Self-Inquiry and the Pursuit of Happiness :A Study in Advaita Vedānta and its Relevance in Modern Times

Abstract

The goal of every human being in this world is to be happy or joyful. Though we seek this happiness in ephemeral objects out there in the world, Advaita considers it purely subjective and also the true nature of the Self. Swami Vidyāraṇya has firmly argued that the Self is not just the witness-consciousness or the constant immovable seer of all times but also the locus of supreme joy and love. It is not just a passing mental state but the ultimate nature of existence. Certainly, this radical claim of Advaita challenges all modern theories and concepts of Self that identify the Self with the psycho-physical body or different external entities. This paper aims to investigate the multiple techniques Advaitins have employed to reveal the nature of Self and how do they endorse the bliss-nature of the Self with reference to some of the major texts of Advaita traditions. Precisely, the goal of this paper is to show the profound practical implication of Advaita philosophy in understanding the goal and supreme value of human life in the present world.