Adi Shankaracharya

Early Life

Adi Shankaracharya was born in a Brahmin family in the village of Kalady in Kerala. According to tradition, his parents were Shivaguru and Aryamba. From a young age, Shankara showed prodigious intellect and deep spiritual inclination. He mastered the Vedas and other Hindu scriptures early on and was drawn to renunciation.

Spiritual Journey

At the age of eight, Shankara decided to become a monk (sannyasi) and left home to study under the guidance of his guru, Govindapada. He traveled extensively across India, engaging in debates with scholars from various philosophical schools. His goal was to establish the primacy of Advaita Vedanta—the philosophy of non-dualism, which teaches that the individual soul (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) are one and the same.

Teachings and Philosophy

Advaita Vedanta: Shankara taught that the apparent diversity of the world is due to ignorance (avidya). Reality is non-dual Brahman, pure consciousness without attributes.

Scriptural Commentary: He wrote detailed commentaries on the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Brahmasutras, making Vedanta philosophy accessible.

Rejection of Ritualism: Shankara emphasized knowledge (jnana) over ritualistic practices and stressed direct realization of truth.

Bhakti and Karma: Although Advaita is non-dual, Shankara also acknowledged the roles of devotion (bhakti) and action (karma) as preparatory steps.

Revival of Hinduism

At a time when Buddhism and Jainism were widespread, Shankaracharya revitalized Hinduism by:

Establishing mathas (monasteries) in key locations: Sringeri (South India), Dwarka (West), Puri (East), and Jyotirmath (North).

Promoting the worship of Shiva, Vishnu, and Shakti, affirming the unity behind diverse Hindu practices.

Reinvigorating the study of Vedic scriptures and spreading spiritual knowledge.

Major Works

Commentaries on the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Brahmasutras.

Philosophical texts like Vivekachudamani (Crest Jewel of Discrimination).

Hymns such as Bhaja Govindam, encouraging devotion and spiritual awakening.

Death and Legacy

Adi Shankaracharya is believed to have passed away at a young age, around 32, but his impact remains monumental. His teachings laid the foundation for much of modern Hindu philosophy. The mathas he established continue to be important centers of learning and spirituality.

Legacy

Regarded as one of the greatest spiritual reformers in Indian history.

Unified various Hindu sects under the philosophy of non-dualism.

His Advaita Vedanta is studied worldwide.

Revered as a saint and philosopher by millions.