Reviver of Hinduism

Some of the contributions include:

Philosophical Contribution: The Advaita Vedanta: Among his most prominent work, the propagation of Advaita school of thought has gained popularity over the years. The philosophical school of Advaita Vedanta is built on the concept of non-dual aspect of the reality. According to the philosophies of Advaita, the supreme reality which is known as the Brahman goes beyond any form, attributes, and dualities. It is limitless in nature and the individual soul or the true self of an individual which is also known as Atman is non distinguishable from the Brahman i.e. the Atman and the Brahman are identical. Furthermore, the Brahman is way beyond the deity or the creator. It primarily propagates the idea that “I am The Universe and The Universe is within me.” To attain the ultimate form of spirituality is to encounter Advaita. His writing on the core principles of the Advaita Vedanta includes the vivid explanation of the non-dual nature of the Brahman and spreads knowledge about ways to escape worldly sufferings.

Literary Contribution: Adi Shankaracharya offered his unique perspective on three major Hindu scriptures - the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Brahma Sutras by writing commentaries on them. Not only did these bring spiritual enlightenment but also have contributed to reviving the great traditions of Hinduism. As a poet, he has written around 72 hymns namely Soundarya Lahari, Sivananda Lahari, Nirvana Shalkam, and Maneesha Panchakam. Through his Vedic writing one can observe that he can be referred to as the master of jnana yoga, also known as the “yoga of knowledge”. The vivid literary works of him, throws a light on the process of self-introspection by using one’s intellectual abilities, through which one can get a true understanding of the inner self or the Atman which is independent of the mind and the body. The realization of self by following the art of meditation is one of the highest virtues.

The concept of Maya: Through his life and his teachings, the doctrine of Maya has found its mention. Maya is nothing but an illusion that guards us from having a true understanding of the reality. Maya veils the cosmic spirit i.e. the Brahman preventing one from seeing the true nature of it. As a result of this, individuals perceive them as separate beings and not as a part of the true reality or the Brahman. Sri Shankracharya believes that through correct spiritual practices and gaining wisdom one can go beyond Maya and acknowledge the essence of true existence.

Setting up Mathas: Four monastic units or centers, also known as Mathas were set up by Adi Shankracharya, with the sole purpose of preserving and spreading of Advaita Vedanta in four different parts of India: Badrinath Matha which is located in the Northern part of India, Uttarakhand; Located in the eastern state of Odisha is the Puri Matha; The Dwarka Matha was established in the western part i.e. in Gujarat and the Sringeri Matha is located in the southern state of Karnataka. The four institutions have played a pivotal role in conserving and spreading about the life and teachings of Adi Shankaracharya.

Cultural and Religious Unification: At the time when Adi Shankaracharya was born, Hinduism as a religion and a way of practice was going through a crisis – Intellectual and Spiritual downfall. Using his intellect, Adi Shankaracharya re-established and integrated Hinduism as a whole. He emphasized on “unity in diversity.” He advised the unification of different strands of Hinduism by putting them under the umbrella of the Advaita Vedanta promoting organization and unity within the followers of Hinduism.

Reformation of the Sannyasa Order: Mentioned in Vedic scriptures, Sannyasa denotes a stage of life where an individual renounces worldly attachments and practices spirituality in order to gain liberation or attain moksha. At a very young age, Adi Shankaracharya dedicated his life in spiritual pursuits. In Hinduism, his contribution in framing a structure for the Sannyasis is noteworthy. Emphasizing on the value of detachment he set up several guidelines for the Sannyasis. He is known for reorganizing the Sannyasa order by placing then into ten groups. This is known as the Dasanami Sannyasa Tradition. His mastery and thought have led to the preservation of Hindu traditions by offering the aspiring Sannyasis a framework essential for walking through the path of renunciation.

Conclusion: In the realm of reviving Hinduism Adi Shankaracharya contribution as a philosopher, preacher, theologist, reformer and spiritual leader is multifaceted. His deep understanding About the Advaita Vedanta and the non dual nature of the reality led to a new understanding about ways of spiritual life and living. Even in today’s world his idea of non-dualism and its alignment with one's true self resonates with the idea of self realization and attainment of spiritual awakening leading to moksha. His teachings are thus a great source of enlightenment and wisdom ensuring that people follow the path of truth and spirituality.