Jain Journal 1978 10

Author(s): Jain Bhawan Publication
Publisher: Jain Bhawan Publication

Page 6

Perspectives of System-Theoretic Technique
in Jaina School of Mathematics
Between 1400-1800 A.D.
L. C. JAIN
Synopsis
The present paper describes the historical and singlehanded attempts made in the Jaina School of Mathematics, isolated from the current drift, during 1400-1800 A.D. They were made towards the formulation and modification of the abstract approach for solving the problems regarding the behaviour and controllability of the systems dealing with the observables and the non-observables. The systems came under the purview of the Karma theory.
The contributors are Nemicandra (c. 16th century A.D.) and Todaramala (c. 1720-1767 A.D.). The contributions are in the form of Sanskrit and Dhundhari commentaries, respectively published round about 1919.
The system-theoretic technique is founded on the set-theoretic approach, gradually developed through symbols with operational details, between the bios and matter, of input, state and output over values and maps. Then it manipulates the phenomena of bonds, subsistence, rise, decay, etc., through changes in configurations, mass-numbers, energylevels and life-times in relation to operations. The technique handles ultimately the phenomena of reachability through controls of bios over its automation, as well as those of annihilation and simultaneous process of realization.
1. Historical Introduction to Source Material
The system-theoretic material owes its origin to two monumental texts of the Sauraseni Jaina scriptures :
(i) The first is the Kaşāya-pähuda Sutta? by Gunadhara (c. 1st century A.D.) consisting of 233 verses. This was produced from the third pāhuda,
1.(a) Gunadhara, Kasaya-pahuda Sutta with Curni Sutra of Yativrsabha, trans. and ed. by Pt. H.L. Jain, Calcutta, 1955.
(b) Jayadhavala commentary of the above from D. Jaina Sangha, Mathura, Vol. 1-13, 1944.