Reviews

Summary

The two volumes under review, *A Constructive Survey of Upanishadic Philosophy* by R.D. Ranade and *The Creative Period* by S.K. Belvalkar and R.D. Ranade, complement each other in their analysis of the Upanishads. Ranade’s work, part of a collaborative project on Indian philosophy, offers a synthetic overview aligned with Deussen’s classical approach and Keith’s treatment of the Upanishads, emphasizing their mystical and devotional aspects often overlooked by Western scholars. Belvalkar and Ranade’s joint effort provides an analytical study, supplementing Ranade’s work with a detailed, chapter-by-chapter examination of the principal Upanishads, their historical context, and interrelations. The reviewers highlight the Indian mystical and ethical outlook embedded in the Upanishads, contrasting it with Western critical perspectives, particularly the perceived lack of systematic morality. They praise the authors’ ability to present complex information accessibly, integrating Sanskrit, English, Greek, French, and German sources. The joint work attempts historical stratification of Upanishadic texts, though challenges arise due to Vedic quotations, repetitions, and uncertain authorship attributions (e.g., Arupi and Vajnavalkya). While Barua’s historical schemes are critiqued as unworkable, the inclusion of Aranyaka texts is acknowledged for clarifying Upanishadic viewpoints. The relationship between Buddhism and the Upanishads remains unresolved, with Jainism’s connection equally mysterious due to its unique terminology. The authors’ contention about wandering sects influencing Brahmanic thought is deemed speculative, as Brahmanic migration and cultural exchanges lack definitive evidence. Overall, the works are lauded for their comprehensive analysis, historical insights,