10 Paths

10 Paths

Adi Sankara organised sanyasis into the Dasanami order Adi Sankara organised sanyasis into the Dasanami order.There is a noticeable difference between the approaches of north and south India to Sankara’s teachings. The south stresses on jnana, which, given the high philosophy in his teachings, limits its reach to an elite, intellectual minority. The north emphasises bhakti, making his teachings universal in their appeal, transcending all barriers.
Sankara’s achievements are not limited to the philosophical realm alone. He traversed the entire expanse of the region, re-moulding, reorganising and propagating sanatana dharma by restoring the primacy of scriptures over ritual. He established mathas, temples and gurukulas that continue to flourish to this day.

Sankara’s pioneering effort in organising sanyasis into the Dasanami order is one of his most vibrant contributions. Before the Dasanami sampradaya, tantric sects were dominant. Uniting the diverse and chaotic community of ascetics into organised groups was no easy task.

Om Namah Shivay.