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84 / JAIN STUDIES AND SCIENCE
example, a train running at 60 km/hr with respect to a stationary observer will appear to be running at 40km/hr to an observer moving at 20km/hr in same direction and at 80km/hr to an observer moving at 20km/hr in opposite direction. Similarly, it was believed that the speed of light (by means of which we observe) will have different measures for observers moving at different speeds in different directions.
After -
Speed of light is considered absolute now, which means speed of light will be measured to be the same (3x108 metre/second) irrespective of speeds and directions of different observers. This was proved by Michelson-Morley. This singular observation changed the concept of time once and for all - from being absolute to being relative. Science has put a limit to the speed of any object as less than or equal to that of speed of light. According to Einstein's equation of E=mc2 only nearly massless particles can attain speed of light with negligible energy. Even slightest mass in the particle will require enormous energy to move at the speed of light because the value of 'c' is very high (3x108 metre/second).
According to Einstein, space and time together create a static screen or frame. This means that any event can be described in terms of three space and one time co-ordinate. When such a four co-ordinate description is given, the inherent to it is a zero position with reference to which the co-ordinates are measured. In case of time, since the observer constantly adjusts the zero to the ‘Present', two directions of past and future are created. This is similar to having positive and negative x, y and z axes. Omniscience is all about knowing the absolute zero co-ordinates of time and space, the great theoretical physicist Professor Hawking calls it 'Singularity'. Mahapragya states that we have divided time in three parts or periods - past, present and future but time is indivisible or eternal if perceived from absolute zero position. All these three great, personalities, while describing the ultimate knowledge (Keval Gyan), agree to the fact that time can be accessed both ways provided the 'speed of perception' breaks the barrier of speed of light. Keval Gyan -
Omniscience is a well accepted Jain doctrine. Omniscient spirit is believed to possess infinite, complete and pure knowledge. The knowledge of Keval Gyani transcends all barriers of time, space, matter and energy. His knowledge is spiritual and not sensory. Arhats know entire lok and Alok, i.e. the universe, mattereals (dravya) and all their properties.
A perplexing question, therefore, always arises. How is it that an
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