Consider the following statements regarding the philosophy of Shankaracharya:
1. He propounded the doctrine of Advaita, emphasizing the oneness of the individual soul and the Supreme God (Brahman).
2. He considered the physical world around us to be an illusion (Maya).
3. He strongly advocated the path of intense emotional devotion (Bhakti Marga) rather than knowledge (Jnana Marga) for attaining salvation.
Which of the statements given above are correct?

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Accepted Answer

Statement 3 is incorrect. Shankaracharya strongly advocated 'Jnana Marga' (the path of true knowledge) to realize the illusionary nature of the world (Maya) and understand the true nature of Brahman for salvation, rather than emotional Bhakti. Statements 1 and 2 describe his Advaita philosophy correctly.

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