Par Se Kuch Bhi Sambandh Nahi

This comprehensive summary outlines the core principles discussed in "Par se Kuch bhi Sambandh Nahi" (No Relation with the Other) by Ratanchand Bharilla, published by Todarmal Granthamala Jaipur. The book, presented in a question-and-answer format, delves into the causality and arrangement of the universe from a Jain perspective, with a particular focus on the concept of "Vastu Swatantrya" (Object Independence).

The central thesis of the book is that each substance (dravya) is fundamentally independent and self-governing. This independence extends to its qualities (guna) and modes of existence (paryaya). The book emphasizes that no external substance can influence or alter the inherent nature of another substance. All causality originates from within the substance itself, through its inherent potential and natural evolution.

Key Concepts and Arguments:

• Vastu Swatantrya (Object Independence): This is the foundational principle. Every substance, whether animate (jiva) or inanimate (pudgala, dharma, adharma, akasha, kala), possesses its own independent existence and causal power. It does not depend on any other substance for its functioning or transformation.
• Causality and the Role of Causes:
  • Upadana Karana (Material/Intrinsic Cause): This is the substance itself, which undergoes transformation through its own inherent potential. It is the primary and ultimate cause of any event within it. For example, a soul's karmic bondage or liberation arises from its own intrinsic nature and potential, not from external factors.
  • Nimitta Karana (Instrumental/External Cause): These are external substances that are present during the causal process but do not cause the effect themselves. They are merely co-present and do not alter the intrinsic nature of the Upadana. For example, the presence of a teacher (guru) or scriptures (shastra) is a nimitta for a soul's attainment of right knowledge, but the soul's own intrinsic potential (Upadana) is the actual cause. Nimitta are described as "upcharit karan" (attributed causes) or "aropit karan" (projected causes), meaning they are considered causes by convention or attribution due to their presence and influence on the perception of causality.
• Distinction Between Upadana and Nimitta: The book meticulously distinguishes between these two types of causes. Upadana is the inherent capacity of a substance to transform, while Nimitta is merely an external accessory that facilitates or is coincident with this transformation. The Upadana is the "doer" (karta), while the Nimitta is not.
• Rejection of External Determinism: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to refuting the idea that external factors determine one's destiny, happiness, or sorrow. The book argues that attributing one's state to external causes (like other people, karma, or circumstances) is a misunderstanding of Vastu Swatantrya and is the root cause of suffering (dukkha).
• The Nature of Suffering: Suffering arises from the mistaken belief in external causes and the subsequent attachment or aversion (raag-dwesh) to them. When one understands that all effects are intrinsically caused, the attachment to external factors diminishes, leading to liberation from suffering.
• The Role of Nayas (Perspectives): The book explains that the seemingly contradictory statements in Jain scriptures are often due to the use of different "nayas" (perspectives). Nayas are different ways of looking at reality, such as the Udayarthikanaya (emphasizing inherent nature) and Paryayarthikanaya (emphasizing transient modes). The book clarifies that while scriptures may use the language of Nimitta (external causes), the ultimate truth lies in the Upadana (intrinsic cause) and Vastu Swatantrya.
• Qualities and Modes of Existence (Guna and Paryaya): Even within a single substance, its qualities and modes of existence are also independent. One quality does not inherently depend on another for its manifestation. For example, knowledge and conduct (gyan and charitra) are distinct qualities of the soul, and while they may manifest concurrently, they are not causally dependent on each other in the way that external causes are considered to be.
• Practical Application: The book emphasizes that understanding these principles leads to inner peace, detachment, and the ability to navigate life's challenges with equanimity. By recognizing the independence of all things, one can shed the burden of responsibility for external events and focus on their own intrinsic spiritual development.

Structure and Content:

The book is structured as a series of questions and answers, addressing common philosophical and spiritual doubts. It systematically dismantles the concept of external causation and establishes the self-sufficient nature of reality. The author uses numerous examples and references from Jain scriptures to support their arguments, making the complex philosophical concepts accessible.

In essence, "Par se Kuch bhi Sambandh Nahi" is a profound exploration of self-reliance and intrinsic causality in the Jain tradition. It advocates for a shift in perspective from external dependence to internal empowerment, asserting that true liberation and peace are found by understanding and embracing the inherent independence of all existence.