Identify the correct option of the six substances, which as per the Jain philosophy created the universe :

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 2:

Jain philosophy, unlike many other traditions, believes that the universe is eternal and uncreated, composed of six fundamental and unchangeable substances, known as *Dravyas*. These six *Dravyas* are the constituents of reality. The correct list includes: **Jeev** (Soul or consciousness), **Pudgal** (Matter, which possesses form, touch, taste, smell, and color), **Kal** (Time, the non-extended substance that aids modification), **Akash** (Space, which provides room for all other substances), **Dharma** (*Dharmastikaya*, the medium of motion that helps moving substances move), and **Adharma** (*Adharmastikaya*, the medium of rest that helps resting substances remain at rest). These six substances exist independently, and their interaction and modification form the basis of the entire cosmos, without the need for a divine creator.

The incorrect option is 1:
This option incorrectly lists *Vayu* (Air) and *Agni* (Fire) as fundamental substances. In Jain philosophy, Vayu and Agni are forms of matter (*Pudgal*), not primary, independent *Dravyas* that constitute the universe.

The incorrect option is 3:
This option includes *Vayu*, *Bhumi* (Earth), and *Agni* (Fire). Like Vayu and Agni, Bhumi is considered a modification or form of matter (*Pudgal*) under the element category of Earth-bodied beings, not one of the six fundamental metaphysical substances.

The incorrect option is 4:
This option substitutes *Akash* (Space) and *Adharma* (Medium of Rest) with *Vayu* and *Prithvi* (Earth/land). As established, Vayu and Prithvi are physical elements derived from the substance *Pudgal*, and are not counted among the six original *Dravyas*.