Advaita Vedanta is a philosophical concept that is rooted in the ancient texts of Hinduism, particularly the Upanishads. It is a school of thought that emphasizes the non-dual nature of the self (Atman) and ultimate reality (Brahman). According to Advaita Vedanta, the individual self is not separate from the ultimate reality, but rather it is a manifestation of it. This concept is often described as "oneness" or "unity" and is considered to be the ultimate goal of human existence.

Now, the question arises whether one can intellectually understand Advaita Vedanta or must it be experienced? The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. It is a complex and nuanced concept that requires both intellectual understanding and experiential realization.

On one hand, intellectual understanding is crucial in comprehending the concepts and principles of Advaita Vedanta. It involves studying the scriptures, listening to the teachings of enlightened masters, and reflecting upon them. This process helps in developing a clear understanding of the non-dual nature of the self and ultimate reality. However, intellectual understanding alone is not enough to fully grasp the depth and essence of Advaita Vedanta.

On the other hand, experiential realization is equally important in understanding Advaita Vedanta. It involves a direct experience of the non-dual nature of the self and ultimate reality. This experience is often described as a state of pure consciousness, where the individual self merges with the ultimate reality. This experience cannot be attained through mere intellectual understanding, but rather it requires a deep and sincere practice of meditation and self-inquiry.

In Advaita Vedanta, both intellectual understanding and experiential realization are considered to be two sides of the same coin. They complement each other and are necessary for a complete understanding of this philosophy. Intellectual understanding helps in laying the foundation, while experiential realization leads to a direct experience of the ultimate truth.

In conclusion, Advaita Vedanta cannot be fully understood through intellectual means alone. It requires a combination of intellectual understanding and experiential realization. Therefore, it is essential to not only study the scriptures and teachings but also to engage in spiritual practices that can lead to a direct experience of the non-dual nature of the self and ultimate reality. Only then can one truly understand and embody the principles of Advaita Vedanta.