Adhyāsa

Adhyāsa (अध्यास) is a fundamental concept in Advaita Vedanta, a school of Hindu philosophy. The term "Adhyāsa" is often translated as "superimposition" or "false attribution." It refers to the cognitive error of attributing the properties of one thing to another, leading to a mistaken understanding of reality.

Etymology

The word "Adhyāsa" is derived from the Sanskrit roots "adhi" (अधि) meaning "upon" and "āsa" (आस) meaning "to sit." Thus, it literally means "to sit upon" or "to superimpose."

Philosophical Context

In the context of Advaita Vedanta, Adhyāsa is the erroneous superimposition of the non-Self (anātman) onto the Self (ātman). This cognitive error is considered the root cause of human suffering and ignorance (avidya). According to Advaita Vedanta, the ultimate reality is Brahman, which is pure consciousness and bliss. However, due to Adhyāsa, individuals mistakenly identify themselves with their body, mind, and ego, leading to a distorted perception of reality.

Types of Adhyāsa

Adhyāsa can be classified into two main types:

• Samsargādhyaasa (संसरगाध्यास): This is the superimposition of one thing upon another, such as mistaking a rope for a snake.
• Samskārādhyaasa (संस्काराध्यास): This is the superimposition of past experiences or memories onto the present, leading to a distorted perception of reality.

Role in Advaita Vedanta

The concept of Adhyāsa is crucial in understanding the teachings of Adi Shankaracharya, the principal proponent of Advaita Vedanta. In his seminal work, the Brahmasutra Bhashya, Shankaracharya begins with an analysis of Adhyāsa to explain how ignorance (avidya) leads to the mistaken identification of the Self with the non-Self. The removal of Adhyāsa through the practice of jnana yoga (the path of knowledge) is essential for attaining moksha (liberation).

Related Concepts

• Avidya: Ignorance or nescience, the root cause of Adhyāsa.
• Maya: The illusory power that creates the appearance of the phenomenal world.
• Moksha: Liberation from the cycle of birth and death, achieved by realizing the true nature of the Self.
• Jnana Yoga: The path of knowledge, aimed at dispelling ignorance and realizing the Self.

See Also

• Advaita Vedanta
• Adi Shankaracharya
• Brahman
• Avidya
• Maya
• Moksha
• Jnana Yoga