Description
This seminal work traces the extraordinary life of Sri Adi Sankara, the 8th-century sage who revitalized Hindu philosophy through Advaita Vedanta. The book illuminates Sankara’s spiritual journey—from his precocious childhood and spiritual awakening to his travels across India and the founding of four cardinal monasteries. More than a biography, it explores the philosophical underpinnings of his teachings on non-duality (Advaita), the nature of Brahman, and the path to self-realization. Essential reading for anyone interested in Indian philosophy, Vedantic traditions, or seeking deeper understanding of Hindu metaphysics. Whether you’re a philosophy student, spiritual seeker, or lover of Indian history, this book offers both intellectual rigor and profound spiritual insight.
- Publisher : New Bharatiya Book Corporation (1 January 2017)
- ISBN-10 : 8183153119
- ISBN-13 : 978-8183153119
- Item Weight : 721 g
- Dimensions : 14.5 x 2.8 x 22 cm
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Sri Sankara and why is his philosophy important?
Sri Adi Sankara (788–820 CE) was a revolutionary philosopher and spiritual master who founded Advaita Vedanta, a non-dualistic school of Hindu philosophy. His teachings emphasize the unity of Brahman (ultimate reality) and the illusory nature of material distinction. Sankara’s philosophy remains deeply influential in modern Indian spirituality and philosophy globally.
What is Advaita Vedanta and what does this book teach?
Advaita Vedanta is the philosophy of non-duality—the core teaching that Brahman (ultimate consciousness) alone is real, and the world of multiplicity is Maya (illusion). This book explains Sankara’s life journey alongside his revolutionary philosophical ideas, making complex Vedantic concepts accessible to modern readers.
Is this book suitable for beginners in philosophy or do I need prior knowledge?
This book is designed for readers new to Vedanta as well as serious philosophy students. It combines biography with philosophy, making Sankara’s teachings engaging and relatable. The narrative approach helps readers understand his ideas in context, without requiring prior philosophical background.
Where can I buy The Life and Philosophy of Sri Sankara online in India?
You can buy this book at The Bookish Owl (thebookishowl.in) and other major online bookstores in India. Published by New Bharatiya Book Corporation, it’s widely available with fast delivery across Indian cities. Check our store for current pricing and offers.
What other books on Advaita Vedanta and Sri Sankara should I read?
Readers interested in Sankara often explore direct translations of his commentaries (Brahma Sutras, Upanishads), biographies like ‘Sri Sankaracharya’ by Swami Vivekananda, and works on Advaita Vedanta by modern authors. This book is an excellent starting point before diving into more technical philosophical texts.
