Nature of Soul – In Detail in Hindu Philosophy

1| What is Soul or Atma: The Soul is the invisible, immortal, and eternal consciousness that exists within all living beings. It is different from body, mind, and intellect.

Srimad Bhagavad Gita (2.20) states: 
“Na jaayte mriyate wa kashadh, nnayam bhootwa bhavita wa na bhuyah.”
That means the soul neither takes birth nor dies; Nor does it ever go out of existence.

2] The Soul is Eternal and Imperishable: The soul is neither born, nor dies, nor is destroyed. It is eternal. The body is the witness of birth and death, but the soul is its center, which is immortal. It exists in all ages.

3] The Soul is Without Attributes and is Formless: The soul has no color, shape, form, or quality. This is pure consciousness. In the Upanishads, the soul is said to be eternally pure, without attributes, and without any choice.

4] The Soul is the Witness of Consciousness: The soul is the "spectator" who observes the activities of the body, mind, intellect, and senses. It is not a participant in all this; it is only a witness. Just as the sun is hidden by the clouds, but remains in its place, similarly, the soul lives in the body but is not affected by it.
 
What is the Soul in Hinduism

5] The Blissful Nature of the Soul: The real nature of the soul is pure bliss. Pure bliss is experienced when the mind and senses are calm and peaceful. Yoga and meditation are two of the most effective methods to experience the pure bliss of the soul.

6} Oneness with Supreme Soul: In Hindu philosophy, the soul is considered a part of the Supreme Soul or Brahma. In the Upanishads, this oneness is explained in simple yet profound words through mantras. "Aham Brahmasmi" — I am Brahman, and "Tat Tvam Asi" — You are He. Atma and Paramatma are essentially one, but due to ignorance, the difference is experienced.

7] The Soul is Subtle and Omnipresent: Atma is the subtlest element; it cannot be grasped by the senses. It is connected with Prana in the body. It is present in every living being and everywhere.

8] The Relationship between Body and Soul: The body is a physical vehicle. The soul gives life to the body and leaves the body as soon as it ends. The separation of the soul from the body is referred to as death. The function of the soul controls the cycle of rebirth.

9} The Purpose of the Soul: The purpose of the continuous cycle of the soul's birth and rebirth is to attain liberation or moksha. Moksha means liberation from the cycle of birth and death and attaining complete unity with the ever-existent. Moksha is possible through knowledge, devotion, and action, or Vidya, Prem, and Dharma.

10] How is the Soul Experienced: The Souls can be experienced when the mind is calm and composed. The feeling of the soul increases through yoga, meditation, and self-reflection. Sadhana or spiritual practice is one of the ways by which a person can experience their true nature.

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