Jain Metaphysics and Science: 3.1.2 Classification

Jain philosophy describes the character of an object through fourfold determinant: the substance (dravya), space (ksetra), time (kala) and attributes (bhava). The pudgala is described as under:

1. Substance wise: Infinitely infinite paramanus exist either independently (in Free State) or in combination with infinite composite bodies (skandhas).
2. Space wise: Each and every space-point (pradesa) of cosmos (loka) is occupied by infinite number of paramanus. There is not a single space-point where there is neither paramanu nor a composite body. According to Jain cosmology, there is no vacuum anywhere in the cosmos. That is, the entire cosmic space is 'plenum'. Vacuum exists only in trans-cosmic space.
3. Time wise: The physical existence is eternal and indestructible, not a single paramanu is created or destroyed.
4. Attribute wise: It is a substratum of infinite qualities making infinite types. Again, since each of these infinite varieties is capable of infinite mutations and transformations, the entire physical existence is infinitely infinite. Pudgala has been classified in various ways. We consider some of them below.