Write a note on the Advaitik understanding of Human Person.

In Advaita Vedanta, a school of Hindu philosophy, the understanding of the human person is deeply rooted in non-dualism, known as Advaita. According to Advaita Vedanta, the ultimate reality, Brahman, is devoid of any multiplicity and distinctions. The human person, at the fundamental level, is seen as identical to Brahman, realizing the oneness of the individual soul (Atman) with the cosmic soul.

The Advaitik understanding emphasizes that the apparent diversity in the world is an illusion (maya) and posits that the true nature of the self transcends individuality. The human person is considered to be not just a finite entity with distinct boundaries but rather an expression of the infinite, undivided Brahman.

The process of self-realization, according to Advaita Vedanta, involves recognizing the illusion of separateness and understanding that the true self (Atman) is beyond the limitations of the body, mind, and ego. Through spiritual practices like self-inquiry (Vichara) and meditation, individuals strive to attain the direct experience of their essential nature as identical to Brahman.

In Advaita, the human person is not merely a seeker of unity with the divine; rather, the realization is that there was never any actual separation. This non-dualistic understanding profoundly influences the ethical, contemplative, and devotional aspects of the Advaitik approach to spiritual life.