ACI4 Class 8

Question 1

What is the basic principle underlying Master Dharmakirti’s arguments in favor of past and future lives?

Answer 1

The result of a material cause must resemble that cause, and come after it.

Question 2

In his first proof, Master Dharmakirti lists three characteristics that must have
involved a previous life. Name them.

Answer 2

a) Functioning sensory powers.
b) Breathing.
c) A functioning mind.

Question 3

Name the four building blocks (elements) of physical matter, and describe their functions.

Answer 3

a) The element of earth: the energy behind solidity and hardness.
b) The element of water: the energy behind wetness and flowing.
c) The element of fire: the energy behind heat and burning.
d) The element of air: the energy behind lightness and moving.

Question 4

Give three reasons why the three characteristics don’t come from the elements.

Answer 4

a) Any time you combined the elements or had an element alone, mind would arise.
b) Mind is living and the elements are rocks, chemicals, etc; not living things.
c) The three characteristics must come from something earlier, of a similar type.