Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Liberation, or *moksha*, is the ultimate goal in Hindu philosophy, representing freedom from the cycle of birth and death (*samsara*) and the attainment of ultimate reality. It signifies the cessation of suffering and the realization of one’s true nature. Vedanta, meaning “the end of the Vedas,” is a school of Hindu philosophy that provides various interpretations of the Vedic scriptures and offers distinct paths to achieve this liberation. These paths are deeply rooted in understanding the nature of reality (Brahman), the self (Atman), and the relationship between the two. The three major sub-schools of Vedanta – Advaita, Vishishtadvaita, and Dvaita – each propose unique methodologies for attaining moksha, reflecting their differing ontological perspectives.
Advaita Vedanta: The Path of Non-Dualism
Advaita Vedanta, propounded by Adi Shankaracharya (8th century CE), asserts the absolute non-duality of Brahman and Atman. The individual self (Atman) is ultimately identical to Brahman. Ignorance (*avidya*) is the root cause of suffering and the illusion of separateness. Liberation, in Advaita, is the realization of this non-duality – the understanding that “I am Brahman.”
- Jnana Yoga (The Path of Knowledge): This is the primary path to liberation in Advaita. It involves rigorous self-inquiry (*atma-vichara*), discrimination between the real (Brahman) and the unreal (the world of appearances), and the study of the scriptures (*shravana*, *manana*, *nididhyasana*).
- Renunciation (Vairagya): Detachment from worldly desires and possessions is crucial for focusing on self-realization.
- The Role of a Guru: A qualified teacher is essential to guide the seeker on the path of knowledge.
Liberation is attained in this life itself (*jivanmukti*) when the individual realizes their true nature. The body continues to function until *prarabdha karma* (accumulated karma bearing fruit in this life) is exhausted.
Vishishtadvaita Vedanta: The Path of Qualified Non-Dualism
Vishishtadvaita, championed by Ramanujacharya (11th-12th century CE), proposes a qualified non-dualism. Brahman is the ultimate reality, but it is not devoid of attributes. The world and individual souls are real, but they are parts or modes (*prakaras*) of Brahman, like waves are to the ocean. The Atman is a spark of the divine fire of Brahman.
- Bhakti Yoga (The Path of Devotion): This is the primary path to liberation in Vishishtadvaita. Intense love and devotion to Brahman (often conceived as Vishnu or Lakshmi) are essential.
- Karma Yoga (The Path of Action): Performing actions without attachment to their fruits, dedicating them to Brahman.
- Jnana Yoga (The Path of Knowledge): Understanding the relationship between Brahman, the world, and the individual soul.
Liberation involves attaining proximity to Brahman and enjoying eternal bliss. It is not a merging with Brahman, but a continued existence in a state of loving communion. The liberated soul resides in *Vaikuntha*, the abode of Vishnu.
Dvaita Vedanta: The Path of Dualism
Dvaita Vedanta, founded by Madhvacharya (13th century CE), asserts a complete and eternal distinction between Brahman, the individual souls, and the world. Brahman is the supreme being, and the souls are eternally dependent on Brahman. The Atman is fundamentally different from Brahman.
- Bhakti Yoga (The Path of Devotion): Similar to Vishishtadvaita, devotion to Brahman (Krishna) is central. However, the emphasis is on recognizing the inherent difference between the devotee and the deity.
- Karma Yoga (The Path of Action): Performing actions in accordance with scriptural injunctions and with a sense of duty.
- Jnana Yoga (The Path of Knowledge): Understanding the five eternal differences: Brahman-soul, Brahman-matter, soul-matter, soul-soul, and difference within each category.
Liberation in Dvaita involves attaining eternal bliss in the presence of Brahman, but without merging with it. The liberated soul enjoys a distinct, yet blissful, existence. This is achieved through the grace of Brahman, earned through sincere devotion and righteous action.
| School of Vedanta | Nature of Reality | Relationship between Atman & Brahman | Primary Path to Liberation | Nature of Liberation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advaita | Non-dual (Brahman is the only reality) | Atman is identical to Brahman | Jnana Yoga (Knowledge) | Realization of non-duality (Jivanmukti) |
| Vishishtadvaita | Qualified Non-dual (Brahman with attributes) | Atman is a part/mode of Brahman | Bhakti Yoga (Devotion) | Eternal communion with Brahman in Vaikuntha |
| Dvaita | Dual (Brahman, Atman, and world are distinct) | Atman is eternally different from Brahman | Bhakti Yoga (Devotion) | Eternal bliss in the presence of Brahman |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while all three schools of Vedanta aim for liberation from *samsara*, their approaches differ significantly based on their ontological commitments. Advaita emphasizes self-realization through knowledge, Vishishtadvaita stresses devotion and a qualified unity, and Dvaita highlights the eternal distinction between the individual and the divine. These diverse paths reflect the richness and complexity of Hindu philosophical thought, offering a range of options for seekers to pursue their spiritual goals. The choice of path often depends on individual temperament and inclination.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.