Question

Which of the following are identified as Dravya (substance) in Nyāya-Vaiśeṣika Philosophy? \[ \text{A. Prithvi} \] \[ \text{B. Kala} \] \[ \text{C. Atman} \] \[ \text{D. Karma} \] \[ \text{E. Abhava} \]

• A. B, D and E only
• B. C, D and E only
• C. A, B and C only
• D. A, B and E only

Hint:

In Nyāya-Vaiśeṣika, Prithvi, Kala and Atman are Dravyas, but Karma and Abhava are separate categories.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept:
Nyāya-Vaiśeṣika philosophy accepts several categories called Padarthas. Dravya means substance. Examples of Dravya include: \[ Prithvi,\ Ap,\ Tejas,\ Vayu,\ Akasha,\ Kala,\ Dik,\ Atman,\ Manas \]

Step 1: Check Prithvi.
Prithvi or earth is a substance. So: \[ A = \text{Correct} \]

Step 2: Check Kala.
Kala or time is also accepted as a substance in Nyāya-Vaiśeṣika. So: \[ B = \text{Correct} \]

Step 3: Check Atman.
Atman or self is also accepted as a substance. So: \[ C = \text{Correct} \]

Step 4: Eliminate Karma and Abhava.
Karma means action, not substance. Abhava means absence, not substance. So: \[ D,\ E = \text{Incorrect} \] Therefore, the correct substances are: \[ A,\ B,\ C \] Hence: \[ \boxed{\text{(C) A, B and C only}} \]