Nature Of Universe

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Nature of Universe" by J. J. Rawal:

This paper, authored by J. J. Rawal of The Indian Planetary Society, explores the concepts of space, time, and reality in the universe from both the perspective of modern science and Jain philosophy. The central argument is that these concepts, as understood through a proposed five-dimensional model of the universe where mass is the fifth dimension, are remarkably consistent with the principles of Jain philosophy, particularly Anekantwad and the conservation of energy.

Key Points:

• Dimensionality of Space: The paper begins by tracing the scientific understanding of space, starting with the foundational Baudhayan-Pythagoras theorem. It explains how adding dimensions (from one to three) progressively expands our perception of the universe. While Newtonian physics used three spatial dimensions and an external time parameter, Einstein's theory of relativity introduced a four-dimensional spacetime, where time is considered the fourth dimension.

• Mass as the Fifth Dimension: Rawal proposes a novel extension of this model, suggesting a five-dimensional universe where mass is the fifth dimension. This is justified by the idea that mass, like space and time, is a fundamental and omnipresent physical quantity. A universal constant (G/c²) is presented to convert mass into a length dimension, allowing for its inclusion in a Pythagorean-like formula for distance in this five-dimensional framework: $p^2 = x^2 + y^2 + z^2 - (ct)^2 - (G/c^2 \cdot M)^2$.

• Implications of the Five-Dimensional Model: The paper demonstrates how this five-dimensional model, through Lorentz transformations, can explain the evolution of the universe's mass with time and vice-versa. It shows that by knowing the age of the universe, one can estimate its total mass, and by knowing its mass, one can estimate its age. This is presented as consistent with observed cosmic parameters like the age and mass of the universe.

• Consistency with Jain Philosophy: The core of the paper lies in highlighting the parallels between this scientific model and Jain philosophy:

  • Reality of Space and Time: The paper asserts that both space and time are considered "real" in Jain philosophy, similar to how they are treated as fundamental dimensions in modern physics. Space is described as an "astikaya," an extended substance with independent objective existence, providing room for other substances.
  • Akasha and Ether: The concept of "akasha" (space) in Jainism is equated with the concept of ether in older physics, but in a refined sense where space itself is the medium, abolishing the need for a separate ether. Space is seen as energy and inherently possessing curvature.
  • Lokakasha and Alokakasha: The Jain cosmological division of the universe into "Lokakasha" (finite, occupied space) and "Alokakasha" (infinite, empty space) is linked to the scientific concepts of positively curved (finite, closed) and negatively curved (infinite, open) universes, respectively. The Jain model is presented as encompassing both possibilities.
  • Pudgala (Matter/Energy): Pudgala, defined by its attributes of touch, taste, smell, and color, is equated with matter or energy in modern science.
  • Time as a Substance: Jain philosophy, particularly through concepts like "kalanus" (time atoms), considers time as a real substance and a physical quantity, echoing modern physics' understanding of time quantization.
  • Anekantwad: The principle of Anekantwad (non-one-sidedness) is presented as a framework for understanding and reconciling different scientific and philosophical viewpoints. It encourages respecting and integrating diverse perspectives to strengthen one's own understanding.
  • Conservation of Energy: The Jain theory of persistence through modes is seen as analogous to the modern scientific principle of conservation of mass and energy, both suggesting that reality is ultimately eternal.

• Conclusion: The paper concludes that a deep study of Jain philosophy is crucial for gaining further insights into the nature of the universe. It suggests that modern science can explain the universe from perspectives that are consistent with the fundamental teachings of Lord Mahavira regarding substance, space, time, and modes.

In essence, the paper argues that a scientifically proposed five-dimensional universe, with mass as the fifth dimension, aligns remarkably well with the ancient wisdom of Jain philosophy concerning the fundamental nature of reality, space, and time. It advocates for a synergistic approach between science and Jain thought for a more complete understanding of the cosmos.