The Truth

Author(s): O P Jain
Publisher: Veer Nirvan Granth Prakashan Samiti

Page 17

THE TRUTH
It is hoped, if the method of enquiry is based on the above rational principles, not only we will be able to understand the truth, but we will also be able to reconcile seemingly conflicting view-points which generally arise due to one-sided knowledge.
2.4 A bundle of attributes and qualities may be present in an object all at once, but the human speech can only deal with them one by one. Some of these attributes may appear contradictory because they proceed from different standpoints. Yet there may be no real contradiction and it may be important to know all these attributes to understand the object fully. This is called the doctrine of Syadvada. For example, of the statements 'A is dead' and 'A is not dead', when they proceed from the same standpoint, one or may be both are bound to be false. But when taken from different standpoints, there may be no contradiction involved in them, for A may be dead as A, but not dead from the point of view of the soul which is immortal. Most religious quarrels arise due to apparently antagonistic views expressed by them. But in each case, if the problem is viewed from a particular standpoint, there may be no contradiction. The principle of Syadvada is, therefore, very necessary to correctly understand a matter, in all its aspects, to reconcile viewpoints and thus to promote tolerance, peace and friendship between different religions. Sjadrada makes us broad-minded, removes the rigidity and closeness of mind and helps us to appreciate various view points.
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