Was there any influence of Vedanta on the Greek thinker Plato? Can you cite the sources?

Answer 1

Plato does not adopt the Greek view of rationality. For him the Truth can not always be proved. Some times it can only be suggested and grasped by the mind in a wordless dialectic. This concept was direct influence of the Vedanta which says that what is apparent is not real and what is real is not apparent.

He believed in the soul and its reform through the cycles of birth, which is the central theme of Upanishads such as Tattiriya and the Aitiriya Upanishads. Plato refers his view of pre-existence and rebirth to a 'sacred story' probably referring to the Upanishadic story in his book 'Phaedrus' (Jowett's translation). He says "I have heard some thing from men and women who were wise in sacred lore".

In his concept of Ideal State in " The Republic" he is infuenced by the concept of Justice in Bhagvad Geeta which identifies Justice as Dharma and defines it as performance of ones duty in his appointed station without meddling in others areas of operation. This apart, there is a simile Plato has adopted in verbatim from the Kathopanishad in which the human body has been compared with a chariot; the five senses as five horses pulling it, the rein as mind and the Conscience as the charioteer carrying the human Soul on the path to salvation.

Answer 2

Interesting question.

I wouldnt be surprised if Plato was exposed to Vedanta (due to travel and trade around the world). However I have not come across any statements in Plato's teachings that indicate such influence.

Some forms of Vedanta for instance argue that the world is Maya (illusion). I havent come across Platonic statements to that effect.

Plato seemed to believe very strongly in the Real existence of the physical world, and the Real existence of the world of Ideal Forms (in some sense). This sounds like the opposite of the Vedic teachings (regarding maya etc).

Some forms of Vedanta teach reincarnation and karma (across the endless rebirths).

I dont recall Plato having taught either.

He did teach Right actions and Right Consequences (but within one lifetime if I recall correctly).

Cordially,
John

Answer 3

Yes there was influence of Vedic Culture and knowledge in almost all over the world.. It is seen in ideas of Plato himself...

There is a very Good Book : Beyond Illusion and Doubt written by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada..

It not only compares the philosophy of Plato but also of Socrates and other Prominent western Philosopher with the Vedic Philosophy and the impact on them...
This book is a good reading matter and you can get it in any Hare Krishna Book Store world wide ...