Top 5 Indian philosophies

India is rich in philosophical traditions, and there are numerous schools of thought that have emerged throughout its history. While it is challenging to narrow down all the Indian philosophies into a definitive top 5, here are five significant and influential philosophical systems in India:

1. Vedanta
2. Jainism
3. Buddhism
4. Advaita Vedanta
5. Charvaka

1. Vedanta

Vedanta is a prominent school of philosophy in Hinduism and is based on the teachings of the Vedas, the ancient scriptures of India. The term “Vedanta” is a combination of two Sanskrit words, “Veda” (knowledge) and “anta” (end or culmination), indicating that Vedanta represents the culmination or essence of Vedic knowledge.

Key Concepts and Principles:

• Oneness of Brahman: Vedanta posits the existence of an ultimate reality or supreme consciousness known as Brahman. It is considered to be the underlying essence of all existence and the ultimate truth of the universe. Vedanta emphasizes that the individual soul or “Atman” is essentially identical to Brahman, suggesting a fundamental unity of all beings.
• Three Levels of Reality: Vedanta proposes three levels of reality, known as “Sat-Chit-Ananda.” Sat refers to the eternal and unchanging aspect of reality, Chit represents consciousness or awareness, and Ananda signifies bliss or divine joy. These three aspects are considered inseparable and interrelated.
• Atman: According to Vedanta, each individual possesses an inner self or soul called Atman. The Atman is believed to be eternal, unchanging, and distinct from the physical body. Vedanta teaches that realizing the true nature of the Atman leads to self-realization and liberation (Moksha) from the cycle of birth and death.
• Maya: Maya is the concept of illusion or the veil of ignorance that prevents individuals from recognizing their true nature as Atman and the underlying unity of all existence. Vedanta asserts that the material world is a manifestation of Maya, which is perceived as separate and distinct from Brahman.
• Paths to Liberation: Vedanta recognizes different paths to attain self-realization and liberation. These paths are categorized into three main approaches: Karma Yoga (the path of selfless action), Bhakti Yoga (the path of devotion), and Jnana Yoga (the path of knowledge and wisdom).

Prominent Vedantic Texts:
The Vedantic philosophy is expounded in various ancient texts, some of which are:

• Upanishads: The Upanishads are considered the core scriptures of Vedanta. They contain profound philosophical insights and dialogues between teachers and students, exploring the nature of reality, self, and ultimate truth.
• Brahma Sutras: Also known as the Vedanta Sutras or the “Sutras of Badarayana,” the Brahma Sutras systematize the teachings of the Upanishads, providing a concise and logical framework for understanding Vedantic concepts.
• Bhagavad Gita: While not exclusively a Vedantic text, the Bhagavad Gita incorporates Vedantic principles within its teachings. It presents a philosophical discourse between Lord Krishna and the warrior Arjuna, exploring concepts of duty, self-realization, and the nature of reality.

Vedanta has had a significant influence on Indian philosophical thought and continues to be studied and interpreted by scholars and spiritual seekers. It offers profound insights into the nature of existence, consciousness, and the pursuit of spiritual liberation.

2. Jainism

Jainism is an ancient Indian philosophy and religion that originated in the 6th century BCE. It is classified as one of the Shramanic traditions, along with Buddhism. Jainism was founded by Mahavira, who is considered the last Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) in the current era.

Central Beliefs:

• Ahimsa: Ahimsa, or non-violence, is the fundamental principle of Jainism. Jains strive to minimize harm to all living beings and promote compassion and respect for life.
• Karma: Jainism emphasizes the concept of karma, which states that every action, whether physical, mental, or verbal, generates karma. The accumulation of karma influences one’s present and future circumstances, including the cycle of birth and death.
• Jain Cosmology: Jains believe in an eternal and cyclical universe composed of six realms of existence. The ultimate goal is to attain liberation from the cycle of rebirth and achieve spiritual enlightenment.
• Three Jewels: Jains follow the Three Jewels, known as the Triratna: Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct. These principles guide ethical and moral behavior, intellectual pursuits, and spiritual development.
• Non-attachment: Jain philosophy emphasizes non-attachment to material possessions and worldly desires. Renunciation and simplicity are valued as a means to reduce attachment and promote spiritual growth.

Practices and Observances:

• Five Vows: Jain monks and nuns adhere to five main vows known as the Mahavratas: Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness).
• Meditation: Jainism emphasizes meditation practices to cultivate self-awareness, introspection, and spiritual growth. Various meditation techniques are employed to attain mental clarity and mindfulness.
• Rituals and Worship: Jains engage in rituals and worship at Jain temples and sacred sites. Rituals include prayer, meditation, and offerings to revered deities, Tirthankaras, and enlightened souls.
• Vegetarianism: Due to the principle of non-violence, Jains practice strict vegetarianism. Many Jains follow a vegan diet, avoiding any form of harm to animals or living beings.
• Pilgrimage: Jains undertake pilgrimages to sacred sites and temples associated with the Tirthankaras and other revered spiritual figures. These journeys are seen as opportunities for spiritual reflection and purification.

Jainism has had a significant impact on Indian culture, philosophy, and ethics, promoting principles of non-violence, compassion, and respect for all forms of life. It has a rich philosophical and spiritual tradition, with numerous texts and teachings that continue to guide followers in their quest for spiritual enlightenment and liberation.

3. Buddhism

Buddhism is a major world religion and philosophical system that originated in ancient India. It was founded by Siddhartha Gautama, who later became known as the Buddha, which means the “Enlightened One.”

Key Philosophical Principles:

• Four Noble Truths: Buddhism is centered around the Four Noble Truths, which are: the truth of suffering (Dukkha), the truth of the origin of suffering (Samudaya), the truth of the cessation of suffering (Nirodha), and the truth of the path to the cessation of suffering (Magga). These truths form the foundation of Buddhist teachings and provide insights into the nature of human existence and the path to liberation from suffering.
• Dependent Origination: Buddhism emphasizes the concept of dependent origination, which explains that all phenomena arise due to causes and conditions. According to this principle, nothing exists independently or permanently, and all things are interconnected.
• No-Self (Anatta): Buddhism rejects the concept of an inherent, unchanging self. It teaches that all phenomena, including the self, are impermanent and subject to change. The absence of a fixed self or soul is seen as a liberating realization.
• Mindfulness and Meditation: Buddhism places great importance on mindfulness and meditation as essential practices for developing awareness, concentration, and insight. Meditation techniques, such as focused attention and insight meditation, are used to cultivate inner peace, clarity, and wisdom.
• The Middle Way: The Buddha taught the Middle Way, which encourages a balanced and moderate approach to life, avoiding extremes of indulgence and self-mortification. This principle extends to various aspects of life, including ethics, personal conduct, and spiritual practice.

Ethical Principles:
Buddhism promotes ethical conduct as a fundamental aspect of the spiritual path. The Five Precepts (abstaining from killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying, and intoxicants) serve as guidelines for moral behavior, fostering compassion, kindness, and non-harming towards oneself and others.

Goal:
The ultimate goal in Buddhism is to attain enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). This state, known as Nirvana, is characterized by the cessation of suffering, the realization of ultimate truth, and the complete awakening of one’s true nature.

Buddhism has developed into various traditions and schools over time, including Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana, each with its own distinct philosophical interpretations and practices. The philosophical principles of Buddhism continue to influence and inspire people around the world, promoting peace, compassion, and the pursuit of wisdom.

4. Advaita Vedanta

Advaita Vedanta is a prominent school of Indian philosophy that originated in ancient India. It is primarily based on the teachings of Adi Shankara, an influential philosopher and theologian who lived in the 8th century CE. Advaita Vedanta is a non-dualistic philosophical system that explores the nature of reality, the self, and the ultimate truth.

Key Concepts:

• Advaita (Non-Duality): Advaita Vedanta emphasizes the non-dual nature of reality, asserting that there is an underlying unity or oneness in the universe. It posits that the ultimate reality, known as Brahman, is without any distinctions or divisions and is identical to the true nature of the self (Atman).
• Maya (Illusion): Maya refers to the power of illusion or cosmic delusion. According to Advaita Vedanta, the phenomenal world we perceive is a result of Maya, which veils the true nature of reality and leads to the perception of multiplicity and individuality.
• Brahman: Brahman is the supreme reality or ultimate truth according to Advaita Vedanta. It is considered formless, limitless, and beyond all concepts and descriptions. Brahman is the underlying essence of everything and the ultimate goal of spiritual realization.
• Atman: Atman refers to the individual self or soul. According to Advaita Vedanta, the true nature of the individual self is not separate from Brahman. Realizing the identity of Atman and Brahman is the goal of spiritual practice.
• Jiva and Jagat: Jiva represents the individual soul or self, while Jagat refers to the phenomenal world. Advaita Vedanta explains that the individual souls are essentially one with Brahman but are bound by ignorance and the cycle of birth and death. The phenomenal world is considered an illusory manifestation of Brahman.
• Moksha: Moksha is the ultimate liberation or spiritual emancipation from the cycle of birth and death. Advaita Vedanta holds that realizing the non-dual nature of the self and Brahman leads to moksha, where the individual self merges with the ultimate reality.

Advaita Vedanta has had a profound influence on various aspects of Indian philosophy, spirituality, and culture. It is considered one of the most significant and influential schools of thought within the broader Vedanta tradition. Its teachings continue to be studied and practiced by seekers of spiritual wisdom and those interested in the nature of reality and self-realization.

5. Charvaka

Charvaka, also known as Lokayata, is a philosophical school that originated in ancient India. It is considered a materialistic and atheistic philosophy that rejects the existence of a higher power or afterlife. Here are some key aspects of Charvaka philosophy:

• Materialism: Charvaka philosophy is based on the belief that the physical world is composed of material elements and that consciousness arises from matter. It emphasizes the importance of sensory perception and rejects metaphysical concepts.
• Rejection of Supernaturalism: Charvaka rejects the existence of gods, religious rituals, and the idea of a soul or rebirth. It emphasizes a rational and empirical approach to understanding the world.
• Empiricism: Charvaka places a strong emphasis on direct sensory experience as the primary source of knowledge. It denies the validity of scriptural texts or divine revelations as sources of truth.
• Hedonism: Charvaka advocates for the pursuit of pleasure (sensual enjoyment) and the avoidance of pain as the ultimate goals in life. It argues that happiness and pleasure should be sought in the present life, as there is no belief in an afterlife or spiritual liberation.
• Skepticism: Charvaka philosophy promotes skepticism and critical thinking. It encourages questioning and rational analysis of beliefs, rejecting blind faith and supernatural claims.
• Materialistic Ethics: Charvaka advocates for ethical conduct based on the pursuit of personal pleasure and the avoidance of pain. It asserts that actions should be guided by self-interest and pragmatic considerations.

See also: Top 5 reasons why charvaka vanished in India

It is important to note that Charvaka philosophy was criticized and often debated by other Indian philosophical schools, particularly those that advocated for religious and spiritual beliefs. While Charvaka philosophy was influential during ancient times, its influence declined over the centuries, and today it is considered a minor school of thought within the broader history of Indian philosophy.

While the original Charvaka texts have been lost, studying the references and criticisms in other philosophical works provides valuable insights into the principles and worldview of the Charvaka philosophy.

Other Indian philosophies are Nyaya, Yoga, Samkhya, Vaisheshika, Mimamsa.

• Nyaya: Nyaya is a system of logic and epistemology that focuses on reasoning and logical analysis to gain knowledge and understanding.
• Yoga: Yoga is a spiritual and philosophical system that encompasses physical postures, breath control, meditation, and ethical principles to achieve self-realization and union with the divine.
• Samkhya: Samkhya is a dualistic philosophical system that explores the nature of reality, consciousness, and the relationship between matter and spirit.
• Vaisheshika: Vaisheshika is a system of philosophy that examines the nature of reality, causality, and the classification of objects based on their characteristics.
• Mimamsa: Mimamsa is a school of philosophy that focuses on the interpretation of Vedic scriptures, ritual practices, and the nature of knowledge.