Mahavakyas of the Upanishads (pt 2)
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Lesson
Sankara says that Brahman is unknowable and we can't perceive any of his qualities. The rope-snake metaphor is often used by Hindus to discuss the difference between perception and reality.
Outline
7. Tat Twam Asi
a. Key thought: Identity of self with Cosmic self, atman is Brahman
b. Key theological development: Best summary of Vedantic insight
8. Mirror Stained by Dust
a. Key thought: Ignorance keeps us from seeing the true nature of the self
b. Key theological development: Various margas or paths will “clean” mirror
9. The Transmission
a. Key thought: Cosmical homology between self and Brahman
b. Key theological development: Brahmin caste solidifies role in moksa
10. The Inner Controller
a. Key thought: Antaryamin is Brahman in the atman
b. Key theological development: divine presence affirmed as essence of self
11. Nirguna/Saguna
a. Key thought: Paradox between god with and without qualities
b. Key theological development: Two levels of Brahman widely accepted in Hindu philosophy
12. Two Birds
a. Key thought: Binding effect of karma
b. Key theological development: Doctrine of karma / doctrine of two levels of Brahman
13. Sat Cit Ananda
a. Key thought: Three indicators in Description of Brahman
b. Key theological development: The closest the Upanishads comes to defining Brahman
VI. Key Metaphors in Hindu Thought
A. Rope-Snake - perceptual vs. objective reality
