Pramāṇa
प्रमाणनपुंसकलिङ्ग (neuter) · प्र उपसर्ग (pra — correctly) + √मा धातु (mā — to measure, know) + ल्युट् प्रत्यय
pramāṇa
Epistemology
Valid means of knowledge — the instrument through which something is known
Pramāṇa is a valid means of knowledge — the appropriate tool for knowing a particular type of object. Advaita Vedānta recognizes six pramāṇas: pratyakṣa (perception), anumāna (inference), śabda (revealed word), upamāna (comparison), arthāpatti (presumption), and anupalabdhi (non-apprehension). Each has its field of application. Śabda pramāṇa (Veda) is the only valid means for knowing Brahman, since Brahman is beyond perception and inference.
Using this in academic work? Get formal citation
Vishva Vidya (2026). Pramāṇa (प्रमाण). Vishva Vidya — Vedanta. https://vedanta.com.br/en/glossary/pramana
Vishva Vidya. "Pramāṇa (प्रमाण)." Vishva Vidya — Vedanta, January 1, 2026, https://vedanta.com.br/en/glossary/pramana.
Vishva Vidya. "Pramāṇa (प्रमाण)." Vishva Vidya — Vedanta, January 1, 2026. https://vedanta.com.br/en/glossary/pramana.
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