Significance of Brahman and Atman
Brahman and Atman are fundamental concepts in Indian philosophy. Brahman represents the ultimate reality or cosmic spirit, while Atman signifies the individual self or soul. In traditions like Vedanta and Purana, these two concepts are acknowledged as non-different, emphasizing their unity in spiritual understanding. The realization of their identity is crucial, as reflected in meditative practices and the teachings of the Gita. Overall, Brahman and Atman symbolize the connection between universal consciousness and individual existence.
Synonyms: Universal spirit, Ultimate reality, Individual soul, Self, Cosmic consciousness, Essence, Divine essence, True self
In Dutch: Brahman en Atman; In Finnish: Brahman ja Atman; In Spanish: Brahman y Atman; In German: Brahman und Atman
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Brahman and Atman'
In Hinduism, Brahman and Atman represent ultimate reality and individual self, respectively. Their non-difference underscores unity in Vedanta philosophy, symbolizing interconnectedness where Brahman is universal consciousness and Atman is individual soul, both embodying the same essence.
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The philosophical concepts in Vedanta indicating the ultimate reality (Brahman) and the self (Atman), whose non-difference is central to the argument.[1] (2) The relationship and equivalency between the ultimate reality (Brahman) and the self (Atman).[2] (3) The identity of meaning of the two words indicates they are non-different; Brahman is referred to traditionally as the universal consciousness, while Atman is the individual self.[3] (4) Brahman refers to the ultimate reality or cosmic spirit, while Atman is the individual self, signifying their intertwined nature in non-duality.[4] (5) Two concepts connected in the philosophical context, symbolizing the ultimate reality (Brahman) and the individual self (Atman).[5]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) Brahman is the ultimate reality in Vedanta, and Atman is the individual soul or self, both representing the same essence.[6] (2) Brahman refers to the ultimate reality, while Atman is the individual soul that attains glory through realization.[7]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) These terms denote the ultimate reality, where Brahman is the absolute truth from the objective viewpoint, and Atman is the subjective experience of self-awareness.[8]
From: Kena Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) Central concepts in the text indicating the ultimate reality (Brahman) and the true self (Atman) within all beings.[9]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Two fundamental concepts in Indian philosophy representing the ultimate reality (Brahman) and the individual self (Atman).[10] (2) In Indian philosophy, Brahman represents the ultimate, unchanging reality, while Atman signifies the individual self or soul that is connected to Brahman.[11]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) The realization of the identity between these two concepts is central to the themes of the Gita.[12] (2) Concepts in Indian philosophy regarding the ultimate reality (Brahman) and the individual self (Atman), with Buddha denying their true existence.[13]
The concept of Brahman and Atman in local and regional sources
Brahman and Atman are fundamental concepts in Indian philosophy; Brahman symbolizes the universal consciousness or ultimate reality, while Atman represents the individual soul, illustrating the profound connection between universal and personal existence.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Key concepts in Indian philosophy where 'Brahman' represents universal consciousness or reality, and 'Atman' signifies individual soul or self.[14]