UP High Court RO / ARO 10 Dec 2021 Shift 1

Who is the founder of "Mimamsa" philosophy?

Verified Answer
A. Vashisht
B. Kapil
C. Gautam
D. Jaimini

Explanation:

Mimamsa is one of the six orthodox schools (astika) of Hindu philosophy, primarily concerned with the interpretation of the Vedas and the nature of dharma. * **Correct Option (D) Jaimini:** The Mimamsa school of Hindu philosophy, also known as Purva Mimamsa, is traditionally attributed to the ancient sage **Jaimini**. He is the author of the Mimamsa Sutras, which are the foundational texts of this school. Mimamsa focuses on the correct interpretation of the Vedic rituals and injunctions, emphasizing the importance of performing dharma (righteous action) to achieve desired results. * **Incorrect Option (A) Vashisht:** Vashisht (or Vasishtha) is a revered Vedic sage, one of the Saptarishis (seven great sages), known for his contributions to the Rigveda and his role in various Hindu epics, but he is not the founder of the Mimamsa school. * **Incorrect Option (B) Kapil:** Kapil is traditionally considered the founder of the Samkhya school of Hindu philosophy, which is a dualistic system that postulates two ultimate realities: Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter). * **Incorrect Option (C) Gautam:** Gautam (or Gautama) is traditionally credited with founding the Nyaya school of Hindu philosophy, which primarily focuses on logic, epistemology, and the means of valid knowledge (pramanas).