[Chaturamnaya] Sri Sankara Bhagavatpada, Commentator Par Excellence (4)

[S Jayanarayanan]

(Continued from previous post)
 
View and Counter-View

It is the general practice that when a point is discussed under any
section, the question is posed first, followed by an answer. In some
cases the conclusion is stated, assuming that the opposition has
been ruled out. But in the fourth chapter in the third pada (part),
called Karyadhikarana, an entirely different order has been
followed.

Here the final view comes first, and then the opponent’s view.
Taken on face value, it would appear that what is stated first is the
opposition and what follows is the conclusion. But the
Bhagavatpada has explained clearly and at great length that the
general practice has not been followed in this instance.

Despite all these intricacies, Sri Madhavacharya in his Sankara
Digvijaya has paid high tribute to the Bhagavatpada’s commentary
as being so lucid and valuable that one can overcome the birth and
death cycle by learning it. He says: "The Acharya’s bhashya is the
fruit of the austerities of all scholars. It is a bunch of flowers that
adorns the tresses of Vedamata. It is the immeasurable merit of the
Brahma Sutras. It is the treasure house of Vagdevi designed for her
own delight. Those who taste this elixir will know no birth, no
death."

- Jagadguru Sri Bharati Tirtha Mahaswamigal,
the present Peethadhipati of Sringeri Sarada Peetha and
36th in the line of succession from Sri Sankara Bhagavatpada
wrote this article for TATTVALOKA April 1988 issue.
This article has been reproduced as translated by
K. N. Vedanarayanan and M. V. B. S. Sarma, Bombay.
 

(Series Concluded)