Define Pudgala in Jain Philosophy.
Share
Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive a link and will create a new password via email.
Please briefly explain why you feel this question should be reported.
Please briefly explain why you feel this answer should be reported.
Please briefly explain why you feel this user should be reported.
Define Pudgala in Jain Philosophy.
In Jain philosophy, "Pudgala" refers to the concept of matter or substance that possesses form and characteristics. It is one of the fundamental categories in Jain metaphysics, alongside Jiva (soul) and Ajiva (non-living entities). Pudgala encompasses all tangible, material substances, including both atomic and composite forms.
Jainism acknowledges the dynamic interaction between Jiva and Pudgala, with the latter being further categorized into five types based on its fundamental qualities. These are:
Audarika Pudgala: The atomic or smallest unit of matter.
Vaikriya Pudgala: The composite or complex form of matter, comprising multiple atoms.
Udyotaka Pudgala: The matter that possesses the quality of motion or activity.
Karanika Pudgala: The matter that is responsible for the transformation of one state into another.
Samskara Pudgala: The matter that undergoes modifications or changes.
Pudgala is considered insentient, lacking consciousness or life. Its interaction with Jiva, the sentient soul, is essential in understanding the mechanics of karma and the cycle of birth and rebirth in Jain cosmology. The Jain concept of Pudgala contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the intricate interplay between living and non-living entities in the universe.