Jain Theism

Author(s): Hemant Shah
Publisher: Hemant Shah

Page 66

CHAPTER - 3
JAIN LOGIC 3.1 WARRENT OF JAIN LOGIC 3.1.1 Introduction
Logic, as understood by us all, in its most popular term, broadly means the study of the structure and principles of reasoning or of sound argument. In West, it refers to the above meaning, as well as to certain other meanings all related to different meaning of 'logos' a Greek word. An equivalent to logic in Indian philosophy is Nyāya' or “Pramāņa-Mimāmsā' both in meaning and scope much wider than what it stands in the Western sense.
Logic, as one of the branches of philosophy, enjoys a very important status. But then, as we all know, the 'togetherness of philosophy and religion is a peculiar characteristic of Indian philosophy logic becomes of prime importance, in Indian philosophy, to both philosophy and religion. The knowledge of logic is a must for one who wants to understand the religion and its philosophy.
Moreover, all the systems of Indian philosophy, except Carvaka, believe in the concept of Moksa or liberation. “It has been held by all the systems that no liberation is possible without knowledge"? Thus the theory of knowledge, which includes its conception, sources and classification, becomes an independent branch of philosophy or a Sastra or a Mimānsā. Some scholars consider 'logic' a part of epistemology also. Whatever the case be but its importance and history both are since ancient period.
What is most remarkable to note about logic in Indian philosophy, and also true for Jain logic, is that unlike the West it is "not only as the lump of ali sciences but also helpful to practical affairs and the sustaining principles of Dharma. It is this faith of the Indian mind that logic, when divorced from life becomes barren and useless. After all, logic is not an end in intselt but a means for this ideal life.''?
With reference to Jainism the Jain logic is warranted for a 1. Rute Jõānan Mukti. Rg-Veda. 2. Ramji Singh, The Jain Cencept of Omniscience p-137