Q: Compare Shankarachaya and Sri Aurobindo’s interpretation of ‘Tat TvamAsi’
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The phrase “Tat Tvam Asi,” meaning “That Thou Art,” is a significant Mahavakya (great saying) found in the Chandogya Upanishad, symbolizing the non-dualistic essence of reality in Advaita Vedanta. Both Adi Shankaracharya and Sri Aurobindo offer interpretations of this concept, yet their philosophical frameworks and emphases reveal distinct perspectives. Here’s a comparative analysis of their interpretations:
1. Philosophical Foundations
- Adi Shankaracharya: Shankaracharya is a proponent of Advaita Vedanta, which emphasizes the non-duality of Atman (the individual self) and Brahman (the ultimate reality). In his interpretation of “Tat Tvam Asi,” he argues that the essence of the individual self is fundamentally identical to Brahman. His philosophy posits that the apparent duality of the world is an illusion (Maya) and that realization of this non-dual truth leads to liberation (moksha).
- Sri Aurobindo: Aurobindo’s interpretation is situated within his broader philosophy of Integral Yoga, which integrates aspects of both spirituality and evolution. While he acknowledges the non-dual essence of “Tat Tvam Asi,” he emphasizes the dynamic process of evolution and the manifestation of the divine in the world. Aurobindo sees “Tat Tvam Asi” as an invitation to recognize the divine presence within oneself and in the universe, suggesting a more holistic and transformative understanding of reality.
2. Nature of Reality
- Shankaracharya: Shankaracharya asserts that the ultimate reality (Brahman) is eternal, unchanging, and beyond all attributes. The phenomenal world is transient and illusory. In his view, the realization of “Tat Tvam Asi” is a cognitive awakening to the truth that the individual self, which seems separate, is actually one with the absolute reality of Brahman. This realization requires renunciation of the illusory world and the pursuit of knowledge (Jnana) to transcend ignorance (Avidya).
- Sri Aurobindo: In contrast, Aurobindo acknowledges the reality of the physical world as part of the divine manifestation. He believes that while the ultimate reality is non-dual, it expresses itself through a myriad of forms and experiences. For Aurobindo, “Tat Tvam Asi” signifies the presence of the divine in all aspects of existence, urging individuals to recognize and realize the divine potential within themselves and in the world. He advocates for an integral approach that encompasses both spiritual awakening and the evolution of consciousness.
3. Path to Realization
- Shankaracharya: The path to understanding “Tat Tvam Asi” in Shankaracharya’s framework involves intense study of the scriptures, self-inquiry, and meditation. His method emphasizes the need for discrimination (Viveka) to discern the real from the unreal and to attain liberation through knowledge. The realization of one’s identity with Brahman is seen as a transcendental experience that liberates one from the cycle of birth and death (samsara).
- Sri Aurobindo: Aurobindo’s approach to “Tat Tvam Asi” involves a transformative process that integrates spiritual practices with active participation in the world. His Integral Yoga emphasizes self-surrender, meditation, and the transformation of consciousness, wherein individuals engage with both the spiritual and material aspects of life. Aurobindo posits that by realizing the divine essence within, one can facilitate the evolution of consciousness and manifest a divine life on Earth.
4. Impact on Spiritual Practice
- Shankaracharya: His interpretation leads to a focus on renunciation and detachment from the world. Spiritual practice, according to Shankaracharya, aims to attain knowledge that liberates the self from worldly attachments and illusions, emphasizing solitary pursuit and meditation.
- Sri Aurobindo: Aurobindo’s interpretation encourages active engagement with life and the pursuit of a holistic evolution of consciousness. He advocates for the integration of spirituality with life’s various facets, encouraging practitioners to embody their spiritual realizations in their daily lives and work towards societal transformation.
Conclusion
In summary, while both Adi Shankaracharya and Sri Aurobindo interpret “Tat Tvam Asi” as a profound expression of the non-dual nature of reality, their approaches diverge significantly. Shankaracharya emphasizes the transcendental identity of the self with Brahman and advocates for renunciation and knowledge as the path to liberation. In contrast, Sri Aurobindo presents a more dynamic interpretation, viewing “Tat Tvam Asi” as a call to recognize the divine within all existence and to engage in the transformative evolution of consciousness. These differing perspectives reflect their broader philosophical frameworks, shaping their teachings and spiritual practices.