Adi Shankara

Definition

Adi Shankara was an influential Indian philosopher and theologian who lived in the 8th century CE, best known for consolidating the doctrine of Advaita Vedanta, which emphasizes non-dualism and the unity of the individual soul (Atman) with the ultimate reality (Brahman). His teachings and writings played a crucial role in the revival of Hindu philosophy and spirituality at a time when Buddhism was declining in India, leading to a renewed focus on Vedantic thought and practice.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Adi Shankara traveled extensively across India to promote his philosophical ideas, establishing four major monasteries that became centers for Advaita Vedanta teachings.
2. He wrote numerous commentaries on ancient texts, including the Upanishads and the Brahma Sutras, clarifying and interpreting their meanings in line with his non-dualistic philosophy.
3. Shankara emphasized the importance of self-inquiry and meditation as means to attain knowledge of the true self and realization of one's unity with Brahman.
4. His interactions with Buddhist scholars were significant; he aimed to counteract Buddhist views by re-establishing Hindu philosophical principles.
5. Shankara's influence extended beyond his lifetime, shaping the development of modern Hinduism and influencing various spiritual movements that followed.

Review Questions

• How did Adi Shankara contribute to the revival of Hindu philosophy during a time when Buddhism was declining?
  • Adi Shankara played a pivotal role in revitalizing Hindu philosophy by promoting Advaita Vedanta, which focused on non-dualism and the unity of Atman and Brahman. His extensive travels across India helped spread his teachings, while his commentaries on sacred texts clarified Hindu thought against competing Buddhist ideologies. By re-establishing key philosophical principles and emphasizing meditation and self-inquiry, Shankara helped renew interest in Hindu spirituality during a period when Buddhism was losing prominence.
• Discuss the significance of Adi Shankara's establishment of monasteries in relation to Advaita Vedanta's influence on Indian spirituality.
  • The establishment of four major monasteries by Adi Shankara was crucial for institutionalizing Advaita Vedanta as a dominant school of thought in India. These monasteries served as centers for learning, fostering philosophical debate, and preserving sacred texts. They also provided a framework for spiritual practice and community living, allowing Shankara's teachings to reach a broader audience. As hubs of education and spiritual guidance, these monasteries helped solidify Advaita Vedanta's influence on Indian spirituality well beyond Shankara's time.
• Evaluate how Adi Shankara's philosophical interactions with Buddhism shaped his teachings and their reception within Hinduism.
  • Adi Shankara's interactions with Buddhist scholars were instrumental in shaping both his teachings and their reception within Hinduism. He engaged critically with Buddhist concepts, particularly emphasizing how Advaita Vedanta could offer answers to existential questions posed by Buddhism. By addressing issues such as the nature of reality (Maya) and the importance of self-knowledge, he reframed Hindu thought to counter Buddhist positions effectively. This intellectual engagement not only enriched his own philosophy but also fostered a renaissance in Hindu thought that integrated insights from rival traditions while reaffirming its own identity.

Related terms

Advaita Vedanta: A non-dualistic school of Hindu philosophy that teaches that the individual soul and ultimate reality are one and the same.

Brahman: The ultimate reality or cosmic spirit in Hinduism, representing the source and essence of all existence.

Maya: The illusion or ignorance that veils the true nature of reality, according to Advaita Vedanta.