Rediscovering the Sacred: A Journey Through the Spiritual Essence of Mathematics

• In Event: Case studies in holistic and post-foundation education

Proposal

This presentation delves into relationships between mathematics and religion, focusing on thinking and reasoning from ancient India’s Vedic period (1500 BC to 600 BC), which showed us that the pursuit of mathematical knowledge transcended simple utility. The Sulbasutras, for example, a collection of texts dedicated to constructing sacrificial altars, showcase the application of geometry. These texts demonstrate how precise calculations were crucial for the efficacy of rituals, emphasizing the underlying belief in order and harmony within the universe. Furthermore, advancements in astronomy, where mathematics played a crucial role in calculating celestial positions and developing calendars, are exemplified by the Vedic scholar Pingala's work on meter in poetry through the use of permutations and combinations.

Additionally, the concept of zero was further explored in Indian mathematics for the development of a place-value system, including symbols for zero, and its impact on mathematical operations. Mathematicians like Brahmagupta established rules for handling zero and negative numbers, paving the way for advanced mathematical concepts.

The Bakhshali Manuscript, also developed during this time period, offers a glimpse into a period where mathematics knowledge transitioned from religious contexts to everyday applications. The manuscript focuses on arithmetic and algebra, tackling problems like profit and loss calculations, interest computations, and square root extraction. It showcases process oriented approaches to solving problems, including stating rules, providing examples, and verifying solutions.

The presentation concludes by acknowledging the eventual marginalization of Indian mathematics as a result of economic disruptions and exploitative policies introduced during British colonization and India not experiencing a commercial revolution, which was the main driver for advancing the scientific field in Europe (Khun, 1962, Mokyr, 2002 and Roy, 2012).

Author

• Deepa Srikantaiah, College of Education, University of Maryland, College Park