the non-onesided or Anekanta doctrine and have been called its two wings. At the same time they are closely inter-related as the former (naya) find expression in the later (Saptbhangi and Syadvad) and the latter has close reference to to the former.
30. What is Saptabhangi or doctrine of Sevenfold Predication ?
It is well known that according to different systems of logic, dialectic propositions of philosophic importance are subjected to different formulations to ascertain the correct actual position. This is done by raising a group of questions and answering them. These are five fold formula of Sanjay and fourfold alternatives of Buddhist. The Ajivakas declared that every thing is of triple character viz. (i) existent or “Is” (ii) non-existant or "Is not" and existent as well as nonexistent or "Is” as well as “Is not". Similar mention of reference to three predicates is said to exist in Bhagwati Sutra of the Jains, which later developed into sevenfold predications. These are not clearly mentioned in Tatvarth Sutra but are mentioned in Panchasti Kaya by Kundkundacharya.
31. These seven predicates are : A substance (i) Asti=Is-exists, (ii) Nasti=Is not-does not exist. (iii) Asti-Nasti= Is and is not exists and does not exist, (iv) Avaktavya=-In-expressible-- Is in-expressible