Early Advaita Vedanta and Buddhism

Book Details

• Publisher: Sri Satguru Publications

• Author: Richard King

• Language: English

• Edition: 1997

• Pages: 342

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 22.5 cm x 14.5 cm

• Weight: 610 gm

• ISBN: 9788170305583

About the Book

This book presents a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between early Advaita Vedanta and Buddhism, focusing on the Gaudapadiya-karika, an important text in the development of Advaita philosophy. Richard King provides an in-depth exploration of the doctrines of early Advaita and Buddhism, shedding light on their complex interactions and mutual influences. The book discusses how early Advaita thought intersects with the Abhidharma, Madhyamaka, and Yogacara schools of Buddhism.

King carefully examines the philosophical underpinnings of the Gaudapadiya-karika, providing valuable insights into Vedantic and Buddhist thought. The author also explores the concept of Buddha-Nature and its connection to Vedantic views, which are often overlooked or misunderstood in both traditional Hindu and Western scholarship. This book is crucial for understanding the historical development of Indian philosophy and its interwoven traditions.

Key Highlights:

• Detailed Analysis of Gaudapadiya-karika
  The book provides a focused analysis of the Gaudapadiya-karika, an essential text for understanding the roots of Advaita Vedanta. King highlights the influence of Buddhist thought on this early Advaita text, making a case for the philosophical exchanges between Buddhism and Vedanta.

• Relationship Between Advaita and Buddhism
  Richard King investigates the doctrinal relationship between early Advaita and major Buddhist schools (Abhidharma, Madhyamaka, and Yogacara). This exploration contributes to the understanding of how Buddhism influenced the formation of Vedantic philosophy.

• Exploration of Buddha-Nature and Vedantic Thought
  King’s analysis extends to the concept of Buddha-Nature, offering insights into its interaction with Vedantic concepts. This comparative approach is crucial for grasping the intersection of Hindu and Buddhist ideas.

• The Evolution of Advaita Vedanta
  The book sheds light on how Advaita Vedanta developed, particularly before the Sankara school. King emphasizes that the Gaudapadiya-karika offers invaluable insights into the early formation of Advaita philosophy, making it a vital text in understanding the development of Vedantic thought.

• Historical Context and Philosophical Progress
  King addresses the importance of studying Indian philosophers in historical context, urging readers to consider the dynamic interplay between various Indian philosophical traditions and their mutual influence.

Ideal For:

• Students and Scholars of Indian Philosophy
  This book is an essential resource for anyone studying Advaita Vedanta, Buddhism, and the historical development of Indian philosophical thought.

• Buddhism and Vedanta Enthusiasts
  Ideal for readers interested in the complex relationship between Vedantic and Buddhist philosophies, particularly in the early stages of their formation.

• Philosophy Enthusiasts
  Those interested in the philosophical evolution of Buddhism and Vedanta will find this work a crucial contribution to understanding their mutual influences.