Dvaita Vedānta, founded by Madhva, presents a dualistic view of reality. It posits that God (Viṣṇu), individual souls, and matter are fundamentally distinct. This philosophy challenges non-dualistic interpretations, emphasizing the eternal differences between these entities.

Dvaita highlights five key differences: between God and souls, among souls, between souls and matter, God and matter, and various forms of matter. It emphasizes Viṣṇu's supreme excellence and the importance of devotion (bhakti) as the primary path to liberation.

Dvaita Vedānta: Dualism and Reality

Philosophy of Madhva's Dvaita Vedānta

• Core principles of Dvaita Vedānta
  • Dualism forms fundamental nature of reality posits existence of two distinct and irreducible principles
  • Rejection of non-dualistic interpretations of Vedānta challenges Advaita's concept of absolute non-dualism
• Key aspects of Madhva's philosophy
  • Distinction between God (Viṣṇu) and individual souls emphasizes ontological separation and hierarchical relationship
  • Eternal difference between matter and spirit underscores fundamental disparity in nature and qualities
• Ontological categories in Dvaita
  • Independent reality (svatantra): Viṣṇu exists as self-sufficient, supreme being not dependent on anything else
  • Dependent realities (paratantra): souls and matter rely on Viṣṇu for existence and function
• Epistemology in Dvaita Vedānta
  • Three valid means of knowledge: perception (pratyakṣa), inference (anumāna), and testimony (āgama) form basis of understanding reality
  • Emphasis on scriptural authority (śabda pramāṇa) highlights importance of Vedas and other sacred texts in gaining knowledge

Five differences in Dvaita philosophy

• Difference between God and individual souls (jīva-īśvara-bheda)
  • God as supreme, independent being possesses infinite qualities and powers
  • Souls as eternally distinct and dependent on God have limited knowledge and abilities
• Difference between individual souls (jīva-jīva-bheda)
  • Each soul as unique entity possesses distinct qualities and experiences
  • Hierarchy among souls based on inherent qualities determines spiritual advancement and closeness to God
• Difference between soul and matter (jīva-jaḍa-bheda)
  • Soul as conscious and sentient capable of knowledge, experience, and agency
  • Matter as inert and non-conscious lacks consciousness and self-awareness
• Difference between God and matter (īśvara-jaḍa-bheda)
  • God as controller and creator of matter shapes and manipulates material world
  • Matter as dependent on God for existence and function lacks independent agency or creative power
• Difference between various forms of matter (jaḍa-jaḍa-bheda)
  • Distinct categories of material elements (earth, water, fire, air, ether) possess unique properties
  • Varying qualities and characteristics of material objects result in diverse manifestations in physical world

Supreme excellence of Viṣṇu

• Viṣṇu as Supreme Being
  • Possessor of all auspicious qualities embodies perfection in every aspect
  • Source of all existence and knowledge sustains and pervades entire universe
• Attributes of Viṣṇu's supreme excellence
  • Omniscience, omnipotence, and omnipresence demonstrate unlimited knowledge, power, and presence
  • Perfect bliss and freedom from defects exemplify transcendental nature beyond material limitations
• Viṣṇu's role in creation, sustenance, and dissolution
  • Creator and controller of universe manifests and regulates cosmic order
  • Bestower of liberation to devotees grants spiritual freedom to sincere seekers
• Relationship between Viṣṇu and other deities
  • Subordination of all gods to Viṣṇu establishes hierarchical structure in divine realm
  • Viṣṇu as inner controller (antaryāmin) of all beings guides and directs actions of every entity

Devotion and liberation in Dvaita

• Bhakti (devotion) as primary means of liberation
  • Importance of emotional and intellectual devotion to Viṣṇu cultivates deep connection with divine
  • Cultivation of love and surrender to Supreme fosters spiritual growth and purification
• Karma Yoga (selfless service) in Dvaita
  • Performance of duties as service to Viṣṇu transforms mundane actions into spiritual practice
  • Detachment from results of actions promotes selflessness and reduces ego-centricity
• Jñāna (knowledge) in relation to devotion
  • Understanding of one's true nature as distinct from God leads to proper self-awareness
  • Recognition of Viṣṇu's supremacy and one's dependence establishes correct relationship with divine
• Stages of spiritual progress in Dvaita
  • Śravaṇa (hearing), manana (reflection), and nididhyāsana (meditation) form systematic approach to spiritual growth
  • Gradual purification of soul through devotional practices removes karmic impurities and enhances spiritual qualities
• Liberation (mokṣa) in Dvaita Vedānta
  • Freedom from cycle of rebirth (saṃsāra) ends repeated incarnations and sufferings
  • Eternal service and proximity to Viṣṇu in spiritual realm fulfills soul's ultimate purpose and highest bliss