Historical Survey of Vaisesika Literature
By S. D. Jhala
Summary
S. D. Jhala’s Historical Survey of Vaisesika Literature investigates the early development of the Vaisesika philosophical school. The author stresses that accurately dating the sutras is difficult and that a school’s beginnings often precede its formal codification. Because no pre‑Prasastapada commentaries survive, researchers rely on later Jain works like Dvadasaranayacakra, which mention lost texts such as the Vakya, Bhasya, Tika by Prasastamati and the Katandi. Jhala reviews scholarly opinions about these works; Anantlal Thakur suggests that the Katandi may be a commentary on the Vakya while debates continue about the identity of Ravana‑bhasya and Atreya‑bhasya and whether they predate Prasastapada. Jhala argues, on the basis of citations, that Ravana‑bhasya likely predates Prasastapada. The article summarises arguments from later commentators such as Raghava Bhatta and notes that misinterpretations by Western scholars have obscured chronology. By collating scattered references, Jhala outlines the evolution of Vaisesika literature and highlights the need for further research into lost commentaries.
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Conclusion
Jhala’s survey shows that much of Vaisesika literature is lost and can be reconstructed only through later references. The article highlights how works like Vakya, Bhasya, Tika, Katandi and Ravana‑bhasya influenced the school and argues that Ravana‑bhasya may predate Prasastapada. Establishing accurate chronologies and examining these early commentaries are essential for understanding the philosophical development of Vaisesika.