Compare Shankarachaya and Sri Aurobindo’s interpretation of ‘Tat Tvam Asi’

“Tat Tvam Asi” is a profound Vedantic statement from the Upanishads that translates to “That thou art.”

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It emphasizes the identity between the individual self (Atman) and the ultimate reality or Brahman. Both Shankaracharya, a key figure in Advaita Vedanta, and Sri Aurobindo, known for Integral Yoga, offer unique interpretations of this fundamental concept.

Shankaracharya’s Interpretation:

1. Non-Dualism (Advaita):

• Identity of Atman and Brahman: Shankara’s interpretation strongly emphasizes the non-dual nature of reality. He asserts that the individual self (Atman) is identical to the ultimate reality (Brahman), and the apparent multiplicity of the world is an illusion (Maya).

1. Illusory Nature of World:

• Maya: Shankara views the world as an illusion, a manifestation of Maya. The perceived differences and separateness are only apparent, and true knowledge (Jnana) involves realizing the unity beyond these apparent distinctions.

1. Path of Knowledge (Jnana Yoga):

• Scriptural Authority: Shankara relies on the authority of the Upanishads and advocates the path of knowledge as the means to realize the oneness of Atman and Brahman. Intellectual understanding, discrimination, and meditation are central to his approach.

Sri Aurobindo’s Interpretation:

1. Integral Yoga:

• Evolutionary Perspective: Aurobindo’s interpretation incorporates an evolutionary worldview. He sees “Tat Tvam Asi” not only as a declaration of identity but as an affirmation of the divine potential within the individual that evolves over time.

1. Synthesis of Paths:

• Harmony of Paths: Aurobindo integrates various yogic paths, emphasizing not only knowledge (Jnana Yoga) but also the paths of love (Bhakti Yoga), selfless action (Karma Yoga), and meditation (Raja Yoga). He views these paths as complementary and essential for a holistic realization.

1. Integral Realization:

• Supramental Consciousness: Aurobindo introduces the concept of the “supramental” as a higher level of consciousness beyond the mind. He envisions the realization of the divine not just in transcendence but in the fullness of life and matter.

Comparison:

1. Nature of Reality:

• Shankara: Reality is non-dual (Advaita) and the world is an illusory appearance.
• Aurobindo: Reality is seen as evolving, and the divine is not just transcendent but immanent in the process of evolution.

1. Approach to Knowledge:

• Shankara: Emphasizes the path of knowledge (Jnana Yoga) through discrimination and realization of the illusory nature of the world.
• Aurobindo: Advocates an integral approach, synthesizing various paths to realize the divine within and beyond the world.

1. Attitude Toward the World:

• Shankara: The world is an illusion, and liberation involves transcending worldly entanglements.
• Aurobindo: Sees the world as a field for spiritual evolution and transformation.

In summary, while Shankara’s interpretation of “Tat Tvam Asi” focuses on the non-dual nature of reality and the illusory nature of the world, Sri Aurobindo’s interpretation incorporates an evolutionary perspective, emphasizing the divine potential within individuals and the integral realization of the divine in all aspects of life.