Complete Works of Sri Sankaracarya (Set of 20 Volumes)

The Complete Works of Sri Sankaracarya in 20 volumes is a monumental collection that encapsulates the life, vision, and teachings of Adi Sankara, one of Bharat’s greatest spiritual luminaries. Revered as Jagadguru, Sankara was a rare blend of profound philosopher, eloquent poet, yogi, and bhakta. His works display not only a mastery over scriptures but also the depth of personal realization of the Ultimate Reality.

Adi Sankara revived and re-established the authority of the Vedic tradition during a time when spiritual confusion prevailed. With logical precision and scriptural mastery, he clarified the true essence of the Upanisads, Brahma Sutras, and the Bhagavad Gita—collectively known as the Prasthana Traya. These texts are the foundation of Vedanta:

• The Upanisads (Śruti Prasthana) present the direct revelations on reality.

• The Bhagavad Gita (Smriti Prasthana) gives the synthesis of spiritual practice and philosophy.

• The Brahma Sutras (Nyaya or Yukti Prasthana) provide a systematic reasoning that unites diverse Upanisadic thoughts into a coherent philosophy.

The Brahma Sutra Bhasya, spread over three volumes in this set, remains his magnum opus. In it, Sankara expounds on 555 sutras across four chapters—establishing Brahman as the ultimate reality, resolving contradictions, describing the means of realization, and elaborating on liberation. His lucid commentary synthesized conflicting views, giving Vedanta its definitive shape.

The set further includes his detailed Upanisad-Bhasyas—from the Isa, Kena, and Katha to the monumental Brihadaranyaka and Chhandogya. These expositions not only unravel the philosophical depth of the Upanisads but also make their truths accessible to seekers. Similarly, his Bhagavad Gita Bhasya (Volumes 11–12) provides a spiritual roadmap where devotion, knowledge, and action harmoniously converge.

Beyond commentaries, Sankara authored independent treatises (Prakarana Granthas) like Vivekachudamani and Upadesa Sahasri, which simplify Vedantic truths for aspirants. He also composed stotras, devotional hymns filled with both poetic beauty and philosophical depth, collected in Volumes 17–18. His works reveal how devotion (bhakti) and knowledge (jnana) are not contradictory but complementary paths to the same realization. The last two volumes present Prapanchasara Tantra, reflecting his holistic understanding of yogic and tantric traditions.

What distinguishes Sankara is his balance—he was neither a mere ritualist nor a dry intellectual. While affirming the importance of spiritual knowledge as the key to liberation, he acknowledged devotion, meditation, and ethical living as essential supports. He organized the Dasanami monastic order and established spiritual centers across India, ensuring the continuity of Vedantic thought. His efforts in unifying diverse worship traditions (Sanmata) displayed his inclusive vision.

Philosophically, Sankara emphasized that the apparent contradictions of the Upanisads dissolve when seen in the light of non-dual Brahman. Just as language often conveys implied meanings beyond direct ones, the Vedas too point to a higher truth beyond rituals—knowledge of the Self as Brahman. He contrasted this vision with ritual-centered Mimamsa schools and revealed Vedanta as the true culmination of Vedic wisdom.

The Complete Works thus not only preserves Sankara’s legacy but also provides seekers with a comprehensive path. It covers subtle metaphysical discussions, practical guidance for spiritual discipline, and inspiring devotional outpourings. Together, these volumes present Sankara as a philosopher-saint who harmonized logic with faith, poetry with philosophy, and yoga with devotion.

This collection is indispensable for scholars, seekers, and devotees alike. For scholars, it offers critical insight into one of India’s greatest intellectual traditions. For seekers, it provides guidance on self-realization. For devotees, it presents hymns of deep surrender and love. Above all, it reflects the vision of a Jagadguru who walked across Bharat, reawakening its spiritual culture and leaving behind a treasure of timeless wisdom.

The Complete Works of Sri Sankaracarya is therefore not just a set of texts but a spiritual journey—one that continues to inspire and illuminate, leading aspirants from ritual to realization, from knowledge to wisdom, and from duality to the oneness of Brahman.