Self-Realization as Liberation: The Concept of Mukti in Advaita Vedānta
Research Review Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies December 31, 2025 P. Paul
Advaita Vedānta defines Mukti (freedom) as self-realization, the direct understanding that Ātman (individual self) and Brahman (absolute reality) are identical. Ignorance (avidyā) creates the illusion of separateness and bondage, while knowledge (jñāna) of non-dual reality eliminates this ignorance and reveals the self's innate freedom. Liberation is not an external achievement or a post-mortem state but the recognition of one's actual essence as pure consciousness. The concept of jīvanmukti affirms that freedom is possible while living. The Advaitic vision offers insights into human freedom, identity, and spiritual fulfillment through inner transformation and universal unity.