Smarta Tradition - Philosophical Concept | Alexandria
Smarta Tradition, a denomination of Hinduism that emphasizes the unity of five deities – Shiva, Vishnu, Devi, Ganesha, and Surya – invites exploration into the multifaceted expressions of divinity. Often misunderstood as a mere amalgamation of deities, Smarta Tradition transcends simple polytheism, urging devotees towards the realization of the ultimate, attributeless Brahman. Could it challenge and redefine our understanding of pantheism?
While pinpointing the exact genesis of Smarta Tradition remains elusive, early traces can be found within the Advaita Vedanta philosophy of the revered 8th-century scholar, Adi Shankara. His emphasis on jnana yoga – the path of knowledge – and the concept of "Saguna Brahman" (Brahman with attributes) as a stepping stone to realizing "Nirguna Brahman" (Brahman without attributes) provided a fertile ground for the Smarta worldview. Intriguingly, the historical context of this development coincides with a period of intense philosophical debates between various Hindu sects, prompting speculation about its possible role in harmonizing divergent beliefs.
The evolution of Smarta Tradition is inextricably linked to Adi Shankara and his establishment of monastic centers across India. These centers became bastions of Vedantic thought and fostered a culture of intellectual inquiry. Over time, reinterpretations of the Smarta tradition have shifted. Some scholars consider the tradition as upholding the Vedic Shrauta rituals, and it contrasts with traditions like Vaishnavism and Shaktism, which focus on a main or personal deity. The tradition encourages individual interpretation of scripture, allowing for diverse devotional practices and philosophical viewpoints within its fold. One might ask, can Smarta tradition, built on synthesizing diverse traditions, remain a distinct entity as its adherents adopt increasingly individualized spiritual practices?
Today, Smarta Tradition continues to influence Hindu thought and practice. It emphasizes individual liberation through knowledge and understanding of the ultimate reality. The Smarta approach to deity worship—seeing all gods and goddesses as manifestations of the same divine power— resonates with a growing emphasis on inclusivity and religious pluralism in modern society. Has Smarta Tradition inadvertently laid the groundwork for a global spiritual dialogue, and what unexpected forms might this dialogue take?