Tatastha-Lakshana (Accidental Attributes)

Tatastha-Lakshana

Sanskrit: तटस्थलक्षण
Transliteration: Taṭastha-Lakṣaṇa (IAST)
Translation: “identifying marks; accidental attributes; the definition per accidens”

Definition: According to Advaita Vedānta, the Absolute (Brahman) may be defined from the relative standpoint or from the absolute standpoint. Taṭastha-Lakṣaṇa describes the accidental attributes superimposed upon the essential nature of a thing. These attributes remain in that thing only for a time and differentiate it from other things. This definition, per accidens, is from the relative standpoint. Thus, to describe the Absolute (Brahman) as the source and support of the world is to superimpose relational aspects upon the non-relational, non-dual Absolute. This technique has a methodological importance for the Advaitin. It is easy for a beginner to understand the nature of a qualified God (Brahman). Then, from this known position, it is easier to convey the final Advaitic position of non-duality.

Reference:

Grimes, John (1996). A Concise Dictionary of Indian Philosophy: Sanskrit Terms Defined in English. Albany: State University of New York Press