Self and Identity in Indian thought
Self and identity are important concepts in Indian thought, with various schools of philosophy and religion offering different perspectives on the nature of the self and how it relates to the world.
In Hinduism, the self is known as the atman, which is believed to be an eternal and unchanging essence that underlies all existence. The atman is seen as identical to the ultimate reality or Brahman, and achieving knowledge of the atman is seen as a path to spiritual liberation or moksha.
In Buddhism, the self is seen as a transient and illusory concept, and the goal of spiritual practice is to realize the emptiness or non-self (anatman) of all phenomena. This realization is seen as a path to liberation from suffering and the attainment of enlightenment.
In Jainism, the self is seen as a separate and distinct entity from the body and mind, and achieving self-realization or moksha involves shedding the karma that binds the soul to the cycle of birth and death.
In Indian thought, identity is often seen as a complex and multifaceted concept that is shaped by various factors, including social, cultural, and religious influences. The concept of dharma, or one’s duty or role in the world, is often seen as an important aspect of identity in Indian thought
