THE MIMANSA PROCESS OF INTERPRETATION: METHODOLOGYAND STRUCTURE

The Methodology

In any intellectual exercise, the methodology is as important as the content of the doctrines resorted to. Interpretation is an intellectual exercise. Whether one resorts to the literal construction, or the "mischief rule, or the "functional" interpretation, one has to follow (expressly or impliedly) certain steps of reasoning A look at the process resorted to by writers on Mimansa would therefore be useful.

The Mimansa method: Adhikarana

The classical statement of the Mimansa method in this regard is that of Kumarila Bhatta. "The text under consideration, the doubt concerning it, the first side, the other side or answer and the conclusion, all these constitute an Adhikarana (a complete theme).

Colebrooke explains "Adhikarana" (the five steps of reasoning) as under: -

I. The subject or matter to be explained.
II. The doubt or question arising out of that matter.
HI. The first side or prima facie argument.
IV. The answer or demonstrated conclusion (Siddhanta).
V. The pertinence or relevance.

Maxmueller sets out the five members of an Adhikarana as under: -

1. The subject to be explained (Vishaya).
2. The doubt (Samsaya).
3. The first side or the prima facie view (Purvapaksha).
4. The demonstrated conclusion (Siddhanta).
5. The connection (Sangati).