To delve into philosophical and spiritual studies one has to have an open mind. Only a receptive mind can effectively search the soul. Otherwise a disquisition on the subject will appear to be elusive and simply beyond our ken.

The six systems of Hinduism (Darshanas) and their sub-systems, Buddhism, Jainism and the materialistic system of the Charvaka are all evidence of the divergent of views of Indian philosophy. Accordingly, it is difficult to cite any specific doctrines as the dominant influence in the Indian thought process that developed over four millennia.

However, in all respects there is what is called a distinct spirit of Indian philosophy.

First and foremost chief mark of Indian philosophy is that its concentration on the spiritual. Except in the Charvaka system, all the other systems of philosophy and religion are intimately related and the philosophy is regarded as a spiritual adventure. The philosophies of the Vedas, Puranas, Smriti or the six Darshana literatu ...more