The Concept of Maya in Samkara and Radhakrishnan by Donald Tuck
Publication: 1986 South Asia Books First Edition
The comparative study of Samkara and Radhakrishnan focuses on three interrelated aspects: Ultimate Reality (nirguna Brahman), the empirical world (jagat), and the individual self (Jivätman). After analyzing their Vedantic orientations, the book compares their interpretations of maya within their philosophical frameworks.
Samkara's system presents three levels of existence: the highest, Ultimate Reality (sat paramärthika); the intermediate level (vivarta), which includes practical (vyavaharika) and apparent (pratibhasika) realities; and the lowest (asat), representing non-existence. He advocated for a strict non-dualism (advaita vedanta).
In contrast, Radhakrishnan retains Samkara's levels but emphasizes the world's dependent reality in relation to Ultimate Reality. He views maya as the self-manifesting power of Isvara, partially understood through rational inquiry yet remaining mysterious. Radhakrishnan reinterpreted Samkara, allowing Hinduism to evolve and fostering independent searches for Truth. This book is a valuable addition to Indian philosophy literature, essential for scholars and general readers alike.
Condition: publishers black cloth boards, gilt title to spine, dust jacket is clipped with slight damage to top edge and small tear to head of spine, pages clean, overall a clean copy in very good condition