THE SACRED LIBRARY
About Purva Mimamsa Sutra
The opening announces the desire to understand Dharma and identifies it through injunction. Ordinary perception reveals what is presently encountered, but the duty and result taught by a Vedic statement are not exhausted by such observation. The work therefore examines the authority and meaning of verbal instruction.
Purva Mimamsa focuses on Vedic duties and ritual action. The word Purva distinguishes it from Uttara Mimamsa, or Vedanta, whose Brahma Sutras begin with inquiry into Brahman. The two traditions interpret Vedic teaching, but their opening questions and central subjects differ.
