Difference between God (Paramatman) and the individual soul (Jīva Ātman)

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 The relationship between God (Paramatman) and the individual soul (Jīva Ātman) 



The relationship between God (Paramatman) and the individual soul (Jīva Ātman) is a fundamental concept in Hindu philosophy, particularly in Vedanta. Different schools of thought offer varying interpretations of this relationship:


Advaita Vedanta (Non-Dualism )


The individual soul (Jīva Ātman) and God (Brahman) are ultimately one.

The perception of individuality arises due to Maya (illusion). Once ignorance (Avidya) is removed, the Jīva realizes its true nature.

Example: A wave appears distinct from the ocean but is ultimately just water (ocean = Paramatman, wave = Jīva).

Vishishtadvaita Vedanta (Qualified Non-Dualism )


The Jīva Ātman is a part of Brahman but not identical to it.

The individual soul is real but exists as an inseparable part of God, much like a cell within a body.

Liberation (Moksha) is attained through devotion (Bhakti) and realizing the soul’s dependence on God.

Example: A spark of fire is real but still dependent on the fire (God).

Dvaita Vedanta (Dualism )


The Jīva Ātman and Brahman are eternally distinct.

The soul and God are completely separate, and the soul remains forever dependent on God.

Liberation is achieved through devotion (Bhakti) and surrender to God.

Example: A servant and a king—both exist, but the servant is always dependent on the king.

Achintya Bhedabheda (Inconceivable Oneness and Difference )


The Jīva is simultaneously one with and different from God.

The soul shares the qualities of God but differs in magnitude.

Devotion (Bhakti) is the means to realizing this relationship.

Example: A drop of water in the ocean—similar in essence but not in quantity.

Summary:

Advaita: The soul and God are one.

Vishishtadvaita: The soul is part of God but retains some individuality.

Dvaita: The soul and God are eternally distinct.

Achintya Bhedabheda: The soul is both distinct from and united with God.

In the same way that a computer connects to a main server only when linked to the internet, the individual soul can unite with the Supreme Soul through intense remembrance, contemplation, and meditation upon God. When disconnected, the soul remains separate from the Supreme Soul. However, through deep spiritual connection, it merges with and becomes one with the Divine.


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