Shadyantra Pariksha
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| Type | Examination |
|---|---|
| Skills tested | Logic and Argument |
| Regions | Mithila region |
| Languages | Sanskrit |
| Annual number of test takers | Public |
| Prerequisites | Well versed in every types of arguments and questions in any subject |
| Examination System of ancient Mithila | |
Shadyantra Pariksha (Sanskrit: षड्यंत्र परीक्षा)[note 1][1] was a higher examination system in ancient Mithila for testing knowledge of the scholars in the region. It was more tough level of examination than the Shalaka Pariksha.[2]
The literal meaning of Shadyantra is conspiracy. It refers to a secret planning by a group or public to defeat. And Pariksha means test or examination. Therefore, the literal meaning of Shadyantra Pariksha is a secret planning to defeat a candidate in test, examination or Shastrartha.
Background
In early Mithila, scholars were examined by different types of examinations. During King Janaka's reign, Shastrarthas were organised at the royal court. The scholars participating in the Shastrarthas had to win the debates among the scholars to prove their scholarship. In the later period examination like Shalaka and Shadyantra Pariksha were introduced to examine the scholarship of the candidate scholars. Shadyantra Pariksha was more tough and higher level of examination than the Shalaka Pariksha. The candidates who were able to qualify the examination were awarded different types of Upadhis like Upadhyaya, Mahopadhya and Mahamahopadhya according to the level of knowledge of the scholars.[2][3][4][5]