Lord Mahavira and His Teachings

Author(s): Vallabhsuri Smarak Nidhi
Publisher: Vallabhsuri Smarak Nidhi

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Lord Mahavira and His Teachings
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given topic. To meet this situation, Jaimist has presented to the world two significant instruments of understanding and expression: one is the Nayavada and the other, Syadvada. The Nayavada enables one to analyse the various points of view and appraises their relative validity: it is a remarkable method for the analytical comprehension of a complex question. Naya is a particular approach. It reveals a partial or a particular view of the totality, and it should not be mistaken for the whole. A synthesis of these different viewpoints is an imperative necessity; therein every view point must retain its relative position; and this need is fulfilled by Syadvada. One can say 'yes,' or say 'no' or even express one's inability to state anything: these three basic statements, when combined, can give rise to seven predications which are qualified by the term "syat or may be,! indicating the limits of understanding and expression. Syadvada, in course of the process of assertion or denial curbs down and harmonises the absolute view points of individual · Nayas. "Syadvada,” says Professor A. B. Dhruvá, "is not a doctrine of speculative interest, one intended to solve a mere ontological problem, but has a bearing upon man's physiological and spiritual life." It has supplied the philosopher with catholicity of thought, convincing him that Truth' is not anybody's monopoly with tarif walls of denominational religion, while furnishing the religious aspirant with the virtue of intellectual toleration which is a part of that Ahimsa which is one of the fundamental tenets of Jainism."
"Harian "beings have limited knowledge and inadequate expression. That is why different doctrines