The Six Orthodox Schools of Philosophy
Nyaya
न्याय
Founder: Sage Gautama
The school of logic and epistemology, developing systematic methods of reasoning and establishing the means of valid knowledge (pramanas).
- 16 Categories (Padarthas)
- 4 Means of Knowledge
- Logical Inference (Anumana)
Vaisheshika
वैशेषिक
Founder: Sage Kanada
The atomistic school focusing on metaphysics and the categorization of reality into fundamental substances, qualities, and actions.
- Atomic Theory (Paramanu)
- 7 Categories of Reality
- Causation Theory
Samkhya
सांख्य
Founder: Sage Kapila
The dualistic philosophy distinguishing between consciousness (Purusha) and primordial matter (Prakriti), explaining evolution through 25 principles.
- Purusha-Prakriti Dualism
- 25 Tattvas (Principles)
- Three Gunas
Yoga
योग
Founder: Sage Patanjali
The practical philosophy of mental and physical discipline, outlining the eight-fold path to achieve union with the divine consciousness.
- Eight Limbs (Ashtanga)
- Chitta Vritti Nirodha
- Samadhi (Absorption)
Mimamsa
मीमांसा
Founder: Sage Jaimini
The school of Vedic ritualism and interpretation, focusing on dharma and the proper performance of rituals for worldly and spiritual benefits.
- Apurva (Unseen Force)
- Vedic Authority
- Ritual Efficacy
Vedanta
वेदान्त
Founder: Badarayana
The culmination of Vedic philosophy, exploring the nature of Brahman, the self, and their relationship through various sub-schools.
- Brahman (Ultimate Reality)
- Atman (Individual Self)
- Maya (Illusion)