ADHYATMA Meaning and
Definition
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Adhyatma is a Sanskrit term that is primarily used in Hindu philosophy and spirituality to refer to the realm of the spiritual or the inner self. The word is derived from two Sanskrit roots: "adhi," meaning "beyond" or "superior," and "atma," which translates to "self" or "soul."
In Hinduism, adhyatma signifies the exploration and understanding of the ultimate reality or the true nature of the self. It involves self-reflection, introspection, and deep contemplation to attain spiritual enlightenment and liberation. Adhyatma is often associated with practices like meditation, yoga, and the study of sacred texts such as the Vedas and Upanishads.
According to Hindu philosophy, adhyatma represents the divine essence within every individual, the eternal and unchanging aspect of oneself that remains unaffected by temporal experiences. It emphasizes the transcendence of mundane existence and the realization of one's inherent divinity. Adhyatma is regarded as a path to self-discovery, self-realization, and self-transcendence.
The realm of adhyatma covers various aspects of spiritual knowledge, including understanding the nature of the self, the cosmos, the interrelationship between the individual and the universal consciousness, and the ultimate goal of human existence. It seeks to provide a framework for attaining inner peace, harmony, and spiritual growth while navigating through the complexities of life.
Overall, adhyatma represents the pursuit of spiritual wisdom and enlightenment, enabling individuals to overcome ignorance and connect with the divine aspect within themselves.
Etymology of ADHYATMA
The word "adhyatma" is derived from Sanskrit, an ancient Indo-Aryan language.
In Sanskrit, "adhi" means "supreme" or "higher", and "atma" means "soul", "spirit", or "self". When combined, "adhyatma" can be translated as "supreme soul" or "higher self".
In Hinduism, "adhyatma" refers to the spiritual or inner aspect of an individual, the relationship between the individual and the divine, and the pursuit of self-realization or self-knowledge. It is often associated with the study and practice of meditation, yoga, and other spiritual disciplines.
