Volume-I, Issue-V, August 2025
Novel Insights A Peer-Reviewed Quarterly Multidisciplinary Research Journal |
| Volume-I, Issue-V, August, 2025 |
Substance, Quality, and Mode in Jaina Ontology: An Introduction Ms. Shrabani Sarkar, Research scholar, Dept. of Philosophy, Raiganj University, West Bengal, India Dr. Siddique Alam Beg, Assistant Professor, Department of Philosophy, Raiganj University, West Bengal, IndiaEmail: begsiddique@gmail.com |
Received: 09.08.2025 | Accepted: 15.08.2025 | Published Online: 31.08.2025 |
Page No: 290-296 | DOI: 10.69655/novelinsights.vol.1.issue.05W.032 | |
Abstract | ||
Anekāntavāda, the theory that says that reality is multifaceted and cannot be fully grasped from a singular perspective, is a unique contribution to the world of philosophical thought. Jaina theory of substance along with correlated explanations of quality and mode provide the ontological basis for their pluralistic philosophical approach. In this short article, we will explore the Jaina theory of substance, along with its ontological ramifications into six substances (ṣaḍ-dravya): jīva (sentient soul) and five ajīva (non-sentient) categories dharma (medium of motion), adharma (medium of rest), pudgala (matter), ākāśa (space), and kāla (time). We will also critically evaluate the the interrelation between guṇa (qualities) and paryāya (modes); a d most importantly, we will discuss the bhedavāda–abhedavāda debate regarding this interrelation. Finally, by comparing Jaina ontology with Nyāya-Vaiśeṣika and Buddhist philosophies, the article aims to focus on Jainism’s unique reconciliation of permanence and change, offering a robust framework for understanding existence. Keywords: Dravya, Guṇa, Paryāya, bhedavāda–abhedavāda debate | ||