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Non-absolutistic Heritage of Bhagavana Mahavira 201
therefore, to explore a scheme of linguistic symbols (Vacanvinyasa) for model judgements representing alternative standpoints (Nayas). A Naya in an alter-'viewpoint'1 a way of approach or particular opinion (abhipraya) or viewpoint (apekşṣā) about an object as an event. This philosophy of standpoints bears the same relation to philosophy as logic does to thought or grammar to language. We cannot affirm or deny anything absolutely of any object owing to the endless complexity of things. Every statement of a thing, therefore, is bound to be one-sided and incomplete. Hence, the Doctrine of Seven-fold Predication (Saptabhangi)2 is the logical consummation of the doctrine of relative standpoints (Syadvada) which synthesize the different points of view. If we insist on absolute predication without conditions (Syat), the only course open is to dismiss either the diversity or the identity as a mere metaphysical fiction. Every single standpoint designated in every statement has a partial truth. Different aspects of reality can be considered from different perspectives ( Nikṣepa )4. Thus Naya the analytic and the Saptabhangi is the synthetic method of studying ontological problems. In the forms of statements, this doctrine insists on the co-relation of affirmation and negation. All judgements are double-edged in their character. All
1. Nyāyāvatāra of Siddhasena Divakara, Śloka-29; Laghiyastraya, Śloka-42; Syadvada-mañjari, Śloka-28; Parīkṣāmukham of Manikyanandi, Verse-19; Apta-mīmāinsă, K. 106.
2. Naya-karpikā of Vinaya Vijaya, K. 22; Saptabhangi Naya of Mannomala Jaina (Introduction ); Tatia, N. M.: Studies in Jaina Philosophy, p. 198.
3. Jacobi calls Syādvāda a synonym of Jainism, Vide of Religion and Ethics, Vol. VII, p. 465; Scriptural knowledge of the Jainas are also called Syadvāda-śruta, vide Apta-mimämisă of Samantabhadra, K. 105.
4. Tattvärtha-sutra, I. S.
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