Soul and Eschatology according to Sankara. A Critical Analysis

This term paper critically examines the concepts of the soul and eschatology as elucidated by Sankara, a renowned philosopher and theologian of ancient India. Grounded in Vedantic philosophy, Sankara's teachings offer profound insights into the nature of the soul, its relationship with ultimate reality (Brahman), and its journey through various stages of existence. Through a meticulous analysis of Sankara's texts, commentaries, and scholarly interpretations, this paper aims to shed light on key aspects such as the nature of the soul, its eternal essence, and its liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

The paper begins by providing an overview of Sankara's philosophical framework within Vedanta, emphasizing his Advaita (non-dualistic) perspective. It explores Sankara's understanding of Atman (the individual soul) as an eternal entity that is distinct from the physical body but ultimately identical to Brahman. The concept of Maya (illusion) is also examined in relation to how it affects one's perception of reality and influences eschatological beliefs.

Furthermore, this study delves into Sankara's interpretation of eschatology – the study of what happens after death – as outlined in his commentaries on sacred texts like Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita. It investigates his views on karma (action), samsara (cycle of rebirth), moksha (liberation), and their interplay in shaping one's spiritual journey towards self-realization.

The critical analysis presented in this paper scrutinizes potential criticisms or challenges to Sankara's teachings on the soul and eschatology. It explores alternative perspectives within Vedanta itself, as well as contrasting viewpoints from other philosophical traditions or religious systems that may challenge or complement his ideas.

Ultimately, this research aims to provide a comprehensive and critical understanding of Sankara's teachings on the soul and eschatology, highlighting their significance within the broader context of Indian philosophy and spirituality. By critically evaluating Sankara's ideas, this paper seeks to contribute to ongoing scholarly discourse on these profound metaphysical concepts, inviting further exploration and interpretation.

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• CHAPTER 1
  • INTRODUCTION
  • 1.1 Reason for choosing the topic
  • 1.2 Relevance of the topic
  • 1.3 Acknowledgement
  • 1.4 Structure of the paper
• CHAPTER 2
  • SANKARA'S SOUL AND ESCHATOLOGY
  • 2.1 Soul
    • 2.1.1 Origin and Nature of the soul
    • 2.1.2 The organs of the soul
    • 2.1.3 Relation of soul to God
    • 2.1.4 Relation of soul to body
    • 2.1.5 Relation of soul to its actions
    • 2.1.6 Relation of the soul to world
    • 2.1.7 The special states of the soul
  • 2.2 Eschatology
    • 2.2.1 The passing of the soul from the body
    • 2.2.2 Destinies of the soul
    • 2.2.3 Descent of the soul for a new embodiment
    • 2.2.4 The path of liberation
• CHAPTER 3
  • CONCLUSION
  • 3.1 Summary of the paper
  • 3.2 Critical Appraisal

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This paper aims to explore the concepts of soul and eschatology according to the Advaita Vedanta philosophy of Śankara, a prominent Indian philosopher. The author delves into Śankara's understanding of the soul (Jiva) and its relationship with Brahman, the ultimate reality. The paper also investigates Śankara's views on the destiny of the soul after death, including concepts like liberation and reincarnation.

• The nature and origin of the soul in Advaita Vedanta.
• The relationship between the individual soul (Jiva) and Brahman.
• Śankara's understanding of the processes of death and rebirth.
• The path to liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
• The role of the intellect and sense organs in the soul's experience.

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

• Chapter 1: Introduction

  This chapter outlines the author's motivation for studying Śankara's philosophy, emphasizing personal interest sparked by the author's father. It then highlights the relevance of the topic, emphasizing the need for introspection and seeking spiritual fulfillment. The chapter concludes by outlining the structure of the paper, which is divided into three main chapters.

• Chapter 2: Sankara's Soul and Eschatology

  This chapter delves into Śankara's philosophical understanding of the soul (Jiva) and eschatology, the study of death and the afterlife. It explores the Jiva as a combination of self and non-self, identifying its limitations and its true nature as consciousness. The chapter also explores Śankara's views on the origin and nature of the soul, highlighting the belief that the soul is Brahman itself. This chapter further examines the organs of the soul, highlighting the role of intellect and sense organs in its experience. Lastly, it touches upon Śankara's perspective on the process of death, the destinies of the soul after death, and the path to liberation.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

This preview focuses on the core concepts of Advaita Vedanta philosophy, including the Jiva (individual soul), Brahman (ultimate reality), eschatology, reincarnation, liberation, intellect, and sense organs. It explores Śankara's contributions to these central concepts, offering insights into his understanding of the soul's journey and its ultimate destiny.

Details

• Author: Silambarasan Sibiyon (Author)
• Publication Year: 2022
• Pages: 14
• Catalog Number: V1372893
• ISBN (eBook): 9783346909398
• ISBN (Book): 9783346909404
• Language: English
• Tags: Sankara Advaita adi Sankara