Table of Contents:
- About Indian Philosophy
- Founder of Six Orthodox Indian philosophy
- Vaisheshika Philosophy
- Nyaya Philosophy
- Sankhya Philosophy
- Yoga Philosophy
- Mimansa
- Vedanta
- MCQ and QUIZ
About Indian Philosophy:
Indian Philosophy ( Hinduism ) has a diverse range of philosophical schools of thought, some of these are the six orthodox ( Aastika), Sramana ( Jainism, Buddhism, and Ajivika/ Determinism), Nastika or Heterodox ( Charvaka, Jainism, and Buddhism), and Bhagavad Gita.
These schools, known as darshan, provide various perspectives on metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, and the nature of reality. These diverse philosophies have emerged in the Indian subcontinent throughout history.
Each philosophy offers its unique perspectives on the nature of reality, the self, ethics, and the path to liberation or self-realization.
In this article, we will understand the Six schools of philosophy ( Aastika darshan):
Founder of Six Orthodox Indian Philosophy:
The six orthodox schools of Hindu philosophy are:
School Philosophy Founder
Vaishesika Kanada
Nyaya Gotama
Samkhya Kapila
Yoga Patanjali
Purva Mimansa Jaimini
Vedanta or Uttar Mimansa Badrayan/Vyasa
Vaishesika Philosophy:
Vaishesika philosophy was founded by Sage Kanada around the 2nd century BCE.
Vaisheshika emphasizes the atomic theory of matter and metaphysics. It categorizes the fundamental building blocks of the universe into five substances earth, water, air, fire, and space.
Vaisheshika's philosophy is closely related to Nyaya's philosophy as they share common views on logic, epistemology, and metaphysics.
Vaisheshika scholars examine cause-and-effect relationships, the nature of reality, and the means to attain liberation. Brahman is a fundamental force that causes conscience in this atom.
The philosophy of Vaishshika is primarily concerned with analyzing and understanding the nature of the universe through systematic study of the physical world.
The following are some key concepts in Vaishshika Philosophy:
Atoms ( Paramanu):
As per this philosophy, the fundamental building blocks of the universe are invisible and eternal atoms called "Paramanu". These atoms are considered as ultimate reality. Atoms are the basic building blocks of all physical matter.
Categories ( Padaartha) :
Vaishesika philosophy identified six fundamental categories or aspects of reality, known as "Padartha." The same of six categories are substance ( dravya), quality ( guna), motion (karma), generality ( Samanya), specificity (Visesa), and inseparability ( Samavaya).
Cause-event ( Karya-karna-vada):
As per Vaishesika's philosophy, every effect (Karya) has a cause (Karana). The cause-effect relationship is based on the contact between atoms, and the transformation occurs due to the inherent potentialities and qualities of the atoms involved.
Epistemology :
Vaisheshika acknowledges four valid means of knowledge ( Pramana) to gain accurate knowledge about the world. These are perception (Pratyaksa), inference ( Anumana), comparison ( Upamana), and testimony ( Sabda). Perception is considered the most valid knowledge and reliable source of knowledge.
Ethics and Liberation:
Vaishesika acknowledges the concept of Karma. Liberation ( Moksha) can be achieved through the realization of the true nature of reality and the cessation of desires.
Nyaya Philosophy:
Nyaya Darshan was founded by Sage Gautama around the 2nd century BCE. Nyaya's philosophy focuses on logic, epistemology, and the nature of knowledge.
The Nyaya school focuses on logical reasoning and epistemology (theory of knowledge). It explores how knowledge is obtained, the nature of perception, inference, comparison, and testimony. Nyaya philosophers analyze arguments and debate to arrive at valid conclusions.
The following are some key concepts of Nyaya Philosophy:
Pramana ( proof):
Nyaya philosophy recognizes four valid means of knowledge, known as "Pramana", through which one can gain accurate knowledge. These are perception (Pratyaksa), inference ( Anumana), comparison ( Upamana), and testimony ( Sabda). Perception is considered the most direct and reliable means of knowledge.
Syllogism ( Tarka):
Nyaya emphasizes logical reasoning and uses syllogistic inference to establish valid arguments. It promotes a rigorous system of analysis and debate to arrive at sound conclusions.
Categories of Knowledge:
Nyaya classifies knowledge into sixteen categories ( Padartha), some of the important categories are means of knowledge ( Pramana), object of knowledge ( Prameya ), doubt ( Samsaya), motive ( Prayojana), and example (Drstanta).
Theory of Perception:
Nyaya philosophy differences between direct perception ( Pratyaksa) and inference ( Anumana). It asserts that perception is the immediate awareness of an external object through the senses while inference involves drawing conclusions based on previous knowledge and observations.
Epistemology and Metaphysics :
Nyaya asserts that true knowledge is characterized by its correspondence to reality. Nyaya accepts the existence of eternal substances, such as self ( Atman) and supreme soul ( Isvara), as well as non-eternal substances.
Ethics and Liberation:
Nyaya's philosophy acknowledges the importance of ethics and moral conduct. It recognizes the concept of karma and believes that ethical actions lead to favorable consequences.
Nyaya believes that Moksha ( Liberation) can be attained through a combination of correct knowledge, moral virtues, and the cessation of ignorance.
Sankhya Philosophy:
Samkhya Philosophy was founded by the sage Kapila and is one of the oldest philosophical systems in India.
Samkhya's philosophy seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the nature of existence, the evolution of the universe, and the means to liberation (moksha).
The following are some key concepts in Samkhya Philosophy:
Prakriti and Purusha:
The central concept in Samkhya is the duality of Prakriti and Purusha. Prakriti refers to the primal substance of the universe, which is the source of all material manifestations. Purusha, on the other hand, refers to the pure consciousness or individual self that is separate from Prakriti.
Gunas:
Prakriti is composed of three fundamental qualities known as Gunas: Sattva (purity, illumination), Rajas (activity, passion), and Tamas (inertia, darkness). These Gunas are responsible for the diversity and transformation of the material world.
Evolution of the Universe:
Samkhya explains the process of creation and evolution as the interplay of the Gunas. It posits that Prakriti undergoes various transformations, giving rise to the physical and subtle aspects of the universe. The manifest world is a result of the interaction between the Gunas.
Purusha and Liberation:
Purusha, the individual self, is considered distinct from Prakriti and is characterized by pure consciousness.
The goal of Samkhya is to realize the difference between Purusha and Prakriti, leading to liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Liberation is attained when the Purusha recognizes its true nature and disentangles itself from the influence of Prakriti.
Twenty-Four Tattvas:
Samkhya describes the framework of the universe through a set of twenty-four principles or tattvas. These include the evolutes of Prakriti, the five sensory capacities, the five subtle elements (Tanmatras), the five gross elements (Bhutas), the senses, the mind, the ego, and the individual self (Purusha).
Epistemology:
Samkhya recognizes three means of knowledge (Pramana) - perception (Pratyakṣa), inference (Anumana), and testimony (Sabda). It asserts that true knowledge arises from the direct experience of reality and understanding the distinction between Purusha and Prakriti.
Samkhya philosophy has had a significant influence on various Indian philosophical and religious traditions, including Yoga and Tantra. It provides a metaphysical framework for understanding the nature of reality and the path to spiritual liberation.
Yoga Philosophy:
The foundational text of yoga philosophy is the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, compiled by the sage Patanjali around the 2nd century BCE. The Yoga Sutras provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the nature of the mind, the human condition, and the path to liberation.
Yoga philosophy is a rich and ancient system of thought that originated in India thousands of years ago. It encompasses a wide range of philosophical ideas and practices aimed at achieving spiritual growth, self-realization, and union with the divine.
The following are some key concepts in yoga philosophy:
Eight Limbs of Yoga:
The Yoga Sutras outline the eight limbs of yoga, known as Ashtanga. These are guidelines for living a balanced and meaningful life. The limbs are Yamas (ethical restraints), Niyamas (observances), Asana (physical postures), Pranayama (breath control), Pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (state of transcendence).
Self-Realization:
Yoga philosophy holds that the true nature of the self (Atman) is pure consciousness and that self-realization involves recognizing this divine essence within oneself. Through yogic practices, individuals seek to transcend their limited ego identities and connect with their higher selves.
Union (Yoga):
The word "yoga" means union or integration. It refers to the union of the individual self (Atman) with the universal consciousness or divine reality (Brahman). This union is seen as the ultimate goal of yoga and leads to liberation (Moksha) from the cycle of birth and death.
Karma and Reincarnation:
Yoga philosophy embraces the concepts of karma and reincarnation. Karma refers to the law of cause and effect, where one's actions, thoughts, and intentions have consequences that shape their present and future experiences. Reincarnation suggests that the soul takes on new bodies in successive lives, providing opportunities for spiritual growth and evolution.
Mind and Consciousness:
Yoga philosophy recognizes the mind as a powerful force that can be trained and disciplined. It emphasizes the importance of controlling the fluctuations of the mind (chitta vrittis) through practices such as meditation, concentration, and mindfulness. By calming the mind, one can attain a state of pure awareness and clarity.
Non-Attachment:
Yoga philosophy teaches non-attachment (vairagya) as a means to overcome suffering. By cultivating detachment from desires, outcomes, and material possessions, individuals can find inner peace and freedom from the fluctuations of the external world.
Unity and Interconnectedness:
Yoga philosophy emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the underlying unity of existence. It recognizes that everything in the universe is interconnected and that harming others ultimately harms oneself. This understanding fosters compassion, empathy, and a sense of oneness with all of creation.
Yoga philosophy provides a holistic framework for harmonizing the body, mind, and spirit, and offers guidance for leading a balanced, purposeful, and fulfilling life. It continues to inspire and influence various aspects of yoga practice, meditation, spirituality, and personal growth worldwide.
Yoga is primarily concerned with spiritual practice and the means to attain self-realization and union with the divine.
Yoga philosophy promotes the discipline of body and mind. Ashtanga yoga is the way to Moksha. Yoga also heals the body without eating any medicines. It was an associate branch of Ayurveda.
Mimsansa:
The Mimamsa philosophy, founded by sage Jaimini, is primarily concerned with understanding the rituals and injunctions prescribed in the Vedas and their significance in leading a righteous life.
Mimamsa focuses on the interpretation and analysis of the Vedas, the oldest scriptures of Hinduism.
The following are key concepts in Mimamsa Philosophy:
Karma and Dharma:
Mimamsa places a strong emphasis on the concept of karma and dharma. Karma refers to the actions performed by individuals, while dharma refers to the moral and ethical duties prescribed by the Vedas.
Mimamsa seeks to interpret and understand the correct performance of rituals and duties to attain desired outcomes and progress in life.
Authority of the Vedas:
Mimamsa regards the Vedas as authoritative and eternal sources of knowledge. It holds that the Vedas are apauruṣeya, meaning not created by any human author but revealed truths. Mimamsa seeks to interpret the meaning and implications of the Vedic texts to guide individuals in leading righteous life.
Interpretation:
Mimamsa is known for its elaborate rules of interpretation and hermeneutics. It employs principles of textual analysis, grammar, logic, and linguistics to derive the intended meaning of Vedic texts. The Mimamsa school developed a complex system of interpreting the injunctions and statements in the Vedas to understand their application and significance.
Rituals and Sacrifices:
Mimamsa places great importance on rituals and sacrificial ceremonies prescribed in the Vedas. It believes that the proper performance of rituals, including sacrifices (yajna), is essential for fulfilling one's duties, attaining desired goals, and maintaining cosmic order. Mimamsa provides detailed guidelines and explanations for the performance of rituals.
Uttar Mimansa or Vedanta:
Vedanta is a philosophical system based on the Upanishads, which are considered the culmination of the Vedas, the ancient scriptures of Hinduism.
Vedanta explores the nature of reality, the self, and the ultimate truth (Brahman). It offers profound insights into the nature of existence, consciousness, and the path to liberation (moksha).
The following are key concepts in Vedanta Philosophy:
Brahman:
Vedanta posits Brahman as the ultimate reality or absolute truth. It is the supreme, impersonal, and infinite principle that underlies the universe.
Brahman is often described as formless, timeless, and beyond all attributes. It is the source and substratum of all existence.
Atman:
Atman refers to the individual self or soul. Vedanta teaches that Atman is not separate from Brahman but is, in fact, of the same essence. The realization of the identity between Atman and Brahman is a central goal of Vedanta philosophy. It is through this realization that one attains liberation (moksha).
Maya:
Vedanta introduces the concept of Maya, which is the power of Brahman that veils the true nature of reality and creates the appearance of the material world. Maya is considered an illusion or a superimposition that causes individuals to perceive the world as separate from Brahman. Overcoming Maya is essential for attaining liberation.
Jiva and Jagat:
Vedanta distinguishes between Jiva (individual beings) and Jagat (the manifest world). Jiva represents individual souls or consciousness that are subject to the cycle of birth and death. Jagat refers to the empirical world that we experience, which is a result of the interplay of Maya and Brahman.
Threefold Reality:
Vedanta proposes a threefold classification of reality, known as the tripartite division of Triguna. It categorizes existence into three levels: Brahman (the ultimate reality), Ishvara (the personal aspect of the divine), and Jagat (the empirical world). These three levels are interconnected and provide a framework for understanding the nature of reality.
Paths to Liberation:
Vedanta acknowledges different paths to liberation, catering to various temperaments and inclinations of individuals. The paths are Jnana Yoga (the path of knowledge or wisdom), Bhakti Yoga (the path of devotion), Karma Yoga (the path of selfless action), and Raja Yoga (the path of meditation and control of the mind). These paths ultimately lead to the realization of the identity between Atman and Brahman.
Non-dualism and Dualism:
Vedanta encompasses different philosophical approaches, including Advaita Vedanta (non-dualism) and Dvaita Vedanta (dualism). Advaita Vedanta, founded by Adi Shankara, emphasizes the non-dual nature of reality and the ultimate unity of Atman and Brahman. Dvaita Vedanta, founded by Madhva, emphasizes the distinction between individual souls and the Supreme Reality.
Vedanta schools differ in their interpretation and emphasis, with Advaita Vedanta (non-dualism) of Adi Shankara, Visishtadvaita Vedanta (qualified non-dualism) of Ramanuja, and Dvaita Vedanta (dualism) of Madhvacharya being prominent branches.
Vedanta philosophy has had a profound influence on Hindu thought, spirituality, and religious practices. It offers a profound understanding of the nature of reality, the self, and the path to liberation. Vedanta has also influenced other religious traditions and philosophical systems outside of Hinduism.
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