Subject
Philosophy, Indic Books
Best books
Madhava
The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha Or, Review of the Different Systems of Hindu Philosophy
"The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha" by Madhava is a philosophical text written in the 14th century. It systematically reviews sixteen philosophical systems that flourished in India at the time, presenting their key tenets and principal arguments. The systems are arranged from an Advaita Vedanta perspective, forming an ascending series that culminates in non-dualistic thought. The work provides rare insights into various schools of Indian philosophy, including materialist traditions otherwise lost to history.
Rabindranath Tagore
Persönlichkeit
"Persönlichkeit" by Rabindranath Tagore is a philosophical treatise written in the early 20th century. The work explores the nature of art, consciousness, and the relationship between the individual and the universe, delving into concepts of personal identity and expression. Tagore posits that true art arises from the personal and emotional experiences of individuals, and it serves as a vehicle for the expression of one's inner self. The opening of the work introduces the question of what constitutes art and its deep connection to human consciousness. Tagore reflects on the dual nature of humanity, comprising physical, intellectual, and spiritual aspects, arguing that the essence of an individual transcends mere utility and scientific understanding. He critiques how art has often been evaluated through rigid standards and instead emphasizes the importance of personal relationship and feelings in the creation and appreciation of artistic expression. Through this lens, he positions art as a vital means through which individuals can communicate their inner truths and connect with the larger existential questions of life.
János Mester
Kelet nagy gondolkodói
Kelet nagy gondolkodói by János Mester is a scholarly study of Eastern philosophy written in the early 20th century. Centered on how potent ideas shape individuals and nations, it defends the serious study of Asian thought and begins by mapping Indian traditions from the Vedas to the Upanishads, with special attention to ritual versus inner knowledge and the concepts of brahman and atman. The work promises a wide, historically grounded survey of major Eastern thinkers and systems. The opening of the work argues that books and ideas govern both public morals and personal character more powerfully than sensational literature, and it urges readers to seek ideas at their sources. It rebuts the notion that the East has only religion and no philosophy, calls for a synthesis that respects culture and epoch but emphasizes great individuals, and outlines the factors shaping the history of philosophy (universal human problems, cultural context, and personal genius). It then sketches the “Indian soul” as yearning for unity and inner peace, inclined to mystic contemplation, often passive and pessimistic, yet sustained by karma and rebirth. From there it introduces the Vedas: the four collections and their priestly functions; the layers (Samhita, Brahmana, Upanishad, Sutra); and the split between outward ritual law (dharma) and inward wisdom (brahman). A brief survey of the Rigveda traces a movement from high monotheistic tones (Varuna) to polytheism and henotheism (Indra), early doubts, and an initial heaven–hell scheme later giving way to transmigration. The section closes by developing the Brahmana and Upanishadic turn to brahman (the absolute and the sacred word) and atman (the self), their identification in the vedanta (“tat tvam asi”), and the four states of consciousness culminating in the ecstatic union.
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