Astika is a Sanskrit word meaning “faithful,” “pious” or “having a belief in God.” The word comes from the root asti, meaning “it is” or “exists.” It is sometimes defined as “theism.” In Indian philosophy, astika refers to any of the schools of thought that accept the existence of an eternal God or the eternal Self.

What is the meaning of the word astika?

Astika is a Sanskrit word meaning “faithful,” “pious” or “having a belief in God.” The word comes from the root asti, meaning “it is” or “exists.” It is sometimes defined as “theism.” In Indian philosophy, astika refers to any of the schools of thought that accept the existence of an eternal God or the eternal Self.

What is astika Darshana?

In Indian tradition, the word used for philosophy is Darshana (Viewpoint or perspective), from the Sanskrit root drish (to see, to experience). These are also called the Astika (theistic) philosophical traditions and are those that accept the Vedas as an authoritative, important source of knowledge.