Introduction
अद्वैत वेदान्त (Advaita Vedānta)—in the venerable corridors of philosophical inquiry, delineates a doctrine of compelling non-duality, postulating an ultimate reality wherein the manifold distinctions of the empirical World are rendered illusory. This exalted school of Thought, attributed to the illustrious sage Adi Shankaracharya, asserts the indivisible oneness of the Self (Atman) with the Absolute (Brahman), thereby inviting the seeker to transcend the ephemeral confines of Individuality. अद्वैत वेदान्त, in its profound explication of metaphysical unity, demands an intellectual and experiential journey whereby the aspirant endeavors to perceive the illimitable essence that pervades Existence, thus achieving the liberation of moksha.
Language
The nominal "अद्वैत वेदान्त" (Advaita Vedānta), when parsed, reveals a complex Structure rooted in Sanskrit Language and Philosophy. At its core, "अद्वैत" is an adjective meaning "non-dual," derived from the prefix "अ-" (a-) indicating negation, and "द्वैत" (dvaita), meaning "dual" or "duality." "वेदान्त" (Vedānta) is a compound Noun formed by "वेद" (veda), meaning "Knowledge" or "sacred knowledge," and "अन्त" (anta), meaning "end" or "conclusion." Together, the term denotes a philosophical system that posits a non-dualistic reality, suggesting unity of the self and the ultimate reality, as a culmination of Vedic thought. Etymologically, "अद्वैत" traces its roots to the Proto-Indo-Iranian *dwi-, related to the concept of two or duality, with the negating prefix negating this Sense of separation. "वेद" derives from the Proto-Indo-European *weid-, which means "to see" or "to know," indicating a profound sense of vision or Wisdom. "अन्त," on the other hand, is linked to the Proto-Indo-European root *ant-, meaning "front" or "face," thus metaphorically representing the ultimate or concluding knowledge. While the term's Genealogy within philosophical discourse is substantial, its Etymology provides insight into the linguistic depths upon which its philosophical meanings were constructed. "अद्वैत वेदान्त" remains deeply entrenched in its Sanskritic origins across philosophical and historical contexts, highlighting linguistic Continuity and the Evolution of abstract metaphysical concepts through language.
Genealogy
अद्वैत वेदान्त (Advaita Vedānta), a philosophical concept rooted in the Indian intellectual Tradition, has undergone significant transformations in its meaning, evolving from a metaphysical doctrine to a symbol of non-duality and ultimate reality. Originating from the foundational texts known as the Upanishads, particularly the Brihadaranyaka and Chandogya Upanishads, अद्वैत वेदान्त gained prominence through the works of Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century CE. Shankaracharya's commentaries on the Prasthanatrayi—comprising the Brahma Sutras, The Bhagavad Gita, and the Upanishads—cemented Advaita as a key school of Hindu philosophy, emphasizing the oneness of Atman (Soul) and Brahman (ultimate reality). Central to this tradition are figures such as Mandana Mishra and Padmapada, who played crucial roles in interpreting and disseminating its teachings. Historically, places like Varanasi and the monasteries established by Shankaracharya have been pivotal centers for Advaita discourse. As a signifier, अद्वैत वेदान्त has transcended its original metaphysical assertions to engage in with various intellectual and spiritual movements, sometimes misconstrued as solipsistic due to its emphasis on the illusory Nature of the world (maya). Its core Principle of non-duality has been appropriated in modern times by neo-Vedantic thinkers like Swami Vivekananda and Ramana Maharshi, who integrated it with Contemporary spiritual and existential queries. Misinterpretations often arise when Advaita's assertion of a singular reality is equated with Nihilism, ignoring its ethical implications of unity and compassion. Through its historical journey, अद्वैत वेदान्त is intertwined with broader philosophical discourses around the nature of Consciousness and existence, revealing underlying dialogues that connect it to global questions of identity and reality. This genealogy of Advaita reflects shifts in cultural and ideological frameworks, highlighting its enduring influence and adaptability within diverse intellectual contexts.
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