The Manasollasa, authored by Sureshvara around 800 CE, serves as an extensive commentary (varttika) on the renowned Sri Dakshinamurti Stotra composed by Adi Shankaracharya (788-820 CE). This text consists of 367 shlokas or verses, each elaborating on the ten verses of the original hymn.
Manasollasa delves into various facets of Advaita Vedanta,
the non-dualistic philosophical tradition, offering profound insights and
interpretations. Moreover, it endeavors to refute the doctrines of other
philosophical schools such as Nyaya, Vaisesika, Sankhya, and Shaiva, presenting
a comprehensive defense of Advaita principles.
A notable aspect of Manasollasa is its detailed exposition
of the mahavakya, "tat tvam asi," which translates to "That thou
art." This mahavakya is a pivotal concept in Advaita Vedanta, emphasizing
the identity of the individual soul (jiva) with the ultimate reality (Brahman).
Sureshvara elucidates this profound truth and its implications within the
framework of Advaita philosophy.
Additionally, there exists a Sanskrit commentary on
Manasollasa titled "Manasollasa Vrittanta," authored by Rmatirtha in
the 17th century CE. This commentary provides further elucidation and
explanation of the original hymn and its interpretations, enriching the
understanding of readers and scholars interested in Advaita Vedanta and the
teachings of Adi Shankaracharya.