The Concept of Jivatma: The Individual Spirit and Its Connection to the Absolute

In Indian philosophy, the concept of jivatma (jivatman, living soul) occupies a central place in metaphysical inquiries into human existence and the relationship of the individual to the universe. Derived from the Sanskrit language, the word consists of two parts: jiva (life, living being) and atma (soul, spirit).

Jivatma refers to the individual soul, the inner essence that gives life and consciousness to the individual, while maintaining an unbreakable connection with the universal spirit, the Paramatma (Supreme Soul).

Philosophical Origin

The concept of jivatma is deeply rooted in Hindu and Vedic teachings, as well as in ancient Indian texts such as the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita. According to the Upanishads, the jivatma is not an independent entity, but a reflection of Brahman, the absolute and eternal reality.

The Bhagavad Gita explains that the jivatma is indestructible and eternal, beyond the body, mind, and material experiences. When the body dies, the jivatma continues its journey, incarnating a new life carrier (samsara), until it achieves enlightenment and reunites with the Paramatma.

Jivatma and Paramatma: Dualism and Unity.

One of the fundamental questions examined by the Vedantic schools is the relationship between the jivatma and the Paramatma. The Advaita Vedanta school maintains that this distinction is an illusion (maya), as the jivatma is in fact Brahman itself. This school teaches that the individual soul appears separate due to ignorance, but through self-knowledge and meditation, the individual can recognize his unity with the absolute.

On the other hand, the Dvaita Vedanta school maintains the distinction between jivatma and Paramatma. According to this view, the individual soul always remains separate, retaining its personal identity, but is completely dependent on the divine presence of Paramatma.

Jivatma and Contemporary Philosophy

Although the concept of jivatma originates from Indian philosophy, it can be compared to similar ideas in other traditions. In Platonic philosophy, the soul is considered eternal and morally superior to the body, seeking its return to the world of Ideas. In Christianity, the human soul is a unique creation connected to God and has eternal value.

In modern psychology and philosophy, the concept of jivatma can be related to the search for self and authenticity. Existentialist philosophers such as Sartre and Heidegger, albeit from different perspectives, examine the idea of individual existence and the need for personal recognition and self-realization.

Jivatma in Practice

In everyday life, the concept of jivatma invites us to look within ourselves, recognize our true nature, and remember that we are not just our bodies or the roles we play in society. Practices such as yoga, meditation, and self-observation help us connect with this deeper part of ourselves.

Patanjali's Yoga Sutra states that liberation (kaivalya) comes when an individual understands their true nature. Through this process, the jivatma discovers its freedom from the limitations of matter and its unity with the divine.

Conclusion

The jivatma is a deeply philosophical concept that invites us to reflect on the nature of our existence. As an individual soul, it is the source of our life and consciousness, but at the same time it is part of a larger, universal reality. Whether seen as totally united with the Paramatma or as a separate entity seeking it, the jivatma is the key to self-awareness and connection with the universe.

Engaging with this concept is not only theoretical but also practical. Through introspection, spiritual practice, and the cultivation of awareness, we can discover this light hidden within us and live a life of meaning, harmony, and connection.