The Conception of Reality in Jaina Metaphysics as Revealed in the Works of Ācārya Kundakunda
By J. C. Sikdar
Summary
“The Conception of Reality in Jaina Metaphysics as Revealed in the Works of Ācārya Kundakunda” provides a philosophical analysis of key Jain metaphysical concepts. It focuses on Kundakunda, a revered Digambara scholar (c. 2nd–3rd century), whose works such as *Samayasāra*, *Niyamasāra* and *Pañcāstikāya* elucidate Jain ontology. The article explains how Kundakunda distinguishes between substances (dravya) and their modes (paryāya) and emphasises the doctrine of anekāntavāda, or non‑one‑sidedness, according to which reality can be understood only by considering multiple viewpoints. Kundakunda describes seven fundamental tattvas (truths): jīva (soul), ajīva (non‑living matter), āsrava (influx of karma), bandha (bondage), saṃvara (stoppage), nirjarā (shedding) and mokṣa (liberation). He also analyses the nature of jīva as pure consciousness, inherently possessing infinite knowledge and bliss but obscured by karmic matter. The article compares Kundakunda’s positions with those of later Jain philosophers, noting that he insists on a distinction between vyavahāra‑naya (mundane viewpoint) and niścaya‑naya (ultimate viewpoint), allowing ethical action in worldly life while affirming the ultimate purity of the soul. Through close reading of Kundakunda’s verses, the author shows that Jain metaphysics offers a sophisticated theory of reality that preserves spiritual agency without denying empirical plurality.
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Conclusion
By delving into Kundakunda’s writings, the paper presents Jainism as a realist yet pluralistic philosophy that balances the permanence of the soul with the changing modes of existence. Kundakunda’s distinction between relative and absolute perspectives provides a unique solution to metaphysical problems and remains influential in Jain thought today.