Śabda in Nyāya is defined as verbal testimony coming from an āpta, a competent and trustworthy speaker, or from reliable scriptures regarded as composed by such persons. It is not mere language, but language that is free from intention to deceive and error. The truth of the cognition depends on the reliability of the source and the proper understanding of the words used.
Option A:
Option A overgeneralises by including any written text regardless of reliability; Nyāya restricts śabda pramāṇa to trustworthy sources, so unreliable texts cannot generate valid śabda pramā.
Option B:
Option B correctly expresses the Nyāya position by emphasising that the words must come from a trustworthy person or scripture to function as a pramāṇa.
Option C:
Option C reduces verbal testimony to internal reflection, which misses the essential interpersonal and linguistic character of śabda.
Option D:
Option D confines śabda to Vedic ritual mantras; Nyāya also includes secular and ordinary statements by reliable persons as śabda.
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