Definition: In the Kathāvatthu, upanayana is the third step in the formal five-step logical refutation. It is the "application" of the logical consequences derived from the previous steps. In this phase, the proponent brings the opponent's various admissions together to prepare for the final conclusion.
Canonical usage
The Kathāvatthu uses upanayana to consolidate the logical pressure on the opponent's position.
Kv 1.1 (kv1.1:12.8)
Upanayanacatukkaṁ.
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"The fourfold application."
The text systematically applies the results of the anuloma and paccanīka testing to show that the opponent's thesis cannot be consistently maintained across both affirmative and negative frameworks. (Kv 1.1)
Nuances and translation notes
- Upanayana literally means "leading near", from upa- (near) + ni- (to lead).
- In Indian logic (Nyāya), upanayana is also the fourth member of the five-membered syllogism, where the general rule is applied to the specific case under discussion.
Related concepts
- patikamma — the rebuttal that is being applied
- niggamana — the conclusion that follows the application
- niggaha — the final refutation
Related pages
- kathavatthu — where it functions as the penultimate stage of a logical proof
- method matrix nayamatika