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What are the main principles of Vishishtadvaita Vedanta?
Vishishtadvaita Vedanta is a school of Hindu philosophy that was founded by Ramanuja, a 12th century Indian philosopher and theologian. It is a non-dualistic philosophy that combines the teachings of the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Brahma Sutras. The term Vishishtadvaita means "qualified non-dualism" and it is also known as the "qualified monism" or "integral monism". Let us explore the main principles of Vishishtadvaita Vedanta.
Non-dualism: The main principle of Vishishtadvaita Vedanta is that there is only one ultimate reality, known as Brahman. This Brahman is the source of everything in the universe and is the only true existence. This is in contrast to the dualistic schools of thought, which believe in the existence of multiple realities.
Qualification of non-dualism: According to Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, although Brahman is the only true reality, it is also qualified by the existence of individual souls and the material world. This qualification is known as "Brahman with attributes" or "Saguna Brahman". This means that Brahman is not just an abstract concept, but it also has qualities and attributes.
Individual souls: Vishishtadvaita Vedanta believes that individual souls are not separate from Brahman, but are a part of it. They are like drops of water in the ocean, which are not separate from the ocean but are still distinct from it. The individual souls are eternal and are subject to the cycle of birth and death, until they attain moksha or liberation.
Material world: The material world is also a part of Brahman and is not separate from it. However, it is considered to be a lower reality compared to the spiritual reality of Brahman. The material world is the result of the manifestation of Brahman's qualities and is subject to change and impermanence.
The concept of Ishvara: Vishishtadvaita Vedanta also believes in the existence of Ishvara, the personal God. Ishvara is the controller of the universe and is the source of all creation. He is the embodiment of all the divine qualities and is the object of devotion for the individual souls.
The path to liberation: The ultimate goal of Vishishtadvaita Vedanta is to attain moksha or liberation from the cycle of birth and death. This can be achieved through the path of bhakti or devotion to Ishvara. By surrendering to Ishvara and following the path of devotion, one can attain union with Brahman and achieve liberation.
In conclusion, the main principles of Vishishtadvaita Vedanta revolve around the concept of non-dualism, where Brahman is the only true reality, but is also