2016 · Q75
Which of the following statements about the philosopher Shankara is/are true?
- 1Shankara espoused a form of Vedanta called Advaita.
- 2He elaborated on the philosophy of Gaudapada.
- 3Shankara tried to demonstrate that the Upanishads and Brahmasutras contain a unified, systematic philosophy.
- 4Shankara founded the Amanaya Mathas.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
General KnowledgeHistory of India
- A1 and 2 only
- B1, 2 and 3
- C3 and 4
- D4 only
Explanation
Shankara espoused Advaita Vedanta (1 true), elaborated the philosophy of Gaudapada — whose Mandukya-karika he commented upon (2 true) — and sought to show that the Upanishads and Brahmasutras embody one systematic philosophy (3 true). Statement 4 as worded ("Amanaya Mathas") does not match the traditional account of the four Amnaya Peethams, and no option combines 4 with the clearly true 1–3. Hence 1, 2 and 3.