Upalakshana in Manubhasya 3.46

[Full title: Mimamsa technical terms (8) Upalakshana (5) References in Manubhasya verse 3.46]

Passage Translation - ahargrahanam ca sarva horatropalaksanartham | (Medhatithi on ms I-46) Day stands for day and night. Explanation While discussing the proper period of menstruation of a lady we have a rule in the Manusmrti at III.46. 1 "Sixteen (days and) nights (in each month), including four days which differ from the rest and are censured by the virtuous (are called) the natural season of woman." While commenting on the expression 'Ahar' on the above stanza Medhatithi uses the term Upalaksana and points out that the word 'Ahar' is illustrative of the might also and hence it makes the inclusion of day and night. It is interesting to note that Medhatithi has failed to illustrate the similar text from the 'Dharmasastra', alternative to support Upalaksana Nitakantha on the word 'Ahar'. It must be emphasised here that 'Neela' always quotes the 'Dharmasastra' text whenever he found necessary to support his interpretation from the points of view of 'Upalaksana. (This view of Medhatithi is followed by 'Savargnyanarayana'. Cf. "Ahobhiriti tvahora tropalaksanam" vide Manusmrti Vol.II at p. 65 edited by J.H.Dave). 1. rtuh svabhavikah ratrayah sodasa smrtah | catubhiritaraih sardhamahobhih sadvigarhi ta ||| 3 .46|| Ms voi I P-64