What does the Gita say about Jivatma and its existence?

The topic of the existence of Jivatma (individual soul) and its distinction from Brahman (the ultimate reality) is a profound one, steeped in philosophical discourse within Hindu scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads, and Vedas.

1. Does Jivatma exist or is it an illusion?

   The Gita states that the Jivatma, or individual soul, is indestructible and eternal. In Chapter 2, Verse 18, Shree Krishna explains:

   "Only the material body is perishable; the embodied soul within is indestructible, immeasurable, and eternal."

   This indicates that the Jivatma does exist and is not an illusion.

2. What do the Upanishads and Vedas say about Jivatma?

   The Upanishads describe the nature of the soul, emphasizing its eternal and indivisible essence. The Taittiriya Upanishad states:

   "The soul that exists is eternal, it is not subject to destruction, and is part of the supreme divine essence."

   This reinforces the belief that the Jivatma is a real and eternal aspect of existence.

3. What is the difference between Jivatma and Brahman?

   Though both Jivatma and Brahman are eternal and blissful, they differ in their manifestations. Jivatma denotes individual souls that are finite and preoccupied with individual existence, whereas Brahman is the infinite, all-pervading reality that encompasses everything. In Chapter 4, Verse 24, it states:

   "The sacrifice (yajna) is the eternal soul (Brahman) that is the ultimate essential reality behind the cosmos."

   Essentially, Brahman is viewed as the source and ultimate reality from which the Jivatmas emanate. Jivatmas are individual manifestations of the singular divine consciousness of Brahman.

In summary, Jivatma does exist as an eternal soul, distinct but ultimately part of the singular divine essence known as Brahman.