Hindu Philosophy Schools

myNachiketa
3 days ago
4 min read

Have you ever wondered about the wise thoughts that guide many people in India? Hindu philosophy is the way ancient India explained life, the universe, and how to live wisely. It is not just about asking questions but also about finding answers—like Who am I? Why am I here? What is the purpose of life?

The word “Darshana” means to see or to view. In this sense, Hindu philosophy gives us a way to “see” the truth.

Just like many colours together make a beautiful painting, the different schools of Hindu philosophy give us special ways to understand life. Together, they form a garden of ideas that make Hindu thought rich and meaningful.

myNachiketa presents What are Hindu philosophy schools? for children to learn ancient wisdom in simple ways and discover life lessons they can use every day.

The Six Schools of Hindu Philosophy

Have you ever heard about the six schools of philosophy? They are like six friends who share the same goal but think in different ways! Hindu philosophy began thousands of years ago, during the time of the Vedas (the oldest scriptures of India). The teachings of great sages slowly developed into six main schools of thought, which are still studied today. Let’s explore each of them:

1. Nyaya (The School of Logic)

This school of philosophy was founded by Rishi Gautama. Nyaya teaches us to think clearly. It’s like being a detective who looks for clues to solve a mystery! It explains how to find the truth by asking questions, using logic, and avoiding confusion.

Just like how Arjuna needed Bhagwan Krishna’s guidance in the Bhagavad Gita to understand his duty, he asked questions to find the truth; we can use logic to understand right from wrong.

2. Vaisheshika (The Path of Science)

This school of Indian philosophy was founded by Sage Kanada. Vaisheshika helps us see that everything in the universe is made of tiny parts (like atoms). It explains nature, matter, and how things are formed. This school teaches us to appreciate the wonders of nature and how everything fits into a larger plan created by God.

From this school of philosophy, we learn to respect science and the natural laws of the world.

3. Samkhya (The School of Dualism)

This Hindu Philosophy school was founded by Rishi Kapila. Samkhya is all about counting and understanding the two main things: Purusha (the soul) and Prakriti (nature). We are not just our body but also a soul. This school helps us understand what truly makes us who we are, beyond just our bodies!

Think of a lamp. The lamp’s body is like Prakriti (nature/body), and the light inside it is like Purusha (soul). Without the light, the lamp is useless, and without the body, the light has no place to shine.

4. Yoga (The Path of Discipline)

This Indian school of philosophy was founded by Rishi Patanjali. Yoga teaches us how to connect our mind and body. It teaches us how to connect body, mind, and soul through practices like breathing, meditation, and self-control.

Have you ever been in a yoga class, stretching and focusing on your breathing? This school helps us know ourselves better and teaches us how to find peace. Daily practice of yoga helps us to stay fit, calm and peaceful and increases our focus.

Buy our books to explore more inspiring stories and lessons for children

Buy Now

5. Mimamsa (The School of Rituals)

This Hindu school of philosophy was founded by Sage Jaimini. Mimamsa focuses on the importance of performing our duties and rituals with great care and respect. It guides us to perform our duties (Karma) and understand our moral responsibilities (Dharma) in making the world a better place. It teaches us that every action has a meaning and should be done thoughtfully.

As a student. Your duty is to study, listen to teachers, and be respectful. If you do these duties with care and honesty, you learn well and grow confident. But if you avoid your duties, you fall behind.

6. Vedanta (The Path of Ultimate Knowledge)

Vedanta teaches us about the ultimate reality—Brahman, which is everything around us. The idea of Brahman (the one ultimate reality) and Atman (our soul) show that all beings are connected as one. It’s like looking at a vast ocean and realizing all the waves are part of it. This school encourages us to understand that we all connect deeply with God and everything in the universe.

Imagine a clay pot, a clay toy, and a clay plate. They all look different, but they are all made of the same clay.

What Can We Learn From These Philosophies?

Each of these schools has lessons that we can apply in our daily lives! Here are a few things we can keep in mind:

Think before you speak or act.
Appreciate our surroundings.
Maintain the balance of body and mind through yoga.
Perform your duties with love and care.
Connect with nature and the universe.

Dear children we can learn to be thoughtful, respectful, and balanced in our lives.

Shloka from the Maha Upanishad (VI.72):

वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम्

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam

(The world is one family)

This means that we are all connected, and we should treat each other like family, caring for everyone around us!

Children remember these six schools of Hindu philosophy. They share small but powerful lessons to guide us in life. Let’s try to be like shining stars—full of love, kindness, and joy—bringing smiles and happiness to everyone around us!