Reality English Translation of Sarvarthasiddhi

Author(s): S A Jain
Publisher: Jwalamalini Trust Chennai

Page 73

THE STANDPOINTS AND THE WAY TO RIGHT FAITH
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since Indra, sakra and Purandara are three words, these must have three meanings. For instance, Indra means one who is
wed with authority (to command) and supremacy, sakra means the strong one. Purandara means one who destroys cities. Similarly with regard to all words. Or where it develops, there it becomes current because of its importance. Hence it is called samabhirūdha. For instance, 'Where do you reside ?' The reply is, 'I reside in myself.' Why? It is because one substance cannot reside in another. If, on the other hand, one thing can reside in another, then there would be knowledge and colour in the sky.
That which determines or ascertains an object as it is in its present state or mode is called evambhūła nava or actual standpoint. According to this standpoint, a word should be used to denote an object, only when it is in the state which the word connotes. When he issues commands, then only is he lord (Indra). And at that time he is neither consecrator nor worshipper. Only when it goes it is cow, and not when it stands still or lies down. Or that, which determines a soul by its present mode of knowledge, is the actual standpoint. For example, the soul which cognizes Indra is Indra, and that which cognizes fire is fire.
The seven standpoints have been described. These are successively of finer scope or smaller extent, and the succeeding standpoint is dependent on the one preceding it. Hence the order in which these are mentidned in the sutra. Thus, each of the seven standpoints is of greater range than and contrary to the succeeding one, and is of smaller extent than and is agreeable to the preceding one. And from the point of view of the infinite characteristics of a substance, the standpoints are of numerous subdivisions. Being of primary and secondary importance these are interdependent, and the harmonious combination of these paves the way to right faith. These are like the cotton threads which, when interwoven in the proper form, wards off cold and provides comfort to the body in the form of cloth. But, if each of these threads becomes independent and separate, these cannot serve that purpose.