Description
This scholarly exploration bridges the gap between classical Advaita Vedanta philosophy and its modern interpretations, focusing specifically on how religious experience can be known and validated. The book examines the epistemological frameworks that philosophers from Shankara to contemporary thinkers have used to explain transcendent knowledge—knowledge that claims to go beyond ordinary sensory perception and rational thought.
What makes this work particularly valuable for Indian philosophy students and researchers is its comparative approach. It doesn’t simply present Advaita as a static system but traces how ideas about knowing the unknowable have evolved, adapted, and been defended across centuries. The author carefully unpacks complex Sanskrit concepts and places them in dialogue with Western epistemology, making this an essential resource for anyone studying consciousness, mysticism, or Indian philosophical methods.
Ideal for postgraduate students, scholars of comparative religion, and serious practitioners seeking intellectual depth in Vedantic studies. Published by Motilal Banarsidass, a trusted name in Indological scholarship, this hardcover edition offers rigorous academic content without losing sight of the lived spiritual dimension that makes Advaita a continuing tradition.
- Publisher : Motilal Banarsidass Publishers; 1st edition (1 January 2007)
- Language : English
- Hardcover : 210 pages
- ISBN-10 : 8120829565
- ISBN-13 : 978-8120829565
- Item Weight : 500 g
- Country of Origin : India
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus of Knowing Beyond Knowledge book on Advaita?
This book examines the epistemological foundations of religious experience in both classical and modern Advaita Vedanta philosophy. It explores how transcendent knowledge—knowledge beyond ordinary perception—is validated and understood across different periods of Advaitic thought, from Shankara to contemporary interpretations.
Is this Advaita epistemology book suitable for beginners?
This is an academic scholarly work best suited for postgraduate students, researchers, and those already familiar with Indian philosophy basics. It assumes some background in Vedantic concepts and engages with complex epistemological questions that may be challenging for general readers new to Advaita.
Who publishes Knowing Beyond Knowledge and is it available in India?
The book is published by Motilal Banarsidass Publishers, one of India’s most respected publishers of Indological and Sanskrit texts. The hardcover edition is readily available for purchase online in India at competitive prices from Indian bookstores.
What is the difference between classical and modern Advaita epistemology?
Classical Advaita epistemology, rooted in Shankara’s teachings, focuses on traditional means of knowledge (pramanas) and the validation of non-dual experience. Modern Advaita engages with Western philosophical frameworks, contemporary consciousness studies, and responds to critiques while maintaining core Vedantic principles, as explored in this book.
How many pages is Knowing Beyond Knowledge Advaita book?
The hardcover edition contains 210 pages of scholarly content examining religious experience and epistemology in Advaita Vedanta. Published by Motilal Banarsidass in 2007, it provides comprehensive coverage despite its focused scope, making it an accessible yet thorough academic resource.
