Significance of Atman
According to various philosophical and spiritual texts, Atman represents the true self or soul of an individual, which is eternal and distinct from the physical body. It is considered to transcend worldly experiences, embody the essence of consciousness, and is often identified with Brahman, the ultimate reality. Atman is viewed as essential for spiritual pursuits and understanding one’s identity, often emerging in discussions of non-duality and the connection between individual existence and universal consciousness.
Synonyms: Soul, Spirit, Essence, Self, Consciousness, Inner self, True self
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Atman'
Atman in Buddhism is interpreted as an incomprehensible aspect of the self, considered a mistaken notion of permanence by the Buddha, contrasting with the impermanent nature of existence emphasized in Buddhist philosophy.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) One of the six acintyas proposed by Asanga, referring to the self or individual essence in discussion of incomprehensible aspects.[1] (2) A term in Indian philosophy that refers to the soul or self, which the Buddha and early Buddhists believed to be a mistaken notion of permanence.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Atman'
Atman in Hinduism represents the innermost essence of an individual, non-distinct from the universal soul, Brahman. It embodies the eternal self, transcending physical existence, and serves as the foundation for true spiritual understanding and realization.
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) The self or soul in philosophical texts, often referred to as the Embodiment of Knowledge.[3] (2) The Supreme Reality or true self that one should focus on and realize.[4] (3) The true self or soul, which is the essence of individuality and remains constant despite the transient nature of the five sheaths.[5] (4) The inner self or soul in Hindu philosophy, described as birthless, eternal, and undecaying.[6] (5) This is a self-cognised entity that represents the individual soul, which is cognised by itself.[7]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The self that must be contemplated upon, representing the essence of being that exists in waking, dreaming, and dreamless sleep.[8] (2) The inner self or soul, which exercises power and is the life and essence of all Devas.[9] (3) The self or soul, which is ultimately identified as Brahman in the quest for spiritual liberation.[10] (4) The self or soul in Hindu philosophy, often equated with Brahman.[11] (5) Atma symbolizes the individual self or soul, distinct from the Lord but also an integral part of the greater Brahman.[12]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The Supreme Reality or Self that is eternal, non-dual, and does not undergo birth.[13] (2) Atman is the self or soul and is associated with the understanding of different states of consciousness through sounds.[14] (3) Pure and unrelated essence, acting as the substratum of all ideas, through which the Jiva is imagined.[15] (4) Atman refers to the self or soul in Hindu philosophy, considered in this context to be unborn and not subject to empirical experiences.[16] (5) Atman refers to the Self, which is non-dual, homogeneous, and cannot contain multiplicity or alien objects, emphasizing the illusory nature of separate experiences.[17]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) The support and substratum of knowledge or consciousness, described as the metaphysical ego.[18] (2) The essence or soul that can lead to liberation after comprehending its true nature.[19] (3) The true self or soul in Hindu philosophy, regarded as immortal and distinct from the physical body.[20] (4) The true essence or soul of an individual, characterized by eternal existence, consciousness, and bliss.[21] (5) The self or soul, which is realized through the processes of shravana, manana, nididhyasana, and sakshatkara.[22]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The self or soul in philosophical discussions, seen as the origin from which all things are created.[23] (2) Another term for the individual soul; it emphasizes the idea of self that is part of the eternal Brahman.[24] (3) The changeless and eternal essence or true self that is inherent in every individual.[25] (4) The term used to describe Brahman as the self of all, emphasizing its essential oneness with creation.[26] (5) Refers to the true Self or the essential soul, which is hard to comprehend without significant mental focus and meditation.[27]
From: Mundaka Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The individual self or soul that, when purified and concentrated, can become one with the Brahman.[28] (2) The Atman is the self or essence that one strives to realize, which cannot be attained without certain aids.[29] (3) Refers to the ultimate reality or inner self of an individual, which is the true object of desire once one has gained knowledge.[30] (4) The true self or soul of an individual, which is considered eternal and one with the universal spirit or Brahman.[31]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The atman refers to the self or spirit, which is regarded as the true essence of an individual that transcends physical existence and is often related to the Brahman.[32] (2) The essence of an individual, referred to as the perceiver and enjoyer of objects, symbolizing the ultimate reality.[33] (3) A term used to describe the soul or individual self, central to discussions about existence and spirituality in the text.[34] (4) The atman is an essence that is described as both joyful and joyless and cannot be known by worldly men because of its conflicting attributes and nature.[35]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) The individual self or soul that, when realized, identifies with the higher truth of the Ultimate Self.[36] (2) The ultimate reality or universal soul, which is not to be confused with individual souls, emphasizing the distinction between the individual and the cosmic essence.[37] (3) The inner self or soul in Hindu philosophy, which is described as non-originated and constant.[38] (4) The innermost essence or self of an individual that is ultimately non-different from the One Absolute Self.[39]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) The true self or essence that is ever beyond the cycle of Samsara, emphasizing the idea of a non-material and eternal aspect of existence.[40] (2) The Self; referred to as the essence or true identity of an individual that is ultimately Brahman.[41] (3) The inner self or soul that is believed to be identical with Brahman upon realization.[42] (4) Often referred to as the inner self or soul, representing the non-dual essence of Brahman that exists within all created forms.[43]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The self or soul in Indian philosophy; its correct understanding is critical to comprehending the broader context of Self-knowledge and realization.[44] (2) The inner self or soul in individuals, which is ultimately realized to be non-different from Brahman.[45] (3) The self or soul that is considered to be identical with Brahman in the context of Upanishadic teaching.[46] (4) Atman refers to the Self and is deemed non-different from Brahman, signifying the essential unity between the two concepts.[47]
From: Bhagavatpadabhyudaya by Lakshmana Suri (study)
(1) The individual self or soul, considered fundamentally the same as Brahman in Advaita Vedanta.[48] (2) The true self or spirit that exists beyond the physical body and mental constructs, the fundamental essence of being.[49] (3) The spiritual self or soul that Shankara describes as distinct from the physical body and perishable forms.[50]
From: Ishavasya Upanishad with Shankara Bhashya (Sitarama)
(1) The inner self or soul that is the essence of an individual and is meant to be realized through knowledge.[51] (2) The eternal self or soul that is veiled by ignorance and is crucial to one's understanding and existence.[52]
From: Siddhanta Sangraha of Sri Sailacharya
(1) The self or essence that is recognized as 'aham', embodying self-luminosity.[53] (2) The self or soul discussed in relation to knowledge, blissful experience, and its implications in deep sleep states.[54]
From: Kena Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The inner self or soul that resides within and controls the mind's capacities, yet is unreachable by the mind.[55] (2) The inner self or spirit, described as bright, eternal, and unchangeable, embodying the highest reality.[56]
From: Mundaka Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The true self or essence of an individual, which is universal and immortal.[57]
From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) Atman refers to the inner self or soul, central to the practice of meditation and understanding one’s true nature.[58]
From: Shiva Gita (study and summary)
(1) The self, or soul, seen as the eternal essence of every individual and the ultimate reality according to Vedantic philosophy.[59]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Atman or the Lord signifies the entirety of the self which leads the soul to enlightenment or realization of the self.[60]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The Self, which may refer to both sentient and occasionally non-sentient things, described in different contexts as the root of existence.[61]
From: Isopanisad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The inner self or essence of an individual that is the receptacle of all experiences and qualities, emphasized as distinct from the Supreme Self.[62]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The true self or soul within the body, acting through prana and is essential for the body to function.[63]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) The self or individual consciousness which transcends sensory experiences and connects to the ultimate reality.[64] (2) The self or soul, representing the true essence of an individual beyond physical and mental identities.[65] (3) The true self or spirit, which is considered all-peaceful and the essence of existence.[66] (4) The true self or soul, identified by Rama as the ultimate reality that pervades all existence.[67] (5) The individual soul or self that is considered eternal and unchanging, distinct from the physical body and mind.[68]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) The self or soul in philosophical discourse, often contrasted with the physical body and linked to deeper moral and existential questions.[69] (2) Refers to the self or soul in philosophical discussions, viewed as central to personal identity and morality in a metaphysical context.[70] (3) The individual soul or self, which is fundamentally one with the universal soul, or Brahman, but experiences the illusion of separateness due to Maya.[71] (4) The individual self or soul, which is considered eternal and part of the universal Atman.[72] (5) The individual self, which is ultimately identical to the Parameshvara in the philosophy of Oneness.[73]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The True Self that is covered by the universe of five elements, created out of infinite compassion by Brahma.[74] (2) The Self or soul that is considered as the focal point of spiritual offerings and the embodiment of the Divine in rituals.[75] (3) The Soul or self, considered pure and holy, seeking unity with the divine during rituals.[76] (4) The true self that transcends mind and thought, characterized as eternal, unchanging, and void of duality.[77] (5) The self or soul that is eternal and transcends the physical body, representing the essence of individual identity.[78]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The unchanging Self or essence that Brahma embodies in creation.[79] (2) The individual soul or self in Hindu philosophy, considered eternal and beyond the physical realm.[80] (3) The individual self or soul that is connected to the universal consciousness, often equated with Brahman.[81] (4) The soul or self that is meditated upon and ultimately merged with Shiva.[82] (5) The individual self or soul, which is urged to unite with the cosmic reality of Shiva through Nyasa practices.[83]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The self or soul in Hindu philosophy, which is the essence of life that is protected and revered.[84] (2) The Supreme Soul or the ultimate reality, often associated with Lord Vishnu as the cause of the universe.[85] (3) Inner selves or souls that the sages were established in, indicating their spiritual depth and realization.[86] (4) The soul or self; the ultimate reality in individual existence revered in spiritual teachings.[87] (5) The self; regarded as the dearest kinsman and pivotal for achieving Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha.[88]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The eternal self or soul, which remains unchanged and independent of material existence and relationships.[89] (2) The Soul or the ultimate reality that is changeless and self-existent, distinct from the body which is subject to change.[90] (3) The self or individual soul, which is a focus of spiritual inquiry and realization in this text.[91] (4) The self that is realized when the mind transcends the three states of Jiva, leading to the cessation of worldly activities.[92] (5) The self or spirit, which is considered the true essence of an individual in contrast to the physical body.[93]
From: Linga Purana
(1) The self or soul in Hindu philosophy, which is eternal and the essence of consciousness.[94] (2) The true self or spirit within individuals, considered eternal and impervious to physical and mental limitations.[95] (3) The true self or soul in individuals, which is considered eternal and beyond the physical body.[96] (4) The self or soul that is often associated with knowledge and meditation.[97] (5) The self or soul, considered a physical body of Shiva and crucial for the essence of all living beings.[98]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) The individual soul or self that is ultimately considered to be eternal and distinct from the physical body.[99]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) The Universal Soul invoked through attained Yoga, representing the collective consciousness in spiritual teachings.[100]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) In Vedanta, the innermost Self of any particular creature or object, considered as part of the greater Reality.[101] (2) The real nature of an individual, which is present in the inner shrine of the body, as opposed to the busy outside world.[102] (3) The true self or soul in Hindu philosophy, often considered to be eternal and divine.[103] (4) The inner true self or essence of a person, regarded as the ultimate reality within.[104]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) The soul, which is originally insentient and becomes sentient through contact with the body, senses, and mind.[105]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) The innermost self or soul, which is ultimately non-different from Brahman.[106] (2) The true self or soul, which is identified as Brahman and serves as the controller of all Jivas in their bodies.[107] (3) Atman denotes the individual self or soul, represented as the arrow that becomes one with Brahman.[108]
From: Gitartha Samgraha (critical Study)
(1) The eternal self or soul in Kashmir Shaivism, considered the root cause of the universe.[109]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) The spiritual essence or self of an individual, which is thought to be eternal and transcendent beyond the physical existence.[110] (2) The self or soul, considered eternal and fundamental to understanding consciousness and reality in Hindu philosophy.[111] (3) The self or soul, considered the true essence of an individual in spiritual philosophy.[112]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 3: Sharirasthana
(1) The self-conscious self, or soul, which plays a role in consciousness development of the embryo.[113]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) The spirit or soul, considered the true self that is eternal and conscious.[114]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) The term hamsa denotes the sun, goose, and is also used to refer to the Atma as it signifies the soul's journey from one body to another.[115] (2) The term 'Atma' refers to the Supreme and is associated with Brahman, indicating a fundamental oneness of the universe as expressed in the Upanishads.[116]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A Sanskrit term often interpreted as the self or soul, particularly in the context of identity and personal essence.[117]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A concept in Vedanta meaning 'the self' that stands in contrast to all that is not self, representing both a relative and negative aspect.[118]
From: Hanuman Nataka (critical study)
(1) A term meaning self, which in the Hanumannataka refers to Rama as the essence of all beings and is a central theme in philosophical texts.[119]
The concept of Atman in local and regional sources
Atman represents the true self or spiritual essence within individuals, viewed as eternal and interconnected with the Supreme Spirit. It signifies the core of an individual's identity and is central to spiritual understanding and practices in Indian philosophy.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The true self or spirit within all beings, which is considered eternal and beyond the physical body and mind.[120] (2) The individual soul or essence in Hindu philosophy, often considered identical with the Supreme Spirit in the realization of unity.[121] (3) Referring to the soul or self, integral to the true understanding of sensory control as per Kaula teachings.[122] (4) The individual soul in Indian philosophy, the focus of spiritual search in connection with Satyagraha.[123] (5) The concept of the self in Indian philosophy, indicating the spiritual essence of an individual.[124]
From: Self-Knowledge in Krishnamurti’s Philosophy
(1) A term indicating both individual and universal self, suggesting that the essence of the individual is not different from the essence of the world.[125]
The concept of Atman in scientific sources
Atman signifies the soul or consciousness within the embryo, crucial for its development, and embodies a universal essence that represents the self within a physical body.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) Atma is perceived as the soul or self in Ayurvedic studies that interacts with Dnyanendriya to gain knowledge through sensory perception.[126] (2) Atma, in the context of Ayurveda, signifies the soul or self that governs the physical and mental functions through the coordination of Indriyas and Mana, and is considered immortal until it achieves Moksha.[127] (3) The soul or self, regarded as a crucial element in defining an individual's life and health in Ayurveda.[128]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine
(1) The soul or consciousness that dwells within the garbha (embryo) and is responsible for its life and development until delivery.[129]
From: AYU (Journal of Research in Ayurveda)
(1) Described as a universal essence that enters a physical body; it represents the self or soul.[130]