Shankara (circa 700) was an 8th century Indian philosopher and theologian. His written commentaries and teachings on the Brahma Sutras, Principal Upanishads, and Bhagavad Gita are said to have unified Indian philosophical thought. He is credited with establishing the Advaita Vedanta school of Hindu philosophy. Many different stories and uncertainties exist surrounding Shankara’s life. His best known work is the Brahmasutrabhasya, a commentary on the Brahma Sutra, which is a fundamental text of the Vedanta school of Hinduism.
Quotes by Shankara…
Fear not… there is no danger for you. There is a way to cross over the ocean of the world, and by this way the wise men have reached the shore. This same way I point out to you, for it is the way to destroy the world’s fear. Crossing the ocean of the world by this way, you will win perfect peace.
Who is more deluded than he who is careless of his own welfare?
Knowledge alone disperses ignorance,
As sunlight scatters darkness.
Not so acts,
For ignorance originates in works.
Chief among the causes of liberty is devotion, the watchfulness of the spirit towards its own nature.
The Wise One instills the truth in whoever comes to Him yearning for freedom, who follows the true path, calming the tumult of his mind and bringing restfulness.
Sickness is not cured by saying “Medicine,” but by drinking it. So a man is not free by the name of the Eternal without discerning the Eternal.
The realization of Truth is brought about by perception, and not in the least by ten millions of acts.
The intentness of the soul on the pure Eternal — that is right meditation. It is not the indulgence in fanciful thinking.
The wish to untie, through understanding of their true nature, the chains of selfishness and sensuality — this is the yearning for freedom.
