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Significance of Adhyatma

Adhyatma, in the context of Jainism and Purana, refers to the spiritual self or essence of being, crucial for the practice of adhyatmayoga. It encompasses the nature of the soul and spiritual knowledge, emphasizing the relationship between the self and the Supreme Soul. Adhyatma denotes a profound understanding that leads to self-realization and fulfillment, representing the spiritual aspect of existence. It is regarded as a vital branch of learning that facilitates insight into the divine and the interconnectedness of all beings.

Synonyms: Spirituality, Profoundness, Transcendentalism, Inner self, Self-realization, Mysticism, Enlightenment, Transcendence

In Dutch: Adhyatma; In German: Adhyatma; In Finnish: Adhyatma; In Spanish: Adhyatma

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Adhyatma'

Hinduism Books

Adhyatma in Hinduism encompasses the essence of the self, emphasizing spiritual knowledge and the relationship with the divine. It signifies the spiritual aspect of existence, self-realization, and the pursuit of knowledge leading to fulfillment.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) The spiritual or metaphysical aspect of knowledge concerning the self and the universe.[1] (2) Refers to the spiritual aspect of existence, encompassing the self and its relationship to the divine.[2] (3) The science through which one may know everything and which is superior to all things, related to the understanding of the self and its connection with the Supreme Soul.[3] (4) Adhyatma refers to the nature of the soul and spiritual knowledge that leads to great satisfaction and felicity, as laid down for every person.[4] (5) Adhyatma refers to the spiritual or inner self of human beings, encompassing the essence of existence and its relation to the universe.[5]

From: Bhagavadgita

(1) Referring to the essence of the self and spiritual knowledge, significant in understanding the relationship with the Deity.[6] (2) The manifestation of Brahman as an individual self.[7]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)

(1) The aspect of upbringing that relates specifically to one's own body and personal existence.[8] (2) Refers to the worship of prana as an internal aspect of oneself.[9]

From: Thirty minor Upanishads

(1) Pertaining to the body; describes the spiritual or inner aspect of sensory organs and functions.[10] (2) The deity presiding as Atma, associated with the highest spiritual achievement.[11]

From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)

(1) Refers to the corporeal aspects of existence, emphasizing the physical or material aspect of being.[12]

From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika

(1) The expression that denotes the self, associated with the physical body and senses.[13]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

The concept of Adhyatma in local and regional sources

History Books

Adhyatma signifies the understanding of the self, a core concept in the Gita's teachings, emphasizing self-knowledge as essential for spiritual growth and enlightenment.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) The knowledge of the self, which is emphasized in the teachings of the Gita.[14]