Ramanuja

Biography

Ramanuja (c. 1017–1137 CE) was a pioneering philosopher, theologian, and one of the most prominent proponents of the Vishishtadvaita (qualified non-dualism) school of Vedanta. His teachings represent a significant departure from the strict Advaita Vedanta of Adi Shankara by advocating for a non-dualism that recognizes the reality of both the individual soul (Atman) and the supreme, personal deity (Brahman), who is often identified with Vishnu.

Ramanuja's influence on Hindu theology and his role in shaping the Bhakti movement make him a central figure in the history of Indian philosophy.

Early Life and Background

Ramanuja was born in Sri Perumbudur, a town near Chennai (in present-day Tamil Nadu, India). He was born into a Brahmin family and showed early signs of intellectual and spiritual aptitude. His early education took place under the guidance of his teacher Yadava Prakasha, a well-known philosopher. However, after a period of disagreement with his teacher's philosophical ideas, Ramanuja broke away from his guidance, setting out on his own intellectual journey.

At a young age, Ramanuja was deeply moved by the personal devotion to Vishnu, and this would remain a central theme in his life and philosophy. His Bhakti (devotion) to Vishnu became the cornerstone of his religious outlook, and he would later become a key figure in the development of the Bhakti movement across India.

Ramanuja is also associated with being a strong reformer within the Sri Vaishnavism tradition, which emphasizes devotion to Vishnu and Lakshmi. Ramanuja's teachings would influence not only the intellectual development of Vedanta but also the social and religious practices of his time.

Vishishtadvaita: Qualified Non-Dualism

Ramanuja is best known for his development of Vishishtadvaita Vedanta. The term "Vishishtadvaita" translates to "qualified non-dualism" and refers to the idea that the individual soul (Atman) and the supreme reality (Brahman) are distinct but inseparable. In contrast to Advaita Vedanta, which posits that there is only one absolute reality (Brahman) and that everything else is illusory or non-real, Ramanuja’s philosophy asserts that while Brahman is the ultimate reality, there are real distinctions within it—particularly between the individual soul and Brahman.

Ramanuja’s central tenets can be summarized as follows:

Brahman is Personal: Unlike Advaita, which identifies Brahman with an impersonal and formless absolute, Ramanuja’s Brahman is personal, with attributes (saguna). Brahman is Vishnu, who is both the creator and sustainer of the universe, and is characterized by divine qualities such as omniscience, omnipotence, and omnipresence.

Unity with Distinction: According to Ramanuja, while the individual soul (Atman) is distinct from Brahman, the two are inseparable. The soul is inherently dependent on Brahman and can achieve liberation (moksha) only by realizing its connection with Brahman through devotion (Bhakti) and self-surrender.

The Nature of Liberation: Liberation in Ramanuja’s philosophy is the union of the soul with Brahman, but with retained individuality. It is not the obliteration of individuality (as in Advaita Vedanta) but the perfection and realization of the soul's true nature in the presence of Brahman. The soul enjoys eternal bliss and service to Brahman.

Maya and Illusion: While Advaita Vedanta teaches that the world is Maya (illusion), Ramanuja acknowledged the world as real but viewed it as dependent on Brahman. The universe is seen as the body of Brahman, with individual souls and material elements forming part of this divine whole. The world, therefore, is not illusory but a manifestation of divine will.

Key Works and Texts

Ramanuja wrote extensively to explain and promote his philosophical teachings. His works include:

Sri Bhashya: Ramanuja’s commentary on the Brahma Sutras is his most significant work. In this text, he rejects the Advaita interpretation of the Brahma Sutras and presents his own system of Vishishtadvaita. The Sri Bhashya is considered one of the foundational texts of the Sri Vaishnavism tradition.

Gita Bhashya: A commentary on the Bhagavad Gita, Ramanuja explains the teachings of the Gita in light of his Vishishtadvaita philosophy. He emphasizes Bhakti (devotion) as the primary means of attaining liberation, while also addressing aspects of duty (dharma) and selfless action (karma).

Vedartha Sangraha: This work is a summary of the key concepts of Vedanta, elaborating on Ramanuja’s teachings and making them accessible to a wider audience. It presents his views on Brahman, Atman, and Maya in a concise manner.

Nitya Grantha: This text, along with his other writings, underscores Ramanuja’s commitment to Bhakti and the importance of the devotee's relationship with Vishnu. It outlines the rituals, devotional practices, and ethical teachings central to Sri Vaishnavism.

Philosophy and Teachings

The Importance of Bhakti (Devotion): For Ramanuja, Bhakti is the highest form of worship and the primary means of attaining moksha (liberation). Devotion to Vishnu, characterized by surrender and faith, is the central practice in his philosophy. In contrast to other paths, such as Jnana (knowledge) or Karma (action), Ramanuja emphasized that love for the divine and complete surrender to God lead to salvation.

Role of the Guru: Ramanuja placed great importance on the role of the guru (spiritual teacher) in guiding the devotee toward enlightenment. The guru is essential for imparting spiritual knowledge and helping the disciple overcome ignorance. This emphasis on the guru-disciple relationship was central to the development of the Sri Vaishnavism tradition.

Ethical and Ritual Practices: Ramanuja’s philosophy is closely linked with practical devotion and ritual practice. He systematized the worship of Vishnu and his consort Lakshmi, and advocated for temple worship, recitation of sacred hymns (such as the Divya Prabandham), and the performance of rituals as paths to spiritual progress.

Ramanuja’s Influence and Legacy

Ramanuja’s philosophical system and devotional practices became the cornerstone of the Sri Vaishnavism tradition, which is one of the major sects within Vaishnavism. His followers, known as Sri Vaishnavas, uphold his teachings in temples and religious communities throughout India, particularly in the southern states.

Ramanuja’s influence also contributed to the broader Bhakti movement, which emphasized personal devotion to God and often rejected the rigid rituals and caste-based distinctions prevalent in Vedic religion. The Bhakti movement would later inspire many important religious figures, including Ramdas, Kabir, Mirabai, Guru Nanak, and Tulsidas, whose devotional poetry and songs brought the worship of the divine into the hearts of ordinary people.

The Sri Vaishnava tradition established by Ramanuja continues to flourish, with numerous temples dedicated to Vishnu and his various forms. His teachings on devotion, self-surrender, and the grace of God resonate deeply in the lives of millions of followers, making him one of the most important figures in the history of Hindu philosophy.

Conclusion

Adi Ramanuja stands as one of the greatest philosophers and theologians in the history of India. His development of Vishishtadvaita Vedanta represents a profound shift from the non-dualism of Advaita Vedanta to a qualified non-dualism that preserves both the unity and the distinction between Atman and Brahman. 

His teachings on Bhakti, devotion, and the relationship between God and the individual continue to inspire millions. Through his works, Ramanuja not only shaped the course of Vedanta but also had a lasting influence on the broader Hindu devotional tradition.