In Hindu philosophy, specifically within the Mimamsa system (also known as Purva-Mimamsa), there is a significant focus on the performance of rituals as prescribed in the Vedas. These rituals are considered essential components of ‘dharma’. The Vedas themselves are broadly divided into two main categories: 'vidhi' (injunctions) and 'arthavada' (laudatory statements or explanations).
The injunctions or 'vidhis' are further classified into three distinct groups:
- Apurva-vidhi (Original Injunction)
- Niyama-vidhi (Restrictive Injunction)
- Parisankhya-vidhi (Exclusive or Delimiting Injunction)
Apurva-Vidhi: The Original Injunction
The term 'apurva-vidhi' translates to ‘original injunction,’ indicating a directive that was previously unknown or unprecedented (with 'apurva' meaning unprecedented). This category of injunctions introduces new actions or practices that must be performed as part of a ritual.
Illustration: In the context of the Darshapurnamasa sacrifice, which is a significant Vedic ritual, there is a specific injunction: 'vrihin prokshati' (‘He sprinkles the rice grains’). This instruction mandates the act of sprinkling water on the rice grains used in the sacrifice. Prior to this injunction, there would be no knowledge or necessity of such an action. However, once the injunction is established, the act of sprinkling the rice grains becomes an obligatory part of the ritual. Thus, 'vrihin prokshati' serves as an original injunction, introducing a new, essential element to the ritual that practitioners must follow.
In essence, the apurva-vidhi signifies an original directive that reveals a previously unknown ritualistic action, thereby expanding the understanding and practice of Vedic rituals within the framework of Hindu philosophy.