Hindu Philosophy and Human Existence

Flashcards covering the key concepts and schools of thought regarding human existence, liberation, and divine reality in Hindu philosophy.

Atman

The individual self which has an intrinsic identity with Brahman, the realization of which is the primary goal of human existence.

Brahman

The ultimate divine reality that shares an intrinsic identity with the Atman.

Moksha

Liberation from the continuous cycle of birth, life, death, and rebirth.

Samsara

The continuous cycle of birth, life, death, and rebirth driven by the law of karma.

Karma

An impersonal law of cause and effect where actions and intentions have consequences in current or future lives.

Maya

An illusion or "veiling power" that prevents individuals from perceiving the underlying oneness of all existence.

Advaita Vedanta

A school of thought based on non-dualism regarding the relationship between the individual self, the material world, and the ultimate divine reality.

Dvaita

A school of thought based on dualism regarding the relationship between the individual self, the material world, and the ultimate divine reality.

Vishishtadvaita

A school of thought based on qualified non-dualism regarding the relationship between the individual self, the material world, and the ultimate divine reality.