Purva Mimamsa is a school of Hindu philosophy that focuses on the interpretation and understanding of the Vedas, the sacred texts of Hinduism. The word "Purva" means "preceding" or "prior," and "Mimamsa" means "investigation" or "examination." Therefore, Purva Mimamsa can be translated as "prior investigation" or "prior examination."

The main emphasis of Purva Mimamsa is on the performance of Vedic rituals and upholding dharma, the moral and ethical code of conduct in Hinduism. This school of thought believes that the Vedas are eternal and infallible, and they contain all the knowledge and guidance necessary for human beings to live a righteous life.

Purva Mimamsa is attributed to the ancient sage Jaimini, who is believed to have lived around the 3rd or 4th century BCE. He is considered the founder of this school of thought and is known for his commentary on the Mimamsa Sutras, which are the foundational texts of Purva Mimamsa philosophy.

One of the key principles of Purva Mimamsa is the concept of karma, the law of cause and effect. According to this school, every action, whether physical, verbal, or mental, has consequences that will affect the individual in this life and the next. Therefore, it is essential to perform actions in accordance with dharma to avoid negative consequences.

Purva Mimamsa also places great importance on the performance of Vedic rituals, known as yajnas. These rituals are seen as a means of connecting with the divine and seeking blessings for material and spiritual well-being. The Mimamsa Sutras provide detailed guidelines on how to perform these rituals correctly, including the proper pronunciation of mantras and the correct use of sacrificial objects.

In addition to ritualistic practices, Purva Mimamsa also stresses the importance of studying the Vedas and understanding their deeper meanings. The Mimamsa Sutras outline various methods of interpretation and analysis of Vedic texts, such as etymology, grammar, and logic.

Overall, Purva Mimamsa is a school of thought that places great importance on the performance of Vedic rituals and upholding dharma. It emphasizes the eternal nature of the Vedas and the need for proper understanding and interpretation of these sacred texts. Through the practice of Vedic rituals and adherence to dharma, Purva Mimamsa aims to guide individuals towards a fulfilling and righteous life.