Question

The philosophy of the Arhats (Jainism) is:

• A. Absolute (Nirpekshavadi)
• B. Relative (Sapekshavadi)
• C. One-sided (Ekantavadi)
• D. Theistic (Ishvaravadi)

Hint:

If you see the term "Sapeksh" in Jain philosophy, it always refers to the "conditional" nature of truth, which is the heart of Anekantavada.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The central pillar of Jain logic and epistemology is non-absolutism (Anekantavada). This suggests that reality is complex and can be described only from relative viewpoints (Nayas). This relative approach to truth is called Sapekshavada.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Non-Absolutism: Jainism rejects the idea that a single statement can capture the entire truth of a complex object. Every object has infinite qualities (Ananta-dharmatmakam vastu).
2. Relativity (Sapekshata): A statement is true only in relation to a specific context, time, place, or perspective. For example, a soul is eternal from the viewpoint of substance (Dravya) but changing/mortal from the viewpoint of its current life-state (Paryaya).
3. Contrast with other views:
- Ekantavada (One-sidedness): Rejects other perspectives. For example, a "Nirpeksha" view would say the soul is ONLY eternal, which Jainism says is incomplete.
- Ishvaravadi: Belief in a creator god. Jainism is Anishvaravadi (non-theistic regarding a creator) as it believes the universe is eternal and self-regulated.
4. Syadvada: This is the linguistic expression of Sapekshavada, using the qualifier Syat (meaning "in some respect") to show that the truth being stated is relative and not absolute.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Arhat Darshana is fundamentally Sapekshavadi (Relativistic).