 Vedanta School of Philosophy:

Achintya-Bheda-Abheda Vedanta:
Founder: Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
This tradition is known for its unique synthesis of seemingly contradictory
principles of “Bheda” (difference), “Abheda” (non-difference), and “Achintya”
(inconceivability).
Bheda (Difference):
Achintya-Bheda-Abheda Vedanta acknowledges that there is an eternal and
qualitative difference between the individual soul (jiva) and the Supreme
Personality of Godhead (Krishna or Vishnu). In other words, the individual soul is
an eternal servant of God and retains its individuality even in the spiritual realm.

Shuddhadvaita Vedanta:
Founder: Vallabha Acharya
Key Tenet:
Shuddhadvaita means “pure non-dualism.” This school focuses on the worship of
Krishna as the ultimate reality (Brahman) and teaches that individual souls have
an eternal relationship with God. Bhakti and devotion are central to attaining
moksha.

Bhedabheda Vedanta:
Proponents: Nimbarka
Key Tenet: Bhedabheda means “difference and non-difference.” This school
combines elements of both dualism and non-dualism, asserting that there is a
simultaneous distinction and unity between individual souls and God. It
emphasizes devotion (Bhakti) to Lord Krishna as the means to attain oneness with
God.

 Dvaita Vedanta
The five differences between:
○ the individual self (jiva atman) and ishvara
○ matter and ishvara
○ different individual jiva atman
○ matter and jiva atman
○ various types of matter.
1) Between Different Individual Jiva Atman:
This school maintains that individual souls (Jiva Atman) are not only distinct from
Ishvara but also distinct from each other. Each Jiva Atman has its unique identity
and is subject to its own karmic experiences and individual destiny.
2) Between Matter and Ishvara:
In Dvaita Vedanta, a fundamental distinction exists between the material world
(matter or prakriti) and Ishvara, the Supreme God. Matter encompasses all
elements and entities but lacks consciousness. Ishvara, as the Creator and
transcendent Divine, governs the material world, emphasizing the eternal
separation between them. Devotion (Bhakti) to Ishvara is central, offering a
pathway to spiritual realization and liberation while underscoring the
philosophy’s core duality.
3) Between Matter and Jiva Atman:
Dvaita Vedanta posits a fundamental difference between matter (prakriti) and
individual souls (Jiva Atman). Matter is inert and devoid of consciousness,
whereas Jiva Atman possesses consciousness and self-awareness. The two exist
in different categories of existence.
4) Between Various Types of Matter:
Dvaita Vedanta, distinguishes between various forms of matter in the material
world. It categorizes elements, living beings, and inanimate objects, emphasizing
their diversity and individuality. This recognition aligns with Dvaita Vedanta’s
broader philosophy of eternal distinctions, asserting that each category serves a
unique purpose within the cosmic order, reinforcing the notion of a multifaceted
creation separate from the supreme God and other entities.

The importance of puja and devotion to Vishnu in Dvaita Vedanta.

In Dvaita Vedanta, the importance of “puja” (worship) and unwavering devotion
to Lord Vishnu is central to the philosophy and spiritual practice.
1) Personal Relationship with the Divine:
Devotees in Dvaita Vedanta cultivate a deeply personal and loving relationship
with Lord Vishnu. This devotion often takes the form of seeing the deity as a
beloved friend, child, or divine lover. Such a personal connection allows
individuals to experience a profound sense of intimacy with the Divine.
2) Worship and Rituals (Puja):
Puja, or ritual worship, plays a crucial role in Dvaita Vedanta. Devotees perform
daily rituals, including offering prayers, singing hymns, and performing arati
(offering of light), to express their love and reverence for Lord Vishnu.
3) Surrender and Trust:
Dvaita Vedanta encourages devotees to surrender themselves entirely to the will
of Lord Vishnu. Surrender, in this context, means placing complete trust in the
Divine and accepting that God is the ultimate protector and guide in life.
4) Removal of Ego and Dualism:
Through devoted worship, individuals aim to transcend their ego and the dualistic
perception of the self as separate from the Divine. Devotion allows them to
realize their dependence on God and embrace a sense of unity with the Divine.
5) Moral and Ethical Living:
Devotees are guided by moral and ethical principles in their daily lives. They seek
to lead virtuous lives, showing kindness, compassion, and love to all beings as an
expression of their devotion to Lord Vishnu.
6) Spiritual Growth and Liberation:
The ultimate goal of devotion and puja in Dvaita Vedanta is spiritual growth and
liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara). Devotees believe that
through sincere and unwavering Bhakti, they can attain moksha and enjoy
eternal union with the Supreme God.