Non-dualism, also known as advaita, is a philosophical concept in Classical Indian Philosophy that rejects the idea of a fundamental duality or division between the self (atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). It posits that there is a single, unitary essence underlying the apparent diversity of the physical and mental world.
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Non-dualism emphasizes the fundamental unity and interconnectedness of all existence, rejecting the notion of a separate, independent self or reality.
In non-dualistic thought, the individual self (atman) is seen as inseparable from the universal absolute (Brahman), and the apparent duality between the two is an illusion.
Non-dualism challenges the traditional Western philosophical dichotomy between the mind and the body, the self and the other, and the sacred and the profane.
The goal of non-dualistic spiritual practices, such as meditation and contemplation, is to realize the true nature of the self and its unity with the ultimate reality.
Non-dualism has had a significant influence on various Indian philosophical traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism, as well as on modern Western thought and spirituality.
Review Questions
Explain the core principle of non-dualism and how it differs from dualistic philosophical frameworks.
The core principle of non-dualism is the rejection of a fundamental duality or division between the individual self (atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). Non-dualism posits that there is a single, unitary essence underlying the apparent diversity of the physical and mental world, and that the individual self is not separate from or independent of this ultimate reality. This contrasts with dualistic philosophical frameworks, which typically maintain a clear distinction between the self and the other, the mind and the body, or the sacred and the profane.
Describe the relationship between the individual self (atman) and the universal absolute (Brahman) in non-dualistic thought.
In non-dualistic philosophies, the individual self (atman) is believed to be identical with the universal absolute (Brahman). The apparent duality between the two is seen as an illusion, and the goal of spiritual practices is to realize this fundamental unity. Non-dualism challenges the traditional Western notion of the self as a separate, independent entity, and instead emphasizes the interconnectedness and oneness of all existence. This understanding of the self-Brahman relationship is central to the non-dualistic traditions within Hinduism, such as Advaita Vedanta.
Analyze the influence of non-dualism on various Indian philosophical and spiritual traditions, as well as its impact on modern Western thought.
Non-dualism has had a significant influence on a wide range of Indian philosophical and spiritual traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism. The non-dual concept of the unity between the individual self (atman) and the universal absolute (Brahman) has been central to the development of these traditions and their spiritual practices, such as meditation and contemplation. Beyond its Indian origins, non-dualism has also had a profound impact on modern Western thought and spirituality, challenging traditional dualistic frameworks and inspiring new perspectives on the nature of the self, consciousness, and the divine. The holistic, interconnected worldview of non-dualism has resonated with many Western thinkers and has contributed to the growing interest in Eastern philosophies and contemplative practices in the West.