pantheistic monism - ground view for hindu, buddh, jain, sikh - ism

prime reality

Ultimate reality is a spiritual reality, and the universe is a manifestation of God (Brahman). Brahman is impersonal, beyond personality and consciousness, and all individuality is an illusion (Maya).

nature of external reality

The physical world is an illusion (Maya)—it is not ultimately real but a temporary manifestation of Brahman.

humans

Humans have two parts: (1) Atman, the true self, which is Brahman in essence—a spark of the divine, capable of reuniting with Brahman. To reach Brahman means to transcend personality and consciousness. (2) The karmic self, which is shaped by actions and keeps the soul trapped in the cycle of rebirth (samsara).

death

Reincarnation continues according to karma. Liberation (moksha) is achieved when one realizes their unity with Brahman, escaping samsara.

knowledge

Truth is subjective; there is no absolute truth. It is not truly possible to “know” anything—instead, being and experience are more important than knowledge. Enlightenment is the realization that all is one.

right from wrong

Good and evil are not ultimately different (monism). Dharma (duty) is determined by one’s role in life, but it has nothing to do with morality, and karma is just a law of cause and effect. Doing good is self-help, but since nothing is truly immoral, life itself has no inherent value.

human history

History is cyclical and ultimately meaningless. Events are just stories that aid in spiritual awakening, but their factual truth is irrelevant to enlightenment.

core commitments

The goal is to detach from the illusion of individuality, seek spiritual enlightenment, and escape the cycle of rebirth through meditation and realization of unity with Brahman.