Question

According to Vedanta philosophy, what is the nature of the phenomenal world (the world of appearances)?

• A. It is the ultimate reality that must be accepted as permanent and unchanging.
• B. It is an illusion (Maya), masking the true, unchanging reality of Brahman.
• C. It is governed entirely by karma and cannot be transcended.
• D. It is a temporary reality created by the gods for human enjoyment.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. It is an illusion (Maya), masking the true, unchanging reality of Brahman.

Vedanta Philosophy Vedanta refers to the philosophical teachings found in the Upaniṣads, which form the concluding portion of the Vedas. Broadly, it encompasses the core principles expressed in the Prasthana-trayi—the Upaniṣads, the Brahma Sutra, and the Bhagavad Gita. The term Vedanta literally means “the end of the Veda,” signifying both its position in the Vedic corpus and its culmination in spiritual thought. The foundational text of this system is the Brahma Sutra by Badarayaṇa, compiled around the 2nd century BCE. In Vedanta, Brahman is considered the ultimate, unchanging reality, while the phenomenal world is seen as Maya—an illusion or impermanent appearance. The individual self, or Atman, is regarded as identical with Brahman. Realization of this unity through true knowledge leads to liberation (moksha). Both Brahman and Atman are eternal, infinite, and indestructible.