Atman

Definition

Atman refers to the true self or soul in Hindu philosophy, considered to be eternal and a part of Brahman, the universal spirit. In Buddhism, however, atman is often rejected, as it conflicts with the idea of non-self (anatta) and emptiness (sunyata), which emphasize the absence of a permanent, unchanging self in living beings and the interconnectedness of all phenomena.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Hinduism, atman is seen as eternal and unchanging, representing an individual's true essence beyond physical existence.
2. Buddhism challenges the notion of atman by proposing that clinging to a permanent self leads to suffering; thus, understanding non-self is crucial for liberation.
3. The Buddhist perspective on atman aligns with sunyata by illustrating how even what we perceive as 'self' lacks intrinsic existence.
4. The rejection of atman in Buddhism is closely tied to the Four Noble Truths, which emphasize overcoming attachment and ignorance for spiritual awakening.
5. Recognizing that atman does not exist encourages practitioners to foster compassion and interconnectedness with all beings.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of atman in Hindu philosophy contrast with the Buddhist view of non-self (anatta)?
  • In Hindu philosophy, atman is viewed as the true, eternal self that transcends physical existence and is one with Brahman. In contrast, Buddhism denies the existence of an unchanging self and introduces the concept of anatta, which emphasizes that individuals are made up of constantly changing components. This fundamental difference highlights how attachment to the idea of atman can lead to suffering while embracing anatta can lead to liberation.
• Discuss how the rejection of atman in Buddhism contributes to the understanding of emptiness (sunyata).
  • The rejection of atman in Buddhism directly relates to the concept of emptiness (sunyata) because it challenges the idea that there is an inherent essence within individuals or objects. By asserting that there is no permanent self, Buddhism illustrates that everything is interdependent and arises from conditions rather than existing independently. This understanding fosters a view of reality where phenomena are empty of inherent existence, thus promoting compassion and reducing attachment.
• Evaluate the implications of embracing non-self (anatta) in practice for individuals seeking enlightenment compared to those who adhere to the belief in atman.
  • Embracing non-self (anatta) encourages individuals on a path to enlightenment to let go of attachment to their identities and desires. This leads to a profound sense of freedom and interconnectedness with all beings. In contrast, those who hold onto the belief in atman may become entrenched in notions of individuality and permanence, hindering their spiritual progress. The practice rooted in anatta allows for deeper insights into the nature of reality and fosters a compassionate approach towards oneself and others.

Related terms

Anatta: Anatta is the Buddhist concept of non-self, which asserts that there is no permanent, unchanging self within individuals; instead, the self is a collection of constantly changing physical and mental components.

Brahman: Brahman is the ultimate reality or cosmic spirit in Hindu philosophy, representing the source of all existence and the essence of the universe.

Sunyata: Sunyata, or emptiness, is a key Buddhist concept that denotes the lack of inherent existence in all things, emphasizing that objects and experiences are interdependent and arise from a web of causes and conditions.