11.3 Mīmāṃsā's theory of language and meaning
2 min read•july 25, 2024
Mīmāṃsā's theory of language dives deep into the relationship between words and meanings. It rejects arbitrary associations, critiques the Grammarians' views, and proposes theories like Abhihitānvaya and to explain how words and sentences convey meaning.
The school also asserts the eternal nature of , viewing language as a natural phenomenon. This perspective supports Vedic infallibility and shapes Mīmāṃsā's approach to scriptural interpretation, influencing broader philosophical debates across Indian traditions.
Mīmāṃsā Theory of Language
Mīmāṃsā theory of language
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- Word-meaning relationship integrally connected words and referents rejecting arbitrary associations
- theory critiqued Grammarians' view emphasizing individual letters as meaning-bearers (phonemes, morphemes)
- Abhihitānvaya theory posited words express individual meanings first then sentence meaning derived from combination (cat + sat + mat)
- Anvitābhidhāna theory argued words directly express meaning in relation to sentence enabling contextual understanding ("Time flies like an arrow")
Eternal nature of śabda
- Śabda exists as eternal entity neither created nor destroyed independent of speakers or listeners
- Words revealed not invented with human speech manifesting eternal words (like uncovering a hidden object)
- Akṛtrima nature of language viewed as natural phenomenon rejecting idea of language as human construct
- Eternal nature of śabda supported Vedic infallibility elevating status of sacred texts
Vedic authority in Mīmāṃsā
- nature of Vedas posited as eternal and uncreated rejecting divine or human authorship
- of Vedic knowledge asserted inherent truth without need for external validation
- Linguistic interpretation focused on prescriptive statements () emphasizing proper exegesis of Vedic commands
- served as explanatory passages supporting injunctions interpreting non-injunctive Vedic content
Significance of Mīmāṃsā language theory
- Contributed to pramāṇa theory establishing śabda as valid means of knowledge (verbal testimony)
- Implied metaphysical eternality of words and meanings exploring relationship between language and reality
- Sparked debates with other schools facing Buddhist critiques of eternal words and Nyāya views on conventional language
- Influenced later Indian philosophy impacting Vedānta's scriptural interpretation and shaping discussions across traditions
Key Terms to Review (13)
Abhidhā: Abhidha refers to the linguistic and semantic concept in Indian philosophy that signifies the primary or literal meaning of words. It forms a crucial aspect of Mīmāṃsā's theory of language and meaning, where it is considered essential for understanding how words convey their intended sense. Abhidha emphasizes the relationship between language and reality, showcasing how words directly correspond to their meanings in communication.
Adhikaraṇa: Adhikaraṇa is a key term in Indian philosophy that refers to a specific locus or subject matter under discussion, particularly in the context of epistemology and linguistic analysis. This concept highlights the importance of context in understanding propositions, ensuring that discussions maintain clarity about what is being addressed. The term is essential for analyzing the sources of valid knowledge and the relationship between language, meaning, and interpretation.
Anvitābhidhāna: Anvitābhidhāna refers to a theory of language and meaning in Mīmāṃsā philosophy, which emphasizes the idea that words denote or signify their meanings based on the context and the intention of the speaker. This theory posits that the meaning of a word is not fixed but can vary depending on how it is used in communication. Anvitābhidhāna highlights the relationship between linguistic expressions and the actions they are meant to convey, underscoring the importance of pragmatics in understanding meaning.
Apauruṣeya: 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.
Apūrva: Apūrva is a key concept in Mīmāṃsā philosophy referring to the unique causal relationship or potency that arises from the performance of Vedic rituals, which leads to the fulfillment of specific outcomes. It connects the act of ritual performance with its consequences, emphasizing the importance of intention and the proper execution of Vedic prescriptions in achieving desired results.
Arthavāda: Arthavāda refers to the explanatory and often praise-laden statements found within Vedic texts, which serve to clarify or support the practical significance of rituals and rules. These statements provide context and meaning behind Vedic injunctions, emphasizing the importance of intent and the outcomes of actions associated with rituals, thus shaping the interpretation of sacred texts and influencing understanding of language and meaning in the Mīmāṃsā tradition.
śabda: Śabda is a Sanskrit term that translates to 'sound' or 'word,' particularly in the context of language and meaning within Indian philosophy. It is considered a crucial source of valid knowledge, especially in the Nyāya and Mīmāṃsā schools, where it emphasizes the significance of verbal testimony and linguistic expression in the acquisition of knowledge. Śabda underpins various aspects of reasoning and debate, forming a foundation for understanding language, inference, and the relationship between philosophical systems.
Sambandha: Sambandha refers to the relationship or connection between words and their meanings, a crucial concept in understanding language and interpretation in Mīmāṃsā philosophy. This term emphasizes how words convey meaning through their relationship to objects, actions, and ideas, making it central to the study of language and meaning. By analyzing sambandha, one can explore how sentences are constructed and understood within philosophical texts, revealing the underlying principles of communication and cognition.
Sphoṭa: Sphoṭa is a concept in Indian philosophy, particularly within Mīmāṃsā, that refers to the underlying meaning or the essence of language that exists beyond its phonetic expression. It is thought to represent the complete understanding of a word or sentence, as it encompasses both the sound and the intended meaning, asserting that meaning is not simply tied to individual phonemes or letters but is a cohesive whole.
Svataḥ prāmāṇya: Svataḥ prāmāṇya refers to the intrinsic validity or self-evidence of knowledge claims, particularly emphasized in the Mīmāṃsā school of Indian philosophy. This concept asserts that certain forms of knowledge, especially those derived from Vedic texts, are valid and authoritative in themselves without needing external validation. It is crucial for understanding how Mīmāṃsā interprets Vedic texts, the nature of language and meaning, and its critiques of other philosophical perspectives.
Upadeśa: Upadeśa is a Sanskrit term that refers to the teachings, instructions, or guidance imparted by a spiritual teacher or text. It plays a crucial role in conveying philosophical ideas and practices within the context of Mīmāṃsā's theory of language and meaning, emphasizing the significance of verbal communication in understanding dharma (moral duty) and the proper performance of rituals.
Upādhi: Upādhi refers to a qualifying condition or limiting factor that influences the way something is understood or experienced. In the context of language and meaning, upādhi highlights how certain contexts can shape our comprehension of words and phrases, suggesting that meaning is not fixed but dependent on various factors surrounding its usage.
Vidhi: Vidhi refers to the prescriptive rules and injunctions found in the Vedas, guiding ritual actions and ethical conduct within the framework of Mīmāṃsā philosophy. It serves as a critical concept for understanding how rituals are performed and how one should live according to Dharma, emphasizing the importance of adhering to these directives in both religious practices and moral obligations.