Chhattisgarh P.C.S. Prelims 2018

Indian Theories of Causality

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The doctrine of Apurva is related to-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept Apurva is a unique metaphysical concept in the Mimamsa school used to explain how a ritual performed today can yield results in the distant future.

Explanation Mimamsakas argue that a Vedic ritual creates a unique 'unseen force' (Apurva) that stays with the soul until the karmic conditions are ripe for the ritual’s fruit to manifest.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option D is correct. Without Apurva, the delayed results of Vedic sacrifices could not be logically explained.
Logic 2: This makes the universe self-regulating and ethical without needing a God to manage the results of actions.

Active Recall

Question

What problem does the concept of Apurva solve?

Answer

It solves the problem of how a temporary action (like a ritual) can produce a result much later in time.

Core Insight

The Doctrine of Apurva demonstrates the high level of logical sophistication used to defend traditional Vedic practices.