Atman as the essence of individual consciousness
While Brahman is the infinite and all-encompassing reality, Atman is the individualized expression of that reality within each sentient being. It is the essence of our consciousness, the innermost core that remains constant amidst the ever-changing external circumstances and internal fluctuations of the mind and body.
Atman is often described as the “witness” or the “observer” of our thoughts, emotions, and experiences. It is the silent, unchanging presence that remains unaffected by the transient phenomena of the world, much like the sky remains untouched by the clouds that pass through it.
The characteristics of Atman – eternal, indestructible, and divine
One of the fundamental characteristics of Atman is its eternal and indestructible nature. Unlike the physical body, which is subject to birth, growth, decay, and eventual death, Atman is believed to be birthless and deathless, existing beyond the limitations of time and space.
Atman is also described as being divine in its essence, a spark of the infinite Brahman that resides within each being. This divine nature is what allows us to transcend the limitations of our finite existence and experience a sense of unity and interconnectedness with the entire cosmos.
The eternal nature of Atman
The concept of Atman’s eternal nature is deeply rooted in the Vedantic tradition. It is believed that while the physical body is temporary and subject to the cycles of birth and death, the soul or Atman remains unchanged and indestructible.
This eternal aspect of Atman is often likened to the analogy of an actor playing different roles on a stage. Just as the actor remain the same despite the various characters they portray, Atman remains constant and unchanged, even as they experience different incarnations and lifetimes.
Atman and the cycle of life and death
In the Vedantic worldview, the concept of Atman is intrinsically linked to the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, known as samsara. It is believed that Atman, being eternal and indestructible, continues its journey through multiple lifetimes, taking on different physical forms and experiencing the consequences of its past actions (karma).
The ultimate goal of this journey is to attain moksha, or liberation, which is the realization of one’s true nature as Atman and the subsequent freedom from the cycle of birth and death. This liberation is achieved through spiritual practices, self-inquiry, and the cultivation of wisdom and detachment from the material world.