Laghu- Vakya- Vrtti (With Commentary)

Sri Sankaracarya's Laghu-Vakya-Vrtti (With Commentary) is a text that provides a concise explanation and commentary on important aphorisms or statements (Vakya) in Advaita Vedanta philosophy. The Laghu-Vakya-Vrtti is attributed to Adi Sankaracharya, one of the most revered philosophers and spiritual teachers in Indian history, who played a crucial role in the revival and propagation of the Advaita Vedanta school of thought.

Key Aspects of the Text:

1. Purpose and Structure:

   • The Laghu-Vakya-Vrtti is a short commentary (Vrtti) on select important statements or "mottos" (Vakya) that encapsulate core teachings of Advaita Vedanta.
   • In Advaita Vedanta, the ultimate truth is that there is no real difference between the individual soul (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman), and this realization is the key to liberation (moksha).
   • The Laghu-Vakya-Vrtti helps a seeker understand these aphorisms more deeply, providing clarity on the concepts of non-duality and self-realization.

2. The Nature of the Commentary:

   • Laghu-Vakya-Vrtti is considered a brief and simplified commentary compared to some of Sankaracharya's more elaborate works like his commentary on the Brahma Sutras or the Bhagavad Gita.
   • The text explains various concise verses (Vakyas) from Upanishads, which are key sources in Advaita Vedanta. Sankaracharya’s commentary provides interpretations that lead a seeker towards the direct experience of non-duality.

3. Important Concepts in the Commentary:

   • Non-Duality (Advitīya): The essence of Advaita is that there is only one reality—Brahman—and everything else is an illusion (Maya). This is the central idea that is discussed in the Laghu-Vakya-Vrtti.
   • Atman is Brahman: This concept is summarized in the famous Upanishadic statement “Tat Tvam Asi” (That Thou Art), meaning that the individual soul (Atman) is not different from the ultimate reality (Brahman).
   • The Role of the Guru: Sankaracharya emphasizes the importance of a realized Guru who helps the seeker overcome the limitations of the mind and body and realize the true self.
   • Liberation (Moksha): The ultimate goal of Advaita Vedanta is liberation, achieved through the realization that one's true nature is the non-dual reality, Brahman.

4. Important Vakyas Explained:

   • Sankaracharya’s commentary would cover key aphorisms from texts such as:
     • "Tat Tvam Asi" (That Thou Art) – from the Chandogya Upanishad
     • "Aham Brahmasmi" (I am Brahman) – from the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
     • "Prajñānam Brahma" (Consciousness is Brahman) – from the Aitareya Upanishad
     • "Sarvam Khalvidam Brahma" (All this is Brahman) – from the Chandogya Upanishad
   • Each of these statements encapsulates the core Advaita teaching, and Sankaracharya’s commentary would help clarify these sayings, emphasizing the non-duality of existence.

5. Sankaracarya's Methodology:

   • Sankaracharya was known for his clear and logical approach to Advaita Vedanta. His commentaries are methodical, starting from the basic understanding of concepts and progressing towards deeper insights.
   • He employs the dialectical method, refuting misconceptions, and guiding the reader through logical reasoning towards the realization of the non-dual self.

Significance of the Text:

1. Clarification of Key Advaita Teachings:

   • The Laghu-Vakya-Vrtti is a crucial text for Advaita scholars and spiritual seekers because it distills the essence of complex philosophical teachings into concise and understandable explanations. Sankaracharya’s commentaries help make the profound wisdom of the Upanishads accessible.

2. Advaita Vedanta’s Influence:

   • Sankaracharya's works, including the Laghu-Vakya-Vrtti, have had a lasting influence on the Advaita tradition and on Hindu philosophy in general. His teachings have shaped many modern spiritual movements and continue to inspire seekers of truth.

3. For Advanced Seekers:

   • While the Laghu-Vakya-Vrtti can be beneficial for anyone studying Advaita Vedanta, it is especially valuable for advanced students and those who are familiar with the basic principles of Vedanta. It provides deeper insights into the nature of reality, the self, and Brahman.