Adi Shankaracharya – The Philosopher of Advaita Vedanta

Adi Shankaracharya – The Philosopher of Advaita Vedanta

1. Life and Background

Adi Shankaracharya (c. 788–820 CE) was one of India’s greatest philosophers and spiritual masters, renowned for consolidating the doctrine of **Advaita Vedanta** (Non-Dualism). Born in Kaladi, Kerala, to a Brahmin family, he exhibited extraordinary intellect from childhood. Legend says he became a renunciant (sannyasin) at the age of eight and traveled across India to revive Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism) during a time when Buddhism and Jainism were dominant.  

2. Core Teachings: Advaita Vedanta 

Shankara’s philosophy is summarized in his famous statement:  

- "Brahman is the only truth" (Brahma Satyam) – The ultimate reality is Brahman, the formless, infinite, and eternal consciousness.  

- "The world is an illusion (Maya)" (Jagan Mithya)** – The perceived world is not ultimately real but a projection of Brahman through Maya (cosmic illusion).  

- "The individual soul is none other than Brahman" (Jivo Brahmaiva Naparah)** – The true Self (Atman) is identical to Brahman; ignorance (Avidya) veils this realization.  

His teachings emphasize **Jnana Yoga (the path of knowledge)** as the means to **moksha (liberation)**—recognizing one’s true nature as Brahman.  

3. Key Contributions  

- Commentaries (Bhashyas): He wrote authoritative commentaries on the **Brahma Sutras, Bhagavad Gita, and major Upanishads**, systematically establishing Advaita Vedanta.  

- Establishment of Four Mathas: To preserve Vedic knowledge, he founded four monastic centers across India:  

  - Jyotir Math (North – Badrinath) 

  - Sharada Peetham (South – Sringeri)  

  - Govardhan Math (East – Puri) 

  - Kalika Math (West – Dwarka) 

- Debates and Revival: He engaged in philosophical debates with Buddhists, Jains, and rival Hindu schools (e.g., Samkhya, Mimamsa), re-establishing Vedanta as the dominant tradition.  

- Unifying Hinduism: His works helped revive Hinduism during a period of Buddhist influence.  

4. Prominent Disciples & Legacy  

Shankara’s direct disciples—Padmapada, Totakacharya, Hastamalaka, and Sureshvara—propagated his teachings, forming the **Smarta tradition, which remains influential today.  

5. Spiritual Poetry and Works  

Beyond philosophical texts, Shankara composed devotional hymns and meditative verses, including:  

- Atma Shatakam (Nirvana Shatakam) – "I am not the mind, nor the intellect; I am pure consciousness."  

- Vivekachudamani – A guide on discerning reality from illusion.  

- Bhaja Govindam – A devotional poem emphasizing devotion and wisdom. 

 6. Historical Influence

Shankara’s teachings inspired modern sages like Ramana Maharshi and Nisargadatta Maharaj. Western thinkers like Schopenhauer also admired his philosophy.  

7. Death and Immortal Legacy  

Tradition holds that Shankara attained mahāsamādhi (final liberation) at Kedarnath at just 32. Despite his short life, his wisdom continues to guide seekers worldwide.  

Conclusion

Adi Shankaracharya was a towering spiritual genius whose Advaita Vedanta reveals the ultimate truth: "You are Brahman—limitless and free." His legacy transcends time, offering profound wisdom to all truth-seekers.