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Significance of Inequality

According to Vedanta, inequality refers to the unequal conditions within creation, where beings experience varying levels of happiness. In Indian philosophy, it is seen as the foundation of existence, suggesting that the struggle against inequality is essential, as absolute equality is unattainable. Furthermore, this concept is associated with human suffering, indicating that inequality is the root of bondage and misery, highlighting its significance in understanding the human experience and nature.

Synonyms: Disparity, Imbalance, Injustice, Asymmetry, Discrepancy, Unevenness

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Inequality'

Hinduism Books

Inequality in Hinduism reflects the disparate conditions of existence among beings, where happiness and unhappiness exist in varying degrees, leading some to perceive this disparity as unfair within the broader context of creation.

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)

(1) Inequality refers to the unequal conditions within the creation, where some beings are happy, others are unhappy, and some occupy an intermediate state, which some people might consider unfair.[1]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

The concept of Inequality in local and regional sources

History Books

Inequality is depicted as both a source of human suffering and an inherent aspect of existence. It emphasizes the paradox of being essential for creation, while simultaneously necessitating efforts to mitigate its extremes, as absolute equality is unattainable.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda

(1) This concept is described as the way to bondage, the root of all misery, the source of all bondage, and the bane of human nature.[2] (2) The very basis of creation, it is necessary for creation itself, and the struggle to limit it is also necessary, as absolute equality can never be in this world.[3]