6.1 Classification and interrelationships of the six schools
2 min read•july 25, 2024
Hindu philosophy encompasses six orthodox schools, each offering unique perspectives on reality and knowledge. These schools, including , , , , , and , form the foundation of Hindu thought and practice.
While differing in their approaches, these schools share common threads like belief in and the pursuit of liberation. Their diverse viewpoints on epistemology, metaphysics, and the nature of God showcase the rich philosophical landscape within Hinduism.
Orthodox Schools of Hindu Philosophy
Six orthodox Hindu schools
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- Nyaya (Logic) founded by Gautama focuses on logical reasoning and argumentation
- Vaisheshika (Atomism) founded by Kanada proposes atomic theory of matter and categories of reality
- Samkhya (Enumeration) attributed to Kapila presents dualistic philosophy of consciousness and matter
- Yoga (Union) systematized by Patanjali outlines practices for achieving spiritual liberation
- Mimamsa (Exegesis) founded by Jaimini emphasizes ritual interpretation and Vedic hermeneutics
- Vedanta (End of the Vedas) systematized by Badarayana explores ultimate nature of reality and self
Epistemology and metaphysics of schools
- Nyaya emphasizes logical reasoning and valid knowledge accepts physical reality and existence of God
- Vaisheshika focuses on perception and inference proposes atomic theory of universe (paramanu)
- Samkhya recognizes perception, inference, and testimony presents dualistic view of and
- Yoga accepts Samkhya's epistemology adds yogic intuition acknowledges existence of God ()
- Mimamsa emphasizes authority of Vedic texts advocates pluralistic realism rejects supreme deity
- Vedanta accepts Vedic revelation as highest knowledge source various sub-schools differ on nature of reality (, )
Relationships among Hindu schools
- Nyaya and Vaisheshika share emphasis on logical analysis and categorization (dravya, , karma)
- Samkhya and Yoga present similar metaphysical views differ on role of God
- Mimamsa and Vedanta focus on Vedic interpretation diverge in conclusions about ultimate reality
- All schools accept Vedic authority to varying degrees (, )
- Common belief in karma and rebirth ()
- Pursuit of liberation as ultimate goal (, )
- Differing views on existence and nature of God (Ishvara, )
- Varying emphasis on methods of knowledge acquisition ()
Significance of orthodox classification
- Systematizes approaches to understanding reality and knowledge in Hindu thought
- Demonstrates philosophical diversity within Hinduism while maintaining core principles ()
- Provides framework for philosophical debates and discussions (, )
- Influences development of later Hindu thought and practices (, )
- Contrasts with heterodox schools while sharing common concerns (Buddhism, Jainism)
- Reflects historical evolution of Indian philosophical traditions ()
- Integrates various aspects of Hindu theology and practice (, karma, bhakti)
Key Terms to Review (28)
Advaita: Advaita is a non-dualistic school of thought in Indian philosophy that emphasizes the oneness of Atman (the individual self) and Brahman (the ultimate reality). This concept suggests that the apparent duality of the world is an illusion, and realizing this unity leads to liberation (moksha). The principles of Advaita can be connected to various aspects of Indian philosophical traditions, particularly through its interpretation of texts and its relationship with other schools of thought.
Bhakti: Bhakti refers to a devotional form of worship and love towards a personal god, emphasizing emotional connection and surrender over ritualistic practices. This term highlights the centrality of love and devotion in spiritual practice, which deeply influences various philosophical schools and traditions within Indian philosophy.
Brahman: Brahman is the ultimate, unchanging reality in Indian philosophy, representing the cosmic spirit or absolute consciousness that pervades everything. It serves as the foundation of existence and is closely tied to the concepts of Atman (the self) and the universe, influencing various philosophical traditions and schools of thought in India.
Darshanas: Darshanas refer to the six orthodox schools of philosophy in Indian thought, each offering distinct perspectives on knowledge, reality, and the nature of existence. These schools are interconnected, forming a rich tapestry of philosophical discourse that addresses fundamental questions about life, ethics, and the universe. Together, they represent a diverse approach to understanding the world, emphasizing various paths to knowledge and liberation.
Dharma: Dharma is a complex and multifaceted concept in Indian philosophy that generally refers to the moral order, duty, and the right way of living. It encompasses ethical conduct, law, and social responsibilities, often varying according to an individual's role in society and their stage of life. This foundational idea influences various aspects of life, from personal behavior to social order and spiritual practice.
Dravyas: Dravyas refer to substances or materials that exist in the universe, recognized as the fundamental building blocks of reality in Indian philosophy. These substances are essential for understanding the nature of existence and are classified differently across various philosophical schools, revealing the interrelationships between them and their approach to categorizing reality.
Dvaita: Dvaita is a school of thought in Indian philosophy that advocates dualism, particularly the distinction between the individual soul (jiva) and the supreme reality (Brahman). It emphasizes that these two entities are fundamentally different and highlights the importance of devotion and relationship between the individual and the divine. This perspective connects deeply with other philosophical systems while also showcasing distinct beliefs about the nature of reality.
Guna: In Indian philosophy, 'guna' refers to the three fundamental qualities or attributes that characterize all of nature and the material world. These qualities—sattva (purity, harmony), rajas (activity, passion), and tamas (inertia, darkness)—interact with one another to shape human experience and consciousness, influencing behavior and spiritual development.
Ishvara: Ishvara is a Sanskrit term that refers to a personal god or supreme being, often associated with the concept of a divine creator or ruler in various philosophical systems of India. In many schools of thought, ishvara is considered the ultimate reality, possessing attributes of omnipotence, omniscience, and benevolence, and serves as a focal point in spiritual practices and devotion.
Jnana: Jnana refers to the concept of knowledge or wisdom in Indian philosophy, particularly within the context of self-realization and understanding the ultimate reality. It is a crucial aspect in the Upanishads, where it signifies the knowledge that leads to liberation (moksha) and understanding the nature of Brahman and Atman. Jnana is not just intellectual understanding; it involves a deep, experiential insight into the essence of existence and the interconnectedness of all beings.
Kaivalya: Kaivalya is a Sanskrit term that signifies the state of liberation or ultimate independence, often associated with the realization of one's true nature and the cessation of suffering. It represents the culmination of spiritual practice, particularly in Sāṃkhya and Yoga philosophies, where it is seen as the goal of life and the end of the cycle of birth and rebirth.
Karma: Karma is a fundamental concept in Indian philosophy that refers to the law of cause and effect, where an individual's actions (good or bad) influence their future experiences and rebirths. This idea is central to understanding moral responsibility and the interconnectedness of life across various philosophical traditions in India.
Mimamsa: Mimamsa is one of the six orthodox schools of Indian philosophy that primarily focuses on the interpretation and performance of Vedic rituals. It emphasizes the importance of ritual action, particularly in achieving dharma, and underscores the significance of the Vedas as the ultimate source of authority in matters of ethics and practice. As a philosophical system, Mimamsa has had a profound influence on other Indian philosophical traditions and has shaped the understanding of the Vedic texts.
Moksha: Moksha is the ultimate goal of human existence in Indian philosophy, representing liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) and union with the divine or ultimate reality. It signifies a state of eternal bliss and freedom from all forms of suffering, where the individual soul (Atman) realizes its oneness with Brahman, the universal spirit.
Nyaya: Nyaya is one of the six orthodox schools of Indian philosophy that focuses on logic and epistemology, emphasizing the systematic study of reasoning and the principles of valid inference. It aims to establish a methodical approach to knowledge, laying down the foundations for understanding truth, proof, and the nature of reality.
Prakriti: Prakriti refers to the fundamental nature or material aspect of reality in Indian philosophy, often understood as the primal substance or cosmic matter that forms the basis of all existence. It encompasses the physical universe and is essential in various philosophical frameworks to explain creation, transformation, and the interplay between matter and consciousness.
Pramanas: Pramanas are the means or sources of valid knowledge in Indian philosophy, essential for establishing truth and understanding reality. These epistemological tools play a critical role in different philosophical schools, influencing how knowledge is classified and interrelated among them. The concept of pramanas not only serves to delineate the frameworks for acquiring knowledge but also fosters a comparative analysis with Western epistemology regarding how knowledge is perceived and validated.
Purusha: Purusha is a key concept in Indian philosophy that refers to the cosmic being or the universal spirit, often associated with consciousness and the principle of self. It represents the ultimate reality beyond material existence and serves as a fundamental aspect of various philosophical systems, particularly in relation to the distinction between the self and the material world.
Samkhya: Samkhya is one of the oldest philosophical systems in Indian philosophy, primarily characterized by its dualistic framework that distinguishes between consciousness (Purusha) and matter (Prakriti). This system lays the groundwork for understanding the nature of existence and the human experience, influencing various schools of thought and spiritual practices, including yoga and different interpretations of Vedic rituals.
Samsara: Samsara refers to the continuous cycle of birth, life, death, and rebirth that all sentient beings experience in Indian philosophy. This cycle is driven by karma, and understanding it is essential for grasping concepts of liberation and enlightenment within various philosophical traditions.
Smriti: Smriti refers to a category of sacred texts in Hinduism that are considered to be 'remembered' as opposed to 'revealed.' These texts encompass a wide range of literature, including epics, Puranas, and Dharmashastras, and are crucial in providing cultural and moral guidance to society. Smriti complements Shruti, which includes the more authoritative Vedic texts, helping to shape the practices and beliefs within Hindu traditions.
Sruti: Sruti refers to the body of sacred texts in Hindu philosophy that are considered to be divinely revealed. This term plays a crucial role in understanding the foundational sources of knowledge and authority within the various schools of Indian philosophy, establishing the legitimacy of philosophical discourse and interpretation.
Tantra: Tantra is a spiritual tradition in Indian philosophy that emphasizes the use of rituals, meditation, and bodily practices to achieve enlightenment and realize the divine within oneself. It connects deeply with various philosophical schools, reflecting its role in the broader scope of Indian thought, including its relationship with culture and geography.
Tarka: Tarka refers to the process of reasoning or inference used in Indian philosophy, especially within the Nyāya school, to establish the validity of knowledge claims. It plays a critical role in the examination and justification of beliefs, where logical deduction and argumentation are employed to analyze various philosophical positions and concepts.
Vada: Vada refers to a philosophical debate or discussion characterized by rational argumentation and logic, often employed in the context of Indian philosophical schools. It serves as a crucial method for exploring and articulating differing viewpoints, allowing scholars to engage in meaningful discourse that clarifies and critiques various doctrines within the six classical schools of Indian philosophy.
Vaisheshika: Vaisheshika is one of the six orthodox schools of Indian philosophy that focuses on the categorization and understanding of reality through a detailed analysis of the physical world. It emphasizes the study of substances, qualities, actions, and the nature of existence, linking its insights to broader metaphysical discussions within Indian philosophical traditions.
Vedanta: Vedanta is one of the six orthodox schools of Indian philosophy, primarily focused on the teachings of the Upanishads, and emphasizes the nature of reality, the self (Atman), and the ultimate reality (Brahman). It connects deeply with various aspects of Indian thought, exploring themes of metaphysics, ethics, and spirituality, while interpreting Vedic literature and rituals in profound ways.
Yoga: Yoga is a spiritual and physical practice rooted in ancient Indian philosophy, aiming to unite the individual self with the universal consciousness through disciplined techniques that include meditation, physical postures, and ethical precepts. This practice connects to broader themes in Indian philosophy, such as the nature of reality, consciousness, and the quest for liberation.