Question

Select the correct facts regarding the 'Rigveda-bhashya-bhumika' from the following:
A. It mentions Jaimini's Purva Mimamsa Sutras.
B. It argues that the Vedas are non-human (Apaurusheya).
C. It provides a detailed explanation of Panini's grammar sutras.
D. It contains an explanation of the 'Shlokavartika'.

• A. Only C, D
• B. Only A, D
• C. Only A, B
• D. Only D, B

Hint:

The 'Bhumika' is primarily a debate against the 'Purvapaksha' (opponents) who question the usefulness and authority of the Veda. It uses Jaimini and Vyasa as the 'Siddhanta' (established conclusion).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The 'Rigveda-bhashya-bhumika' is Acharya Sayana's scholarly introduction to his commentary on the Rigveda.
It is a work of high polemic and philosophical value, primarily focusing on the authority (Pramanya) of the Veda.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the statements:

Statement A: It mentions Jaimini's Purva Mimamsa Sutras.
Sayana uses the principles of Mimamsa (ritual interpretation) to defend the Vedas.
He extensively quotes the Jaimini Sutras to define 'Dharma' and to prove that the Vedas are meaningful and authoritative.
Thus, Statement A is correct.

Statement B: It argues that the Vedas are Apaurusheya.
This is the central thesis of the Bhumika.
Sayana refutes the idea that the Vedas were composed by a human mind, asserting that they are eternal and were revealed to the seers at the start of each cycle.
Thus, Statement B is correct.

Statement C: Explanation of Panini's sutras.
While Sayana uses grammar to interpret the text, the Bhumika itself is a philosophical/theological introduction.
It does not focus on providing a systematic explanation of the Ashtadhyayi.
Thus, Statement C is incorrect.

Statement D: Explanation of 'Shlokavartika'.
The 'Shlokavartika' is Kumarila Bhatta's commentary on the Mimamsa Sutras.
While Sayana is influenced by the Mimamsa tradition, the Bhumika is not an "explanation" of the Shlokavartika; it is an independent introduction to the Veda.
Thus, Statement D is incorrect.

Conclusion: Only A and B are correct facts.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Statements A and B are correct. Thus, the correct option is (3).