Relationship between atman and brahman

Definition

The relationship between atman and brahman is a fundamental concept in Hindu philosophy, particularly in Vedanta, where atman refers to the individual self or soul, and brahman represents the ultimate reality or universal consciousness. This relationship is often described as non-dualistic, indicating that atman and brahman are ultimately the same, despite appearing distinct in everyday experience. Understanding this relationship is essential to grasping the essence of existence and liberation (moksha) in Hindu thought.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In non-dualistic Vedanta, the realization that atman is identical to brahman leads to spiritual enlightenment and liberation.
2. The concept of atman being part of brahman reinforces the idea that every individual contains a spark of the divine.
3. Vedantic teachings suggest that ignorance (avidya) of the true relationship between atman and brahman is what keeps individuals trapped in samsara.
4. Meditative practices in Hinduism often focus on the realization of this unity between atman and brahman as a means to achieve moksha.
5. The phrase 'Tat Tvam Asi,' meaning 'That Thou Art,' encapsulates the essence of the relationship between atman and brahman in Vedantic philosophy.

Review Questions

• How does the non-dualistic perspective in Vedanta interpret the relationship between atman and brahman?
  • In Vedanta's non-dualistic perspective, atman and brahman are seen as fundamentally one, rather than separate entities. This means that the true self (atman) is identical to the ultimate reality (brahman), suggesting that understanding this unity is key to spiritual enlightenment. The distinction made in everyday life is considered an illusion (maya), and realizing this oneness leads individuals towards liberation (moksha).
• Discuss the implications of realizing one's true nature as atman in relation to brahman within Hindu philosophy.
  • Realizing one's true nature as atman in relation to brahman has profound implications for a person's spiritual journey. It encourages individuals to transcend their limited identities and connect with a universal consciousness. This recognition fosters compassion for all beings, as understanding that all souls share the same essence promotes a sense of unity. Furthermore, it acts as a transformative experience that can lead to liberation from the cycle of samsara.
• Evaluate how ignorance of the relationship between atman and brahman affects one's journey toward moksha in Hinduism.
  • Ignorance of the relationship between atman and brahman is considered a major obstacle on the path to moksha in Hinduism. This lack of awareness keeps individuals trapped in samsara, perpetuating cycles of suffering and rebirth. The process of overcoming this ignorance involves philosophical inquiry, meditation, and guidance from spiritual teachers. As individuals gain insight into their true nature as part of brahman, they can break free from illusions and attain liberation, thereby fulfilling their spiritual purpose.

Related terms

Moksha: The liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara), achieved by realizing the true nature of atman as one with brahman.

Advaita: A non-dualistic school of Vedanta that emphasizes the oneness of atman and brahman, asserting that individual souls are not separate from the universal spirit.

Samsara: The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth that all beings undergo, which one seeks to escape through the realization of the unity of atman and brahman.