Question

Which of the following texts is attributed to Isvarakṛṣṇa and is considered the earliest surviving authoritative work on Sankhya philosophy?

• A. Sankhya Sutra
• B. Sankhya-pravacana Bhaṣya
• C. Tattva-kaumudi
• D. Karika

Answer 1

Answer:

D. Karika

Sankhya is often regarded as one of the oldest schools of Indian philosophy, traditionally systematized by the ancient sage Kapila. Although the Sankhya Sutra is attributed to Kapila, the existing version differs significantly from the original teachings. The earliest surviving authoritative text on Sankhya is actually the Karika by Isvarakṛṣṇa. Notable commentaries on this work include: Bhaṣya by Gauḍapada Tattva-kaumudi by Vacaspatimisra Sankhya-pravacana Bhaṣya by Vijnānabhikṣu Maṭharavṛtti by Maṭhara Early Sankhya philosophy was largely rational and empirical, maintaining a non-theistic view. It held that the origin and evolution of the universe could be explained by Prakṛti (nature), without invoking a divine creator. By around the 4th century CE, the concept of Puruṣa (conscious spirit) was incorporated alongside Prakṛti, presenting a dualistic view in which both nature and spirit together account for the cosmos. According to this school, liberation (moksha) is attainable through the acquisition of true knowledge, which leads to the end of suffering. This knowledge is gained through three reliable means: direct perception (pratyakṣa), inference (anumana), and authoritative testimony (shabda).