The Vedas are authorless : the "sacralization" of the vedic word in the philosophy of Kumārila Bhaṭṭa

Abstract

The brahmin Kumarila Bhatta embodied philosophical and religious orthodoxy in 7th century India. In this capacity, he undertook a defence of the religion of sacrifice based on the "sacralization" of the words of the Vedas. To this end, he argued that the meaning, validity and permanence of the Vedic word, once they have been properly revealed, make the proper execution of the sacrifice possible. But they could not do so if they themselves were not sacred. Therefore, he felt obliged to "sacralize" the words of the Vedas when it gives meaning, validity and permanence to the practice of religion.