Ramanuja's Concept of Maya

The question asks about the meaning of the word 'maya' according to the philosopher Ramanuja, specifically in terms of God's power.

Understanding Ramanuja's Philosophy

Ramanuja, a prominent exponent of the Vishishtadvaita Vedanta school of Hindu philosophy, viewed God (Narayana or Vishnu) as the supreme reality. God possesses infinite auspicious qualities and powers (Sakti). In this context, 'maya' is not merely illusion but refers to God's inherent, wondrous power that manifests the universe.

Meaning of Vicitrartha Sargakari - sakti

Let's break down the correct option:

• Vicitrartha: Refers to things that are wonderful, diverse, or having varied meanings.
• Sargakari: Means the power that creates or causes to manifest.
• Sakti: Means power or energy.

Therefore, Vicitrartha Sargakari - sakti translates to God's power that creates wonderful and diverse things. This aligns with Ramanuja's view of 'maya' as the divine creative energy through which the phenomenal world, with all its variety, comes into existence. It represents the miraculous and potent ability of the divine to manifest the cosmos.

Analysis of Other Options

• Nirguna - sakti: This refers to power without specific attributes, which is generally associated with the impersonal Brahman, not the personal God's specific manifestation power in Ramanuja's system.
• Citt - sakti: This translates to the power of consciousness. While God certainly possesses consciousness, 'maya' in this context refers more specifically to the creative power manifesting the universe.
• Upa - sakti: This means a subsidiary or secondary power. Ramanuja emphasized God's inherent, supreme powers, and 'maya' represents a fundamental creative aspect, not a secondary one.

Based on Ramanuja's philosophy, 'maya' represents God's supreme power to create the diverse and wondrous universe. Hence, Vicitrartha Sargakari - sakti is the appropriate interpretation.