Correlations Between Philosophy and Poetry in Sanskrit Literature

Are there many correlations between philosophy and poetry? This question has been pondered by scholars and thinkers throughout the ages. In particular, this relationship has been vividly explored in the rich and ancient language of Sanskrit. In this article, we delve into the profound connections between philosophy and poetry in Sanskrit, examining how they intertwine to provide a deeper understanding of life and existence.

The Interplay of Philosophy and Poetry in Sanskrit

Philosophy, often perceived as a form of prose poetry, is frequently delivered in a manner that is less than commendable. However, in Sanskrit, the domains of poetry and philosophy are closely linked, with no strict compartmentalization between them. This interplay allows for the effective and artistic expression of profound philosophical ideas.

The Role of Poetry in Explaining Philosophical Concepts

In Sanskrit literature, the Upanishads are often considered the essence of the Vedas. These ancient texts not only serve as a repository of philosophical wisdom but also employ esoteric language and various poetic devices to convey complex ideas. For instance, in a treatise on Advaita Vedanta written by Adi Sankara, the concept of ātman (pure consciousness) is compared to the Sun to illustrate how it remains untouched by the actions and consequences of the mind and body.

"Depending upon the energy of Consciousness ātma chaitanya, the body, senses, mind, and intellect engage themselves in their respective activities just as men work depending upon the light of the Sun." (ātma Bodha)

This comparative analogy highlights how actions performed by individuals do not affect the inherent and unchanging nature of the ātman. Poetry thus serves as an excellent medium for elucidating philosophical ideas, making them more accessible and engaging to the reader.

The Poetic Vision of Philosophers in Sanskrit Literature

Many Sanskrit philosophers have ingeniously used poetry to attract and cultivate an interest in philosophical ideas. The renowned poet-monk Avalghosa, author of Saundarananda, exemplifies this approach:

"These are the words of Avalghosa a Buddhist monk embedded at the end of his work Saundarananda: This poem contains the essence of Moksha. I have composed it to promote ultimate serenity not mere enjoyment. In the guise of poetry, I intend to convey philosophical concepts to readers who are caught up with worldly affairs. If there is something else here it is only to satisfy kāvya-dharma: to demonstrate that bitter medicine can be made enjoyable by tinging it with honey."

This quote underscores the multifaceted role of poetry in merging superficial forms of entertainment with the profound teachings of philosophy.

Rāmāyana as an Example of Philosophy Through Poetry

The first kāvya of the Sanskrit literature, the Rāmāyana, provides a prime example of how poetry and philosophy can seamlessly blend. Composed by the sage Valmiki, the Rāmāyana not only evokes strong emotions but also encapsulates profound philosophical truths. The description of the āditya Hridayam (the essence of the Sun) in the Rāmāyana is a prime example of this interweaving:

"The essence of Sun is all-pervading - Brahma the creator, Visnu the sustainer, Shiva the destroyer, Skanda the commander of Devas, Prajapati the progenitor of humanity. The essence of Sun is the one who is firmly established in all beings, witnessing the 3 states of them, namely, awake, dreamy, and deep sleep. He is the action, the fruit of action, and he alone is the doer as well."

Through this poetic description, Valmiki conveys the idea that the Sun, as a manifestation of Brahman, represents all-pervading consciousness. This philophical insight is seamlessly integrated into the narrative, making it accessible to a broader audience.

It has been observed that hymns in the Vedas, the earliest known Sanskrit literature, have transcended the mere functions of praising deities. Instead, they have evolved into inspirational exhortations that awaken readers from the slumber of ignorance and provoke deeper inquiry. This enduring quality of Sanskrit literature can be attributed to the seamless integration of philosophy and poetry.

Conclusion

The successful blend of philosophy and poetry in Sanskrit literature is evident in its major works. This cohesive relationship has been achieved without compromising the beauty of poetry and the rationality of philosophy. The dual strengths of the Kāvya and Darsana domains have been explored deeply and pervasively, while the co-relation of poetry and philosophy in Sanskrit literature remains a testament to the language's enduring appeal.

Jai Shri Krishna