Relation between language and extra-linguistic reality is an important
problem of Bhartṛhari’s linguistic philosophy. In the ‘Vākyapadīya,’ this problem
is discussed several times, but in accordance with the general perspectivist
trend of Bhartṛhari’s philosophy each time it is framed through different
concepts and different solutions are provided. In this essay, an attempt is
undertaken to summarize the variety of different and mutually exclusive views
on language and extra-linguistic reality in VP and to formulate the hidden
presuppositions on which the actual viewpoints expressed in the kārikās are
based. As a result, the following approaches are formulated: (A1) Language is
coextensive with external reality. (A2a) Language, designated as kalpanā/
vikalpa, is distinct from reality. (A2b) Language refers to the secondary/
metaphorical reality (upacārasattā/aupacārikī sattā). (A3) Language and reality
somehow correlate, because otherwise, practical/linguistic activity (vyavahāra)
would be impossible. The origin of these approaches and their affinities with
different schools of Indian philosophy (Nyāya-Vaiśeṣika and Buddhist
Pramāṇavāda) are examined. Approach (A3), according to which correlation
between language and reality is functional and not ontological, seems very
close to Dharmakīrti’s concept of arthakriyā. This approach accords with
Bhartṛhari’s perspectivist philosophical strategy. It enabled him to explain how
effective linguistic activity is possible, capturing language in its dynamic
aspect, without limitative static ontological constructions.
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