[Solved] Jain Philosophy on World Creation: Universal Law

The Jain philosophy holds that the world is created and maintained by

[UPSC CSE Prelims 2011]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Jainism is a 'Nastika' or non-theistic philosophy that posits an eternal universe without a beginning, an end, or a divine creator.

Authentic Source Evidence

Jaina doctrine suggests the universe is composed of six substances (Dravyas) including Jiva (soul) and Ajiva (matter). These interact according to eternal, cosmic, and natural laws without the intervention of a supreme deity.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Option A is correct because Jains believe the universe is self-regulated. Everything happens due to the inherent properties of matter and soul following 'Universal Law'.

Logic 2: Options B and C are moral or religious ideals but not the operational mechanics of the universe. Option D is incorrect as Jainism believes in an infinite number of individual souls (Jiva), not a single 'Universal Soul' (Paramatma) that acts as a creator.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Does Jainism believe in God?"

Jainism does not believe in a creator God; however, it recognizes 'Godhood' as the perfected state of an individual soul that has attained Kevala Jnana.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"By attributing the maintenance of the world to Universal Law rather than a deity, Jainism places the entire responsibility of salvation on the individual's own actions."

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