Question

The characteristics of "Vartana" (Continuity) and "Parinama" (Transformation) are defining traits of which substance?

• A. Dharma (Medium of Motion)
• B. Adharma (Medium of Rest)
• C. Akasha (Space)
• D. Kala (Time)

Hint:

Think of "Vartana" as the "Existence of the Present Moment" and "Parinama" as the "Change from the Past to the Present". Both are temporal functions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Time in Jainism is not just a mental construct or a measurement of change; it is considered a real, objective substance (Kala-dravya). Every substance in the universe undergoes change every moment. This change requires an auxiliary cause that facilitates the "flow" of existence. This cause is the Kala substance. Its functions are categorized as Vartana, Parinama, Kriya, Paratva, and Aparatva.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
According to the Tattvartha Sutra (5.22), the functions of Time are varied but centered around the concept of duration and change.
1. Vartana (Continuity): This is the core function of "Nishchaya Kala" (Absolute Time). It is the self-becoming of a substance. For anything to exist from moment T1 to moment T2, there must be a principle of continuity. Vartana is the silent support that allows a soul or an atom to "continue" to be. It is like the central pivot of a pottery wheel that allows the wheel to turn.
2. Parinama (Transformation): This refers to the modification or change of states. A young man becoming old is a "Parinama". While the soul remains the same, its state changes. Time is the catalyst that enables this aging or transformation.
3. Other Functions: "Kriya" refers to movement, "Paratva" refers to being older/earlier, and "Aparatva" refers to being younger/later.
- Comparison: Dharma and Adharma assist only in spatial change (motion/rest). Space only provides the room. Only Kala provides the "temporal" dimension for existence. Jainism imagines Time as countless "Kalanus" (time-atoms) that never cluster together but stay as individual points across the universe. Each Kalanu assists the substances at that specific point to undergo their momentary changes. Thus, without Time, the universe would be static and dead, without any possibility of evolution or the flow of events.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The properties of facilitating continuity (Vartana) and the transformation of states (Parinama) are uniquely attributed to the substance of Time (Kala).