Advaita Vedanta is one of the most influential schools of philosophy in Hinduism, offering a non-dualistic (Advaita means “not two”) interpretation of reality. It is rooted in the teachings of the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, and Brahma Sutras, and was systematized by the philosopher Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century CE.
Key Concepts of Advaita Vedanta:
- Brahman (Ultimate Reality)
- According to Advaita Vedanta, Brahman is the one and only reality, infinite, eternal, and unchanging. It is the source, sustainer, and substance of everything in the universe. Everything that exists is a manifestation of Brahman.
- Brahman is described as being Nirguna (without attributes) and beyond all forms, names, or qualities that the human mind can comprehend.
- Atman (Self)
- Atman refers to the individual soul or self, but in Advaita Vedanta, it is understood to be identical to Brahman.
- The famous Mahavakya (great saying) from the Upanishads, “Tat Tvam Asi” (You are That), encapsulates this idea, meaning that the individual soul (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) are fundamentally the same.
- Maya (Illusion)
- Maya is the illusory power that causes the world of appearances to seem real. Due to Maya, we perceive multiplicity, duality, and separateness in the world, even though only Brahman exists.
- The physical world, individual ego, and experiences of separation are considered temporary and illusory in Advaita, much like a dream.
- Avidya (Ignorance)
- Avidya, or ignorance, is the root cause of human suffering. It is the ignorance of one’s true nature as Brahman. Avidya keeps individuals trapped in the illusion of Maya, leading them to identify with the body, mind, and ego, rather than their true self (Atman).
- Liberation is achieved by overcoming this ignorance through knowledge (Jnana).
- Moksha (Liberation)
- The ultimate goal of life in Advaita Vedanta is to attain Moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death (Samsara). Moksha is not a state to be “achieved” but is the realization of one’s true nature as Brahman.
- This realization leads to the dissolution of the ego and the cessation of all desires, attachment, and suffering. Upon attaining Moksha, the individual recognizes that there is no separation between themselves and the universe.
- Jnana Yoga (Path of Knowledge)
- The primary spiritual practice in Advaita Vedanta is Jnana Yoga, the path of knowledge or wisdom. It involves self-inquiry (Atma Vichara) to discern the difference between the transient (body, mind, world) and the eternal (Brahman).
- The practice focuses on realizing one’s true identity through meditation, contemplation, and the teachings of scriptures like the Upanishads.
The Core Teaching: “Brahman is Real, the World is an Illusion, and the Self is Brahman”
The central philosophy of Advaita Vedanta can be summarized in three statements:
- Brahman is the only reality (unchanging and eternal).
- The world is illusory (Maya creates the appearance of separateness and change).
- The individual self (Atman) is Brahman (realizing this unity leads to liberation).
Influence of Advaita Vedanta:
Advaita Vedanta has had a profound influence on Hindu thought and spirituality. It offers a universal vision of oneness, transcending religious dogma, and has inspired a variety of spiritual movements and thinkers, including modern saints like Ramana Maharshi, Swami Vivekananda, and Sri Ramakrishna.
Advaita encourages people to seek their true nature beyond the mind and body, leading to a transformative understanding of the self and the universe as one indivisible reality.