'Sabdabodha' refers to the understanding of meaning from a sentence. Different Indian philosophical schools developed distinct theories to explain this process. The concept of 'Bhavana' is a unique feature of one of these schools.
Step 1: Understanding the Question
The question asks to identify the philosophical school that gives a central role to the concept of 'Bhavana' in its theory of sentence meaning.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation
The Mimamsa school of philosophy is primarily concerned with the exegesis (critical interpretation) of the Vedas, particularly the sections dealing with rituals (yajnas).
For the Mimamsa school, the main purpose of Vedic sentences is to impel a person to perform an action (a ritual).
Bhavana is the technical term they use for this "impelling force" or "creative energy" of a verb that drives action. They believe that when one understands a Vedic injunction, one understands this Bhavana, which motivates the performance of the rite.
Therefore, Bhavana is the cornerstone of the Mimamsa theory of Sabdabodha, as it connects language directly to ritual action.
Step 3: Final Answer
The concept of 'Bhavana' is a primary element in the Sabdabodha system of the Mimamsa school.