Quote by Adi Shankaracharya: “Brahman is real, the world is illusory, and the individual self is nothing but Brahman.”

This quote explains the core philosophy of Advaita Vedanta, stating that the ultimate reality is one divine consciousness. Our perceived world is a temporary appearance, not truly separate from that divine source, and understanding this leads to liberation.

Shankaracharya revitalized Advaita Vedanta in India, arguing for the non-duality of the individual soul (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). His works, like the 'Vivekachudamani', became foundational texts.

Eighth-century Indian philosopher and theologian who consolidated the Advaita Vedanta school of Hindu philosophy, arguing for a strictly non-dual understanding of reality. He traveled across India establishing monasteries and debating rival schools, and his commentaries on the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Brahma Sutras remain foundational texts in Hindu thought.