Significance of Vivartavada
Vivartavada is a philosophical concept associated with Vaishnavism, Vedanta, and other Indian traditions, emphasizing the idea of illusion in relation to the Supreme, particularly depicting the deceptive nature of material existence. It asserts that the world is an apparent transformation or appearance of Brahman, rather than a genuine modification. This theory has been used to counter criticism against Vaishnavas and also discussed in various philosophical contexts, including its implications in Vyakarana and Kavyashastra, exemplifying the complex understandings of reality in Indian philosophy.
Synonyms: Theory of change
In German: Vivartavada; In Finnish: Vivartavada; In Spanish: Vivartavada; In Dutch: Levendigheid
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Vivartavada'
Vivartavada in Hinduism signifies a philosophical argument by Jiva Gosvami, positing that the universe's appearance is illusory, representing Brahman's modification without actual change, contrasting with views of real transformations, and challenging interpretations of Vedic texts.
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) A contrasting perspective that describes Aum and the universe as appearing differently without actual change.[1] (2) A philosophical explanation that supports the idea of creation as an illusion rather than a real transformation of Atman.[2]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The teaching that the phenomenal world is an apparent modification of Brahman, contrasting with other interpretations suggesting actual modifications.[3]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The theory of illusion regarding the Supreme, particularly emphasizing the deceptive nature of material existence.[4]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The theory of illusion which was used by opponents to discredit the legitimacy of Vaishnavas and their interpretations of Vedic texts.[5]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A philosophical term referring to the final doctrine discussed, possibly related to transformation or non-duality.[6]
The concept of Vivartavada in local and regional sources
Vivartavada is a philosophical concept indicating that the world is an illusion or transformation of Brahman, akin to a snake appearing on a rope, highlighting the distinction between reality and perception in understanding existence.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is the evolution of nature and the manifestation of the Absolute, a concept in Sanskrit that describes the apparent world's changes and transformations.[7] (2) This is a theory held by Advaitists, or apparent manifestation, which explains the relationship between God and the universe, including its changes.[8]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The philosophical concept that the world is merely an appearance or transformation of Brahman, similar to a snake appearing on a rope.[9]