Sarkar, Kishori Lal: The Mimansa rules of interpretation as applied to Hindu law (Calcutta, 1909)

430

THE NINTH LECTURE.

(

Pinciple of
Linga how
applied..

Kamya and
Nitya Yidhi.

Medhatithi explains the principle of Linga, and
points out that in the passage Varhi Deva-sadanam
dami —an affirmative sentence is read as a mandatory
one by the principle of Linga (the suggestive power
of words).1 He also emphasises the principle that
where a clause clearly * shows an express command,
the principle of Linga is not to be resorted to.2 He
refers ^ to Viswajit Nyava saying that where acts
are prescribed of which no beneficial result is stated, thp
acquisition of heavenly bliss is to be presumed as the
intended result by the principle of Viswajit Nyaya.\
Medhatithi explains that where the attainment of
a benefit is the object of a prescribed act, if a man
does not perform the act, he loses the benefit, as in
the case of a Kamya Vidhi. But where a Vidhi is
absolute (Nitya) there is no question of benefit or
otherwise ; and if a man fails to fulfil such a Vidhi, he
incurs the spiritual evil consequences of disobeying
it, and it is to prevent sucli evil consequences that he
is to do the act. Thus Medhatithi gives a clear
explanation of the Apurva Sanction.4
Medhatithi discusses the question whether the
passage ‘Brahmana* should not drink spirituous liquor

Medhavithi’s commentary on Sloka 3, Ch. I.
* ••
2 HwfiuT YWiT «JT(T II
• Medhatithi’s commentary on Sloka 3, Ch. I.
3 statfSH I
Medhatithi's commentary on Sloka 2, Cii. II.
Medhatithi’s commentary on Sloka 7, Ch. 1,