Question

In Vedanta philosophy, what is the relationship between Atman (the individual self) and Brahman (the ultimate reality)?

• A. Atman is subordinate to Brahman and must worship it for liberation.
• B. Atman and Brahman are entirely separate and can never be united.
• C. Atman is considered identical to Brahman, and realizing this unity leads to moksha.
• D. Atman is a temporary soul that dissolves into nature after death.

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Atman is considered identical to Brahman, and realizing this unity leads to moksha.

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.