Brahman

Definition

Brahman is the ultimate, unchanging reality in Indian philosophy, representing the cosmic spirit or absolute consciousness that pervades everything. It serves as the foundation of existence and is closely tied to the concepts of Atman (the self) and the universe, influencing various philosophical traditions and schools of thought in India.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Brahman is considered to be beyond all forms and qualities, described as 'Sat-Chit-Ananda,' meaning existence, consciousness, and bliss.
2. In Advaita Vedānta, Brahman is viewed as the sole reality, with all differences being mere illusions created by māyā.
3. In Viśiṣṭādvaita, Brahman is understood as a personal God who possesses qualities and can engage with devotees.
4. In contrast, Dvaita philosophy posits a dualistic relationship between Brahman and individual souls, emphasizing their distinctness.
5. The realization of Brahman leads to Mokṣa, liberating individuals from suffering and the endless cycle of reincarnation.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of Brahman relate to Atman in various Indian philosophical schools?
  • The relationship between Brahman and Atman is central to understanding Indian philosophy. In non-dualistic schools like Advaita Vedānta, Atman is seen as identical to Brahman, implying that realizing this unity leads to liberation. In contrast, dualistic perspectives such as Dvaita view Atman and Brahman as distinct entities. Understanding these relationships helps clarify how different traditions approach the nature of self and ultimate reality.
• Compare the interpretations of Brahman in Advaita Vedānta and Viśiṣṭādvaita philosophies regarding their implications for spiritual practice.
  • Advaita Vedānta emphasizes the non-dual nature of Brahman, advocating for a path of self-inquiry and meditation to realize one's identity with the absolute. This view promotes detachment from worldly phenomena perceived through māyā. In contrast, Viśiṣṭādvaita presents Brahman as a personal deity with attributes, encouraging devotion (bhakti) as a means to connect with Brahman. These differing interpretations shape spiritual practices significantly—either through self-realization or devotional worship.
• Evaluate the implications of understanding Brahman for social and political thought in Indian philosophy.
  • Understanding Brahman has profound implications for social and political thought in Indian philosophy. When viewed as the underlying essence of all beings, it promotes a sense of interconnectedness among individuals, influencing ideas around social justice and equality. Conversely, interpretations that emphasize duality may lead to hierarchical structures within society. Thus, how one conceptualizes Brahman can affect views on governance, ethics, and individual rights within various philosophical frameworks.

Related terms

Atman:

Atman refers to the individual soul or self, which is considered to be eternal and is ultimately one with Brahman in non-dualistic perspectives.

Mokṣa: Mokṣa is the liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara), achieved through understanding the true nature of Brahman and realizing one's unity with it.

Māyā: Māyā is the illusion or deceptive appearance of the physical world that distracts individuals from realizing the true nature of Brahman.