Bhviveka on Smkhya and Vednta

For anyone interested in an epoch of almost unrivaled intellectual activity and debate in India, the sixth-century Madhyamakahrdayakrik along with its auto-commentary, the Tarkajvl, is an indispensable resource. This partly doxographical treatise, composed by the Madhyamaka philosopher Bhviveka, is the earliest and most substantial work to present and critically examine rvaka, Yogcra, Smkhya, Vaiesika, Vednta, and Mmms in great detail. Bhvivekas text is of unique value in its attempt to identify a Madhyamaka approach to other schools of philosophy as well as in furnishing us with valuable information regarding early Indic systematic philosophy, including what appear to be extracts from original sources that are otherwise unavailable. Most probably it served as a Madhyamaka debate manual for those engaged in discussion with representatives of opposing philosophical schools. Bhvivekas treatment of Smkhya and Vednta is of particular importance because of the scarcity of sources pertaining to the early formation and development of these systems of philosophy. The present book includes a critical edition and English translation of the Smkhya and Vednta chapters of the Madhyamakahrdayakrik and Tarkajvl along with a historical introduction.