Advaita Vedanta: Path of Non-Duality Explained

Jul 23, 2025Author: Rahul Verma
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Advaita Vedanta is a profound school of Vedanta philosophy that emphasizes the ultimate non-duality of existence. It teaches that the individual soul (Atman) and the supreme reality (Brahman) are one and the same. The term "Advaita" literally means "not two," highlighting the absence of any fundamental distinction between the self and the universe.

Origins and History of Advaita Vedanta

Scriptural Foundation

Advaita Vedanta is primarily rooted in the Upanishads, the Brahma Sutras, and the Bhagavad Gita, collectively known as the Prasthanatrayi.

Adi Shankaracharya’s Role

The 8th-century philosopher Adi Shankaracharya systematized Advaita Vedanta. He emphasized that liberation (moksha) is achieved through knowledge (jnana) of the self’s true identity.

Core Teachings of Advaita Vedanta

Atman is Brahman

Advaita declares that the innermost self (Atman) is identical to Brahman, the infinite, unchanging reality.

Maya – The Power of Illusion

The phenomenal world is seen as a projection of Maya, which veils the ultimate truth.

Moksha – Liberation

True freedom arises when ignorance (Avidya) is removed through self-inquiry and realization of oneness.

Practices in Advaita Vedanta

Jnana Yoga

The primary path is the pursuit of knowledge through study of scriptures, self-inquiry (Atma Vichara), and meditation.

Meditation

Neti-Neti (Not This, Not That)

A process of negating everything that is not the self, to realize pure consciousness.

Baba Ka Bhandara

Role of Guru

Guidance from a realized teacher (Guru) is essential for understanding subtle truths.

Influence of Advaita Vedanta

Great Teachers

Figures like Ramana Maharshi, Swami Vivekananda, and Nisargadatta Maharaj have spread Advaita Vedanta globally.

Impact on Modern Thought

Advaita’s teachings on non-duality have influenced modern psychology, mindfulness practices, and spiritual movements.

Conclusion

Advaita Vedanta offers a direct path to understanding the essence of existence. By realizing that the self and Brahman are one, seekers can transcend suffering and experience ultimate peace.

Rahul Verma
Rahul Verma

About The Author

Rahul Verma, a humanitarian and spiritual seeker, is a devoted follower of Sri Neem Karoli Baba. His journey with Baba’s teachings began during a transformative meditation experience in Rishikesh in 2013. With 11 years of unwavering devotion and the divine grace of Neem Karoli Baba guiding him, Rahul founded the NKB Divine Meditation Centre in Delhi to share Baba’s love and wisdom through free guided meditation sessions. He is also the founder of the Uday Foundation, a nonprofit organisation named after his son, who was born with multiple congenital defects, embodying compassion and service in every endeavor.