How to Use Pratijñā, Hetu, and Dṛṣṭānta in Argumentation

The Buddhist logic of Bodhisattvas is called proposition, reason, and analogy. "Proposition" refers to the central thesis or viewpoint, "reason" denotes the theory to be expounded, and "analogy" signifies illustrations, examples, and factual evidence. To demonstrate how proposition, reason, and analogy are applied, consider the following example.

Some claim that the mind faculty (manas) is one of the six faculties and, like the five physical faculties, is a material faculty. After thorough and proper logical contemplation, we present the following argument: the mind faculty is not material but immaterial. First, the proposition—the viewpoint, concept, or thesis—is stated: the mind faculty is an immaterial faculty. After presenting the proposition, a comprehensive and complete exposition must follow, providing arguments and reasoning. Once the reasoning is clearly articulated, concrete examples are cited, allowing facts to speak for themselves. Thus, theoretical arguments closely align with the proposition, while examples directly support the reasoning and concepts. Each step is logically connected to the next, forming a tightly reasoned and seamless argument with no gaps, rendering it most persuasive. Even if someone opposes it, they would be unable to articulate substantial counterarguments. Opposition or debate merely for the sake of opposition or debate would be entirely invalid.

Naturally, without rigorous logical contemplation and insufficient wisdom, the arguments will lack substance and robust theoretical support, failing to demonstrate the validity of the proposition. If contemplation is not meticulous or the exposition is incomplete, gaps and flaws will arise, weakening persuasiveness and failing to convince others. If the examples cited are forced and fail to substantiate the soundness of the arguments, their persuasive power diminishes significantly, rendering them unconvincing. Logical reasoning reflects a practitioner's level of wisdom. The greater the wisdom, the more meticulous the contemplation, and the stronger the reasoning power becomes. Consequently, persuasiveness increases, enhancing the capacity to guide sentient beings. When encountering issues, those practicing the Bodhisattva path should engage in deep, detailed contemplation and observation, continually refining their logical thinking and observational skills. Of course, this requires profound meditative concentration as a prerequisite, enabling them to eliminate all distractions and concentrate fully on deep deliberation when contemplation is needed, thereby resolving problems effectively.