On P. 49, Prothero Explains A Famous Story From The Upanisha

On p. 49, Prothero explains a famous story from the Upanishads that shows

Please answer one of the three questions below. 1 page

A. On p. 49, Prothero explains a famous story from the Upanishads that shows the relationship between Atman and Brahman. The story is summed up by the expression, "Tat tvam asi." Explain this expression and the relationship between Atman and Brahman. What questions do you have? What difference might it make in someone's life to believe that Atman is Brahman? What psychological or moral impact might it have? Explain why this is or isn't an attractive/plausible belief.

B. Prothero tells us that "Today, the bhakti tradition enjoys a near monopoly over ways to be Hindu worldwide" (p. 58). Please identify major themes or characteristics of bhakti Hinduism? What is the bhakti form of Hinduism? What makes bhakti bhakti? Why did it become such a popular form of Hinduism - that is, why has it been so appealing to people?

C. Throughout the semester, if we have the eyes to see it, we can notice ways in which the religious traditions have influenced each other. The world's religious history has been less a series of distinct communities existing completely apart from each other and more a story of interfaith relations in which religious communities are influenced by, or react to, each other. Describe ways this is seen in the case of Hinduism, especially in "the Modern World" (Prothero pp. 60-63). What have been Hindu responses to its encounter with other religions, especially Islam and Christianity?

Paper For Above instruction

In the context of Hindu philosophy, the profound statement "Tat tvam asi" encapsulates the essential unity between Atman (the individual soul) and Brahman (the ultimate reality). This phrase, derived from the Upanishads, is often translated as "That thou art" or "You are that," signifying that the true self of an individual is not separate from the divine, but one with it. The story on page 49 of Prothero's text illustrates this concept vividly by narrating a dialogue in which a seeker realizes that his innermost self (Atman) is identical with the universal consciousness (Brahman). Such an understanding dissolves the perceived distinction between the individual and the universe, leading to a spiritual awakening that fosters harmony and inner peace.

The relationship between Atman and Brahman bears profound implications for how individuals perceive themselves and their place in the cosmos. Believing that Atman is Brahman might cultivate a sense of inherent divinity within oneself, encouraging a moral ethic rooted in reverence for all life and the universe. Psychologically, this belief can foster a sense of unity with the world, reducing feelings of isolation and existential anxiety. Morally, recognizing the divine in oneself and others may inspire compassion, altruism, and ethical behaviors that transcend personal interests. For many practitioners, such a worldview can be deeply attractive because it offers a direct, personal experience of the divine, providing purpose and grounding amidst life's uncertainties. Moreover, it challenges the dualistic separation between self and other and promotes a holistic understanding of existence.

From a philosophical standpoint, the plausibility of this union depends on one's openness to non-dualistic metaphysics and personal spiritual experiences. While some may find it compelling as a unifying truth that dissolves the illusion of separateness, others might view it as an abstract ideal disconnected from empirical realities. The attractiveness of this belief lies in its promise of spiritual liberation (moksha), eternal peace, and absolute self-realization. It resonates with humans' innate longing for wholeness and understanding of their true nature beyond superficial identities.

Therefore, the concept of Atman being Brahman is not only central to Vedantic theology but also serves as a cornerstone for spiritual practice and ethical life. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and offers a transformative perspective that can positively influence individual consciousness and societal harmony.

References

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• Radhakrishnan, S. (1953). The Principal Upanishads. HarperCollins.
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• Wilkinson, M. (2014). The Philosophy of the Upanishads. Oxford University Press.
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