What is the difference between "Jiva" and "Brahman" in yoga philosophy?

What is the difference between "Jiva" and "Brahman" in yoga philosophy?

• A. Jiva is the ultimate reality, while Brahman is the individual soul
• B. Jiva refers to the individual soul, while Brahman represents the ultimate reality
• C. Both terms mean the same and are interchangeable
• D. Jiva is a breathing technique, while Brahman is a meditation style

Answer: (B)

The distinction between "Jiva" and "Brahman" is foundational in yoga philosophy and reflects the relationship between the individual and the universal. Jiva refers specifically to the individual soul or self, which is seen as a distinct entity that experiences consciousness, identity, and often a sense of separateness from the world around it. On the other hand, Brahman represents the ultimate reality or the infinite, formless consciousness that is the source of all existence. In various philosophical systems, Brahman is understood as the absolute, transcendent principle of the universe, encompassing everything and beyond individual identities, including Jiva. Thus, Jiva and Brahman are fundamentally different, with Jiva being a limited, individual aspect of existence, while Brahman is the ultimate, all-encompassing reality. This distinction is vital to understanding the philosophical underpinnings of yoga and its aim of realizing the unity between the individual self (Jiva) and the universal consciousness (Brahman). The other options present misunderstandings of these concepts, as they incorrectly define Jiva and Brahman or suggest they are not distinct entities or interpretations in yogic philosophy.

The distinction between "Jiva" and "Brahman" is foundational in yoga philosophy and reflects the relationship between the individual and the universal. Jiva refers specifically to the individual soul or self, which is seen as a distinct entity that experiences consciousness, identity, and often a sense of separateness from the world around it. On the other hand, Brahman represents the ultimate reality or the infinite, formless consciousness that is the source of all existence.

In various philosophical systems, Brahman is understood as the absolute, transcendent principle of the universe, encompassing everything and beyond individual identities, including Jiva. Thus, Jiva and Brahman are fundamentally different, with Jiva being a limited, individual aspect of existence, while Brahman is the ultimate, all-encompassing reality. This distinction is vital to understanding the philosophical underpinnings of yoga and its aim of realizing the unity between the individual self (Jiva) and the universal consciousness (Brahman).

The other options present misunderstandings of these concepts, as they incorrectly define Jiva and Brahman or suggest they are not distinct entities or interpretations in yogic philosophy.