Moksha
Concept
Moksha, also known as Mukti, is a term in Hindu philosophy that refers to various forms of liberation, release, and emancipation. It is the transcendent state attained as a result of being released from the cycle of rebirth (Samsara). Moksha is a central concept and included as one of the four aspects and goals of human life; the other three goals are Dharma (virtuous, proper, moral life), Artha (material prosperity, income security, means of life), and Kama (pleasure, sensuality, emotional fulfillment). Together, these four aims of life are called Purushartha.
Etymology and Definitions
The term Moksha is derived from the root, muc, which means free, let go, release, liberate. In Vedas and early Upanishads, the word mucyate appears, which means to be set free or release, such as of a horse from its harness. The definition and meaning of Moksha varies between various schools of Indian philosophy. For instance, in the dualistic Dvaita and Vishishtadvaita traditions of Vaishnavism, Moksha is defined as the loving, eternal union with God (Vishnu) and considered the highest perfection of existence. The Advaita Vedanta tradition has a different view, asserting that there is no difference between the individual self within and the Brahman, the universal soul.
Philosophical Perspectives
Different schools of Indian philosophy have different perspectives on Moksha.
Advaita Vedanta
In Advaita Vedanta, Moksha is attained by realizing the identity of one's Atman (soul or self) with the ultimate reality, Brahman. The realization of this identity leads to a state of absolute peace and bliss, free from all suffering.
Dvaita Vedanta
In Dvaita Vedanta, Moksha is achieved by the grace of God. The individual soul remains distinct from the supreme soul, but enjoys a blissful relationship with it.
Yoga
In the Yoga school of Hindu philosophy, Moksha is achieved through the practice of disciplined meditation and ethical perfection. The ultimate goal is to attain Kaivalya, a state of solitary bliss.
Buddhism
In Buddhism, the concept of Moksha is replaced by the similar concept of Nirvana, which also represents liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
Moksha in Hindu Scriptures
The concept of Moksha is found in many ancient Hindu scriptures.
Vedas
In the Rigveda, the oldest of the Vedas, Moksha is hinted at in the form of liberation from death.
Upanishads
The Upanishads, which form the philosophical core of Hinduism, speak extensively about Moksha. The Katha Upanishad, for example, states that the person who realizes the oneness of the individual soul and the supreme soul attains Moksha.
Bhagavad Gita
The Bhagavad Gita, one of the most important texts in Hindu philosophy, discusses Moksha in detail. It states that a person can achieve Moksha by realizing their divine nature and performing their duties without attachment to the results.