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Hindu philosophy Books
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Surendranath Dasgupta
A History of Indian Philosophy, Volume 1
"A History of Indian Philosophy, Volume 1" by Surendranath Dasgupta is a scholarly account of Indian philosophical thought, first published in the early 20th century. This work delves into the evolution and significance of Indian philosophy, tracing its roots from the Vedic texts through systems such as Buddhism, Jainism, and the six orthodox schools of Hindu philosophy. The author argues that the essence of Indian culture and its enduring unity can be found in philosophical discourse, rather than through political or historical events. The opening of the volume sets a foundational tone, emphasizing the richness and complexity of Indian philosophical traditions. Dasgupta discusses the challenges of studying Indian philosophy, particularly the difficulties posed by translation and the unique technical terminology involved. He highlights the contributions of various systems while also acknowledging that a comprehensive history and understanding of Indian philosophies are still lacking. The text asserts the importance of engaging with original sources and providing contextual clarity, which is pivotal for both lay readers and scholars interested in the deeper aspects of Indian thought. The preface establishes a clear purpose: to illuminate the often-overlooked significance of Indian philosophy and its problems, offering a guide to those who seek to understand its unique contributions to global philosophical discourse.
Surendranath Dasgupta
Yoga as philosophy and religion
"Yoga as Philosophy and Religion" by Surendranath Dasgupta is a scholarly examination of the philosophical and religious aspects of Yoga, composed in the early 20th century. The work delves into Patañjali's Yoga-sūtra and its subsequent commentaries, aiming to elucidate the foundational doctrines of Yoga, as well as its implications in philosophical and religious contexts. The text likely appeals to readers interested in the deeper intellectual explorations of Yoga beyond its physical practices. The opening of the book establishes the context of Yoga as not merely a set of physical exercises but a profound philosophical tradition with a rich historical background, rooted in metaphysics and ethics. Dasgupta introduces key concepts from Patañjali's teachings, emphasizing the distinction between mental and physical phenomena through the lens of the three gunas: sattva, rajas, and tamas. He presents a framework for understanding the evolution of these concepts, discussing the nature of reality, the existence of an external world, and the relationship between purusha (spirit) and prakṛti (matter) as central themes that will be further developed in the subsequent chapters.
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