Starves nay shat dravya gun
In Jainism, the concept of Dravya (substance) and Guna (attributes) is fundamental to its philosophy.
Dravya (Substance)
Jainism describes the universe as made up of six dravyas (substances):- Jiva (soul or consciousness)
- Pudgala (matter)
- Dharma (medium of motion)
- Adharma (medium of rest)
- Akasha (space)
- Kala (time)
These are called ṣaṭ-dravya (षट्-द्रव्य), meaning the six substances that constitute reality.
Guna (Attributes)
Each dravya possesses certain gunas (qualities or attributes). Some gunas are common to all dravyas (samanya guna), such as:- Astitva (existence)
- Vastutva (functionality)
- Dravyatva (substantiality)
- Prameyatva (knowability)
- Agurulaghutva (constancy of individuality)
- Pradeshatva (extension in space)
Each dravya also has its own specific gunas (vishesha guna). For example:
- Jiva: consciousness (chetana), bliss, knowledge, etc.
- Pudgala: touch, taste, smell, color, etc.
- Dharma: medium of motion
- Adharma: medium of rest
- Akasha: accommodation
- Kala: function of time
Summary
- ṣaṭ-dravya = six substances (Jiva, Pudgala, Dharma, Adharma, Akasha, Kala)
- Guna = attributes inherent in each substance
These concepts are foundational to Jain metaphysics and ontology. If you have a specific question about any dravya or their gunas, feel free to ask!