Indian Philosophy: Vishishtadvaita Vedanta

Ramanuja, an 11th-century philosopher, is credited with establishing Vishishtadvaita Vedanta as a distinct school of thought.

In Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, Brahman, the ultimate reality, is seen as both transcendent and immanent, containing within itself all existence and consciousness.

According to Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, Brahman and Atman are distinct entities, but Atman is seen as a part of Brahman, like a wave is part of the ocean.

In Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, Ishvara, the personal form of Brahman, is seen as the creator, sustainer, and destroyer of the universe.

The ultimate goal in Vishishtadvaita Vedanta is to attain moksha, which is liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.

The Brahma Sutras, a collection of aphorisms attributed to Badarayana, serve as the primary scripture for Vishishtadvaita Vedanta.

The 'Sesha-Seshi' relationship refers to the dependent and independent relationship between Brahman and Atman, where Atman is dependent on Brahman for its existence.

Bhakti, in Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, refers to the intense devotion and love directed towards Ishvara, the personal form of Brahman.

Prapatti, in Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, refers to the act of complete surrender and trust in Ishvara, seeking his grace and protection.

Vishishta Advaita, meaning 'qualified non-dualism', refers to the central tenet of Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, which posits that Brahman is the ultimate reality, containing within itself all existence and consciousness, while also recognizing the distinctness of individual souls and the material world.

Ramanuja's commentary on the Brahma Sutras, known as 'Sri Bhashya', is a seminal work in Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, expounding on the philosophy's core principles and refuting opposing views.

Upadhis, in Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, refer to the limitations, attachments, and illusions that obscure the true nature of the individual soul and its relationship with Brahman.

Mukti, in Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, encompasses liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth, union with Brahman, and the attainment of perfect knowledge, leading to a state of eternal bliss and fulfillment.

Ramanuja's commentary on the Bhagavad Gita, known as 'Bhagavad Gita Bhashya', is another significant work in Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, interpreting the text from the perspective of his philosophical system.

Seva, in Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, refers to the practice of selfless service to others, particularly those in need, as a means of expressing devotion to Ishvara and fulfilling one's spiritual obligations.