Structure of Knowledge

KNOWLEDGE

APARA (obtained
PARA (received by by self-effort under
grace) guidance of a
Guru)

SHRUTI
SMRTI (that which
(knowledge by
is remembered)
cognizance)

SAMA VEDA
RIG VEDA YAJUR VEDA ATHARVA VEDA
(knowledge of
(principles of life (application of the (impact on day to
rhythms, rhythm of
and nature) principles) day life/ society)
the existence)

SHAT DARSHANAS based upon ASTIKA philosophy

1. Nyaya Darshana: Rishi Goutam propounded it. This viewpoint asserts a logical
perspective to understand the knowledge. It aims to understand the truth by means of
proof (PRAMANA)
2. Vaisheshika Darshana: Rishi Kanada propounded this viewpoint. It’s built upon the core
idea that by knowing the building blocks of matter, one can realize the highest knowledge
(“Paddartha jnana mokshah”). It asserts an experiential understanding of the existence.
3. Sankhya Darshana: It was expounded by Kapila Muni and implements the technique of
analysis and reasoning in understanding the creation. Sankhya pertains to the process of
breaking down the existence into fundamental parts. For example seeing the whole
material creation as combination of the five elements: earth, air, fire, water and space.
4. Yoga Darshana: Complementary to Sankhya, Yoga darshana elucidates the viewpoint of
synthesis. Derived from the word Yujir, also meaning union and oneness. It is primarily
attributed to the school of Maharishi Patanjali
5. Mimamsa or Purva Mimamsa: It comprises the ritualistic practices and order in life. One
of the main proponents of this viewpoint was Maharishi Jaimini, who is well known for
his Jaimini Sutras. The viewpoint associates with organizing life into rituals and
processes to get a deeper understanding of this existence.
6. Uttara Mimamsa/ Vedanta: This refers to the end of knowledge and tears away from
ritualistic perception of life. The key proponents where Adi Shankaracharya (Advaita
Vedanta), Madhavacharya (Dwaita Vedanta) & Ramananujacharya (Vishishta Advaita)