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What is the role of meditation in Advaita Vedanta?
In Advaita Vedanta, meditation plays a crucial role in the journey towards self-realization and understanding the ultimate reality of Brahman. It is considered an important tool for achieving union with the divine and transcending the limitations of the ego.
Meditation in Advaita Vedanta is not just limited to sitting in silence and focusing on the breath, but it is a deep contemplation on the nature of the self and the ultimate reality. It is a process of turning inward and detaching from the external world, including the body and mind, in order to connect with the true self or Atman.
The practice of meditation in Advaita Vedanta is rooted in the concept of "neti-neti," which means "not this, not this." It is a method of negation, where one systematically eliminates all the false identifications and attachments to the body, mind, and ego. Through this process, one can realize that the true self, the Atman, is beyond all these temporary identifications and is the same as the ultimate reality of Brahman.
Meditation also helps in cultivating a state of awareness and mindfulness, which is essential for understanding the non-dual nature of the self and Brahman. It allows one to observe the passing thoughts and emotions without getting attached to them, thus leading to a state of detachment and inner peace.
Furthermore, meditation in Advaita Vedanta is not limited to a specific technique or method. It can take various forms, such as chanting mantras, visualizing deities, or simply sitting in silence. The key is to focus the mind and turn it inward towards the true self.
In addition, meditation is not just a practice to be done during a specific time or in a specific place. It is a way of life, where one strives to maintain a state of awareness and mindfulness in all actions and thoughts. This helps in breaking the illusion of duality and realizing the oneness of the self and Brahman in all aspects of life.
In conclusion, meditation is an integral part of Advaita Vedanta, as it helps in dissolving the ego and realizing the ultimate reality of Brahman. It is a powerful tool for self-discovery and achieving union with the divine. Through regular practice and sincere effort, one can experience the true nature of the self and the ultimate reality of non-duality.