Representation and Reasoning in Vedānta
S. Kak
Studia Humana March 29, 2023 DOI: 10.2478/sh-2023-0012 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that the paradoxical creation verses in the Ṛgveda and Upaniṣads exemplify the use of catuṣkoṭi prior to Nāgārjuna, and that consciousness is the ground pervading the physical universe and the five elements, offering a contrast to contemporary scientific ideas on consciousness. |
Abstract
Abstract This paper considers the matter of representation in Vedānta by examining key claims in the Ṛgveda and the Upaniṣads, which are some of its principal texts. Specifically, we consider the logic behind the paradoxical verses on creation and the conception of consciousness as the ground on which the physical universe exists. This also is the template that explains the logical structure underlying the principal affirmations of the Upaniṣads. The five elements and consciousness are taken to pervade each other, which explains how gross matter is taken to consist of all the four different kinds of atoms that get manifested in different states of the substance. The verses on creation are an example of the use of catuṣkoṭi in Indian philosophy prior to the use of it by Nāgārjuna in the Madhyamaka tradition. It also contrasts central ideas of Vedānta with the corresponding contemporary scientific ideas on consciousness.