Significance of Non-dual Brahman

Non-dual Brahman is depicted as the ultimate reality in both Purana and Vedantic thought, characterized by its indivisible nature and transcendence of duality. It represents a singular, unchanging existence that goes beyond physical and spiritual distinctions, embodying the essence of all reality. Within this framework, Non-dual Brahman is understood as Absolute Consciousness, emphasizing the unity of existence and the interconnectedness of the self (Atman) with this singular reality. This concept asserts that true understanding of existence lies in realizing this inherent oneness.

Synonyms: Advaita, Non-duality, Ultimate reality, Absolute, Oneness, Universal consciousness, Eternal essence, Pure awareness, Monism

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Non-dual Brahman'

Hinduism Books

Non-dual Brahman in Hinduism signifies the singular, immutable reality that transcends duality, emphasizing the unity of existence where all things are manifestations of an inseparable essence, ultimately recognized as Absolute Consciousness.

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)

(1) This is what the Yogi fails to see, according to the provided text, in the state of Samadhi, because of their belief in a separate mind.[1] (2) The non-dual Brahman is a concept of ultimate reality, which is identified with the mind and sense organs by the Jnani, according to the provided text.[2] (3) The non-dual Brahman is the ultimate reality that all attributes are identical to, which is understood by the discriminating student through reasoning.[3] (4) Brahman that is considered to be singular and without division, contrasting with dualistic interpretations of spiritual entities.[4] (5) The concept of Brahman as an undivided whole, with no distinctions or dualities.[5]

From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika

(1) The nature of Brahman, the ultimate reality. The jiva is essentially of this nature, which is eternal, free, and self-luminous.[6] (2) The ultimate reality in Advaita philosophy, indicating that Brahman is not separate from the individual self (Atman) but is an inseparable unity.[7] (3) The ultimate reality in Advaita philosophy that represents a singular, undivided existence.[8] (4) Non-dual Brahman is the ultimate reality that transcends duality, being neither cause nor effect, as concluded in Bhrigu's inquiry.[9] (5) The singular, unified nature of Brahman, free from duality or distinction.[10]

From: Thirty minor Upanishads

(1) The understanding that there is no separation between the self and the Supreme; all is one.[11] (2) The ultimate reality understood as a singular essence, free from distinctions and dualities.[12] (3) Refers to the ultimate reality which is characterized as being non-dual, to be meditated upon for the realization of one’s true self.[13] (4) The ultimate reality in Hindu philosophy, recognized as one without a second, transcending all dualities.[14]

From: Taittiriya Upanishad

(1) The concept of Brahman as the ultimate reality that transcends all distinctions, existing in a state of oneness.[15] (2) The ultimate reality that transcends duality, recognized by the enlightened as the essence of existence.[16] (3) The ultimate realization of the Self as inseparable from Brahman, devoid of distinctions.[17]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha

(1) The singular, unchanging reality that transcends dualistic perceptions, viewed as the source of all existence.[18] (2) The concept of an indivisible reality that is beyond all distinctions and dualities.[19] (3) The non-dual Brahman is the ultimate reality that is immutable and devoid of multiplicity, recognized as Absolute Consciousness.[20] (4) The ultimate reality that is indivisible and free from the dual concepts of doer and non-doer.[21]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) This refers to the concentrated essence or embodiment of the Supreme Brahman, signifying that Shri Krishna is that essence.[22]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Significance in Shaivism (Shaiva philosophy):
Shaivism Books

Shaiva or Shaivism (shaivism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshiping Shiva as the supreme being. Closely related to Shaktism, Shaiva literature includes a range of scriptures, including Tantras, while the root of this tradition may be traced back to the ancient Vedas.