Tattvabodha | Enquiry into the truth

Question 1

Ātman

Answer 1

The true Self, pure consciousness.

Question 2

Anātmā

Answer 2

The non-Self, everything other than the Ātman.

Question 3

Satyam

Answer 3

Truth or ultimate reality; unchanging existence.

Question 4

Mithyā

Answer 4

Illusory or dependent existence.

Question 5

Sarīra-traya

Answer 5

The three bodies

Question 6

Pañca-kośa

Answer 6

The five sheaths that cover the Self

Question 7

Drg-dṛśya-viveka

Answer 7

Discrimination between the seer (subject) and the seen (object)

Question 8

Jagat

Answer 8

The world, considered transient and illusory.

Question 9

Sat-Cit-Ānanda

Answer 9

Existence, consciousness, and bliss; the nature of Ātman.

Question 10

Brahman

Answer 10

The ultimate reality; the infinite and eternal essence

Question 11

Jīva

Answer 11

The individual self, conditioned by the three bodies.

Question 12

Āvidyā

Answer 12

Ignorance or delusion, the root of individuality.

Question 13

Tat Tvam Asi

Answer 13

“That Thou Art,” a mahāvākya (great statement) signifying the identity of Ātman and Brahman.

Question 14

Mahāvākya

Answer 14

Great statement