Definition

Noun: 1. An orthodox Hindu philosophical system: Mimamsa is one of the six classical schools (darshanas) of Indian philosophy. It is primarily focused on the interpretation, justification, and correct performance of Vedic ritual. 2. A system of exegesis: The term derives from Sanskrit, meaning 'reflection' or 'investigation'. Mimamsa emphasizes rigorous textual analysis of the Vedas, particularly the earlier portions (the Samhitas and Brahmanas), to establish the authority and meaning of ritual injunctions.

Usage

• Mimamsa is studied as a foundational philosophical system within Hinduism.
• It is often contrasted with Vedanta, another of the six systems.
• The primary goal of Mimamsa is to elucidate dharma (duty, righteousness) as revealed in the Vedic scriptures.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The philosopher wrote a thesis comparing the epistemological theories of Mimamsa and Nyaya.
  • A central concern of Mimamsa is the authority of the Vedas.
  • Unlike Vedanta, which focuses on ultimate reality, Mimamsa is primarily concerned with ritual action.

Advanced Usage

• Purva Mimamsa ("Earlier Inquiry"): This is the full and proper name for the system commonly referred to simply as Mimamsa. It focuses on the earlier (purva) parts of the Vedas.
• Karma Mimamsa ("Inquiry into Action"): Another name highlighting the school's central focus on ritual action (karma).

Variants and Related Words

• Mimamsaka (noun): A follower or scholar of the Mimamsa philosophy.

Synonyms

• Purva Mimamsa: The full name of the system.
• Karma Mimamsa: Emphasizes the ritual action aspect.

Related Concepts (Not Synonyms)

• Vedanta: The philosophical system based primarily on the later Vedic texts, the Upanishads, often contrasted with Mimamsa.
• Dharma: Righteous duty, a central concept whose specifics Mimamsa seeks to define from scripture.
• Darshana: A 'viewpoint' or school of philosophy; Mimamsa is one of the six orthodox darshanas.

Noun

1. (from the Sanskrit word for `reflection' or `interpretation') one of six orthodox philosophical systems or viewpoints on ritual traditions rooted in the Vedas and the Brahmanas as opposed to Vedanta which relies mostly on the Upanishads