Comparing Upanishadic Moksha with Buddhist Nirvana: A Philosophical Inquiry

Moksha (liberation) in Upanishadic thought and Nirvana in Buddhism are the ultimate spiritual goals of Hinduism and Buddhism, respectively. Both traditions emphasize ending suffering and transcending worldly existence, but they differ in metaphysical foundations, epistemology, and soteriology. This paper compares their views on self (Ātman versus Anātman), the nature of reality, and the roles of knowledge and meditation. Despite differing frameworks, practical approaches such as meditation, ethical living, and ego transcendence show common ground. The analysis covers Advaita Vedanta's non-dualistic interpretation of Moksha and Theravāda and Mahāyāna perspectives on Nirvana, highlighting both convergence and divergence.

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Abstract

Purpose: The concepts of Moksha (liberation) in Upanishadic thought and Nirvana in Buddhism represent the ultimate spiritual goals in Hinduism and Buddhism, respectively. While both traditions emphasize the cessation of suffering and transcendence of worldly existence, their metaphysical foundations, epistemological approaches, and soteriological frameworks differ significantly. This paper explores the philosophical similarities and differences between Moksha and Nirvana, examining their views on self (Ātman vs. Anātman), the nature of reality, liberation, and the role of knowledge and meditation in attaining the ultimate state. Methodology: This study employs a comparative textual analysis of: (1) Hindu primary texts – Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Brahma Sutras (2) Buddhist canonical texts – Pali Canon (Dhammapada, Sutta Pitaka), Mahayana Sutras (Heart Sutra, Lankavatara Sutra) (3) Commentarial traditions – Shankara’s Advaita Vedanta, Nāgārjuna’s Madhyamaka, Theravāda Abhidhamma The research also integrates philosophical hermeneutics, analyzing the interpretations of modern scholars such as Radhakrishnan, D. T. Suzuki, and Richard Gombrich on the subject of liberation. Results/Analysis: While the metaphysical frameworks of Hinduism and Buddhism differ, their practical approaches to spiritual development share many commonalities. The emphasis on meditation, ethical living, and the transcendence of ego provides a common ground between these traditions. Originality/ values: The study also evaluates Advaita Vedanta's non-dualistic interpretation of Moksha and Theravāda and Mahāyāna perspectives on Nirvana, highlighting areas of convergence and divergence. By comparing these profound spiritual doctrines, this research aims to provide a deeper understanding of liberation across two of the world’s most influential philosophical traditions. Type of paper: In this paper, the exploratory qualitative research method is used. The relevant information is collected using keyword-based search in Google search engine, Google Scholar search engine, and AI-driven GPTs. This information is analysed and interpreted as per the objectives of the paper.