Patanjali vs. Shankara

Attribute	Patanjali	Shankara
Time Period	2nd century BCE	8th century CE
Philosophy	Yoga Sutras	Advaita Vedanta
Founder	Patanjali	Shankara
Texts	Yoga Sutras	Commentaries on Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita
Goal	Freedom from suffering through yoga practices	Realization of the non-dual Brahman

Background

Patanjali and Shankara are two prominent figures in the history of Indian philosophy. Patanjali is known for his work on the Yoga Sutras, which outline the principles and practices of yoga. Shankara, on the other hand, is famous for his teachings on Advaita Vedanta, a school of Hindu philosophy that emphasizes the non-dual nature of reality.

Philosophical Views

One of the key differences between Patanjali and Shankara is their philosophical views. Patanjali's Yoga Sutras focus on the eight limbs of yoga, which include ethical guidelines, physical postures, breath control, and meditation. These practices are aimed at achieving self-realization and liberation from suffering. In contrast, Shankara's Advaita Vedanta teaches that the ultimate reality is Brahman, a formless, eternal, and unchanging consciousness. According to Shankara, the goal of life is to realize one's true nature as Brahman and transcend the illusion of individual identity.

Approach to Spiritual Practice

While both Patanjali and Shankara emphasize the importance of spiritual practice, they have different approaches to achieving spiritual realization. Patanjali's Yoga Sutras provide a systematic and practical guide to self-transformation through the practice of yoga. Patanjali emphasizes the need for discipline, concentration, and perseverance in order to purify the mind and attain spiritual enlightenment. On the other hand, Shankara's teachings focus on the intellectual understanding of the non-dual nature of reality. Shankara encourages his followers to inquire into the nature of the self and to discern the difference between the eternal self (Atman) and the temporary ego.

Concept of God

Another difference between Patanjali and Shankara is their concept of God. In the Yoga Sutras, Patanjali does not explicitly discuss the existence of a personal deity. Instead, Patanjali's teachings focus on the individual's relationship with the divine through self-realization and inner transformation. In contrast, Shankara's Advaita Vedanta teaches that Brahman is the ultimate reality and that all forms of gods and goddesses are manifestations of this supreme consciousness. Shankara's philosophy emphasizes the unity of all beings and the interconnectedness of the universe.

Impact on Indian Philosophy

Both Patanjali and Shankara have had a profound impact on Indian philosophy and spirituality. Patanjali's Yoga Sutras have become a foundational text for the practice of yoga and meditation, influencing countless practitioners around the world. The principles of Patanjali's yoga philosophy, such as non-attachment, self-discipline, and self-awareness, continue to be relevant in modern times. Similarly, Shankara's teachings on Advaita Vedanta have inspired generations of seekers to inquire into the nature of reality and to seek liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Shankara's emphasis on the unity of all beings and the ultimate oneness of existence has had a lasting influence on Hindu thought.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Patanjali and Shankara have different philosophical views and approaches to spiritual practice, both figures have made significant contributions to the development of Indian philosophy and spirituality. Patanjali's emphasis on the practice of yoga as a means of self-realization and liberation has inspired countless seekers to embark on the path of self-discovery. Shankara's teachings on Advaita Vedanta have challenged conventional notions of reality and encouraged individuals to seek the ultimate truth beyond the limitations of the ego. Ultimately, both Patanjali and Shankara offer valuable insights into the nature of existence and the path to spiritual enlightenment.