Difference between the teachings of Adi Shankaracharya and Sri Ramanujacharya – Comparison of Adi Shankara and Sri Ramanuja
Adi Shankaracharya and Sri Ramanujacharya are two of the
most important saints in Hinduism. They are the fountainhead of two different
schools of thought that helps devotees in the path of Moksha. Here is a
comparison of the teachings of Adi Shankara and Sri Ramanuja. This is just an
attempt to learn the teachings of the two of the greatest teachers.
The teaching of Adi Shankaracharya is generally referred as Advaita Philosophy
The teaching of Sri Ramanujacharya is generally referred as Visishtadvaita Philosophy
Adi Shankara teaches
Advaita or oneness of God (Brahman)
Sri Ramanuja teaches Visishta Advaita or oneness of God (Brahman)
with attributes.
Adi Shankara – Brahman only exists. Manifestations are temporary.
They are the result of ignorance. When ignorance is removed there is no second.
Sri Ramanuja – Brahman exists and his manifestations or
attributes are real. Attributes (living and non living) are real but are
controlled by Brahman.
Adi Shankara – Moksha or liberation is merging with the
Brahman
Sri Ramanuja- Moksha or liberation is residing in Vaikunta
near the feet of Srihari Vishnu
Adi Shankara – The world is real until knowledge dawns. To a
realized soul the world is unreal.
Sri Ramanuja – The world is real and is connected to the
Supreme Truth
Adi Shankara – Individual soul is real until knowledge
dawns.
Sri Ramanuja– Individual soul arose from the Brahman and
remains forever.
Adi Shankara – Soul merges with Brahman. Through self
realization one attains bliss.
Sri Ramanuja – Final destination of soul is Vaikunta. This
is attained through devotion and self sacrifice.
Adi Shankara – Pleasure or pain is the result of Avidya.
When knowledge dawn one merges in the ocean of bliss (Brahman)
Sri Ramanuja – Pleasure or pain is the result of
the karma of the individual soul.