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182 : Scientific Contents in Prakrta Canons
(iv) Atom (paramāņu ).
This classification seems to be an extension of the two compositional varieties as above. These varieties have been equated to molecules, atoms or ions, nuclear particles and electrons by Jain which does not sound logical in view of Javeri's opinion which is realistic. This matter will be referred later. Six Classes of Mattergy
Pañcāstikāya and Niyamasāra 97 of Kundakunda mention six types of aggregatal mattergy on the basis of their perceptibility by the eye and senses other than eye. In other words, this is a classification of Skandhas ( aggregations ) based on grossness and fineness. They will be described in appropriate chapter. However, it must be pointed out that there is some doubt about these classes. Whether they represent aggregations or matter in general. However, Kundakunda mentions the classes for aggregations only. Jain98 has called this classification as most scientific and uptodate as it includes all types of solids, liquids, gases, energies and subtle matter. Twenty-three Types of Mattergy
The Satkhandāgama book 1499 and Gommatasāra (J) describe another classification based on compositional similarities. It is known as variform or Varganā classification. These variforms or groupings occur in aggregations according to Puşpadanta Bhūtabali. Thus this classification also refers to aggregations. Gommațasāra 100 seems to confuse this point by mentioning the six-fold ( as above ) and this classification as belonging to mattergy in general. This also seems to be an extension of earlier classification. The word Varg'aņā means aggregation, atomic grouping or molecules. This is found in sense perceptible and imperceptible bodies. The twenty-three types of groupings start from the finest ( mono-point atom ) and end at the grossest. This has fine atomic aggregate in the first place and the universe as a whole in the last place. In
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