Presentation at the International Conference on “Jain Dharma Mein Astitva Siddhi”

The conference was organized collaboratively by the Seth Hirachand Nemchand Jain Adhyayan Kendra of Savitribai Phule Pune University and JAIN (Deemed‑to‑be University), Bengaluru, along with support from Jain academic and community organizations. The inaugural session was presided over by Prof. Dr. Suresh Gosavi, Vice-Chancellor of Savitribai Phule Pune University, and Prof. Dr. Parag Kalkar, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the same university.

My Presentation

During the conference, I presented my academic paper on the philosophical theme “Knowledge as the Essential Nature of the Soul in Jain Metaphysics.” The paper explored the metaphysical relationship between the soul (jīva) and knowledge (jñāna) within Jain philosophical discourse.

The presentation focused particularly on the interpretation of relevant verses from the classical Jain text Pañcāstikāya-saṅgraha, traditionally attributed to Acharya Kundakunda. Through textual analysis, I discussed how Jain philosophers argue that knowledge is not merely an external attribute of the soul but its intrinsic and essential nature.

Philosophical Argument Presented

In my presentation, I examined the contrast between the Jain metaphysical view and the philosophical position of the Nyāya–Vaiśeṣika Philosophy. According to the Nyāya–Vaiśeṣika system, knowledge is considered a quality (guṇa) that inheres in the soul through the relation known as Samavāya (Inherence).

However, Jain philosophers critique this interpretation by arguing that if knowledge were entirely separate from the soul, the soul itself would become incapable of cognition. My paper explained that Jain metaphysics resolves this difficulty by asserting that knowledge and the soul are inseparable, similar to the relationship between fire and heat.

From this standpoint, ignorance is not the natural state of the soul but rather a temporary condition caused by karmic obscuration. When karmic coverings are removed through spiritual practice, the inherent knowledge of the soul manifests fully.

Discussion on the States of the Soul

Another important aspect of the presentation addressed the Jain doctrinal distinction between niścaya naya (ultimate standpoint) and vyavahāra naya (practical standpoint). From the ultimate perspective, the soul is eternally pure and endowed with infinite knowledge. From the practical perspective, however, the soul appears to undergo various states due to the influence of karma.

These states include audayika, aupaśamika, kṣayopaśamika, and kṣāyika conditions, which explain how knowledge appears partially or fully manifested in different spiritual stages.

Academic Interaction and Discussion

The conference sessions provided a vibrant platform for scholarly exchange. Participants engaged in discussions on various themes such as Jain ontology, epistemology, ethics, and spiritual practice. The dialogue between scholars from different institutions enriched the understanding of Jain philosophical traditions and their relevance in contemporary intellectual discourse.

The opportunity to present my research in such a scholarly environment contributed significantly to refining my ideas and engaging with diverse academic perspectives.

Conclusion

Participating in the International Conference on “Jain Dharma Mein Astitva Siddhi” was a valuable academic experience. The event highlighted the depth and relevance of Jain metaphysical thought, particularly its insights into the nature of consciousness and existence.

My presentation emphasized the Jain philosophical position that knowledge is the essential nature of the soul, and that liberation is achieved when the inherent qualities of the soul manifest fully after the removal of karmic obstructions.

The conference successfully fostered meaningful academic dialogue and strengthened the study of Jain philosophy within the broader field of Indian philosophical traditions.

Please watch my Presentation from 32:00 to 42:00 (timeline).