How can Purusha be both Atma and Paramatma?
The concepts of Atma (individual soul) and Paramatma (Supreme Soul) may seem different, but in the context of the Bhagavad Gita and Hindu philosophy, they represent different manifestations of the same divine essence.
According to the scriptures, there is only one Supreme Entity that manifests as three forms:
- Brahman: The formless, omnipresent aspect of God, which is watched over and worshipped as an all-pervading energy.
- Paramatma: The aspect of God that resides within every individual as the Supreme Soul, guiding and recording every action.
- Bhagavan: The personal and relational aspect of God, who has distinct attributes and engages with devotees in a loving relationship.
The Bhagavad Gita clarifies that while Atma represents the individual soul, Paramatma represents the Supreme Soul that is present within all beings, illustrating the relationship between the two as simultaneously one and different:
- Chapter 13, Verse 23: "The Supreme Soul is referred to as the witness, permitter, sustainer, enjoyer, and the supreme controller." This reinforces that while the individual soul performs actions, the Paramatma is the observer of those actions.
- Chapter 18, Verse 20: "He who is not agitated by the dualities of happiness and distress, and is unbothered by their effects, is firmly situated in perfect knowledge."
The concepts of Purusha (Universal Being) and Paramatma highlight that while our individual souls (Atma) are distinguishing and unique, they are also a part of the greater spiritual reality that is the Paramatma. This union emphasizes the oneness of existence, which is fundamental in understanding Hindu philosophy.