In non-duality (Advaita Vedanta), the essence of the universe and the individual is seen as one undivided reality. This philosophy emphasizes that distinctions we perceive in the world—between self and other, subject and object, form and formlessness—are ultimately illusions or misapprehensions. Here’s how these terms can be understood in light of non-duality:

1. Atman (Self)

Atman refers to the innermost essence or the true self of an individual. In non-duality, the Atman is not separate from Brahman, the ultimate reality. While the ego and individual identity (the small ‘self’) appear distinct, the Atman is the pure, infinite consciousness that transcends personal identity. The realization in non-dualism is that the true self, or Atman, is the same as the universal consciousness (Brahman).

2. Soul (Jiva)

In common terms, the soul (Jiva) is considered the individual spirit, the spark of life that inhabits each being. However, in non-duality, the concept of a distinct soul or separate individuality dissolves when one recognizes that there is no real separation between souls. The Jiva is seen as a limited manifestation of the Atman, veiled by ignorance (Avidya). Once ignorance is dispelled, the idea of a separate soul merges back into the recognition that there is only one reality.

3. Consciousness (Chit)

Consciousness in non-duality is not something that a person has; it is the very essence of existence. Consciousness is universal and not personal. It is not tied to individual thoughts, emotions, or perceptions. In non-dualism, consciousness (Chit) is the ultimate reality—unconditioned, infinite awareness that underlies and pervades everything. It is both the witness and the essence of all experience, including the individual mind and the universe itself.

4. Brahman (Ultimate Reality)

Brahman is the supreme, infinite, formless, and all-encompassing reality in non-duality. It is the ground of all existence and the source of everything. In non-duality, Brahman is pure consciousness and the only reality, with everything else—including the universe and individual selves—being appearances or manifestations of Brahman. The realization of non-duality comes when one recognizes that there is no real distinction between Brahman and Atman—the individual self and the universal are one.

5. Spirit

The word ‘spirit’ is often used interchangeably with ‘soul’ or ‘consciousness’ in spiritual contexts. In non-duality, spirit refers to the formless, boundless essence of life that animates all things. Like Atman or Brahman, spirit is understood as part of the undivided reality, transcending personal identity or individuality. Spirit is the same infinite consciousness manifesting through different forms of life, but ultimately, there is no separate spirit—just one universal consciousness.

6. Self (Ego or Ahamkara)

The ‘self’ in everyday language usually refers to the ego, the sense of being a distinct individual with thoughts, desires, and emotions. In non-duality, this egoic self is an illusion (Maya). It is not the true self (Atman), but a limited, constructed identity based on the mind and body. Realization in non-duality means seeing through the false identification with the ego and recognizing the unity of the individual with the infinite consciousness of Brahman.

7. Maya (Illusion)

Maya is the force of illusion or ignorance that causes us to perceive distinctions and duality in the world. It veils the true nature of reality and makes us believe in separation—between individuals, between the world and self, between Atman and Brahman. Maya leads to the identification with the body and mind, creating the sense of individual ego. In non-duality, enlightenment involves seeing through Maya, recognizing that all forms, distinctions, and experiences are illusory, and realizing the oneness of all existence.

Summary in Non-Dual Light:

• Atman: The true, infinite self, identical to Brahman.

• Soul (Jiva): A temporary, illusory identification of Atman with individuality.

• Consciousness (Chit): The fundamental reality, the pure awareness underlying all experience.

• Brahman: The ultimate, formless reality, the source of all existence.

• Spirit: The undivided life force, the same as consciousness and Brahman.

• Self (Ego): A false sense of individual identity, separate from reality, created by Maya.

• Maya: The cosmic illusion that hides the non-dual truth of oneness, making us believe in duality and separation.

In non-duality, all these distinctions ultimately dissolve into the understanding that there is only one reality, one consciousness, one existence—Brahman. The realization of this oneness is liberation (Moksha), where one awakens from the illusion of Maya and lives in the recognition of non-separation and unity with all of existence.