Question

Which of the following best describes the core philosophy of Dvaita Vedanta as taught by Madhvacharya?

• A. The individual soul is identical to Brahman, and the universe is an illusion.
• B. Brahman, the soul, and the universe are three separate, eternal realities, and liberation comes through faith and devotion.
• C. The individual soul is ultimately absorbed into Brahman, losing its individuality.
• D. The universe is an illusion, and liberation can be achieved by renouncing all worldly attachment.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Brahman, the soul, and the universe are three separate, eternal realities, and liberation comes through faith and devotion.

Dvaita Vedanta Dvaita Vedanta, or "dualism," asserts a clear distinction between Brahman (God), the individual soul (Jiva), and the universe. Founded by Madhvacharya, this philosophy teaches that God, the soul, and the material world are three separate, eternal realities. The soul remains bound by ignorance and material attachment, but through faith, devotion, and divine grace, it can attain moksha. In this liberated state, the soul dwells eternally in the presence of God in a divine realm, free from the cycle of birth and death.