Advaita vs. Vishishtadvaita

Attribute	Advaita	Vishishtadvaita
Philosophy	Non-dualism	Qualified non-dualism
Ultimate Reality	Brahman (Absolute Reality)	Brahman (Absolute Reality)
Relationship with Brahman	Identity with Brahman	Oneness with Brahman
Individual Souls	Illusory, unreal	Real, distinct from Brahman
Maya (Illusion)	Ultimate reality is beyond Maya	Maya is real but dependent on Brahman
Salvation	Realization of one's true nature as Brahman	Attaining moksha through devotion and surrender to Brahman
Scriptural Authority	Upanishads, Brahma Sutras	Upanishads, Brahma Sutras, Divya Prabandham
Key Proponents	Adi Shankara	Ramanuja

Introduction

Advaita and Vishishtadvaita are two prominent schools of thought within Hindu philosophy. Both schools offer distinct perspectives on the nature of reality, the self, and the relationship between the individual and the divine. While Advaita emphasizes the concept of non-duality, Vishishtadvaita emphasizes qualified non-duality. In this article, we will explore the key attributes of both schools and delve into their similarities and differences.

Advaita

Advaita, derived from the Sanskrit word meaning "non-duality," is a philosophical system founded by Adi Shankara in the 8th century CE. It posits that the ultimate reality, Brahman, is devoid of any distinctions or divisions. According to Advaita, the individual self (Atman) is essentially identical to Brahman, and the perceived differences in the world are mere illusions (Maya).

One of the key attributes of Advaita is its emphasis on the concept of "Neti, Neti" or "Not this, Not this." This approach encourages seekers to negate all empirical experiences and identities, recognizing them as transient and unreal. By negating the unreal, Advaita aims to help individuals realize their true nature as the eternal, unchanging Brahman.

Advaita also places great importance on the practice of self-inquiry (Atma Vichara) and meditation. Through introspection and contemplation, practitioners seek to transcend the limitations of the mind and ego, ultimately realizing their oneness with Brahman. This realization is often described as "Brahma Jnana" or "knowledge of Brahman."

Furthermore, Advaita acknowledges the authority of the Vedas, considering them as the ultimate source of knowledge. However, it interprets the Vedic texts in a non-dualistic manner, emphasizing the underlying unity and non-difference between the individual, the world, and the divine.

In summary, Advaita highlights the non-dual nature of reality, encourages self-inquiry and meditation, and considers the Vedas as the ultimate source of knowledge.

Vishishtadvaita

Vishishtadvaita, meaning "qualified non-duality," is a philosophical school founded by Ramanuja in the 11th century CE. It presents a different perspective from Advaita by asserting that while the individual self (Jiva) and Brahman are interconnected, they are not identical. Vishishtadvaita posits that the individual self is a distinct entity with its own qualities and attributes, while still being dependent on Brahman.

One of the key attributes of Vishishtadvaita is its concept of "Sarira-Sariri Bhava," which means the relationship between the body and the soul. According to this school, the individual self is the "Sariri" or the embodied soul, and Brahman is the "Sarira" or the divine body. The individual self is considered a part of Brahman, intimately connected to it, but not completely identical.

Vishishtadvaita also emphasizes the concept of "Prapatti" or surrender to the divine. It suggests that through complete surrender and devotion to Brahman, individuals can attain salvation (Moksha). This surrender involves recognizing one's limitations and relying on the grace of Brahman for liberation.

Furthermore, Vishishtadvaita acknowledges the authority of the Vedas and interprets them in a way that upholds the existence of a personal God (Ishvara). It recognizes the divine manifestations and avatars, such as Lord Vishnu, as the means through which individuals can connect with Brahman.

In summary, Vishishtadvaita emphasizes the qualified non-duality between the individual self and Brahman, highlights the relationship between the body and the soul, emphasizes surrender and devotion to Brahman, and recognizes the existence of a personal God.

Similarities and Differences

While Advaita and Vishishtadvaita offer distinct philosophical perspectives, they also share some commonalities. Both schools acknowledge the existence of Brahman as the ultimate reality and consider the Vedas as authoritative texts. They also recognize the illusory nature of the world and the limitations of empirical experiences.

However, the key difference lies in their understanding of the relationship between the individual self and Brahman. Advaita posits the complete identity of the individual self and Brahman, while Vishishtadvaita asserts their interconnected yet distinct nature. Advaita emphasizes the non-dualistic nature of reality, whereas Vishishtadvaita emphasizes qualified non-duality.

Another difference lies in their approach to spiritual practice. Advaita places great emphasis on self-inquiry and meditation as the means to realize one's true nature. On the other hand, Vishishtadvaita emphasizes surrender and devotion to Brahman as the path to salvation.

Furthermore, Advaita tends to focus more on the impersonal aspect of Brahman, while Vishishtadvaita recognizes the existence of a personal God and emphasizes the importance of divine manifestations and avatars.

Despite these differences, both schools offer valuable insights into the nature of reality and the path to liberation. They provide seekers with different approaches to spiritual growth and self-realization, catering to diverse temperaments and inclinations.

Conclusion

Advaita and Vishishtadvaita are two significant schools of thought within Hindu philosophy, each offering unique perspectives on the nature of reality and the self. While Advaita emphasizes non-duality and the complete identity of the individual self and Brahman, Vishishtadvaita emphasizes qualified non-duality and the interconnected yet distinct nature of the individual self and Brahman.

Both schools recognize the illusory nature of the world, the limitations of empirical experiences, and the authority of the Vedas. They also provide different approaches to spiritual practice, with Advaita focusing on self-inquiry and meditation, and Vishishtadvaita emphasizing surrender and devotion to Brahman.

Ultimately, the choice between Advaita and Vishishtadvaita depends on the individual's inclination and spiritual path. Both schools offer profound insights into the nature of reality and the means to attain liberation. By understanding their attributes and exploring their teachings, seekers can embark on a transformative journey towards self-realization and union with the divine.