Jaganmohanlal Pandita Sadhuwad Granth

Author(s): Sudarshanlal Jain
Publisher: Jaganmohanlal Shastri Sadhuwad Samiti Jabalpur

Page 387

Jain Theory of Skandhas or Molecules
N. L. JAIN Jain Kendra, Rewa (M.P.)
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 most important among the many classifications. The molecules of the current times are now equated to skandhas. They are comparatively gross and percievable. 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 : (1) Molecules are aggregates or combination of atoms.1 They are nonnatural modifications
dependant on other objects." (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. (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 ara 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, taste. smell and color etc.6 (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
percep tible ones are produced by the mixed process.? 1. Kundkund, Acharya; Panchartikaya, Bhartiya Gyansith, Delhi, 1975, p. 65-70 2. Ibid; Niyamsara, Jain Publishing House, Lucknow, 1931, p. 15 3. Nemchand, Chakravarti; Gommatsar Jivkanda, Raichand Granthmala, Agas, 1972,
p. 267 4. Jain, S. A.; Reality, Vir Shasan Sangha, Calcutta, 1960, p. 151-54 5-7. ibid, p. 150, 51, 54