Mādhva Virtue Ethics and the Āptaguru

Authors

  • Deepak Sarma

Keywords:

Mādhva Vedānta, virtue ethics, āptaguru, Deepak Sarma, Madhvācārya, epistemology, Dvaita, Hindu philosophy

Abstract

The Article “Mādhva Virtue Ethics and the Āptaguru, or ‘Reliable Teacher’” by Deepak Sarma explores the ethics embedded in Mādhva Vedānta through the lens of virtue theory. Drawing from key texts, Sarma argues that Madhvācārya's concept of the āptaguru—a reliable, virtue-bearing teacher—mirrors Western ethical ideals. The piece frames epistemological authority and canon formation within Madhva’s dualist theology, ultimately highlighting how character and reliability underpin spiritual instruction.

Published

2000-12-13