Advaita Vedanta 's non-dualism teaches that reality is one undivided consciousness called Brahman . This philosophy, championed by Adi Shankara, argues that our perception of separate selves and objects is an illusion caused by maya .
The doctrine of non-dualism asserts that our true self (Atman ) is identical to Brahman. Through self-inquiry and meditation on teachings like "You are That," practitioners aim to realize this unity and attain liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
Non-Dualism in Advaita Vedanta
Core Principles of Advaita
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Advaita Vedanta posits ultimate reality as singular, unchanging, infinite consciousness called Brahman
Maya explains apparent duality and multiplicity in the world as illusion superimposed on non-dual Brahman
Atman (individual self) identified as identical with Brahman, not separate or different
"Neti neti" (not this, not this) principle negates all attributes and forms to realize attributeless Brahman
Direct experience (anubhava ) and self-realization (atma-jnana ) emphasized as ultimate means of liberation
Doctrine of three levels of reality (trisvabhava ) distinguishes absolute (paramarthika ), empirical (vyavaharika ), and illusory (pratibhasika ) existence
Epistemology recognizes six pramanas (valid means of knowledge) with emphasis on shabda pramana (Vedic testimony) and anubhava (direct experience)
Key Concepts and Practices
Non-dualism (advaita) asserts fundamental unity of all existence
Brahman transcends all qualities and descriptions
Maya creates appearance of multiplicity and separation
Examples: perception of individual objects, sense of separate self
Self-inquiry (atma-vichara ) used to investigate nature of self and reality
Involves questioning "Who am I?" to penetrate beyond surface identity
Discrimination between real and unreal (viveka ) cultivated to discern unchanging Brahman from changing phenomena
Renunciation (vairagya ) of attachment to worldly objects and experiences
Meditation on mahavakyas (great sayings) like "Tat Tvam Asi " (You are That) to realize Atman-Brahman unity
Implications of Advaita
Perspectives on Reality and Self
Non-dual perspective challenges conventional notions of individual identity as ultimately illusory
Phenomenal world, including all objects and experiences, viewed as manifestation of Brahman rather than ultimately real
Reevaluation of causality necessitated by understanding of Brahman as unchanging and beyond cause-effect
Underlying unity of all beings emphasized, fostering compassion and non-violence (ahimsa )
Sensory experiences and empirical knowledge considered unreliable sources of ultimate truth
Liberation (moksha ) understood as realization of true nature already free and one with Brahman
Not a state to be achieved but an unveiling of existing reality
Impact on Spiritual Practices and Ethics
Knowledge (jnana ) and inquiry (vichara) emphasized over ritualistic or devotional approaches
Self-reflection and contemplation on non-dual nature of reality encouraged
Examples: meditating on "I am Brahman," investigating source of thoughts
Ethical behavior grounded in recognition of fundamental unity of all beings
Treating others as oneself, practicing non-harm (ahimsa)
Detachment from worldly outcomes cultivated through understanding of their ultimate unreality
Emphasis on inner transformation rather than external actions or rituals
Guru-disciple relationship important for transmission of non-dual wisdom
Traditional texts (Upanishads , Bhagavad Gita ) studied under guidance of realized teacher
Advaita vs Other Schools
Comparisons with Dualistic and Pluralistic Systems
Advaita's non-dualism contrasts with dualistic Dvaita Vedanta maintaining distinction between souls and God
Differs from Samkhya school positing two eternal principles (Purusha and Prakriti)
Contrasts with Buddhist schools in affirming unchanging, eternal self (Atman) vs no-self (anatman) doctrine
Maya concept distinct from Buddhist emptiness (shunyata), though both address nature of phenomenal reality
Emphasis on knowledge for liberation contrasts with bhakti schools prioritizing devotion to personal deity
Reduces all reality to single principle of Brahman unlike Nyaya-Vaisheshika accepting multiple categories of existence
Shares non-dual approach with Kashmir Shaivism but differs in conception of ultimate reality and role of divine power (Shakti)
Distinctive Features of Advaita
Absolute non-dualism sets Advaita apart from qualified non-dualism (Vishishtadvaita ) and other Vedantic schools
Unique interpretation of Upanishadic mahavakyas emphasizing complete identity of Atman and Brahman
Sophisticated analysis of three states of consciousness (waking, dream, deep sleep) to reveal underlying awareness
Concept of jivanmukti (liberation while living) distinguishes Advaita from some other liberation theories
Advaita's approach to scriptural interpretation (samanvaya ) reconciles seemingly contradictory Vedic statements
Developed system of superimposition (adhyasa ) and sublation (badha ) to explain relationship between Brahman and world
Emphasis on direct realization through self-inquiry rather than gradual purification or yogic practices