आचार्य प्रभाचन्द्र के ग्रन्थों में 'तर्क प्रमाण' की अवधारणा
By डॉ. (सुश्री) राजकुमारी जैन
Summary
This PDF, from *Jainvidya* (March 2010), examines the concept of *tarka pramana* (logic as a valid means of knowledge) in the works of Acharya Prabhachandra, particularly *Prameyakamalamartanda* and *Nyayakumudachandra*. It defines *vyapti* (invariable concomitance) as a universal and tri-temporal relationship between two entities, such as smoke and fire. The text argues that knowledge of this relationship is obtained through *tarka pramana*, an active, investigative process. This process involves observing numerous instances of agreement in presence (anvaya) and agreement in absence (vyatireka) between the logical reason (hetu) and the inferable property (sadhya). The author explains that mere repeated observation leads only to a general notion, not true *vyapti*. True knowledge requires an investigative inquiry, exemplified by Dr. Fleming’s discovery of penicillin, where he used hypothesis formation and experimental verification to establish the invariable relationship between specific bacteria and the destruction of mold. The text further clarifies that the material for establishing *vyapti* can come from perception, inference, and verbal testimony (*shabda pramana*). It contrasts this Jain position with the Nyaya school, which considers *tarka* to be non-valid (*apramana*), serving only as a helper to perception in ascertaining *vyapti*. The Jain view, as presented by Acharya Prabhachandra, holds that *tarka pramana* is the valid means for obtaining the definitive knowledge of *vyapti*, which is essential for inference.
Conclusion
The document establishes that for Ācārya Prabhācandra, *tarka pramāṇa* is not mere generalization from repeated observation but an active, investigative process essential for ascertaining the universal and tri-temporal relation of *vyāpti* (invariable concomitance). This has significant implications for the theory of knowledge, as it positions *tarka* as a distinct and valid means of knowledge, integrating perception, inference, and verbal testimony. The outcome is a robust epistemological framework where scientific discovery, exemplified by Fleming’s development of penicillin, is systematically accounted for. By validating *tarka* as a *pramāṇa*, the text challenges the Nyāya view that it is merely auxiliary, thereby elevating the role of hypothesis and critical inquiry in the acquisition of certain knowledge. This affirms a dynamic, investigative model of cognition where truth is established through methodical reasoning, not passive observation.