The Concept of Time in Ancient India

The current Volume comprises six chapters, commencing with an introduction to the Concept of Time in ancient India. Through a thorough examination of this Concept, the author endeavours to highlight not only ancient thought's recognition of the enigmatic nature of Time but also the diverse, varied experiences of Time as it relates to cosmological, cultural, historical, and spiritual memory. In this light, an extensive discourse concerning the presentation of knowledge on the nation of Time in diverse philosophical systems, especially the Indian one, is expounded upon. Pertinently, mentions of Time in Vedas, the essence of Time as a fundamental aspect and its indispensability in the process of evolution, and the concept of Time as existing beyond everything, surpassing even God, are made. Succinctly addressed are Cultic Time, among other things. In probing the.transmigration from the Cultic Time of the Vedas to the interiorized Time of Upanisads, the author compares Time in the Mahabharat, the Puranic conception of Time, which envisions Time as the moment identical with the element of transformation of Gunas; among other things, are meticulously discussed. Additionally, the contributions of Jains to the domain of cosmology and Time are examined. In Jain philosophy, Kalais viewed as a real substance, no different from the five others, Jiva, Dharma, Adharma, Pudgala, and Akasa. The author also delves into Buddhists' views on Time and temporality, investigating their perspective of Time and causation as components of four experiences. The discourse further explores Cyclical Time in a cosmological context and Linear Time in historical sources, determining the natural division of Time- years, seasons, months, and days and delves into the civil reckoning of the usual eras through which we assign dates to events, dating in inscriptions and the regnal year of the ruler with the season, month, fortnight, and day. Lastly, after conducting a brief presentation on the value Read more