On anulaksana and anavastha

Abstract

I treat the discussion of a fault of infinite regress (anavastha) of four characteristics (samskrtalaksana) and four secondary characteristics (anulaksana) in the Mahavibhasa. Against the criticism that there is a fault of infinite regress in a theory of four characteristics, the Sarvastivada-Vaibhasikas make three types of responses in the Mahavibhasa.
(a) Some Sarvastivada-Vaibhasikas respond that there is no fault, even if there is an infinite regress.
(b) Other Sarvastivada-Vaibhasikas respond that there is no fault because there is no infinite regress. This response is based on the theory that three dharmas occur at the same moment when dharmas arise.
(c) Orthodox Sarvastivada-Vaibhasikas respond that there is no fault because there is no infinite regress. This response is based on the theory that nine dharmas occur at the same moment when dharmas arise.