Indian Knowledge System

Unit 1

The Indian Knowledge System (IKS) is a vast and diverse body of knowledge that
has been developed over thousands of years in the Indian subcontinent. It
encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including philosophy, science,
mathematics, medicine, engineering, arts, and social sciences. IKS is
characterised by its holistic approach, which emphasises the interconnectedness
of all things. It also emphasises the importance of experiential learning and
self-realisation.

IKS has made significant contributions to human knowledge and civilization. For
example, the concept of zero and the decimal system were developed in India.
Indian mathematicians also made significant advances in algebra, trigonometry,
and calculus. In the field of medicine, Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine
that has been practised for thousands of years. IKS has also made significant
contributions to the fields of yoga, meditation, and spirituality.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in IKS, both in India and around
the world. This is due in part to a recognition of the limitations of modern science
and technology, and a search for more holistic and sustainable approaches to
development. IKS has much to offer the world in terms of its insights into the
nature of reality, the human mind, and the relationship between humans and the
environment.

Here are some of the key features of IKS:

● Holistic approach: IKS emphasises the interconnectedness of all things,

and the importance of understanding the whole system rather than just its
parts.
● Experiential learning: IKS emphasises the importance of learning through
direct experience, rather than just through theoretical knowledge.
● Self-realisation: IKS emphasises the importance of self-knowledge and
self-realisation as the ultimate goal of human life.
Importance of Ancient Knowledge

Ancient knowledge systems, such as the Indian Knowledge System (IKS), hold
immense value and relevance in today's world. These systems offer a wealth of
insights into human existence, the natural world, and the interconnectedness of
all things. They provide alternative perspectives on knowledge acquisition,
emphasising experiential learning, holistic understanding, and the pursuit of
self-realisation.

Defining IKS

The Indian Knowledge System (IKS) encompasses a vast and diverse body of
knowledge that has evolved over millennia in the Indian subcontinent. It
encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including philosophy, science,
mathematics, medicine, engineering, arts, and social sciences. IKS is
characterised by its holistic approach, emphasising the interconnectedness of all
aspects of life and the universe.

The IKS Corpus – A Classification Framework

The IKS corpus can be broadly classified into the following domains:

1. Śruti: The Vedas, considered the primary source of knowledge in IKS,

encompassing philosophical and spiritual wisdom.

2. Smriti: Texts that elaborate on Vedic knowledge, including epics like

Ramayana and Mahabharata, Dharmashastras, and Puranas.

3. Darśana: The six schools of Indian philosophy – Samkhya, Yoga, Nyaya,

Vaisheshika, Mimamsa, and Vedanta – each offering unique perspectives on
reality and existence.
4. Upaveda: Subsidiary knowledge systems, including Ayurveda (medicine),
Dhanurveda (martial arts), Gandharvaveda (music), and Arthashastra (political
science).

5. Sthapatya Veda: Traditional Indian architecture and engineering principles,

emphasising harmony with nature and sustainability.

6. Jyotisha: Indian astronomy and astrology, encompassing celestial observations

and their influence on human affairs.

7. Vyakarana: Sanskrit grammar, a highly structured and scientific approach to

language analysis.

8. Natyashastra: The ancient treatise on drama, dance, and performance arts.

9. Alankara Shastra: The study of aesthetics and literary embellishments.

IKS offers a rich tapestry of knowledge, providing valuable insights into the
human condition, the natural world, and the pursuit of self-knowledge. Its holistic
approach and emphasis on experiential learning hold immense potential for
addressing contemporary challenges and fostering sustainable development.

Chaturdaśa-Vidyāsthāna

The Chaturdaśa-Vidyāsthāna, or the "Fourteen Vidyas," is a classification scheme

for the various branches of knowledge in the Indian Knowledge System (IKS). It
represents a comprehensive framework for understanding the diverse disciplines
that encompass IKS.

The fourteen Vidyas are:

1. Śikṣā (Phonetics): The study of sounds and pronunciation, essential for

accurate recitation and understanding of Vedic texts.
2. Kalpa (Ritual): The study of Vedic rituals and ceremonies, ensuring the proper
performance of religious rites.

3. Vyākaraṇa (Grammar): The analysis of language structure, particularly

Sanskrit, providing a foundation for linguistic understanding.

4. Nirukta (Etymology): The study of word origins and meanings, revealing deeper
insights into language and concepts.

5. Chandas (Metrics): The study of poetic metres and rhythmic patterns, essential
for composing and appreciating poetry.

6. Jyotiṣa (Astronomy and Astrology): The study of celestial bodies and their
movements, including their influence on human affairs.

7. Kāraṇa (Logic): The study of reasoning and argumentation, developing critical

thinking and debate skills.

8. Dharmaśāstra (Law): The study of moral and ethical principles, governing

social order and individual conduct.

9. Mīmāṃsā (Exegesis): The interpretation of Vedic texts, extracting deeper

meanings and resolving ambiguities.

10. Purāṇa (Mythology): The study of ancient legends and stories, conveying
cultural values and spiritual teachings.

11. Āyurveda (Medicine): The holistic system of medicine, focusing on preventive

care and natural remedies.

12. Dhanurveda (Martial Arts): The study of warfare and weaponry, emphasising
self-defence and military strategy.
13. Gandharva Veda (Music): The study of music and its therapeutic effects,
promoting harmony and well-being.

14. Arthaśāstra (Political Science): The study of statecraft and economics,

guiding governance and societal prosperity.

History of IKS

The origins of IKS can be traced back to the Vedic period (c. 1500 – 500 BCE),
with the Vedas, the earliest sacred texts of Hinduism, forming its foundation.
Over centuries, IKS evolved through oral transmission, philosophical discourses,
and written treatises.

The Upanishads, philosophical texts attached to the Vedas, explored the nature
of reality, consciousness, and the human soul. The six schools of Indian
philosophy – Samkhya, Yoga, Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Mimamsa, and Vedanta –
emerged, each offering unique perspectives on existence and knowledge.

In parallel, various branches of knowledge flourished, including Ayurveda,

Dhanurveda, Gandharvaveda, and Arthashastra. These systems contributed to
the holistic understanding of human life, encompassing physical, mental, and
spiritual well-being.

Some unique aspects of IKS

IKS possesses several distinctive characteristics that set it apart from other
knowledge systems:

1. Holistic Approach: IKS emphasises the interconnectedness of all aspects of

life, viewing knowledge as an integrated whole rather than isolated disciplines.

2. Experiential Learning: IKS emphasises direct experience and observation as

primary sources of knowledge, complementing theoretical understanding.
3. Self-Realisation: IKS views knowledge as a means to self-realisation, the
ultimate goal of human existence, leading to liberation from worldly attachments
and suffering.

4. Emphasis on Harmony: IKS promotes harmony between humans and nature,

recognizing the interdependence of all living beings and the environment.

5. Spiritual Dimension: IKS acknowledges the spiritual dimension of human

existence, integrating spiritual practices and insights into its pursuit of
knowledge.

Introduction to the Vedas

The Vedas are the most ancient and revered scriptures of Hinduism, considered
the primary source of knowledge and spiritual wisdom in the Indian Knowledge
System (IKS). Composed in Vedic Sanskrit, they encompass a vast collection of
hymns, rituals, philosophical insights, and spiritual teachings. The Vedas are
believed to have been divinely revealed to sages and passed down through oral
tradition for millennia before being written down.

The Four Vedas and their divisions

The Vedic corpus is divided into four main Vedas:

1. Rig Veda: The oldest and most prominent Veda, containing over 1,000
hymns dedicated to various deities, praising their powers and seeking their
blessings.

2. Yajur Veda: Comprises sacrificial formulas and rituals, providing

instructions for conducting Vedic ceremonies and sacrifices.

3. Sama Veda: A collection of melodies and chants, derived from the Rig
Veda, designed for musical recitation during rituals.
 4. Atharva Veda: Contains spells, incantations, and remedies for healing,
protection, and prosperity, reflecting a more practical and worldly
approach.

Each Veda is further divided into four sections:

• Samhitas: The core collection of hymns, mantras, and prayers.

• Aranyakas: Texts related to rituals and symbolic sacrifices, often containing

philosophical reflections.

• Brahmanas: Commentaries on rituals and ceremonies, providing detailed

explanations and interpretations.

• Upanishads: Philosophical treatises exploring the nature of reality,

consciousness, and the human soul, forming the foundation of Vedanta
philosophy.

Vedāngas

The Vedāngas, meaning "limbs of the Vedas," are six auxiliary disciplines that
emerged to aid in the proper understanding, preservation, and transmission of
Vedic knowledge. They are:

• Śikṣā (Phonetics): The study of sounds and pronunciation, ensuring accurate

recitation of Vedic texts.

• Kalpa (Ritual): The study of Vedic rituals and ceremonies, guiding their proper
performance.

• Vyākaraṇa (Grammar): The analysis of Sanskrit grammar, providing a framework

for linguistic understanding.
• Nirukta (Etymology): The study of word origins and meanings, revealing deeper
insights into Vedic concepts.

• Chandas (Metrics): The study of poetic metres and rhythmic patterns, essential
for composing and appreciating Vedic poetry.

• Jyotiṣa (Astronomy and Astrology): The study of celestial bodies and their
movements, including their influence on human affairs.

Vedic Life

Vedic society was characterised by a strong emphasis on ritual practices, social

hierarchy, and a deep reverence for nature. The Vedas guided every aspect of
life, from daily routines to major life events. Vedic rituals were believed to
maintain cosmic order and ensure harmony between humans and the divine.

Vedic knowledge was primarily transmitted through oral tradition, with sages and
priests preserving and disseminating the sacred texts through meticulous
memorization and recitation. Education was highly valued, with gurukulas
(residential schools) providing instruction in Vedic scriptures, philosophy, and
various disciplines.

The Vedic period laid the foundation for many aspects of Indian culture, including
its spiritual traditions, philosophical inquiries, and social structures. The Vedas
continue to hold immense significance in Hinduism, providing a timeless source
of wisdom and guidance for spiritual seekers and scholars alike.

Indian Philosophical Systems

India has a rich and diverse philosophical tradition that has evolved over
millennia. Indian philosophical systems delve into profound questions about the
nature of reality, consciousness, existence, and the ultimate goal of human life.
These systems offer a variety of perspectives and methodologies for
understanding the self, the world, and the relationship between them.
Vedic Schools of Philosophy

The Vedic schools of philosophy, also known as āstika or orthodox schools, are
those that accept the authority of the Vedas, the sacred scriptures of Hinduism.
These schools emerged from the philosophical inquiries found in the Upanishads,
the philosophical portions of the Vedas. The six Vedic schools of philosophy are:

1. Samkhya: A dualistic system that posits two fundamental realities:

Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter). It emphasises the
distinction between the eternal soul and the ever-changing material world.

2. Yoga: A practical philosophy that focuses on achieving liberation through

mental discipline, meditation, and physical practices. It aims to control the
mind's fluctuations and attain a state of pure consciousness.

3. Nyaya: A system of logic and epistemology that emphasises rigorous

reasoning and argumentation. It seeks to establish valid means of
knowledge and develop a coherent understanding of reality.

4. Vaisheshika: An atomistic philosophy that analyses the nature of the

physical world and its constituents. It proposes that the universe is
composed of indivisible particles and qualities.

5. Mimamsa: A hermeneutical school that focuses on the interpretation of

Vedic texts and the proper performance of rituals. It emphasises the
importance of action and duty in upholding cosmic order.

6. Vedanta: The culmination of Vedic philosophy, Vedanta explores the nature

of Brahman, the ultimate reality, and the relationship between Brahman
and the individual soul (Atman). It emphasises non-dualism and the
realisation of oneness with the divine.
Non-Vedic Philosophical Systems

Non-Vedic philosophical systems, also known as nāstika or heterodox schools,

are those that do not accept the authority of the Vedas. They developed
independently and offered alternative perspectives on reality and liberation. The
two main non-Vedic schools are:

1. Buddhism: Founded by Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, Buddhism

emphasises the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, leading to the
cessation of suffering and the attainment of Nirvana. It rejects the concept
of a permanent soul and emphasises impermanence and non-attachment.

2. Jainism: Founded by Mahavira, Jainism emphasises non-violence,

asceticism, and the liberation of the soul from karmic bondage. It adheres
to strict vegetarianism and practices of self-discipline to achieve spiritual
liberation.

Indian philosophical systems continue to be studied and debated today, offering

valuable insights into the human condition and the pursuit of knowledge and
spiritual fulfilment. They provide diverse perspectives on the nature of reality,
the path to liberation, and the relationship between the individual and the
cosmos.

Wisdom through the Ages

The Indian Knowledge System (IKS) encompasses a vast repository of wisdom

that has been passed down through generations, offering guidance and insights
for navigating life's challenges and pursuing a meaningful existence. This
wisdom is embedded in various forms of literature, including the Puranas,
Itihāsas, Nitiśāstras, and Subhāssitas.