What is apurva?

Apurva is a Sanskrit word meaning "never before" or "unique." It is used in Hindu philosophy, particularly in Mimamsa, to refer to the unseen result or potency produced by a religious act or sacrifice, which eventually leads to its proper consequence (e.g., attaining heaven). This unseen potency bridges the gap between the action and its delayed result. Think of it as a sort of karmic deposit that ripens over time. The concept is central to explaining how actions performed now can influence future experiences, especially in the context of ritual efficacy and the attainment of desired outcomes in the afterlife. The existence of apurva guarantees the infallible connection between action and result, a crucial tenet of Mimamsa's belief in the eternal validity of the Vedas and the efficacy of Vedic rituals.