The Science of Arun̻apras̰na

In Rgveda 10.158 Sukta, Rsi Caksu Sorya beseeches Surya Devata for eyes to correctly see and understand our world. There is no doubt we need that kind of clarity for understanding our beautiful yet bewildering universe, especially when we as observers are interacting intimately with what we are observing. Scientists understand this complexity and are continuously attempting to internalize the external variables in their models, but there is still a vast ground to cover. Like the scientists, Mimasakas are firmly grounded in physical reality. They do accept the science's Pratyaksa and Anumana, but when it comes to Darma, they rely only on their solid exegesis of the Veda and embody it through Veda's mandated ritualistic way of life. In fact, in the discussion on Apurva, the Mimasakas say that only when Pratyaksa and Anumana do not show a physical benefit of an action enjoined by the Veda should one ascribe that to Apurva. In this interesting succinct work of practical significance, the author outlines the science of the Veda along those lines. It is essential to note the preposition "of" in the title of the book. The title is "The Science of Arunaprasna:" and not "The Science in Arunaprasna:." This is not just the view of the Mimasakas alone. World over most ethnic-religious systems embody this perspective in their own unique way. Deist, nature worshipper, and the father of the American independence movement, Thomas Paine, in one of his most famous works, "The Age of Reason" said, "It is from the study of the true theology that all our knowledge of science is derived, and it is from that knowledge that all the arts have originated." The author's goal in this work is to foster collaboration amongst the Mimasakas, other Veda scholars, scientists, and engineers to understand the science of Veda for everyone's benefit. In fact, the subject matter is such that it demands this kind of cooperation. It is helpful in this context to quote Raja Rtuparna, from Mahabarata 3.7.72.8. Rtuparna, before demonstrating his statistical estimation skills says to Bahuka his charioteer, who is none other than great Nala Maharaja. "Sarva: Sarva Na Janati Sarvajno Nasti Kascana Nekatra Parinistasti Jnanasya Puruse Kacit " Everyone does not know everything. There is no one who knows it all, and so complete knowledge is never established in any one person. This book is an excellent resource for academicians looking for new avenues of research especially considering today's world of interdisciplinary studies. Its lucid style combined with structured present...