Yajnavalkya
Yājñavalkya
Greatest philosopher of the Vedic age — composer of the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
Yajnavalkya is the towering intellect of all Vedic literature. He systematised the White Yajurveda, composed the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, and defeated every scholar at King Janaka's court for 1,000 prize cows. His Neti Neti teaching changed Indian philosophy forever.
Key compositions
Oldest and largest Upanishad. Contains Neti Neti, the Maitreyi dialogue, and Madhu Vidya. Foundation of all Advaita Vedanta.
Received directly from Surya in the form of a horse — hence called Vajasaneya (of the horse). Kept mantras and commentary separate.
Most authoritative text on dharmic law. Commentated by Vijnanesvara in the famous Mitakshara — still cited in Indian courts today.
A key verse
नेति नेति । न इत्येव । न ह्येतस्मादिति नेत्युक्त्वा विरमेत् ॥
Not this, not this. There is no better description than "not this." Beyond all description — that is Brahman.
Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 2.3.6
Lineage & disciples
Lineage / Gotra
Student of Vaishampayana · received Shukla Yajurveda from Surya
Notable disciples
Maitreyi, Katyayani