Tat tvam asi

Definition

'Tat tvam asi' is a Sanskrit phrase meaning 'That thou art,' which expresses the fundamental non-dualistic relationship between the individual self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) in Advaita Vedanta. This phrase encapsulates the essence of self-realization, emphasizing that the true nature of the self is identical to the universal consciousness.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Tat tvam asi' is one of the four great mahavakyas (great sayings) found in the Upanishads, specifically from the Chandogya Upanishad.
2. The phrase emphasizes the realization that one's true essence (Atman) is not separate from Brahman, highlighting the central teaching of Advaita Vedanta.
3. Adi Shankara, a key philosopher in Advaita Vedanta, utilized 'tat tvam asi' to advocate for the understanding of non-duality as a means to liberation (moksha).
4. This phrase is often contrasted with dualistic perspectives in Indian philosophy that maintain a distinction between the self and ultimate reality.
5. The realization encapsulated by 'tat tvam asi' is seen as pivotal in overcoming ignorance (avidya) and achieving spiritual enlightenment.

Review Questions

• How does 'tat tvam asi' articulate the relationship between Brahman and Atman in Advaita Vedanta?
  • 'Tat tvam asi' articulates that Atman, the individual self, is fundamentally one with Brahman, the ultimate reality. This phrase asserts that despite the apparent differences between individuals and the universe, at their core, they share an identical essence. Through this understanding, Advaita Vedanta teaches that recognizing this unity leads to liberation from ignorance and suffering.
• In what ways did Adi Shankara's teachings on 'tat tvam asi' influence later interpretations of non-dualism?
  • Adi Shankara emphasized 'tat tvam asi' as a foundational concept for understanding non-dualism. His commentaries and teachings highlighted that this phrase reveals not just a philosophical truth but also a path to spiritual realization. By stressing direct experience and intellectual understanding, Shankara shaped subsequent interpretations that focused on meditation and self-inquiry as methods to grasp this essential unity.
• Evaluate how 'tat tvam asi' compares to other metaphysical concepts in Indian philosophy regarding the nature of reality.
  • 'Tat tvam asi' stands apart from dualistic metaphysical concepts in Indian philosophy by asserting a profound non-duality between Atman and Brahman. In contrast, schools like Dvaita (dualism) maintain a distinction between the individual soul and God. The significance of 'tat tvam asi' lies in its challenge to these dualistic views by positing that understanding one's identity as Brahman can dissolve existential separateness, ultimately reshaping notions of reality and existence across various philosophical traditions.

Related terms

Brahman: 'Brahman' refers to the ultimate, unchanging reality that is the source of all existence in Hindu philosophy, often described as infinite and formless.

Atman: 'Atman' is the individual soul or self in Hindu philosophy, regarded as eternal and fundamentally identical to Brahman in non-dualism.

Maya: 'Maya' refers to the illusion or ignorance that obscures one's understanding of reality, leading to a sense of duality and separation from Brahman.