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The Doctrine of Nayas: Infinite Modes and Infinite Approaches
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become a soul. The reason for such absolute non-existence is their own specific natures. A soul is possessed of the specific attribute of consciousness which is absolutely non-existent in a non-soul. The category of a non-soul comprises five substances - 1) Dharmāstikāya which has the attribute of being
the medium of motion. Adharmāstikāya which has the attribute of being the medium of rest. Ākāśāstikāya which provides accommodation. Matter which has the attributes of colour, odour,
taste and touch. 5) Time which has the attribute of duration. The above specific attributes of the non-soul are absolutely non-existent in the soul. These specific attributes constitute the dividing line, between the soul and the non-soul. On the basis of the generic attributes, it is, however, possible to establish unity between the soul and the non-soul and their absolute difference can also be asserted on the basis of specific attributes as noted above. A substance has a character of its own. Its substance-hood is not dependent upon external relations and spacio-temporal determinations. Each substance has its own basic nature, its own specific particularity. It acquires fresh attributes from various relationships, and determinations, but such attributes are not the defining characteristics of it.
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