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JUDGMENT
one, many, identical, different and the like. It possesses infinite attributes. These attributes or characteristics (dharmas) are not conceptual but they really exist in the object. The term 'anekānta' indicates the ontological nature of reality, according to which every object possesses infinite aspects. When we speak of a particular aspect, we have to use the word 'syāt', i.e., from a particular point of view or as related to this aspect, this object is such and not otherwise. As for instance, when we speak of the aspect of existence of a pot, we choose the 'existence' aspect of that pot which possesses many other aspects as well. We make a statement about the aspect of existence, i.e., in relation to the aspect of existence, the pot exists. Take another example: Mohan is a father, brother, uncle etc. according to various relations. He is the father of his son, the brother of his brother and so on. When his son calls him, he uses the word 'father.' Now, Mohan possesses many aspects like those of father, brother etc. In relation to his son, he is father. Thus, Mohan is a father as related to his son, i.e., relatively Mohan is a father. Hence, 'Syādvāda', i.e., the theory of the relativity of propositions is the theory of the relativity of judgment. When an object, which is anekäntätmaka (possessing many characteristics), is expressed in a particular form of judgment, the expression is known as Syādvāda. We can express the characteristics of an object from different points of view and these points of view are expressed by the word 'syat'. As it is said: 'The judgment about an object possessing many characteristics is called 'Syadvāda'.'
The theory of 'Syādvāda' is also called 'Anekāntavāda,' because the relativity of judgment is nothing but a relative judgment about an object that possesses infinite aspects or qualities. In other words, the relative judgment is not possible unless the object for which that judgment stands is anekāntātmaka. Hence, the judgment that stands for an object
Laghiyastraya-ṭīkā,
1. Anekāntātmakärthakathanam syādvādaḥ
62.
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