Prakashatman

Prakashatman (c. 10th–11th century CE) was an Advaita Vedanta philosopher and the author of the Panchapadika Vivarana, the most important commentary on Padmapada’s Panchapadika.

Background

Prakashatman was a scholar in the Advaita Vedanta tradition who studied in the lineage of Padmapada, one of Shankara’s four principal disciples. He was based in the tradition associated with the Govardhana matha (Puri).

Spiritual Contribution

Prakashatman’s Panchapadika Vivarana (“Elaboration of the Five Footprints”) is the definitive commentary on Padmapada’s Panchapadika, the first great commentary on Shankara’s Brahma Sutra bhashya. His work elaborates Padmapada’s reflection theory of superimposition (pratibimba-vada) and became so authoritative that it is often studied as a continuation of the original text. The “Vivarana school” of Advaita takes its name from his work.

Legacy and Impact

Prakashatman’s Vivarana established one of the two main reading lineages in Advaita Vedanta (the other being the Bhamati school of Vachaspati Mishra). His reflection theory continues to be debated and taught in Advaita institutions.

Verification Notes

• Dates are approximate; he is placed in the post-Padmapada period.
• The Vivarana is considered an authentic and foundational Advaita text.