Atman is a central concept in Hindu philosophy, particularly within the Vedanta school, where it is considered the innermost essence or the true self of an individual. Unlike the Western concept of the soul, which is often seen as a distinct entity that inhabits the body, Atman is regarded as eternal and identical to Brahman, the universal spirit or ultimate reality in Hinduism. This fundamental belief underscores the Hindu view that at the core of every living being there lies the same divine reality or consciousness, which is unchanging and infinite. The realization of this unity between Atman and Brahman is the ultimate goal of human life, according to Vedantic thought, and is the key to liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara).
In the Bhagavad Gita, one of the key texts in Hindu scripture, Atman is described as immutable, eternal, and beyond the physical existence. Lord Krishna, in his discourse to Arjuna, emphasizes that Atman can never be destroyed and transcends the temporal world. This understanding is pivotal in shaping the philosophical underpinnings of Hinduism, where the pursuit of spiritual growth is often directed toward experiencing and realizing one's own Atman. The emphasis is on detachment from the material aspects of life and fostering an inner journey towards self-realization.
The concept of Atman also intersects with other philosophical traditions within Hinduism, such as Yoga and Advaita Vedanta. In the yogic path, particularly in the discipline of Jnana Yoga (the yoga of knowledge), great emphasis is placed on understanding and identifying with Atman through deep meditation and introspection. Here, the goal is to dissolve the illusions (maya) that create a sense of separation between the individual and the universal. Similarly, in Advaita Vedanta, the sage Adi Shankara argued that the knowledge of one's own Atman being identical with Brahman is the only path to true liberation.
Exploring the concept of Atman has also led to scholarly debates and various interpretations within Hinduism. For example, the Dvaita (dualism) school posits a distinction between Atman and Brahman, contradicting the non-dualistic approach of Advaita Vedanta. Such diverse viewpoints contribute to a rich tapestry of understanding about what constitutes the self in Hindu philosophy. Despite these differences, the quest for an understanding of Atman remains a fundamental pursuit, driving spiritual and ethical practices across various Hindu traditions. This pursuit encourages a life of dharma (righteous living), compassion, and the attainment of jnana (knowledge), which are seen as means to realize the Brahman-Atman unity.