Jain Journal 1980 10

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

Page 34

72
Thus the total number of combinations is seven,2 viz. (i) being, (ii) non-being, (iii) inexpressibility, (iv) being and non-being, (v) nonbeing and inexpressibility, (vi) inexpressibility and being (vii) being, nonbeing and inexpressibility.
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Similarly the seven predicates of non-violence through mind, speech and body can be generated. Under given conditions the law of combination holds equally good for the doctrine of twenty-seven-fold predicates etc. The law of combination can also be easily applied on the classification of pudgalas based on their characteristics like colour, touch, smell, etc. Such an idea gives a clue to the fact that mathematical formulation is implied in the development of Jaina philosophical concepts. Professor L. C. Jain has also revealed several factors determining the mathematical foundations of Jaina karma theory which have paved the way for further developments in this field. It is, in fact, emphasized that mathematical and astronomical approaches should be encouraged in the field of Jaina studies which can lead to the better understanding of Jaina philosophical concepts. In ancient times, de facto, mathematics and astronomy formed part and parcel of Jaina philosophy which was a necessary accomplishment on the part of a Jaina priest who was to regulate the religious mode of life.
It may, however, be worthy of note that philosophical approach should be adopted in order to trace the development of a particular mathematical notion as implied in the philosophical concepts. As for
2 For philosophical details, see Tatia, Nathmal (1975), Jaina Philosophy. Second chapter in Jainism, edited by Gurbachan Singh Talib, Punjabi University, Patiala.
For more details about the evolution of the doctrine of multifold predicates in Jaina Philosophy, see, Malvaniya, Pt. Dalsukh (1966), Agam Yug-ka Jain Darsan (in Hindi), pp. 93-114, Sanmati Gyanpith, Agra.
4 See Bhagavati Sutra (BS). The BS is an encyclopaedic work and fifth Anga (limb) of Jaina canonical literature of the present recension which is ascribed to the Council of Valabhi under the presidency of Devarddhigani (fifth-sixth century A.D.) For more details, see Lishk, S. S. and Sharma, S.D. (1977), 'Sources of Jaina Astronomy', The Jaina Antiquary, Vol. 29, No. 1-2, pp. 19-32.
5 Professor L. C. Jain has produced several research papers including:
(i) 'Mathematical foundations of Karma: Quantum System Theory', Anusandhan Patrika, Oct.-Dec., 1973, pp. 1-19. (Ladnun).
(ii) Mathematical Foundations of Jaina Karma System', Bhagwan Mahavir
and His Relevance in Modern Times (1976), pp. 132-150 (Bikaner).
(iii) Vartaman Sandarbh-men Karmon-ke Prabhav: Ksetron Sambandhi
Jain Ganit', Paper read at Seminar, Magadh University, Gaya (1974). (iv) Certain Basic Concepts of Jaina Philosophy needed for Mathematical Studies. (in the press)