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Part XXIV - Application to Illusions
The question to be addressed next concerns prAtibhAsika
objects, such as the snake that is seen where there
is really a rope or the silver seen in a shell. Because
of the limited data from the senses, the attributive
knowledge which is gained about the object is not sufficient
for correct cognition. The perceptuality condition of
the object is met and therefore, even when there are
errors in the cognition, the cognized object is recognized
based on the attributes which are available to the mind.
The error occurs in the recognition process from memory.
(The cognitive conditions or perceptuality criteria
are applicable even in the case of illusory perception
and therefore VP says they are not restrictive or narrow.)
Hence, in summary, an object is said to be cognized
by perception when: (1) it is cable of being perceived,
(2) it has no independent existence apart from the consciousness
associated with the subject or knower, and (3) it has
the limiting adjunct of a mental state or vRRitti in
the form of the object (attributive content of the object).
In forming the vRRitti-s or mental states, nyAya philosophers
have considered various other relations between the
substantives and their attributes and how the sense
organs relate to these in grasping and forming mental
states. We have already discussed some aspects of these,
such as saMyoga and samavAya. (Additional relations
are considered such as saMyukta-tAdAtmya, saMyukta abhinna-tAdAtmya,
saMnikarSha, etc. These are involved in the production
of mental states of objects with attributes that are
revealed by reflected consciousness. From the standpoint
of advaita, all are superimpositions on the all pervading,
conscious, existent entity – Brahman.)
Next we will consider the components of the mind.
Proceed to the next
essay.
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