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SHRAMAN MAHAVIR
the basis of unity of existence If existence were the only function, the universe would have been nothing but existence However, there are numerous functions against a background of numerous attributes An element reveals consciousness and similar functions Another element does not reflect such attributes and functions on the basis of multiplicity of attributes and functions Mahavira propounded duality Mahavira, in fact, is neither a dualist nor a non-dualist Simultaneously, he is a dualist as well as a non-dualist in his philosophy the reality behind the universe is one as well as many Looking at the pervasive attribute like existence, unity is integral Looking at the extraordinary attribute like consciousness, multiplicity is integral The inference is unity is as integral as multiplicity
According to Mahavira there are infinite atoms and infinite souls Every atom and every self is an image Each image has its respective reflection also. The primary attribute is the image and its activity its reflection,
It was in this metaphysical field that the seeds of spiritual pursuit were sown by Mahavira In the context of the unconscious, spiritual or moral pursuit has no relevance Its existence and activation depend on natural laws There is nothing conscious in it The existence of the conscious is also related to the natural laws but the latter don't steer it. The conscious changes knowingly and progresses towards a conscious goal with purpose This constitutes its pursuit Human knowledge is fairly evolvea hence it aspires to attain the acme of evolution From the point of view of consciousness it can move on to two planes that of modality or duality and that of non-duality There are infinite modalities like life and death, pleasure and pain, honour and dishonour, happiness and unhappiness Such situations throw the mind out of gear It is an abnormal situation.
Mahavira devised the practice of equanimity as a remedy for this tension of split-personality. The term samata or samayıka are used by him synonymous with dharma. It conveys
