Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
by K. C. Lalwani | 1973 | 185,989 words
The English translation of the Bhagavati-sutra which is the fifth Jaina Agama (canonical literature). It is a large encyclopedic work in the form of a dialogue where Mahavira replies to various question. The present form of the Sutra dates to the fifth century A.D. Abhayadeva Suri wrote a vritti (commentary) on the Bhagavati in A.D. 1071. In his J...
Part 2 - On the indivisibility of molecules
Q. 113. Bhante! Is it possible for molecules of matter to exist on the sharp edge of the sword or rajor [razor?]?
A. 113. Yes, it is.
Q. 114. Bhante! While staying there, do they get pierced and cut?
A. 114. Gautama! They do not. The weapon has no effect on the molecules of matter. And like this,...till with infinte pradeśas.
Q. 115. Bhante! Is it possible for skandhas with infinite pradeśas to exist on the sharp edge of the sword or rajor [razor?]?
A. 115. Yes, it is.
Q. 116. Does it get pierced and cut?
A. 116. Gautama! Some of these get pierced and cut and some others do not get pierced and cut30.
And like this is to be stated upto ‘penetrate into the middle of the fire-bodies’, difference being that the phrase ‘get burnt’ is to be used. And like this is to be stated upto ‘penetrate into the great cloud named Puṣkara-saṃvartaka’, difference being that the phrase ‘become wet’ is to be used. And like this is to be stated upto ‘get carried in the current of the great river Gaṅgā where they slip’, and (again) upto ‘penetrate into the whirlpool of water or into water-drops’ where (they) get lost.
Notes (based on commentary of Abhayadeva Sūri):
30. Molecules (electrons) are the smallest part of atom which can neither be divided, nor crushed or powdered. In case of a cluster of molecules (skandha), they can be divided when they are of a coarse variety, but cannot be so divided when they are fine.