Question

Which is not a Pramāṇa, according to Yoga philosophy?

• A. Pratyaksha
• B. Anumāna
• C. Āgama
• D. Upmāna

Hint:

Remember the three Pramāṇas of Yoga philosophy: \[ \text{Pratyaksha} \;+\; \text{Anumāna} \;+\; \text{Āgama} \] Anything outside these three is not accepted as a Pramāṇa in Yoga philosophy.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: In Indian philosophy, “Pramāṇa” means a valid source or means of acquiring true knowledge. Different philosophical systems accept different numbers of Pramāṇas. According to Yoga philosophy, especially as described in Patanjali Yoga Sutra, there are three accepted Pramāṇas:
• Pratyaksha (Direct perception)
• Anumāna (Inference)
• Āgama or Shabda (Authoritative testimony) These are mentioned in the Yoga Sutra: \[ \textit{Pratyaksha-anumāna-āgamāḥ pramāṇāni} \] Thus, any option outside these three is not considered a Pramāṇa in Yoga philosophy.

Step 1: Understand the accepted Pramāṇas in Yoga philosophy.
The three accepted Pramāṇas are: \[ \text{Pratyaksha, Anumāna, and Āgama} \] These are considered reliable methods of obtaining valid knowledge.

Step 2: Analyze the meaning of each option.
Option (A): Pratyaksha
Pratyaksha means direct perception through the senses and is an accepted Pramāṇa. Option (B): Anumāna
Anumāna means inference or logical reasoning and is also an accepted Pramāṇa. Option (C): Āgama
Āgama refers to authoritative testimony or scriptural evidence and is accepted in Yoga philosophy. Option (D): Upmāna
Upmāna means comparison or analogy. It is accepted in some other philosophical systems like Nyaya, but not in Yoga philosophy.

Step 3: Identify the correct option.
Since Upmāna is not included among the three accepted Pramāṇas of Yoga philosophy, the correct answer is: \[ \boxed{\text{Upmāna}} \]