Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The pursuit of *moksha*, liberation from the cycle of birth and death (*samsara*), is central to Indian philosophical thought. While various schools offer different paths, Advaita Vedanta, propounded by Adi Shankaracharya, posits that *jnana* – knowledge of the non-dual reality of Brahman – is the sole means to achieve liberation. Samkara’s bold claim, “Not karma, but knowledge alone leads to moksa,” challenges the prevalent emphasis on ritual action (*karma*) in other schools. This assertion stems from his understanding of the illusory nature of the empirical world and the true nature of the self (*Atman*) as identical to Brahman. This answer will explore the validity of Samkara’s claim, examining the roles of *karma* and *jnana* within his philosophical system.
Understanding Karma and Jnana in Advaita Vedanta
Within the Advaita Vedanta framework, *karma* refers to action and its consequences, binding the individual to the cycle of *samsara*. Actions generate impressions (*vasanas*) that shape future experiences. However, Samkara doesn’t entirely dismiss *karma*; he views it as a necessary, though ultimately insufficient, condition for preparing the mind for *jnana*. *Sanchita karma* (accumulated karma), *prarabdha karma* (karma bearing fruit in the present life), and *agami karma* (karma created in the present life) all contribute to the illusion of individuality.
Samkara’s Argument for Jnana as the Sole Path
Samkara argues that *moksha* is not a result of any action, but a realization of one’s true nature. He establishes this through the concept of *Maya* – illusion. The world we perceive is not ultimately real, but a superimposition on Brahman. *Karma* operates within this illusory realm and can only lead to temporary rewards or punishments, perpetuating the cycle of birth and death. True liberation requires transcending *Maya* through *jnana* – the direct, non-conceptual understanding of the identity of *Atman* and Brahman. This realization dissolves ignorance (*avidya*), the root cause of suffering and bondage.
The Role of Discrimination (Viveka)
Central to Samkara’s path of *jnana* is *viveka* – the power of discrimination between the real (Brahman) and the unreal (the world). This discrimination is cultivated through the fourfold discipline (*sadhana-chatushtaya*): *shama* (control of the mind), *dama* (control of the senses), *upeksha* (renunciation), and *titiksha* (endurance). While *karma* can indirectly aid in developing these qualities, it is *jnana* that ultimately provides the insight necessary to dismantle the illusion.
Addressing Potential Counterarguments
Critics might argue that completely dismissing *karma* is impractical, as human beings are inherently driven by action. Furthermore, the emphasis on *jnana* might seem elitist, accessible only to those with intellectual capacity and conducive social circumstances. However, Samkara acknowledges the necessity of ethical conduct (*dharma*) as a prerequisite for *jnana*. Ethical behavior purifies the mind, making it receptive to the truth. He doesn’t advocate for inaction but for action performed without attachment to results (*nishkama karma*), which gradually weakens the hold of *karma*.
The Concept of Jivanmukti
Samkara’s concept of *jivanmukti* – liberation while living – further reinforces the primacy of *jnana*. A *jivanmukta* is one who has realized their true nature and is therefore free from the bondage of *karma*, even while inhabiting a physical body. This demonstrates that liberation is not a future event contingent upon the exhaustion of *karma*, but a present realization attainable through *jnana*.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Samkara doesn’t negate the role of *karma* entirely, his assertion that “knowledge alone leads to moksa” holds significant weight within his philosophical system. *Karma* can prepare the ground, but it is *jnana* – the direct realization of the non-dual reality – that fundamentally dissolves ignorance and liberates the individual from the cycle of *samsara*. Samkara’s emphasis on *jnana* offers a radical path to liberation, emphasizing the power of self-realization over ritualistic action, and providing a profound understanding of the nature of reality and the human condition.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.