The Dialogue of the King Pradesi (Paesikahānyam, Rāyapasenaiya Suya)

This philosophical dialogue, an extract from the *Uttarādhyayana Sūtra*, depicts a debate between King Pradeśī (Paesi) and a Jain monk. Pradeśī initially argues that the soul is identical with the body and that there is no life after death. The monk counters with analogies: just as the light inside a lamp is separate from the clay and oil, the soul is distinct from the body. He explains that the soul accumulates karmic particles through actions and that these particles shape future births. The king raises objections, citing materialist philosophers, but the monk patiently refutes them, using examples from everyday life. Gradually, Pradeśī concedes that mental and physical qualities differ and that there must be an enduring self. The conversation recorded on jainqq.org emphasises ethical consequences: once Pradeśī accepts the existence of the soul, he also accepts the necessity of non‑violence and self‑control. He ultimately becomes a lay follower and promises to rule justly. The dialogue showcases the Jain method of using reasoned argument and analogical reasoning to convert sceptics.

Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.