Brahmasutra [Paperback]

The BRAHMASUTRA of BADARAYANA (proposed in this edition with the Parallel Sanskrit Text) represents the fundamental text of exegesis of Vedanta. The intent of Badarayana - the sage that for authority and realization of consciousness has been identified with Vyasa, the Rsi who ordered the texts of the Vedas - is that of providing the right perspective in the interpretation of the most profound and meaningful contents of the Upanisads.

This had proven necessary in order to rectify some unilateral aspects propounded by several schools of thought, both orthodox and non-orthodox.

The Brahmasutra presents, in their simplicity and incisiveness, the assertions of the Sruti and of the Smrti, showing their concordance in the recognition of the Nirguna Brahman as the ultimate Realty.

The Brahmasutra contains 555 sutras, arranged in four Books, each of which is divided into four Chapters.

In Book One, Harmony , the vision of the Brahman, as the Foundation of all that exists, is expounded; the purpose being that of reconciling different Vedic statements on the subject.

In Book Two, Absence of Contradiction , the objections raised against this vision are examined and refuted. Moreover, there are some notes regarding the nature of the jiva, its attributes, and its relationship with the Brahman, the body and its actions.

In Book Three, Spiritual Discipline , the ways and the means (sadhana) necessary to realize the brahmavidya, the knowledge of the supreme Brahman are expounded. The state of consciousness of the jiva is also dealt with in this Book.

In Book Four, The Fruit , the fruits (phala) of the brahmavidya are reviewed. There is also the description of the departure of the jiva after the death of the physical body, along the two paths, that of the gods and that of the ancestors (devayana e pitryana ways)lCs