Shaddarsan, also known as the six philosophical systems, refers to the six major schools of Hindu philosophy that developed in ancient India. Each of these systems offers a unique perspective on the nature of reality, the self, and the ultimate goal of human existence. The six systems are:
- Samkhya: This system focuses on the distinction between the self (purusha) and matter (prakriti) and emphasizes the importance of discrimination between the two in order to attain liberation.
- Yoga: This system emphasizes the practice of yoga, including physical postures, breath control, and meditation, as a means of attaining liberation.
- Nyaya: This system emphasizes the use of logical analysis and reasoning to understand the nature of reality and the self.
- Vaisheshika: This system focuses on the study of the nature of reality through the analysis of atoms and their combinations.
- Mimamsa: This system focuses on the study of Vedic scriptures and emphasizes the importance of ritual action in achieving liberation.
- Vedanta: This system focuses on the study of the Upanishads and emphasizes the non-dual nature of reality and the ultimate unity of the self and the divine.
Together, these six systems offer a comprehensive understanding of the nature of reality and the path to liberation in Hindu philosophy.