Indian Philosophy: Major Philosophers

Buddhism is a major religion and philosophy that originated in India, but it is not considered one of the six major schools of Indian philosophy.

Gautama is considered the founder of the Nyaya school of philosophy, which is known for its emphasis on logic and epistemology.

Anu is a key concept in the Vaisheshika school of philosophy, which posits that the universe is composed of tiny, indivisible particles called anus.

Kapila is considered the founder of the Samkhya school of philosophy, which is known for its dualistic metaphysics and its emphasis on the distinction between purusha (consciousness) and prakriti (matter).

Samadhi is a key concept in the Yoga school of philosophy, which refers to a state of deep meditation and spiritual absorption.

Jaimini is considered the founder of the Mimamsa school of philosophy, which is known for its focus on the interpretation of the Vedas, the sacred texts of Hinduism.

Brahman is a key concept in the Vedanta school of philosophy, which refers to the ultimate reality or ground of being.

Adi Shankara is considered the founder of the Advaita Vedanta school of philosophy, which is known for its non-dualistic metaphysics and its emphasis on the identity of the individual soul (atman) with the ultimate reality (Brahman).

Bhakti is a key concept in the Vishishtadvaita Vedanta school of philosophy, which refers to the loving devotion to God.

Madhva is considered the founder of the Dvaita Vedanta school of philosophy, which is known for its dualistic metaphysics and its emphasis on the distinction between the individual soul (atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman).

Bhakti is a key concept in the Bhakti movement, which is a devotional movement that emphasizes the loving devotion to God.

Chaitanya Mahaprabhu is considered one of the most important figures in the Bhakti movement, known for his emphasis on the chanting of the name of God and his ecstatic devotional practices.

Naam is a key concept in the Sikh philosophy, which refers to the name of God and is considered a powerful spiritual force.

Guru Nanak is considered the founder of the Sikh religion, which emphasizes the importance of living an ethical and truthful life and the oneness of all humanity.

Ahimsa is a key concept in the Jain philosophy, which refers to the principle of non-violence and the avoidance of harm to all living beings.