SHANKARACHARYA
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Adi Shankara established four monasteries, or mathas, in the four corners of India:
- Jyotir Matha in the north (Joshimath, Uttarakhand)
- Sringeri Sharada Peetham in the south (Sringeri, Karnataka)
- Dwaraka Sharada Peetham in the west (Dwarka, Gujarat)
- Govardhana Matha in the east (Puri, Odisha)
The philosophy of Adi Shankaracharya, also known as Advaita Vedanta, is one of the most influential and profound philosophical systems within Hinduism. It centers on the concept of non-dualism (Advaita), which emphasizes the oneness of ultimate reality and the individual self. Here are the key principles and elements of Shankaracharya's Advaita Vedanta philosophy:
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Brahman as Ultimate Reality: Shankaracharya taught that the ultimate reality, often referred to as Brahman, is the unchanging, infinite, and transcendent source of all existence. Brahman is beyond all attributes, forms, and distinctions. It is pure consciousness, bliss, and the only true reality.
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Atman as Individual Self: Shankaracharya posited that the individual self, known as Atman, is not distinct from Brahman but is, in fact, identical to it. Atman is the innermost essence of an individual, and realizing its identity with Brahman is the ultimate goal of life.
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Maya (Illusion): According to Advaita Vedanta, the material world and its diversity are products of Maya, which is often described as illusion or ignorance. Maya veils the true nature of reality, causing individuals to perceive a world of multiplicity and duality. Liberation (moksha) is achieved by transcending Maya and realizing the non-dual nature of Brahman and Atman.
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The Role of Knowledge (Jnana): Shankaracharya emphasized the importance of knowledge in attaining liberation. True knowledge (jnana) is the realization of one's identity with Brahman and the recognition that the empirical world is illusory. This knowledge is gained through self-inquiry (atma vichara) and contemplation on the teachings of the Upanishads.
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Worship and Devotion: While Shankaracharya's philosophy is often associated with intellectual inquiry and meditation, he also recognized the importance of devotion (bhakti) as a means to attain spiritual realization. He composed devotional hymns and encouraged the worship of deities as a path to realizing the ultimate non-dual truth.
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Fourfold Pursuits (Purusharthas): Shankaracharya acknowledged the traditional Hindu goals of life, known as the purusharthas. These include Dharma (ethical and moral duty), Artha (material prosperity), Kama (desire and pleasure), and Moksha (liberation). While he recognized their importance, his philosophy primarily focused on Moksha as the ultimate goal.
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Scriptural Authority: Shankaracharya regarded the Vedas as the highest authority in matters of spiritual knowledge. He wrote extensive commentaries on the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Brahma Sutras to elucidate their teachings and establish Advaita Vedanta as the correct interpretation of these texts.
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Role of Guru: In Advaita Vedanta, the guidance of a qualified spiritual teacher (guru) is considered essential for attaining realization. The guru imparts knowledge and leads the disciple on the path to self-realization.
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Ethical Conduct: Shankaracharya emphasized the importance of ethical conduct and moral values as a foundation for spiritual growth. Living a life in harmony with dharma (righteousness) is seen as a prerequisite for progressing on the path of self-realization
Adi Shankaracharya, the renowned philosopher and theologian of Advaita Vedanta, wrote numerous works during his lifetime. His writings cover a wide range of topics related to philosophy, spirituality, and the interpretation of sacred texts. Some of his most important works include:
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Commentaries on the Prasthanatrayi:
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Brahma Sutra Bhashya: Shankaracharya wrote extensive commentaries on the Brahma Sutras, also known as the Vedanta Sutras. His commentary is known as the "Brahma Sutra Bhashya" and serves as a comprehensive exposition of the core concepts of Advaita Vedanta.
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Upanishad Bhashyas: Shankaracharya composed commentaries on several Upanishads, the ancient philosophical and mystical texts that explore the nature of reality and the self. Some of his Upanishad commentaries include those on the Chandogya, Brihadaranyaka, Isa, and Mandukya Upanishads.
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Bhagavad Gita Bhashya: Shankaracharya wrote a commentary on the Bhagavad Gita, one of the most revered texts in Hinduism. His commentary provides an Advaita Vedanta interpretation of the teachings of Lord Krishna to Arjuna.
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Independent Philosophical Works:
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Vivekachudamani: This text, often translated as "The Crest Jewel of Discrimination," is one of Shankaracharya's most famous independent works. It focuses on the importance of self-realization, the distinction between the real and the unreal, and the path to spiritual awakening.
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Atma Bodha: In "Atma Bodha," which means "Self-Knowledge," Shankaracharya explores the nature of the self (Atman) and provides guidance on realizing one's true identity with Brahman.
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Tattva Bodha: This work delves into the fundamental principles of Advaita Vedanta and serves as an introduction to its philosophy. It explains key concepts such as the nature of the self, the nature of reality, and the process of self-realization.
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Upadesasahasri: Translating to "A Thousand Teachings," this extensive work addresses a wide range of topics, including the nature of reality, the self, ethics, and the spiritual path.
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Hymns and Devotional Works:
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Saundaryalahari: A hymn dedicated to the goddess Shakti, this work combines devotional verses with philosophical insights. It is divided into two parts, with the first section focusing on devotion and the second on philosophical concepts.
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Bhaja Govindam: This devotional composition, also known as "Mohamudgara" or "Dvadasamanjarika Stotra," emphasizes the transience of life and the importance of seeking spiritual wisdom.
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Stotras (Hymns of Praise):
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For Prelims: Shankaracharya, Dvaita, Advaitha
For Mains: 1.Discuss the key philosophical principles of Adi Shankaracharya's Advaita Vedanta. How did he contribute to the development of Indian philosophical thought during his time?
2.Compare and contrast the philosophies of Adi Shankaracharya and Ramanuja. How did their interpretations of Vedanta differ, and what impact did their teachings have on Hinduism?
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Previous Year Questions
1.The world’s second tallest statue in sitting pose of Ramanuja was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of India at Hyderabad recently. Which one of the following statements correctly represents the teachings of Ramanuja? (UPSC CSE Prelims 2022)
A. The Best means of salvation was devotion
B. Vedas are eternal, self-existent and wholly authoritative
C. Logical arguments were essential means for the highest bliss.
D.Salvation was to be obtained through meditation.
Answer (A)
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