Advaita Vedanta
Non-dual philosophy teaching that individual self and universal consciousness are one.
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Overview
Systematized by Adi Shankaracharya, Advaita teaches that the apparent multiplicity of existence is ultimately illusory, and only Brahman—pure consciousness—truly exists. The individual atman is identical with Brahman.
Key Ideas
- 1Brahman alone is real; the world is apparent
- 2The jiva (individual) is Brahman, obscured by ignorance
- 3Liberation comes through knowledge (jnana), not action
- 4The mahavakyas: 'Tat tvam asi' (You are That)
Who It Suits
Those drawn to radical inquiry, seekers comfortable with paradox, and those who resonate with 'Who am I?' as a primary question.
How to Start
Practice self-inquiry (atma-vichara), study Shankaracharya's commentaries, and contemplate the mahavakyas.
Recommended Reading
VivekachudamaniAtma BodhaDrg-Drsya-Viveka