The Karma-Mimamsa

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About the Book

The six system of Hindu philosophy Karma-Mimamsa, Uttara-Mimamsa, Sankhya, Yoga, Vaiseshika, Nyaya - are grouped into three pairs due to their close affinity. The first two are basically expositions than philosophies. Each called Mimamsa which means investigation or critical interpretation. The Karma-Mimamsa, as codified by Jaimini, consists of a large number of aphorisms, usually accompanied by comments, which provide authoritative solutions to problems arising from the interpretation and observance of every injunction covered by the Srauta and Grihya sutras governing sacrificial rites. Gradual discussions on the validity of knowledge and its divers forms crept inside the main body. Most of the commentaries, save that of Sabarasvamin's Bhasya, went into disuse. This Bhaya was expounded by two renowned scholars Prabhakara known as the Guru and Kamarila called Bhatta. The former's work Brihati is a pure elucidation, while the latter's Sabarabhasya, divided into three parts Slokawarttika, Tantravarttika and Tuplika frequently contradicts Sabara. Salikanatha, a disciple of Prabhakara carried on the tradition of his master. Mandana Misra, also known as Suresvaracharya, wrote several works on Kumarila system. The Karma-Mimamsa denies the existence of God; suggests, rather than asserts, realistic conception of the world; up holds the doctrine of Karma. In short, it enjoins everyone to do his duty; for this is the way to heaven (Svarga) and infinite bliss (anantya)

In this book, A.B. Keith clears the mists of obscurity enveloping the discussions on Karma-Mimamsa and shows how relevant is its exegesis to modern man.

About the Author

Arthur Berriedale Keith (1879-1944), an eminent authority on Sanskrit language and literature. His contributions to Sanskrit language and literature are diverse and are marked by a deep understanding and of the obstruse subjects as is evident from his books and many articles in learned journals and translations of ancient Sanskrit text. His History of Sanskrit Literature, Sanskrit Drama, Classical Sanskrit Literature, Religion and Philosophy of the Veda and Upanishads, Samkhya System: A History of the Samkhya Philosophy, Responsible Government in the Dominions apart from the translations of the Karma-Mimamsa, Aitareya Aranyaka, Sankhayana Aranyaka and Mythology of All Races: Indian and Iranian (Jointly with Albert J.Carony) and Vedic Index of Names and Subjects (jointly with A.A. Macdonell) Bear testimony to his deep scholarship.

No section of the population of India can afford to neglect her ancient heritage. In her literature, philosophy, art, and regulated life there is much that is worthless, much also that is distinctly unhealthy; yet the treasures of knowledge, wisdom, and beauty which they contain are too precious to be lost. Every citizen of India needs to use them, if he is to be a cultured modern Indian. This is as true of the Christian, the Muslim, the Zoroastrian as of the Hindu. But, while the heritage of India has been largely explored by scholars, and the results of their toil are laid out for us in their books, they cannot be said to be really available for the ordinary man. The volumes are in most cases expensive, and are often technical and difficult. Hence this series of cheap books has been planned by a group of Christian men, in order that every educated Indian, whether rich or poor, may be able to find his way into the treasures of India's past. Many Europeans, both in India and elsewhere, will doubtless be glad to use the series.

The utmost care is being taken by the General Editors in selecting writers, and in passing manuscripts for the press. To every book two tests are rigidly applied: every- thing must be scholarly, and everything must be sympathetic. The purpose is to bring the best out of the ancient treasuries, so that it may be known, enjoyed, and used.

**Contents and Sample Pages**