Upanishads - WORDS Flashcards
What is Brahman?
The ultimate, all-pervading reality or cosmic spirit—the source of everything in the universe.
Brahman is considered the foundation of all existence in Hindu philosophy.
Define ātman.
The true self or inner soul found within every individual; it’s the essence of who we really are.
ātman is often viewed as eternal and unchanging.
What does mokṣa signify?
Liberation or freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth; the ultimate goal of spiritual practice.
Mokṣa represents the end of suffering and the realization of one’s true nature.
What is puruṣa?
The conscious, spiritual principle—often seen as the eternal, unchanging aspect of a person, distinct from physical matter.
Puruṣa is contrasted with prakṛti, which is the material world.
Define prakṛti.
The material world or nature; everything that is physical and ever-changing, which interacts with puruṣa.
Prakṛti encompasses all forms of matter and energy.
What does darśana refer to?
A philosophical viewpoint or school of thought; in Indian philosophy, it refers to different systems that explain the nature of reality.
Each darśana offers unique insights into existence and the universe.
What is the focus of Vedanta?
A major philosophical school based on the Upanishads, focusing on the idea that the individual self (ātman) and ultimate reality (Brahman) are one.
Vedanta emphasizes knowledge and realization of the unity of ātman and Brahman.
What does Yoga entail?
A system of practices—including meditation, physical postures, and ethical disciplines—designed to unite the mind, body, and spirit, leading toward self-realization and liberation.
Yoga encompasses various paths such as Bhakti, Karma, and Jnana.
Define Sāṃkhya.
An ancient Indian philosophy that explains the world through a duality between puruṣa (spirit) and prakṛti (matter), offering insight into how the material and the spiritual interact.
Sāṃkhya is one of the six orthodox schools of Hindu philosophy.
Fill in the blank: The ultimate goal of spiritual practice is _______.
[mokṣa]
True or False: Puruṣa represents the physical and ever-changing aspect of a person.
False
