Abstract

This is a study of the theory of knowledge as proposed by Sankara, the eighth century Indian philosopher. After taking note of the controversy still existing among scholars concerning several books attributed to Sankara as well as certain points of his doctrine, the author bases his conclusions on the principal works of Sankara himself. Though Sankara calls himself a mere commentator of Hindu Scripture, still, he is no blind follower of tradition, but upholds the value of reasoning in making out and establishing the right meaning of Scripture. Similarly experience is valued by Sankara sometimes even against the testimony of Scripture, especially when the latter seems to contradict evident facts. But the highest form of knowledge for Sankara is anubhava or direct experience, through which Brahman, the Supreme Reality, is realized as the ultimate and real self of all things. The author places Sankara's theory in proper perspective comparing it with the theories of other Indian schools and even of Western Philosophers.—J. K.