Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
In Advaita Vedānta, the concept of liberation is profound, culminating in "Moksha." A unique aspect of this liberation is *Jivanmukti*, or embodied liberation, which signifies the attainment of spiritual freedom and self-realization while still living in the physical body. Unlike *Videhamukti*, which refers to liberation after death, Jivanmukti emphasizes the possibility of experiencing ultimate reality—Brahman—in this very existence. It is the core tenet that the individual self (Atman) is non-different from the ultimate reality (Brahman), and the realization of this identity liberates one from the cycles of suffering (Samsara) and ignorance (Avidya).
Nature of Embodied Liberation (Jīvanmukti) in Advaita Vedānta
Jīvanmukti, literally "liberation while living," is a central concept in Advaita Vedānta. It posits that an individual can attain Moksha, or ultimate liberation, even while residing in a physical body. This state is achieved through the direct intuitive realization (aparokṣānubhūti) of the non-duality of the individual self (Atman) and the Supreme Self (Brahman), encapsulated in the Mahavakya "Tat Tvam Asi" (Thou Art That).
Key Characteristics of a Jīvanmukta
- Freedom from Ignorance (Avidya) and its effects: A Jīvanmukta transcends the illusion of separateness and realizes the oneness of all existence. The world, though appearing real, is understood as an illusory superimposition (adhyāsa) on Brahman.
- Transcendence of Dualities: The liberated individual is undisturbed by worldly dualities such as pleasure and pain, honor and dishonor, success and failure. They maintain an equanimous state of mind.
- Absence of Egoism and Desires: The false identification with the body, mind, and intellect (egoism or ahamkara) is dissolved. Consequently, desires, cravings, and attachments (vasanas) cease to bind them.
- Continual Abidance in Brahman: The Jīvanmukta’s consciousness is perpetually rooted in the knowledge of their true identity as Brahman, irrespective of external circumstances or bodily actions. They are said to move in the world like an ordinary person but without being bound by it.
- Absence of Doership and Enjoyership: The Jīvanmukta recognizes that all actions are performed by the Gunas (modes of nature), and they are merely a witness (sakshi), free from the sense of being the doer or enjoyer.
- Universal Love and Compassion (Ahimsa): Freed from egoistic motivations, a Jīvanmukta exhibits boundless compassion and goodwill towards all beings, seeing the same Atman in everyone.
While the body may still experience the residue of past actions (prarabdha karma), this does not affect the Jīvanmukta's inner state of liberation. They simply live out the remainder of their embodied existence with complete detachment, serving as an ideal and inspiration for others on the spiritual path.
Conclusion
In essence, Jīvanmukti in Advaita Vedānta represents the pinnacle of spiritual achievement – a state of being truly free while alive. It is a profound philosophical concept that underscores the potential for human beings to realize their ultimate, non-dual nature (Brahman-Atman identity) in their current lifetime, transcending the limitations of the phenomenal world. A Jīvanmukta embodies wisdom, equanimity, and universal compassion, demonstrating that true liberation is an inner transformation, not merely a posthumous state, and serves as a living testament to the truth of Advaita.
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.