The jewel of distinction

Shankara (686-718 AD), also known as Shankaracharya as a spiritual teacher (Acharya), is considered one of the greatest saints, philosophers, and poets of ancient India. He teaches the non-duality (A-dvaita) of Atman (the inner self of a person, the innermost consciousness) and Brahman (the absolute being of the universe). Both form an inseparable unity in which all opposites are transcended. Brahman is the only reality, while the world of appearances is not real due to its transience. The dualistic world of thought creates the illusory, painful world - we do not perceive the world as it truly is and fall under a great illusion from which all confusion arises. Attachment to illusions hinders realization, which is revealed through the distinction between reality and illusion. Shankara summarizes his philosophy in these words: "Brahman, the absolute being, absolute knowledge, and absolute bliss, is real. The universe is not real. Brahman and Atman are one." The volume includes his main work "The Gem of Discrimination" as well as his short treatise "The Knowledge of Truth." Among the writings of spiritual wisdom literature, these gems of spiritual teachings are considered highlights that accompany seekers on the path to the highest realization. The Gem of Discrimination is published in the series Classic Wisdom Texts.