Yoga Philosophy: Understanding Pramānas

In Yoga philosophy, Pramānas refer to the valid sources of knowledge or means of cognition. Understanding these sources is crucial for discerning truth from illusion.

Accepted Pramānas in Yoga

Classical Yoga, particularly as detailed in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, primarily recognizes three distinct Pramānas:

• Pratyaksha: Direct perception through the senses.
• Anumāna: Inference based on reasoning from observed facts.
• Āgama (also known as Shabda): Testimony or reliable testimony, often referring to scriptural authority or the words of enlightened beings.

Identifying the Non-Pramāna

The question asks which option is not a Pramāna according to Yoga philosophy. Let's examine the choices:

• Pratyaksha is a valid Pramāna.
• Anumāna is a valid Pramāna.
• Āgama is a valid Pramāna.
• Upmāna: While Upmāna (comparison or analogy) is considered a Pramāna in some other Indian philosophical schools like Nyaya, it is not typically listed as a distinct, primary Pramāna within the classical framework of Yoga. It is often considered a form of Anumāna or is subsumed under other categories.

Therefore, Upmāna is the option that does not fit the standard list of Pramānas in Yoga philosophy.