________________
Application of Anekāntavāda in Conflict Resolution
139
change. From the point of view of substance, it is permanent and from the point of view of modes, it is changing. Substance and modes are inseparable and complementary. Without one the other does not exist.
The modern scientific view of reality accepts the fact of transformation. Nothing is destroyed; everything is transformed. For instance, a candle burns, but in its process of burning the substance of the candle is not destroyed. It is transformed.
We find transformation of water into a different form of ice, water or of the gases namely hydrogen and oxygen. This view is supported by actual scientific experiments. Water evaporates into vapour that makes clouds and clouds give rains.
Every substance has its modes. For instance, Jiva is a substance but it experiences itself in the empirical world in its various modifications and states in different forms of life. A substance is a substratum of change and changes take place in a substance. Modern science analyses an atom into its three constituents (1) Neutron which is its central and focal point, (2) electron which is moving with a velocity and (3) proton which is non-moving. Einstein's theory of Relativity expresses the spirit of Anekānta vāda.
The law of multi-dynamic vision may be put to great practical use. The goodness or badness of a decision, of a social order, of an institutional organisation, of a matter of belief etc. may also be judged by a comprehensive view of reality.
The history of the world is at many places blackened by horrible wars fought in the name of religion. Those who began the religious wars fought very obstinately and very often sacrificed their own lives were not necessarily bad people. In fact, they were sincere in their decision and undertakings and they had the rare virtue of courage of their convictions. What led them to do these dreadful acts in the name of religion, were not their selfish aiming for personal gains or other material benefits. It was a grievous mistake and an error of judgements on their part to decide on wars. It was their commission to take into consideration the other side of the whole matter. They were honest and sincere in their beliefs about a point in their religion but
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
