Vidhi Viveka of Mandana Misra: Understanding Vedic Injunctions

Publisher: Sri Satguru Publications
Author: Kanchana Natarajan
Language: English
Edition: 1995
ISBN: 9788170304388
Pages: 156
Cover: Hardcover
Dimensions: 23 cm x 15 cm
Weight: 290 gm

About the Book

The Vidhi Viveka by Shri Mandana Migra is an important text within the Bhatta Mimamsa Sampradaya, and this book offers an in-depth study of it. Divided into six comprehensive chapters, it analyzes the language of Vedic injunctions (Vidhi Vakyas) and the role of motivation in moral actions as viewed in the Purva Mimamsa tradition. The chapters are:

• Ch. I - Language and Vidhi Vakyas

• Ch. II - Language and Motivation

• Ch. III - The Doctrine of Niyoga

• Ch. IV - Mandana on Vidhi

• Ch. V - Istasadhanata and the Classification of Acts

• Ch. VI - Conclusion

Through detailed textual analysis and discussions on the nature of Vidhi Vakyas, moral injunctions, and the philosophy of action, the book offers a deep dive into Mandana’s interpretations and responses to Prabhakara’s theories. The work also includes a detailed index, making it a useful resource for scholars and students.

About the Author

Dr. Kanchana Natarajan is a renowned scholar in Indian Philosophy and is currently part of the Department of Philosophy at the University of Delhi. Her expertise lies in the Bhatta Mimamsa and related fields, making her an authority on the Vidhi Viveka and its intricate study. Dr. Natarajan’s work is valuable for understanding the nuances of Vedic injunctions and the philosophy of action in the Purva Mimamsa tradition.

Preface

In this book, Dr. Kanchana Natarajan presents a thorough textual study of the Vidhi Viveka, focusing on moral injunctions found in the Bhatta Mimamsa Sampradaya. The study delves into the interpretation of Vaidika Vidhi Vakyas and explains how Mandana critiqued earlier viewpoints, especially the Prabhakara school’s interpretation of niyoga.

Dr. Natarajan emphasizes that the study of Vidhi Vakyas and theories of motivation in the context of human actions can be better understood through the work of Mandana Migra. The book explores how the optative suffix and knowledge of means drive human action, offering a fresh perspective on the philosophy of karma and intentionality.

This book is an essential read for anyone interested in the Bhatta Mimamsa tradition, Vedic studies, and Indian philosophy, providing an insightful understanding of Vidhi Vakyas, motivational philosophy, and Mandana’s contribution to the field.