Indian Philosophy: A Summary

இந்தியத் தத்துவத்தில் ஆசீவகம்

Abstract

Indian philosophy, a product of the intellectual endeavors of Indian sages and thinkers, is deeply rooted in the Indian subcontinent. It is an integral part of Indian culture and has been shaped by a confluence of factors such as practical experiences, beliefs, customs, traditions, scientific inquiry, aesthetics, psychology, intellect, and metaphysical explorations. This rich tapestry of thought was woven not only by forest-dwelling ascetics but also by ideal householders engaged in worldly pursuits. The Indian subcontinent has been a hub of intellectual exchange, with knowledge flowing freely between its northern and southern regions. The term ‘philosophy’ signifies ‘love of wisdom’. While the object of this ‘love’ varies across different philosophies, the core purpose remains the exploration of reality. Indian philosophy, therefore, is a repository of knowledge aimed at understanding the nature of existence. The Sanskrit term ‘Darshan’ and the Tamil terms ‘Meyy porul’ (true reality) and ‘Samayakkanakku’ (logical reasoning) are synonymous with philosophy in Indian context.
The Tamil sage Thiruvalluvar emphasizes the primacy of philosophical inquiry in his famous couplet:
“Whatever the nature of a thing,
To know its true nature is wisdom.” - Thirukkural 355
Throughout history, Indian thinkers have been relentlessly seeking knowledge about the self, the universe, and the ultimate reality. These endeavors have given rise to various philosophical systems collectively known as Indian philosophy. Traditionally, Indian philosophies have been categorized into two broad groups: Vedic and non-Vedic. Vedic philosophies, which include Samkhya, Yoga, Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Purva Mimamsa, and Uttara Mimamsa (Vedanta), are based on the Vedas. Non-Vedic philosophies, on the other hand, are diverse and include Charvaka, Jainism, Buddhism, and various other schools. While this categorization is a later development, it has been a dominant framework for understanding the history of Indian philosophy.
A noteworthy aspect of Indian philosophy is its emphasis on practical living. For instance, the ascetic philosophy of Ajivika, which is considered one of the oldest philosophies in the world, influenced later religions. Though there are no extant Ajivika texts, references in other ancient texts suggest that Ajivikas believed in seven eternal categories: earth, water, fire, air, pleasure, pain, and life. The influence of Ajivika, Jainism, and Buddhism can be traced in later Vedic philosophies such as Samkhya and Yoga.