Advaita Vedanta

Definition

Advaita Vedanta is a non-dualistic school of Hindu philosophy that emphasizes the ultimate unity of the individual soul (Atman) and the universal consciousness (Brahman). This philosophical system asserts that there is no fundamental distinction between Atman and Brahman, leading to the understanding that the perceived separateness of individuals is an illusion (Maya). Advaita Vedanta's teachings highlight self-realization and the attainment of liberation (Moksha) through knowledge and meditation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Advaita Vedanta was popularized by the philosopher Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century CE, who argued for the oneness of Atman and Brahman through his commentaries on ancient scriptures.
2. The core teaching of Advaita Vedanta is that ignorance (Avidya) of our true nature leads to suffering, and realizing our unity with Brahman is key to achieving liberation.
3. Advaita Vedanta encourages practices like meditation and self-inquiry as means to overcome ignorance and realize one's true identity.
4. It differs from other schools of thought in Hinduism that accept dualism, such as Dvaita, which maintains a distinction between Atman and Brahman.
5. Advaita Vedanta has influenced various spiritual movements beyond Hinduism, contributing to discussions on consciousness and reality in modern philosophy.

Review Questions

• How does Advaita Vedanta define the relationship between Atman and Brahman, and what implications does this have for understanding the self?
  • Advaita Vedanta posits that Atman, the individual soul, is not separate from Brahman, the universal consciousness. This non-dualistic perspective means that realizing this inherent unity allows individuals to transcend their illusions of separateness. Understanding this relationship encourages a deeper exploration of self-identity, where one can find liberation by recognizing that their true essence is not distinct from the greater reality of Brahman.
• Discuss how Adi Shankaracharya contributed to the development of Advaita Vedanta and its prominence in Hindu philosophy.
  • Adi Shankaracharya was instrumental in establishing Advaita Vedanta as a dominant philosophical school within Hinduism during the 8th century CE. Through his extensive commentaries on sacred texts like the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Brahma Sutras, he articulated key concepts such as non-dualism and the nature of reality. His teachings emphasized overcoming ignorance through knowledge and meditation, shaping both religious practices and philosophical discourse in subsequent centuries.
• Evaluate the significance of Advaita Vedanta's concept of Maya in relation to contemporary discussions on perception and reality.
  • The concept of Maya in Advaita Vedanta challenges our understanding of perception and reality by suggesting that what we experience is often illusory. This philosophical view resonates with contemporary discussions in fields like psychology and quantum physics, where perceptions are questioned, and reality is seen as multi-faceted. The idea that ignorance leads to suffering aligns with modern explorations of consciousness, emphasizing that deeper awareness can transform our experience of life. The relevance of these discussions highlights how ancient philosophies can still inform contemporary thought about existence.

Related terms

Brahman: The ultimate, unchanging reality in Hindu philosophy, representing the source and essence of the universe.

Atman:

The individual soul or self, which is believed to be identical to Brahman in Advaita Vedanta philosophy.

Maya:

The illusion or deceptive appearance of the world, which leads individuals to perceive a false sense of separateness from Brahman.