Non-Dual Shaivism, also known as Kashmir Shaivism, is a philosophical school within Hinduism that focuses on the concept of consciousness as the ultimate reality. This school of thought originated in the Kashmir region of India and is closely related to Advaita Vedanta, another school of Hindu philosophy.

The main similarity between Non-Dual Shaivism and Advaita Vedanta is their belief in the concept of non-dualism, or the idea that there is only one ultimate reality. In both philosophies, this ultimate reality is referred to as Brahman or Shiva, and it is seen as the source of all existence. Both Non-Dual Shaivism and Advaita Vedanta reject the idea of duality, or the separation between the individual self (atman) and Brahman.

However, there are also some key differences between Non-Dual Shaivism and Advaita Vedanta. One major difference is their approach to understanding the nature of Brahman. In Advaita Vedanta, Brahman is seen as an impersonal and formless entity, while in Non-Dual Shaivism, Brahman is understood as a personal and conscious deity, known as Shiva. This difference in understanding can be attributed to the influence of Shaivism, a sect of Hinduism that worships Shiva as the supreme deity.

Another difference is the role of the individual self in relation to Brahman. In Advaita Vedanta, the individual self is considered an illusion, and the goal is to realize its true identity as Brahman. On the other hand, in Non-Dual Shaivism, the individual self is seen as a manifestation of Shiva, and the goal is to realize the unity between the individual self and Brahman.

Despite these differences, Non-Dual Shaivism and Advaita Vedanta share a common goal of achieving liberation (moksha) from the cycle of rebirth and realizing the true nature of reality. Both philosophies emphasize the importance of spiritual practices such as meditation, self-inquiry, and devotion to achieve this goal.

In conclusion, Non-Dual Shaivism and Advaita Vedanta are closely related schools of Hindu philosophy that share a belief in non-dualism and the ultimate reality of consciousness. While they may differ in their understanding of the nature of Brahman and the role of the individual self, both philosophies offer a path towards spiritual enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of rebirth.