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0 min readIntroduction
Rāmānujācārya (1017-1137 CE) was a highly influential Vaishnava philosopher and theologian who propounded the Vishishtadvaita Vedanta school of philosophy. This school offers a nuanced perspective on the relationship between the individual soul (Atman) and the Supreme Being (Brahman), differing significantly from the absolute non-dualism of Advaita Vedanta. Ramanuja’s philosophy emphasizes a ‘qualified non-dualism’, asserting that all existence is interconnected within Brahman, yet retains a distinct identity. Understanding this relationship is central to grasping the core tenets of his philosophical system and its implications for spiritual liberation.
The Nature of Brahman according to Ramanuja
Ramanuja posits Brahman as Saguna Brahman – Brahman with attributes. Unlike Shankara’s Nirguna Brahman (Brahman without attributes), Ramanuja’s Brahman possesses infinite auspicious qualities (kalyana gunas) such as omniscience, omnipotence, and infinite compassion. Brahman is not merely existence (Sat), consciousness (Chit), and bliss (Ananda), but is also the embodiment of all virtues and the source of all creation. Brahman is understood as Narayana or Vishnu, the personal God who actively creates, sustains, and dissolves the universe.
The Nature of the Self (Atman)
According to Ramanuja, the Atman is not identical to Brahman, as Advaita Vedanta claims. Instead, the Atman is a part (amsa) of Brahman, like a spark from a fire. Each Atman is a distinct entity, possessing its own individual characteristics and experiences. However, it is eternally connected to Brahman and dependent on it for its existence. The Atman is not illusory (Maya) as in Advaita, but is real and possesses inherent qualities. The Atman is also endowed with the capacity for both good and evil, and its ultimate goal is to attain liberation (moksha) through devotion (bhakti) to Brahman.
The Relationship: Qualified Non-Dualism (Vishishtadvaita)
The core of Ramanuja’s philosophy lies in his concept of Vishishtadvaita – qualified non-dualism. This means that Brahman is the ultimate reality, and everything else is a mode or attribute of Brahman. The relationship between Brahman and the Atman can be understood through three key aspects:
- Identity (Abheda): The Atman shares the same essential nature as Brahman. Both are eternal, conscious, and blissful.
- Difference (Bheda): The Atman is distinct from Brahman in terms of its individual characteristics, limitations, and experiences.
- Dependence (Prakarana): The Atman is dependent on Brahman for its existence and cannot exist independently.
Ramanuja uses the analogy of the body and the soul to illustrate this relationship. The soul (Atman) is inseparable from the body, yet distinct from it. Similarly, the Atman is inseparable from Brahman, yet retains its individual identity. This is also explained through the analogy of a wave and the ocean – the wave is part of the ocean, shares its essential nature, but is still a distinct entity.
The Role of Bhakti in Achieving Union
Unlike the Advaita path of knowledge (Jnana Yoga), Ramanuja emphasizes the path of devotion (Bhakti Yoga) as the primary means to achieve liberation. Through sincere devotion, surrender, and service to Brahman, the Atman can gradually overcome its limitations and realize its inherent connection to Brahman. This liberation is not a merging of the Atman into Brahman, but rather a realization of its eternal relationship with Brahman, leading to eternal bliss and service in Vaikuntha (Brahman’s abode).
Comparison with Advaita Vedanta
The following table highlights the key differences between Ramanuja’s Vishishtadvaita and Shankara’s Advaita Vedanta:
| Feature | Advaita Vedanta (Shankara) | Vishishtadvaita (Ramanuja) |
|---|---|---|
| Nature of Brahman | Nirguna Brahman (without attributes) | Saguna Brahman (with attributes) |
| Relationship between Atman and Brahman | Atman is identical to Brahman | Atman is a part of Brahman |
| Reality of the World | Illusion (Maya) | Real, but dependent on Brahman |
| Path to Liberation | Knowledge (Jnana Yoga) | Devotion (Bhakti Yoga) |
| Liberation | Merging with Brahman | Eternal service to Brahman |
Conclusion
Ramanujacharya’s Vishishtadvaita Vedanta offers a compelling alternative to the absolute non-dualism of Advaita, providing a framework for understanding the relationship between God and the Self that emphasizes both unity and difference. His emphasis on devotion and the inherent reality of the world resonates with a broader range of spiritual seekers. Ramanuja’s philosophy continues to be a significant force in Hindu thought, shaping devotional practices and offering a path to liberation that is accessible and meaningful to many.
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.