Definition of Padārthas (Prameyas)

The general definition of Padārtha (categories) is not seen in Ancient texts of Vaiśeṣikas. So the teachers of Vaiśeṣikas are not giving the definition. The derivation of padārtha is ‘padasya arthah padārthah’. Literally means the meaning of word every object has a name is padārtha (category). All objects of the world is included in padārtha. Naiyāyikas are also accepted this. So padārtha has given a prominent place in the world.

Annambhatta the author of Tarkasaṃgraha dīpika has given the definition of padārtha, ‘abhidheyatvam padārthasāmānyalakṣaṇam’ means what is known by some organs in padārtha. Siddhānthacandrodaya padārtha means jneyatvam pramitiviṣayatvam ca padārthalakṣanam.

Laukākṣibhāskara the author of Tarkakaumudi gives the definition of padārtha is abhideyatvam. He avoids astitv and jneyatv. The Vaiśeṣikas says that the whole objects of the world are called padārtha.

The development of categories are different times, Vaiśeṣika’s admit seven categories. The siddhantas of Vaiśeṣika darśana gradually developed and at this time it is accepted all tatvas of the world accepted him but seam particularities seen in this world. At first substance and difference of qualities. Thus firstly the two categories produced, again the particulatise and the separate kriya seen that karma category.

In the beginning categories are three substance, quality and action. The first sutra of the first chapter, the first āhnika explain the three substances, quality and Action. The second āhnika explain generality and particularity the three substances include and called Artha.

The second stage of development born three substance generality. Particularity and inherence among these firstly generality explained. Many different similarity to explain five padārtha and lastly all substance are connected and these connection that is samavāya and abhāva.