Ākāśa, Kāla, Dik: Shared Dravya Characteristics

Ākāśa (Space), Kāla (Time), and Dik (Direction) are considered fundamental substances or dravyas in various Indian philosophical systems. Understanding their shared attributes is key.

Identifying Common Properties

These three dravyas possess the following characteristics:

• One: Each is conceptualized as a singular, unique entity. Ākāśa is the single space, Kāla the single time, and Dik the single direction.
• All-pervading (Vibhu): They are not limited by location or boundaries; they extend universally. Ākāśa is the substratum for sound, Kāla governs temporal sequence, and Dik provides spatial reference, implying their pervasive nature.
• Eternal (Nitya): They are considered timeless and indestructible, existing permanently without beginning or end.

Evaluating Option Characteristics

Let's analyze the characteristics presented in the options:

• Physical (Bhuta): While Ākāśa is sometimes considered a subtle element, Kāla and Dik are abstract concepts, not physical elements like Prithvi (Earth) or Ap (Water). Thus, 'physical' is not a universally shared trait.
• Composite: Ākāśa, Kāla, and Dik are generally regarded as simple, indivisible, and non-composite entities (amurta), not formed from parts.
• Many: This contradicts the singular nature attributed to each of these fundamental dravyas.

Therefore, the characteristics that correctly define Ākāśa, Kāla, and Dik collectively are being one, all-pervading, and eternal.