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(140) : Nandanavana
(iii) Atomic Theory of Jainas
Basham seems to be more realistic in attributing theory of atomic origin to Pakudha Kaccāyana and Ajīvikas. The other systems seem to develop it later. However, it is generally agreed that there has been independent development of atomic theory in the east and the west.
Bhagavati and Niyamasāra are most important in giving many details of Jaina atomic concepts. An atom is supposed to be nonliving, basic, eternal, real and finest constituent of mattergy with the qualities of indivisibility, impenetratability, incombustibility and sense imperceptibility. Its existence is proved by its effects. It is a true point without dimension forming unit of space. It undergoes changes to form molecules and gross matter. It has the above four co-existing attributes. It is said that 5 out of 20 attributes exist in an atom at a time: one taste, one colour, one smell and two touches (temperature and electrical nature). The basic atom is, thus, a four-touch entity. The real atom may be 4-touch or 8-touch one. Other qualities develop later in it. This suggests that mass and density are not assumed to be the basic properties of atoms by Jainas. Thus, they have denied the qualitative difference among the primary atoms. Javeri, therefore, called them as forms of energy. This concept may be questionable in these days of relativity. However, the canons point out the atoms to be Aguru-laghu (A-heavy-a-light) rather than massless. Radhakrishnan also presumes the Jaina atom to posses weight. In fact, this term shows the limitation of reason, thought and experiment on this point. By this, two terms rūpi and Aguru-laghu should be taken as complimentary rather than contradictory. However, the word rūpi qr material also indicates about atomic shape or size. The Jainas suggest a spherical shape for atoms with a size of approximately 10 cm based on Trilokaprajñapti details. Besides, Jainas postulate property of expansion and contraction in atoms presuming them to be hollow - a fact confirmed by modern science. No other older system postulates this property.
The atoms may be produced by the decomposition, disintegration or division of physical or chemical aggregation. Though they are "homogeneous, yet during combination, they behave as if they have two-varieties - cause atom and effect-atom. The atom possesses indefinite activity, variety of motions and velocity. It has a bonding
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