[Solved] Mimamsa School: Path to Liberation via Karma & Rituals

According to Mimamsa system of philosophy, liberation is possible by means of:

[UPSC CSE Prelims 2005]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Mimamsa (or Purva Mimamsa) is the school of 'Action' that focuses on the correct interpretation of Vedic rituals and their execution.

Authentic Source Evidence

The primary goal of Mimamsa is 'Dharma'—the performance of duties prescribed by the Vedas. They believe that the correct performance of rituals (Karma) generates an unseen power (Apurva) that leads to heaven or liberation.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Option D is correct. Unlike Advaita Vedanta which stresses Knowledge (Gyan), Mimamsa emphasizes the efficacy of Vedic Karma as the sole means to Moksha.

Logic 2: Bhakti (B) and Yoga (C) are paths emphasized by other schools (like Bhagavata and Samkhya-Yoga respectively), whereas Mimamsa is purely orthopraxic (focused on right action/ritual).

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Who is considered the founder of the Mimamsa school?"

Sage Jaimini, who composed the Mimamsa Sutras.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"Mimamsa is the most ritual-oriented of the Hindu schools, viewing the Vedas as eternal and self-authoritative commands for action."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Apurva 3 Dharma 7

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