Advaita Vedanta

Definition

Advaita Vedanta is a non-dualistic school of Hindu philosophy that teaches the idea of oneness between the individual soul (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). It emphasizes that the apparent duality of the world is an illusion (Maya) and that realizing the unity of Atman and Brahman leads to liberation (Moksha). This philosophical perspective plays a crucial role in understanding Hindu cosmology, as it shapes concepts of creation, existence, and the nature of the universe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Advaita Vedanta was popularized by philosopher Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century CE, who wrote extensively to clarify its principles.
2. In Advaita Vedanta, knowledge (Jnana) is considered the key to overcoming ignorance (Avidya) and recognizing one's true nature.
3. The philosophy posits that all distinctions in the world, including those between individuals and God, are ultimately false and rooted in ignorance.
4. Advaita Vedanta encourages meditation and self-inquiry as practical methods to attain realization of one's unity with Brahman.
5. The teachings of Advaita Vedanta have influenced various spiritual traditions, not only within Hinduism but also across different philosophical systems worldwide.

Review Questions

• How does Advaita Vedanta challenge traditional notions of dualism in relation to Hindu cosmology?
  • Advaita Vedanta fundamentally challenges traditional dualism by asserting that there is no separation between Atman (individual soul) and Brahman (ultimate reality). It argues that the perceived duality in existence is merely an illusion created by Maya. By promoting the idea that everything is interconnected and ultimately one, Advaita Vedanta reshapes our understanding of cosmology by removing barriers between self and universe, leading to a more holistic view of reality.
• Discuss the role of Maya in Advaita Vedanta and its implications for understanding Hindu cosmology.
  • Maya plays a crucial role in Advaita Vedanta as it represents the illusion that causes beings to perceive separation from Brahman. This concept implies that what we see as diverse and multifaceted existence is not the ultimate truth but rather a veil obscuring the oneness of all things. In terms of Hindu cosmology, this suggests that understanding the nature of Maya can lead to deeper insights into the universe's true essence, guiding practitioners towards liberation from worldly attachments.
• Evaluate how Advaita Vedanta's view on knowledge and liberation contributes to broader philosophical discussions about existence and reality.
  • Advaita Vedanta posits that true knowledge leads to liberation by allowing individuals to see through Maya and recognize their identity with Brahman. This idea contributes significantly to philosophical discussions about existence by questioning the very fabric of reality. It challenges assumptions about individuality and separateness, suggesting instead that understanding one's oneness with everything can lead to profound changes in perspective. Such insights resonate with other philosophical traditions exploring consciousness, perception, and reality, fostering interconnections across various schools of thought.

Related terms

Brahman: The ultimate, unchanging reality in Hindu philosophy, which is the source of all creation and is identified with consciousness.

Maya: The illusion or deceptive appearance of the material world that obscures the true nature of reality in Advaita Vedanta.

Moksha: The liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) and the realization of one's true identity with Brahman.