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Hinduism

Brahman and the three features of the divine

  • 3 things to know
  • Paper 1

Overview

These questions explain Brahman as nirguna and saguna, the spiritual worlds, the three features of the divine, Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 3.9.1, and how Advaita, Dvaita and Vishishtadvaita differ on atman and Brahman.

What you need to know

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Key term

Define Brahman.

Key term

What does nirguna Brahman mean?

Key term

What does saguna Brahman mean?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

  1. 1

    Define Brahman.

    Model answer

    Brahman is the ultimate reality that lies behind everything in the universe. Brahman is eternal, without beginning or end.

  2. 2

    What does nirguna Brahman mean?

    Model answer

    Nirguna Brahman is Brahman without qualities or form. Hindus describe this as pure divine consciousness, beyond anything the mind can picture.

  3. 3

    What does saguna Brahman mean?

    Model answer

    Saguna Brahman is God with qualities and form. Deities such as Vishnu, Shiva and Devi are saguna manifestations of the one reality.

  4. 4

    Why do many Hindus prefer to worship saguna rather than nirguna Brahman?

    Model answer

    A God with form can be pictured, loved and addressed in prayer. Formless reality gives devotion nothing to hold on to.

  5. 5

    What are the spiritual worlds in Hindu belief?

    Model answer

    The spiritual worlds are eternal realms where God is directly present. Vaishnavas name Vaikuntha and Shaivas name Kailasa as such realms.

  6. 6

    Name the three features of the divine described in Hindu teaching.

    Model answer

    The divine is everywhere as non-personal Brahman. The divine is also within the heart of every being, and beyond as a personal loving God.

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