What is Vedanta?
- Vedanta is a spiritual and philosophical tradition that originated in ancient India and is based on the Vedas, which are considered the oldest and most sacred texts of Hinduism. Vedanta is a Sanskrit word that means “end of the Vedas” or “essence of the Vedas”, and it is a school of thought that focuses on the study and interpretation of the Upanishads, which are a collection of texts that form the concluding part of the Vedas.
- At its core, Vedanta is a non-dualistic philosophy that asserts the oneness of the individual self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). It teaches that the true nature of the individual self is divine and infinite, and that this nature can be realized through the practice of spiritual disciplines such as meditation, self-inquiry, and devotion.
- Vedanta emphasizes the importance of self-knowledge, or the understanding of one’s true nature as pure consciousness, as the key to achieving spiritual liberation and freedom. It also stresses the need for ethical living, social responsibility, and service to others as an integral part of the spiritual path.
- Vedanta has given rise to several schools of thought, including Advaita Vedanta, Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, and Dvaita Vedanta, each of which offers a different interpretation of the relationship between the individual self and ultimate reality. Vedanta has had a profound influence on Indian spirituality and philosophy, and it continues to inspire spiritual seekers around the world to this day.