Ancient Indian Education (Brahmanical and Buddhist) c16.45

c16.45

It is to be noted in conclusion that the *Vedānta-Sūtras* were preceded by considerable speculation on similar lines, the results of which are referred to in the *Sūtras* themselves. Bādarāyaṇa refers to the opinions associated with the following earlier masters, viz. Ātreya, Āśmarathya, Auḍalomi, Kārshṇājini, Kāśakṛitsna, Jaimini, and Bādari. It would appear, too, that these Doctors of the Vedānta differ among themselves considerably not merely upon minor points, but also upon essential doctrines of the system. This shows only the vitality and vigour of Vedāntic thought which has a history of its own. The work of Bādarāyaṇa occupies a central place in that history. While it summarizes the results of antecedent speculation, it has become also the source of much subsequent speculation flowing in an ever-broadening stream down to this day, with yet a future before it.