Apauruṣeya

Definition

The term apauruṣeya refers to texts or scriptures that are considered to be of divine origin and not authored by any human being. In the context of Indian philosophy, particularly within Mīmāṃsā, this concept emphasizes that certain sacred texts hold authority and validity independent of human authorship, establishing a foundation for understanding language and meaning in philosophical discourse.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The concept of apauruṣeya is crucial for Mīmāṃsā as it asserts the infallibility of sacred texts, setting them apart from ordinary literature.
2. Mīmāṃsā philosophers argue that because apauruṣeya texts are not human creations, their meanings must be derived from authoritative interpretations rather than personal opinions.
3. This idea supports the belief that the Vedas contain eternal truths that guide ethical and moral conduct, making them central to Hindu philosophy and practice.
4. In Mīmāṃsā, the authority of apauruṣeya is linked to the rituals (karma) prescribed in these texts, as adherence to these rituals is believed to yield spiritual benefits.
5. The debates surrounding apauruṣeya have influenced various schools of thought within Indian philosophy, particularly regarding the nature of language and meaning.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of apauruṣeya influence the interpretation of Vedic texts within Mīmāṃsā philosophy?
  • In Mīmāṃsā philosophy, apauruṣeya establishes the Vedic texts as authoritative due to their divine origin. This belief affects how scholars approach interpretation, leading them to focus on ritualistic meanings rather than subjective human interpretations. Consequently, understanding these texts becomes an objective exercise rooted in tradition and divine command.
• Discuss the implications of recognizing apauruṣeya texts as infallible for ethical practices in Hinduism.
  • Recognizing apauruṣeya texts as infallible reinforces the idea that ethical practices in Hinduism are grounded in eternal truths found in sacred scriptures. Since these texts are believed to provide definitive guidelines for right conduct and ritual performance, followers are encouraged to adhere strictly to their teachings. This influences not only personal behavior but also broader societal norms derived from these divine prescriptions.
• Evaluate the significance of apauruṣeya in shaping philosophical discourse regarding language and meaning across different schools of Indian philosophy.
  • The significance of apauruṣeya extends beyond Mīmāṃsā, as it shapes discussions on language and meaning in other Indian philosophical schools. The premise that certain texts hold absolute authority prompts various thinkers to grapple with questions about interpretation and communication. This engagement fosters a rich dialogue around how divine revelation interacts with human understanding, thus influencing the development of epistemology and hermeneutics within the broader landscape of Indian thought.

Related terms

Śruti: A category of sacred literature in Hinduism that is considered to be divinely revealed, including the Vedas and Upanishads.

Pramāṇa: A means or source of knowledge that provides justification for belief or understanding, significant in establishing the authority of apauruṣeya texts.

Mīmāṃsā: A school of Indian philosophy that focuses on the interpretation of Vedic texts and emphasizes ritual and dharma.