Pudgala

In this article we will explore the topic of Pudgala, which has generated great interest and controversy in recent times. From its origins to its relevance today, Pudgala has captured the attention of academics, professionals and the general public. Through a detailed analysis, we will examine the different perspectives and opinions that exist around Pudgala, as well as its impact on various areas of society. Additionally, we will delve into the history and evolution of Pudgala, highlighting its achievements and challenges over time. This article seeks to provide a comprehensive and objective view of Pudgala, contributing to the debate and understanding of its importance in today's world.

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In Jainism, Pudgala (or Pudgalāstikāya) is one of the six Dravyas, or aspects of reality that fabricate the world we live in. The six dravyas include the jiva and the fivefold divisions of ajiva (non-living) category: dharma (motion), adharma (rest), akasha (space), pudgala (matter) and kala (time).[1] Pudgala, like other dravyas except kala is called astikaya in the sense that it occupies space.

Pudgala is derived from the words 'pud', which is defined as Supplement (Addition /Fusion), and gala, which is defined as Disintegrate, or Division or Fission. Therefore, Pudgalas are best defined as all things that are continuously changing by the process of Supplementation or Disintegration, namely matter.

The individual unit of Pudgala is the material from which all is made called a Paramanu, which, by the process of supplementation, can combine to form what can be roughly said is an aggregate, called a Skandha. It possesses at all times four qualities, namely, a color (varna), a taste (rasa), a smell (gandha), and a certain kind of palpability (sparsha, touch).[2]

In Buddhism, Pudgala means the entity that reincarnates as an individual or person, i.e., the bundle of tendencies that keeps an individual reincarnating until they attain enlightenment.[3]

See also

Notes

  1. ^ Sharma, Chandradhar (1960, reprint 1997). A Critical Survey of Indian Philosophy, Delhi: Motilal Banarsidass, ISBN 81-208-0365-5, p.63
  2. ^ Jaini 1998, p. 90.
  3. ^ Dasgupta, Surendranath (1975, reprint 2010). A History of Indian Philosophy, Vol.I, Delhi: Motilal Banarsidass, ISBN 978-81-208-0412-8, p.195n

References