The Neo-Vedanta philosophy assimilates, comprehends and synthesizes
the truth and principles of ancient Vedanta and western scientific thought in a
comprehensive manner. The new profile given to the ancient Vedanta by Swami
Vivekananda has come to be known as Neo-Vedanta. A humanistic interpretation of
the traditional philosophy constitutes one of the most important features of
Neo-Vedanta. Vedanta stands out as the most significant and clear philosophy of
India.
It answers at once the strict demands of metaphysics and the deep requirements
of a sound religion. However, the system of Vedanta derives its doctrines from
the Prasthana traya which comprises
the three great text books namely the
Upanishads, the Bhagavad-Gita and Brahma
Sutra. Vedanta is the clearest and most comprehensive summary ever made of
the perennial philosophy; hence its enduring value is meant not only for Indians,
but for all mankind.
The quintessence of the Vedanta
philosophy is found in the four great declarations (Maha Vakya) of the four Vedas. They are a ranged in the following
ascending order;-
- Laksana Vakya- Panama Brahma-Consciousness is Brahman. (Aitareya Upanishad-Rg Veda).
- Upadesa Vakya- Tat Tvam Asi- That Thou Art. ( Chandogya Upanishad. Sama Veda).
- Anubhava Vakya- Ayam Atma Brahma- This Self is Brahman ( Mandukya Upanishad. Atharva Veda).
- Anusandhana Vakya- Aham Brahma Asmi- Iam Brahman. ( Brhadaranyaka Upanishads- Yajur Veda)
The first Maha vakya gives an objective definition of Truth. It declares
that the consciousness, the Spiritual core which makes one’s personality. The
second Maha vakya is addressed by the
master to a disciple after having defined that Brahman is Consciousness. Thus,
in the first two Maha vakyas we find
the definition of Truth and relation between Truth and Man. The other two gives us an assurance
that truth is realized not partially but totally.
The basic principles of the Neo-Vedanta philosophy are, Each and every soul is potentially
divine, the aim of life is to realize this divinity, and every true religion in
the universe preach the same truth and leads the destination.
By
Dr.P.I.Devaraj
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