Shad Darshan- Six Orthodox Indian Philosophies

Shad Darshan- Six Orthodox Indian Philosophies

 

Indian philosophies are widely divided into six systems, which are Sānkhya, Nyāya, Vaisheshika, Mīmāmsa, Yoga, and Vedānta. Let’s first see the meaning of Shad which means six. The Sanskrit root of the word darshan is drish, which means "to see." In this sense darshan is inner vision as well as outer vision into reality.

There are two Branches of Indian Philosophy The orthodox branch and unorthodox branch. Orthodox philosophies are so-called as they accept Veda`s authority. The unorthodox branch of philosophies like Buddhism, Jainism, Charvaka, etc does not accept the authority of Vedas.

All these Six Orthodox Indian Philosophies i.e Sānkhya, Nyāya, Vaisheshika, Mīmāmsa, Yoga, and Vedānta are classified as the astika Philosophies and accept the authority of the Vedas.

 

   Nyaya

 Originated by Gautama Rishi, this Philosophy emphasizes logic and reasoning.Nyaya is defined as "Pramanairarthparikshanam nyayaha", which means examining a subject or object with the help of evidence.

   Nyaya is thus concerned with the means of right knowledge.

   The Nyaya school holds that there are four valid means of knowledge: perception (pratyaksha), inference (anumana), comparison (upamana), and sound, or testimony (shabda). Invalid knowledge involves memory, doubt, error, and hypothetical argument.

   Its ultimate concern is to bring an end to human suffering, which results from ignorance of reality. Liberation is brought about through right knowledge.

   The Primary aim of life is described as attainment of Apavarga(liberation) or Moksa(release  from the cycle of rebirth).

 

 

   Samkhya

   Originated by Kapila Muni, this Philosophy focuses on dualism, distinguishing between consciousness and matter.

 The Sanskrit word sāṃkhya (सांख्य) has multiple meanings, including "empirical" or "relating to numbers". In the context of ancient Indian philosophy, it refers to a Hindu school of thought that emphasizes the dualism of spirit and matter. The word sāṃkhya literally means "based on calculation". 

  Samkhya system enumerates 25 elements the two main principals one being Purusha (consciousness or spirit) ad another Prakriti (everting that is not conscious). Of these Purusha is not changeable and Prakriti made up of three gunas i.e Sattva,Rajas and Tamas and is changeable.

 The ultimate aim of Samkhya Philosophy is liberation (Moksha), attainable by understanding the distinction between Purusha and Prakriti.

   Yoga

   Originated by Patanjali Maharshi, this Philosophy explores techniques for liberation through physical and mental disciplines.

   The Yoga Sutras by Patanjali is having the common cosmology, nature and final goal like Samkhya. It is written in the form of Sutras. The Yoga Sutra contains 195 Sutras divided into four Padas.

   The philosophy of yoga aims to connect the mind, body, and spirit, and to promote a sense of oneness and inner peace. Yoga's objectives include: 

§Physical health: Yoga asanas improve flexibility, strength, and balance. 

§ Mental clarity: Yoga's mindfulness and meditation practices can reduce stress, improve focus, and promote mental tranquillity. 

§ Emotional balance: Yoga helps manage emotions by connecting breath with movement and introspection. 

§ Spiritual growth: Yoga is a path for spiritual evolution, allowing individuals to explore their inner selves. 

§ Self-realization: Yoga’s aim is to overcome suffering and achieve a state of liberation or freedom.

   Purva Mimamsa

   Originated by Jaimini, this Philosophy interprets the Vedas, focusing on rituals and their purpose through sacrifices.

   It is also known as Karma-Mimamsa, which means "Study of Actions".

   Uttara Mimamsa (Vedanta)

   Originated by Badarayana or Vyasa, this Philosophy explores the nature of Brahman (ultimate reality) and the relationship between Brahman and the individual self. 

   Most of these Philosophies of thought believe in the theory of Karma and rebirth. 

   Vaisheshika

   Originated by Kanada Rishi, this Philosophy examines the nature of reality through a detailed analysis of categories of existence.

   Vaisheshika thinkers believe in God as the supreme soul, perfect, omniscient, omnipresent, and eternal.