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ANEKĀNTAVĀDA AND LANGUAGE*
Satya RANJAN BANERJEE
1. Anekānta
The Jaina theory of anekāntavāda is a distinctive contribution to Indian philosophical thought. It examines the manysidedness of Reality or manifoldness of Truth. It is virtually connected with the examination of Reality. Reality, according to the Jains, is permanent in the midst of changes. As anekānta basically determines the nature of Reality, let us define first what Reality is. Reality, according to Umāsvāti, is described as
utpāda-vyaya-dhrauvya-yuktar sat (TS. V. 30)
"Existence is characterised by origination, disappearance (destruction) and permanence" (S.A. Jain).
It is a permanent reality in the midst of change of appearance and disappearance. This conception of Reality is peculiar to Jainism. As existing reality in order to maintain its permanent and continued process must necessarily undergo change in the form of appearance and disappearance, it seems to us a paradox at the beginning. But a closer analysis and minute observation will help us to appreciate the significance of this description of Reality. For example, let us look at the seed of a plant. When the seed is planted in the soil it must necessarily break the shell and sprout out. This is the first step in its attempt to grow. Then the sprouting seed further undergoes change and some portion of it comes out seeking the sunlight and another goes down into the soil, will undergo
A lecture delivered on the 24th May 2002 at India International Centre, New Delhi, organised by Jain Vishva Bharati Institute. Ladnun, Rajasthan.
