On Gaudapada's Agamasastra
By A. Venkatasubbiah
Summary
The article discusses Gaudapada’s Agamasastra, contending that it is an independent philosophical treatise rather than a commentary on the Mandukya Karika. The author refers to his previous article on Gaudapada and clarifies misunderstandings about his portrayal of the philosopher. He examines references to Gaudapada’s works in other texts and analyses doctrines such as the three states of consciousness and the concept of ajati (non‑origination). The article explores Buddhist influences on Gaudapada while emphasising the originality of his Advaitic synthesis and argues that the Agamasastra is an important bridge between early Vedanta and later Advaita thought.
Conclusion
Through a clarificatory note, the author argues that Gaudapada’s Agamasastra is a distinct philosophical treatise advancing a non‑dualistic ontology. By situating Gaudapada’s ideas between Upanishadic tradition and Buddhist thought, the article highlights the text’s importance for understanding the evolution of Advaita Vedanta.