What are the two primary Sanskrit terms used to classify schools of Indian philosophy, and what is their general meaning?

The two primary Sanskrit terms used to classify schools of Indian philosophy are Āstika and Nāstika. Āstika generally refers to those who accept the authority of the Vedas, while Nāstika refers to those who do not. These terms are mutually exclusive and have been used since ancient times, though their precise definitions have been debated.

How do the modern meanings of Āstika and Nāstika differ from their traditional philosophical usage?

In current Indian languages like Telugu, Hindi, and Bengali, Āstika and its derivatives typically mean 'theist,' and Nāstika and its derivatives denote 'atheism.' This contrasts with the older, philosophical distinction, which primarily relates to the acceptance or rejection of the Vedas' authority, rather than belief in God.

What are the three common definitions provided in Sanskrit philosophical literature for the term Āstika?

In Sanskrit philosophical literature, Āstika has been defined in three main ways: 1) accepting the epistemic authority of the Vedas, 2) accepting the existence of Ātman (the Self), and 3) accepting the existence of Ishvara (a supreme being or God).

Conversely, what does the term Nāstika signify in relation to these definitions?

Nāstika, derived from 'na' (not) and Āstika, signifies those who deny the respective definitions of Āstika. This means they do not accept the authority of the Vedas, deny the existence of Ātman, or deny the existence of Ishvara.

Which six schools of Indian philosophy are traditionally classified as Āstika?

The six most studied Āstika schools of Indian philosophy, often referred to as orthodox schools, are Nyāya, Vaiśeṣika, Sāṅkhya, Yoga, Mīmāṃsā, and Vedānta.

What are the five schools of Indian philosophy typically classified as Nāstika?

The five schools of Indian philosophy typically classified as Nāstika, often referred to as heterodox schools, are Buddhism, Jainism, Cārvāka, Ājīvika, and Ajñāna.

What is the etymological origin of the term Āstika?

The term Āstika is a Sanskrit adjective and noun derived from the Sanskrit word 'asti,' meaning 'there is' or 'there exists.' This etymology suggests a connection to affirming existence or reality.

According to Pāṇini's grammar, what is a traditional etymological definition of Āstika?

According to Pāṇini's Aṣṭādhyāyī, Āstika is defined as 'he whose opinion is that Ishvara exists.' This highlights an early association with the belief in a divine or supreme being.

How did the ancient Jain scholar Haribhadra define Āstika and Nāstika, differing from Vedic criteria?

Haribhadra, a Jain scholar, did not consider reverence for the Vedas as a marker for Āstika. Instead, he defined Āstika as one who affirms the existence of another world, transmigration of the self, and the reality of virtue and vice. Conversely, a Nāstika was defined as someone who denies these concepts or the purpose of charity and rituals.

What distinction did the Sanskrit grammarians Jayaditya and Vamana make regarding Āstika and Nāstika?

The 7th-century scholars Jayaditya and Vamana, in the Pāṇini tradition, defined Āstika simply as one who believes that 'there exists another world.' The opposite of such a person was termed Nāstika. Their definition did not explicitly mention the authority of the Vedas.

How did the Buddhist philosopher Nāgārjuna classify certain Hindu schools in relation to the Āstika/Nāstika distinction?

Nāgārjuna, a prominent Buddhist philosopher, classified the Vaiśeṣika and Sāṅkhya schools of Hinduism, along with Jainism, Buddhism itself, and the Pudgalavāda school of Buddhism, as Nāstika. This classification likely reflected differing philosophical viewpoints on core tenets.

What is the significance of the belief in Ātman (Self) in distinguishing Āstika from Nāstika philosophies?

Some texts define Āstika as those who believe in the existence of Ātman (Self), while Nāstika are those who deny the existence of any 'Self' in living beings. This distinction is particularly relevant when comparing Hindu schools, which generally affirm Ātman, with Buddhism, which posits the doctrine of 'no-self' (Anattā).

How does Buddhism's concept of 'no-self' (Anattā) relate to the Āstika/Nāstika classification?

Buddhism's core doctrine of Anattā, or 'no-self,' is often seen as a reason for its classification as Nāstika, particularly when Āstika is defined by the belief in Ātman. This highlights a fundamental philosophical divergence.

What did Asanga, a Buddhist scholar, imply about the term Nāstika in relation to different Buddhist traditions?

The Buddhist scholar Asanga, in his work Bodhisattva Bhumi, referred to certain Nāstika Buddhists as 'sarvaiva nastika,' or complete deniers. Later scholarship suggests Asanga might have been targeting Madhyamaka Buddhism as Nāstika, while considering his own Yogācāra tradition to be Āstika.

What does the Manusmriti state about the definition of Nāstika?

The Manusmriti defines Nāstika as those who do not accept Vedic literature in its entirety, based on the two roots of reasoning: Śruti (what is heard) and Smriti (what is remembered). This emphasizes the foundational role of Vedic texts in the definition.

How did the 9th-century scholar Medhātithi interpret the Manusmriti's definition of Nāstika?

Medhātithi interpreted the Manusmriti's definition of Nāstika not as someone who claims Vedic literature is untrue, but rather as someone who believes Vedic literature is immoral. He also noted that a Nāstika is one who believes there is no afterlife, no purpose in charity, and no value in Vedic rituals.

What is the significance of the term 'orthodox' and 'heterodox' in classifying Indian philosophies, according to the text?

The text notes that the terminology of 'orthodox' (Āstika) and 'heterodox' (Nāstika) schools is largely a construct of Western languages and lacks deep scholarly roots in Sanskrit. Recent studies suggest that earlier translations of these terms in 20th-century literature were often unsophisticated and flawed.

According to Gavin Flood, why are schools like Buddhism and Jainism considered Nāstika by Brahmanism?

Gavin Flood explains that at an early period, there was a common heritage of meditation and mental discipline among renouncers, with varying affiliations to Veda-rejecting and Veda-accepting traditions. Schools like Buddhism and Jainism are understandably regarded as heterodox (nāstika) by orthodox Brahmanism because they rejected the Vedas.

Can Tantric traditions in Hinduism be both Āstika and Nāstika?

Yes, Tantric traditions in Hinduism are divided into both Āstika (Vedic) and Nāstika (non-Vedic) lines. The Āstika works are further categorized based on the predominant deity, such as Śākta, Śaiva, Saura, Gāṇapatya, and Vaiṣṇava.

What did the 12th-century Jain scholar Hemachandra state about the definition of Nāstika?

Hemachandra, in his text Abhidhāna Cintāmaṇi, stated that a Nāstika is any philosophy that presumes or argues there is 'no virtue and vice.' This aligns with the Jain emphasis on karma and ethical conduct.

How did the term Āstika relate to the concept of 'God' in the context of Indian philosophy versus Abrahamic religions?

The text clarifies that the Veda and Hinduism do not subscribe to a concept of an almighty being separate from oneself, unlike the Christian or Islamic sense of God. Therefore, the Āstika/Nāstika distinction, particularly in its traditional sense, is not directly equivalent to theism versus atheism but rather relates to Vedic authority and beliefs about the Self.

What is the role of 'Shabda' (testimony) as an epistemological means for Āstika schools?

Indian scholars from schools like Samkhya, Yoga, Nyaya, and Vedanta accepted Shabda (testimony, particularly from Vedic literature and reliable experts) as a valid means of epistemology. They considered this acceptance a key characteristic of Āstika philosophies.

What did Nāgārjuna and other scholars consider the primary focus when classifying schools as Nāstika?

While early interpretations sometimes directed the Nāstika label towards Hindu traditions, most later scholarship suggests that the terms Āstika and Nāstika were primarily used within competing Buddhist traditions. The focus was often on debating various philosophical ideas among Buddhist monks, rather than solely on criticizing external Hindu schools.

What were the potential consequences for a Buddhist if labeled Nāstika?

Being labeled as Nāstika was considered a serious threat to the social standing of a Buddhist. Such a designation could lead to expulsion from the Buddhist monastic community, indicating the gravity of this philosophical classification within the tradition.

How did colonial-era Indologists' interpretations of Āstika and Nāstika differ from the actual complexity of these terms?

According to Andrew Nicholson, the colonial-era Indologists' definitions of Āstika and Nāstika were often based on a narrow study of literature, such as a version of the Manusmriti. In reality, these terms are more complex and contextually applied across the diverse schools of Indian philosophies, and the Indologists' interpretations may have been influenced by their own cultural and theological backgrounds.

What is the most common meaning of Āstika and Nāstika in Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism, according to Nicholson?

According to Andrew Nicholson, the most common meaning of Āstika and Nāstika across Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism relates to the acceptance and adherence to ethical premises, rather than solely textual validity or doctrinal premises. This suggests a focus on moral conduct and worldview.

What are the six orthodox schools of Hindu philosophy, often grouped into pairs?

The six orthodox schools of Hindu philosophy, often grouped into pairs, are: 1) Nyāya and Vaiśeṣika, 2) Sāṅkhya and Yoga, and 3) Mīmāṃsā and Vedānta.

What philosophical concept is central to the distinction between Buddhism and the Āstika schools regarding the self?

The central philosophical concept is the existence or non-existence of Ātman (Self). Āstika philosophies generally affirm the existence of Ātman, while Buddhism, with its doctrine of Anattā, denies it, making this a key point of divergence.

What did the Sāmaññaphala Sutta describe regarding the views of the 'six heretical teachers'?

The Sāmaññaphala Sutta describes the views of six Śramaṇa figures, often termed 'heretical teachers.' Their philosophies included amoralism (Pūraṇa Kassapa), fatalism (Makkhali Gośāla), materialism (Ajita Kesakambalī), eternalism (Pakudha Kaccāyana), restraint (Nigaṇṭha Nātaputta/Jainism), and agnosticism (Sañjaya Belaṭṭhiputta).

How did the term 'nāstika' apply to the Cārvāka school?

The Cārvāka school, also known as Lokāyata, is classified as Nāstika. Its philosophy is characterized by materialism, with the view that 'live happily; with death, all is annihilated,' and is associated with ucchedavāda (annihilationism) and natthikavāda (nihilism).

What is the core belief of the Ājīvika school, as described in the Sāmaññaphala Sutta?

The Ājīvika school, represented by Makkhali Gośāla, is characterized by fatalism, also termed ahetukavāda (non-causalism) or niyativāda (determinism). Their core belief was that individuals are powerless and that suffering is pre-destined.

What does the term 'nāstika' mean in the context of the Ajñāna school?

The Ajñāna school, represented by Sañjaya Belaṭṭhiputta, is characterized by agnosticism, also known as amarāvikkhēpavāda (the doctrine of the eel's wriggling). Their stance was one of suspending judgment, famously expressed as 'I don't think so. I don't think in that way or otherwise. I don't think not or not not.'

What is the primary focus of the Mimāṃsā school within the Āstika traditions?

The Mimāṃsā school, also known as Pūrva Mīmāṃsā, is primarily focused on the tradition of Vedic exegesis. It deals with the interpretation and application of Vedic rituals and injunctions.

What is the primary focus of the Vedanta school within the Āstika traditions?

The Vedanta school, also known as Uttara Mīmāṃsā, is focused on the Upanishadic tradition. It explores the philosophical and metaphysical teachings found in the Upanishads, which form the latter part of the Vedas.

What is the core tenet of the Nyāya school of philosophy?

The Nyāya school is primarily known as the school of logic. It focuses on the methods and principles of valid reasoning and epistemology.

What is the core tenet of the Vaiśeṣika school of philosophy?

The Vaiśeṣika school is characterized as the atomist school of Indian philosophy. It developed a system of metaphysics based on categories and the atomic nature of reality.

What is the core tenet of the Sāṅkhya school of philosophy?

The Sāṅkhya school is known as the enumeration school. It presents a dualistic philosophy that distinguishes between consciousness (Purusha) and matter (Prakriti).

What is the core tenet of the Yoga school of philosophy, and how does it relate to Sāṅkhya?

The Yoga school, associated with Patañjali, is focused on spiritual discipline and meditation. It assumes the metaphysical framework of Sāṅkhya, integrating its principles with practices aimed at liberation.

What did the Manusmriti imply about the definition of Āstika, even if it didn't explicitly define it?

While the Manusmriti explicitly defined Nāstika, it remained silent or contradictory regarding a precise definition for Āstika. However, its emphasis on Vedic literature and its verses on Ahimsa suggest a framework that valued both traditional authority and ethical principles derived from the Upanishadic layer of Vedic texts.

How did the concept of 'Ahimsa' in the Upanishadic layer of Vedic literature interact with older Vedic traditions mentioned in the Manusmriti?

The Manusmriti presents a complex view by asserting Ahimsa (non-violence) as dharma, aligning with the Upanishadic layer of Vedic literature. This contrasts with older Vedic texts that mention animal sacrifices, indicating an evolution or internal tension within the Vedic tradition itself regarding ethical practices.

What is the significance of the term 'nāstika' in relation to Tantra traditions?

Tantric traditions are divided into Āstika (Vedic) and Nāstika (non-Vedic) lines. This division highlights that the Nāstika label in Tantra does not necessarily imply atheism but rather a departure from strict Vedic adherence, often focusing on different deities or practices.

What did the scholar G. S. Ghurye state about the Jain definition of Nāstika?

According to G. S. Ghurye, Jain texts define Nāstika as one who denies what exists or any school of philosophy that denies the existence of the Self. This aligns with the Jain emphasis on the soul (Jiva) and its journey.

What did Manibhadra, an early Jain scholar, consider to be the defining characteristics of an Āstika?

Manibhadra, an early Jain scholar, stated that an Āstika is one who accepts the existence of another world (paraloka), the transmigration of the Self, and the reality of virtue and vice that influence a Self's journey through time.

How did the term 'nastika' get associated with 'nihilism' in Buddhist interpretations?

The term 'nastika' was sometimes equated with 'nihilism' in Buddhist interpretations, as seen in the writings of scholars like Chandradhar Sharma referencing Nāgārjuna. This association likely stemmed from the denial of certain core concepts, such as an eternal self or the efficacy of Vedic rituals, which were central to other traditions.

U0100stika And N U0101stika Wiki: The Dichotomy of Doctrine: Astika and Nastika in Indian Philosophy

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Understanding Astika and Nastika

Core Distinction

In the realm of Indian philosophy, the terms Astika and Nastika serve as fundamental classifiers for various schools of thought. Traditionally, this distinction hinges on the acceptance or rejection of the authority of the Vedas, the ancient scriptures of India. Astika (from Sanskrit: asti, meaning 'there is' or 'exists') denotes traditions that acknowledge the Vedas as authoritative, while Nastika (from Sanskrit: na + astika, meaning 'not existing' or 'non-believer') refers to those that do not.

Evolving Definitions

While the Vedic criterion is the most historically significant, the interpretation of these terms has evolved. In modern Indian languages, Astika often translates to 'theist' and Nastika to 'atheist'. However, this modern usage can obscure the original philosophical distinctions, as some Veda-affirming schools are non-theistic, and some Veda-rejecting traditions may incorporate theistic elements or figures revered by other traditions. Scholarly consensus acknowledges the complexity and historical fluidity of these classifications.

Etymological Roots

Sanskrit Origins

The term Astika derives from the Sanskrit word asti, meaning 'there is' or 'it exists'. This adjective and noun can signify 'one who believes in what exists' or, in a more pious sense, 'pious'. Conversely, Nastika is formed by negating astika with na ('not'), implying 'one who denies' or 'non-believer'.

Grammarians like Panini and Hemachandra offered specific interpretations, linking Astika to the belief in the existence of Ishvara (a supreme being) or simply to the affirmation of existence itself. These etymological nuances highlight the term's deep roots in the philosophical discourse of ancient India.

The Six Orthodox and Five Heterodox Schools

Astika (Veda-Affirming) Traditions

The six major schools of Indian philosophy traditionally classified as Astika are those that accept the authority of the Vedas. They are often grouped into three pairs based on shared philosophical underpinnings:

Nyaya-Vaisheshika: Focused on logic, epistemology, and atomism.
Samkhya-Yoga: Emphasizing enumeration (Samkhya) and meditative practices (Yoga).
Mimamsa-Vedanta: Centered on Vedic exegesis (Mimamsa) and the Upanishadic teachings (Vedanta).

Other traditions, such as certain Shaiva schools and the philosophy attributed to Panini, are also considered Astika.

Nastika (Veda-Rejecting) Traditions

Conversely, the Nastika schools are those that reject the authority of the Vedas. The most prominent among these are:

Buddhism: Characterized by concepts like Anatta (no-self) and Sunyata (emptiness).
Jainism: Known for its emphasis on Ahimsa (non-violence) and Anekantavada (non-one-sidedness).
Charvaka (Lokayata): A materialistic and atheistic school.
Ajivika: A school emphasizing fate and determinism.
Ajnana: A skeptical school associated with uncertainty.

Nuances in Classification

Vedic Authority

The primary, traditional distinction defines Astika as adherence to the Vedas and Nastika as their rejection. This classification was crucial in defining orthodox Brahmanical traditions against emerging heterodox movements like Buddhism and Jainism.

Belief in the Self (Atman)

Another significant criterion used in some philosophical texts is the belief in the existence of an eternal, unchanging Self or Atman. Astika schools generally affirm the existence of Atman, whereas Nastika schools, notably Buddhism with its doctrine of Anatta, deny it.

Belief in Ishvara (Theism)

A third criterion relates to the belief in Ishvara, often translated as God or a supreme controller. While some Astika schools affirm Ishvara (e.g., Yoga, Vedanta), others like classical Samkhya are non-theistic, demonstrating that Vedic acceptance does not automatically equate to theistic belief.

Modern vs. Traditional Usage

It is vital to recognize that modern vernacular usage, where Astika means 'theist' and Nastika means 'atheist', differs from the classical philosophical distinction. This shift can lead to misinterpretations, as the original terms primarily addressed acceptance of Vedic authority and metaphysical views on the Self, rather than solely the presence or absence of a deity.

Philosophical Implications

Divergent Worldviews

The classification into Astika and Nastika reflects fundamental differences in worldview, epistemology, and metaphysics. Astika traditions, rooted in Vedic authority, often explore concepts like Atman, Brahman, karma, and reincarnation within a framework that values scriptural testimony (shabda) as a primary means of knowledge.

Key Philosophical Tenets

Nastika traditions, while diverse, often challenge Vedic authority and may reject concepts like an eternal Atman or the efficacy of Vedic rituals. Their epistemologies might prioritize direct experience, reason, or alternative scriptural traditions. For instance, Buddhism's denial of a permanent self and Jainism's emphasis on non-violence and karma represent distinct philosophical paths that diverged from the Vedic mainstream.

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References

For an overview of this method of classification, with detail on the grouping of schools, see: Radhakrishnan & Moore 1989

A full list of references for this article are available at the Āstika and nāstika Wikipedia page

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This is not professional philosophical or religious advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for in-depth study or consultation with qualified scholars or practitioners of Indian philosophy. Always refer to primary texts and scholarly analyses for a comprehensive understanding.

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The Dichotomy of Doctrine

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Understanding Astika and Nastika ⚖️

📜 Core Distinction

🤔 Evolving Definitions

Etymological Roots 🌿

🗣️ Sanskrit Origins

The Six Orthodox and Five Heterodox Schools 📚

🏛️ Astika (Veda-Affirming) Traditions

🚫 Nastika (Veda-Rejecting) Traditions

Nuances in Classification nuanced

📜 Vedic Authority

👤 Belief in the Self (Atman)

✨ Belief in Ishvara (Theism)

🔄 Modern vs. Traditional Usage

Philosophical Implications 🧠

↔️ Divergent Worldviews

🌌 Key Philosophical Tenets

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Understanding Astika and Nastika

Core Distinction

Evolving Definitions

Etymological Roots

Sanskrit Origins

The Six Orthodox and Five Heterodox Schools

Astika (Veda-Affirming) Traditions

Nastika (Veda-Rejecting) Traditions

Nuances in Classification

Vedic Authority

Belief in the Self (Atman)

Belief in Ishvara (Theism)

Modern vs. Traditional Usage

Philosophical Implications

Divergent Worldviews

Key Philosophical Tenets

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice