Vishishtadvaita

Definition

Vishishtadvaita, or qualified non-dualism, is a philosophical school within Vedanta that asserts the unity of the individual soul (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman), while also recognizing their distinctiveness. It emphasizes that while all souls are a part of Brahman, they maintain their individuality and uniqueness, setting it apart from absolute non-dualism. This perspective plays a crucial role in understanding the development of Hindu thought and religious practice, particularly in its relationship with the Vedas and texts like the Bhagavad Gita.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Vishishtadvaita was established by the philosopher Ramanuja in the 11th century as a response to earlier Vedantic philosophies.
2. The term literally means 'qualified non-dualism,' indicating a belief in both unity and distinction within the relationship between Atman and Brahman.
3. Vishishtadvaita emphasizes devotion (bhakti) as a means to realize the connection with Brahman, encouraging personal relationships with deities.
4. It recognizes that while Brahman is the supreme reality, individual souls are real and distinct, thus creating a more personal approach to spirituality.
5. This school of thought has influenced various devotional movements in Hinduism, promoting practices centered around love and surrender to God.

Review Questions

• How does Vishishtadvaita differ from Advaita in its understanding of Atman and Brahman?
  • Vishishtadvaita differs from Advaita by asserting that while Atman and Brahman are ultimately one, they also retain their individuality. Advaita teaches absolute non-duality, where distinctions between the individual soul and ultimate reality dissolve entirely. In contrast, Vishishtadvaita maintains that individual souls are unique aspects of Brahman, allowing for personal devotion and a relationship with the divine without losing their distinct identities.
• Discuss the role of devotion (bhakti) in Vishishtadvaita and how it shapes religious practices within this philosophical framework.
  • In Vishishtadvaita, devotion (bhakti) is central to spiritual practice. This philosophy encourages individuals to cultivate a personal relationship with God through love and surrender. Bhakti not only serves as a means to connect with Brahman but also emphasizes accessibility to divine grace, making spirituality more intimate. As a result, followers engage in various devotional activities like prayer, worship, and rituals to express their devotion.
• Evaluate the impact of Ramanuja's teachings on later developments in Hinduism and how Vishishtadvaita contributed to religious diversity within the tradition.
  • Ramanuja's teachings significantly shaped later developments in Hinduism by introducing a philosophy that harmonized personal devotion with metaphysical understanding. His emphasis on Vishishtadvaita allowed for a more inclusive view of spirituality, leading to diverse devotional movements that celebrated various deities. This contribution fostered a rich tapestry of practices and beliefs within Hinduism, accommodating different expressions of faith while reinforcing the idea of divine presence through individuality.

Related terms

Advaita: A philosophical system that teaches the concept of non-duality, asserting that there is no distinction between Atman and Brahman.

Brahman: The ultimate reality or cosmic spirit in Hindu philosophy, which is the source of all existence and the essence of the universe.

Ramanuja: A prominent philosopher and theologian who is credited with developing the Vishishtadvaita school of thought in the 11th century.