Hindu Philosophy

Darsanas are Vedic-based philosophical schools for scholars, focusing on intellectual appeal, while Agamas are theological, and Itihasas and Puranas appeal to the general public. Hinduism has six philosophical divisions, known as Shad- Darsana, each with unique interpretations of the Vedas formulated into Sutras by key Rishis.

Nyāya philosophy

The Nyāya School, founded by sage Gotama (not to be confused with Gautama Buddha), emphasizes correct thinking and valid reasoning.

It is known as tarkashāstra (science of reasoning), pramānashāstra (science of logic), hetuvidyā (science of causes), 

vādavidyā (science of debate), and anviksiki (science of critical study). 

Nyāya philosophy seeks knowledge of reality and recognizes sixteen categories (padarthas) for inquiry, conditions, components, and forms of debate, including pramāṇa (valid means of knowledge), prameya (objects of knowledge), saṁśaya (doubt), prayojana (aim), dṛṣṭānta (example), and others related to reasoning and debate strategies.

Vaiseshika Atomic Theory of the Universe

In the Vaiseshika system, the formation of the world is understood to be the result of the aggregation of countless and eternal atoms. These atoms are continually aggregating, disintegrating, and re-aggregating by the power of Adrishta (unseen forces). 

The primary aim of the Vaiseshika philosophy is the analysis of experience. This system organizes its inquiries into categories (Padarthas), which are general properties or attributes that can be attributed to existing things. It establishes general conceptions that apply to things known through sensory perception, inference, or authoritative testimony.

Sankhya Philosophy

The Sankhya system is generally studied alongside the Nyaya philosophy due to their complementary perspectives. It is renowned for its logical and systematic approach, making it a beautiful system of philosophy. Western philosophers have also expressed great admiration for its profound insights and methodological rigor. The Sankhya system is categorically dualistic, clearly distinguishing between the two fundamental realities: Purusha (the knowing Self) and Prakriti (the material world or the objects known). This system firmly denies the notion that anything can be produced out of nothing, emphasizing that all changes and creations are transformations of existing realities. 

By assuming the reality of both Purusha and Prakriti, Sankhya provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the interplay between consciousness and the material universe. 

Raja Yoga and Hatha Yoga

Patanjali’s Yoga, known as Ashtanga Yoga or the Yoga of eight limbs, is a comprehensive system that encompasses various aspects of mental and physical discipline. It outlines a structured path for achieving mastery over the mind and harnessing its psychic powers. The eight limbs include ethical guidelines (Yamas and Niyamas), physical postures (Asanas), breath control (Pranayama), sensory withdrawal (Pratyahara), concentration (Dharana), meditation (Dhyana), and ultimately, self-realization (Samadhi).

Hatha Yoga, on the other hand, focuses on the physical aspect of the practice, emphasizing methods of bodily control and breath regulation. Through rigorous practice of physical postures and breath techniques, Hatha Yoga aims to prepare the body and mind for deeper spiritual practices. 

The culmination of Hatha Yoga is Raja Yoga, the royal path, which represents the highest state of meditation and consciousness. Raja Yoga integrates the physical discipline of Hatha Yoga with the mental discipline of Ashtanga Yoga, leading to the ultimate goal of spiritual enlightenment and union with the divine.

Purva Mimamsa & Uttar Mimamsa

Purva Mimamsa, also known as Karma-Mimamsa, is an inquiry into the earlier portion of the Vedas, specifically focusing on the rituals and ceremonies described in the Mantras and the Brahmanas. Unlike other philosophical systems, Mimamsa is not merely a branch of philosophy but rather a system dedicated to Vedic interpretation. Its philosophical discussions serve as a critical commentary on the Brahmana or ritual portion of the Vedas, aiming to explain and justify the intricate rituals and their significance.

On the other hand, Vedanta Philosophy, also known as Uttara Mimamsa, is a profound system attributed to Vyasa or Badarayana and is considered the last of the six orthodox systems of Indian philosophy, although it arguably holds a position of primary importance. 

Uttara Mimamsa adheres closely to the doctrines propounded in the Upanishads, which are the concluding parts of the Vedas. 

The term Vedanta literally means "the end of the Veda" or "the essence of the Veda," reflecting its foundational basis in the Upanishads. These texts are regarded as the essence of the Vedas, containing profound philosophical teachings about the nature of reality, the self, and the ultimate goal of human life. Vedanta explores these teachings, offering deep insights into the nature of existence and the path to spiritual liberation.