Question

From the following list, identify the doctrines that belong to Jain Philosophy:
A. Nayavada
B. Syadvada
C. Shunyavada
D. Nairatmyavada
E. Nikshepavada

• A. Only A, B, C
• B. Only B, C, D
• C. Only C, D, E
• D. Only A, B, E

Hint:

Remember the "Holy Trinity" of Jain Logic: Anekantavada (Metaphysics), Nayavada (Epistemology), and Syadvada (Logic/Language). Nikshepavada is the tool for semantic analysis used to clarify these.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Jain philosophy is built upon the foundation of non-absolutism (Anekantavada). To express this many-sided reality, Jainism employs specific logical and linguistic tools. These tools allow a seeker to understand an object from different perspectives without falling into the trap of partial or extremist views. The primary doctrines used for this purpose are Nayavada, Syadvada, and Nikshepavada.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Jainism distinguishes itself from other Indian schools like Buddhism and Vedanta through its unique logic. Let us analyze the options provided to identify the Jain-specific doctrines:
1. Nayavada (A): This is the "doctrine of standpoints." Jainism posits that an object has infinite qualities. A human being can only perceive a few of these at a time. Nayavada is the method of describing an object from a particular point of view (a Naya). For example, looking at a gold ring from the perspective of its material is a "substance standpoint" (Dravya Naya), while looking at its circular form is a "mode standpoint" (Paryaya Naya). Both are true but partial.
2. Syadvada (B): This is the "doctrine of relative predication" or "conditional speech." While Nayavada is an internal thought process, Syadvada is its verbal expression. It involves adding the qualifier Syat (meaning "in some respect") to any statement. This prevents absolute claims and acknowledges other valid perspectives. It is the linguistic manifestation of non-violence in thought.
3. Nikshepavada (E): This is the "doctrine of installation" or "categorization." It is a method of understanding the meaning of a word or concept in four different ways: Nama (name), Sthapana (representation), Dravya (potential/past substance), and Bhava (actual current state). For example, a person named "King" (Nama), a statue of a king (Sthapana), a prince who will be king (Dravya), and a man currently ruling (Bhava) are all "King" but in different senses.
4. Why C and D are excluded:
- Shunyavada (C): This is the Buddhist doctrine of "Emptiness," primarily associated with the Madhyamaka school of Nagarjuna. It denies the ultimate existence of things.
- Nairatmyavada (D): This is the Buddhist "no-soul" doctrine, which claims there is no permanent, unchanging soul. Jainism, on the other hand, is Atmavadi and believes in a permanent, conscious soul.
Therefore, only A, B, and E are Jain doctrines.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The doctrines consistent with Jainism are Nayavada, Syadvada, and Nikshepavada.