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Jain Theory of Skandhas or Molecules
N. L. JAIN
Skandha : Definition of a Specific Term
Primarily, the postulate of two classes of matter 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 perceivable. 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 :
(i) Molecules are aggregates or combination of atoms. They
are non-natural modifications dependant on other objects.2
(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, received or bonded with others
and handled as desired.
(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 are also called moleculesof course fine ones.5
1 Kundakundacarya ; Pancastikaya, Bharatiya Gyanpith, Delhi, 1975, pp. 65-70. 2 Kundakundacarya ; Niyamasara, Jain Publishing House, Lucknow, 1931, p. 15,
Nemicandra Cakravarti, Gommatasara-Jivakanda, Raichand Jain Granthamala,
Agas, 1972, p. 267. 4 Jain, S. A., Reality, Vir Sasan Sangha, Calcutta, 1960, p. 151-54. 5-7 Ibid., pp. 150, 51, 54.
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