Adi Guru Shankaracharya: The Reviver of Advaita Vedanta
Introduction
Adi Guru Shankaracharya is a name that resonates through the corridors of Indian spiritual and philosophical thought. Born in the 8th century, he was a profound philosopher, saint, and reformer who revitalized Hinduism at a time of significant decline. Through his non-dualistic (Advaita) teachings, extensive writings, and establishment of monastic centers, he laid the foundation for a united spiritual identity across India.
Early Life and Background (788 CE)
Shankaracharya was born in Kalady, a village in present-day Kerala, around 788 CE. His parents, Shivaguru and Aryamba, were devout Brahmins. From an early age, Shankara exhibited extraordinary intellectual brilliance and a deep yearning for spiritual truth.
Legend says his parents prayed to Lord Shiva for a child. Lord Shiva offered them a choice: a short-lived but spiritually luminous son or a long-lived ordinary child. They chose the former, resulting in the birth of Shankara.
Renunciation at Eight (796 CE)
At just eight years old, Shankara took sanyasa (monastic vows). The turning point came when he was caught by a crocodile while bathing in a river. He persuaded his mother to let him become a monk, promising that this would save his life. After surviving, he left home in pursuit of a guru.
Discipleship Under Govindapada (797 CE)
Shankara found his guru, Govindapada, in Omkareshwar (Madhya Pradesh). Govindapada, a disciple of Gaudapada, was an established teacher of Advaita Vedanta. Under his guidance, Shankara mastered the scriptures and was tasked with spreading Advaita across India.
Writing the Foundational Texts (798–802 CE)
In his early teens, Shankaracharya wrote authoritative commentaries (bhashyas) on foundational Hindu scriptures:
- Upanishads
- Bhagavad Gita
- Brahma Sutras
These texts form the bedrock of Advaita Vedanta. He emphasized that the ultimate reality (Brahman) is non-dual, the world is an illusion (maya), and the individual self (atman) is one with Brahman.
Nation-Wide Travels and Debates (802–812 CE)
To revive and unify Hindu philosophy, Shankara embarked on an all-India pilgrimage. He engaged in philosophical debates with scholars of Buddhism, Jainism, Mimamsa, Sankhya, and others.
Iconic Debate with Mandana Mishra:
- Took place in Mahishmati (Madhya Pradesh).
- Judge: Bharati, Mandana’s wife, and a scholar.
- Mandana lost the debate and became Shankara’s disciple, later known as Sureshwaracharya.
Establishment of Four Monastic Centers (Mathas) (812 CE)
To ensure the long-term propagation of Advaita, Shankara established four mathas in four corners of India:
Direction | Matha Name | Location | Veda Preserved |
---|---|---|---|
North | Jyotir Math | Badrinath | Atharva Veda |
South | Sharada Peeth | Sringeri | Yajur Veda |
East | Govardhan Math | Puri | Rig Veda |
West | Kalika/Sharda Math | Dwarka | Sama Veda |
These centers helped consolidate Hindu philosophy and culture across the country.
Contributions to Devotional Literature
Although a philosopher, Shankara also wrote deeply devotional hymns, bridging knowledge (jnana) and devotion (bhakti):
- Bhaja Govindam
- Soundarya Lahari
- Kanakadhara Stotra
- Shivananda Lahari
These works continue to inspire spiritual seekers today.
Cultural and Religious Reforms
In an age of ritualism and superstition, Shankara:
- Rejected blind rituals
- Advocated self-realization
- Unified worship practices across sects
- Respected all deities as manifestations of the same Brahman
His efforts brought cohesion to a fragmented religious landscape.
Mahasamadhi (820 CE)
Shankaracharya left his physical body at just 32 years old. His Mahasamadhi is believed to be at Kedarnath, though other sites like Sringeri and Kanchipuram also claim this honor.
Enduring Legacy
- Spiritual Revivalist: Re-established Sanatana Dharma during spiritual decline.
- Philosophical Giant: Laid the foundation for centuries of Indian metaphysics.
- National Unifier: Strengthened India’s spiritual unity through monastic centers.
- Literary Genius: Authored profound texts blending intellect and devotion.
Famous Quotes
- “Brahma Satyam Jagan Mithya, Jivo Brahmaiva Na Parah” (Brahman is real, the world is illusion, the self is not different from Brahman)
- “Bhaja Govindam, Bhaja Govindam, Govindam Bhaja Mudha Mate” (Worship Govinda, O foolish mind, worldly knowledge won’t save you at death)
Conclusion
Adi Shankaracharya was more than a monk; he was a spiritual visionary whose influence endures even today. His teachings, commentaries, and devotional works continue to guide seekers on the path of self-realization and truth. In just three decades, he reshaped the course of Indian spirituality forever.
Through the lens of Advaita Vedanta, Shankaracharya taught us the ultimate truth: that the self and the supreme are one and the same. His life remains a shining example of divine purpose, intellectual brilliance, and fearless dedication to dharma.
