Blackwell Reference Online

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As is the case with most pre-modern philosophers of India, very little historical information is available about Bhart-hari. There are many interesting legends, some turned into extensive plays and poems, current about him. However, it is impossible to determine on their basis even whether there was only one philosopher called Bhart-hari. The appellation “philosopher” could unquestionably be applied to the author or authors of at least two Sanskrit works that are commonly ascribed to Bhart-hari.One is the author of about three hundred highly popular and influential verses that comment on a rich world of human experience in an insightful and moving way. These verses are divided into three groups of approximately one hundred verses each and hence are known as Śataka-traya or Subhāita-triśatī. The groups are concerned with: (a) the practical side of life; (b) the world of sensual experience, particularly of men's interest in women; and (c) the life of disillusionment and ascetic detachment. While the arrangement in groups is relatively late and not always neat, the verses are at least as old as the fourth century ce and refined in their technique. Their greatest strength, however, is profound observation and poignant honesty. They address the fundamental problems of life with impressive insight, disturbing frankness, and remarkable poetic talent. One meets in them an original philosopher ... log in or subscribe to read full text