The Knowledge Base – Classification

Srimaharshi Aarshavijnanadi Gurukula Mahavidyalaya (Virtual University)

The Knowledge Base could be the Sutras of all the branches of learning in Sastric literature. Three levels of learning are identified, viz.

1. Upasana – Experience: (Consciousness)
2. Jnana – Knowledge: (Pure Science) and
3. Kala – Skill/Art: (Applied science).

• Accordingly, Sastras dealing with these are called Para Vidya, Apara Vidya and Kala. Para Vidya or Brahma Vidya, numbering 32 and Nyasa Vidya, deals with meditation and self-realisation on the basis of Upanishad portion of Vedas (scriptural texts). These are elaborated in Brahma Sutras of sage Vyasa.
• The Sastras have classified all knowledge (Apara Vidya-s) into fourteen subjects of study or Vidyasthanas, which include the four Vedas (scriptures), six Vedic auxiliary sciences (Vedangas) and four supplementary subjects (Upangas).
• The angas and upangas of the Vedas are to be used for the proper interpretation of the Vedic texts, which alone are the sole repository of all knowledge leading to various attainments (material and spiritual).
• These also have four phases each, viz, Learning, Reflecting, Practice and Propagation.

The applied Sciences, numbering 96, cover the various fine arts and crafts, classical literature, medicine, engineering, technology, sculpture, architecture, aesthetics, gemology, metallurgy, meteorology etc.