Answer

These lines mean that a thing does not stay fixed in only one form. In Jain philosophy, the same substance can change its mode, so what is “existent” in one form can become “existent” in another form, and what is “non-existent” in one form can become “non-existent” in another form. The passage is explained through the distinction between dravya (substance) and paryāya (mode). ( jainqq.org)

Explanation

In the Bhagavatī Sūtra passage, the examples used are things like clay becoming a pot or thread becoming cloth. The commentary explains “astitva” as existence in a particular form and “nāstitva” as non-existence in a particular form. “Pariṇamai” means “transforms” or “changes into.” So the line is teaching that a thing may be one way from one standpoint and another way from another standpoint. ( jainqq.org)

Spiritual Understanding

The essence is anekāntavāda and syādvāda: reality should not be forced into one absolute statement. Jain thought says that the substance remains, but its states keep changing. This helps us understand truth with humility, balance, and openness to multiple valid viewpoints. ( jainqq.org)

Takeaway

The heart of this teaching is: one should see both permanence and change together. A thing is not understood fully by only saying “it is” or “it is not”; its reality depends on the standpoint, form, and mode being discussed. ( jainqq.org)