Pantheism vs Hinduism
Hinduism contains strong pantheistic elements, especially in Advaita Vedanta.
The Deep Connection
Hinduism, especially the Advaita Vedanta school, teaches that Brahman (ultimate reality) is identical with Atman (the self) and with all of existence. The famous phrase "Tat tvam asi" - "You are that" - is essentially pantheistic.
Many Western pantheists find deep resonance with Hindu philosophy, particularly the Upanishads and teachers like Shankara.
Key Differences
Personal Gods
Hinduism includes worship of personal deities - Vishnu, Shiva, Lakshmi, Ganesha, and many others.
Pantheism typically doesn't include personal gods - just the one sacred whole.
Reincarnation
Hinduism teaches samsara - the cycle of death and rebirth based on karma.
Pantheism doesn't require belief in reincarnation - your atoms continue, but not "you."
Cultural Context
Hinduism is a rich cultural and religious tradition with thousands of years of texts, rituals, temples, and practices.
Pantheism is a philosophical position - no required rituals, texts, or cultural practices.
Maya (Illusion)
Hinduism often teaches that the physical world is maya - illusion or appearance.
Pantheism typically affirms the physical world as real and sacred, not illusion.
Hindu Schools and Pantheism
Advaita Vedanta - Very Close
Non-dualism: Brahman alone is real, and you are Brahman. This is essentially pantheistic.
Vishishtadvaita - Panentheistic
Qualified non-dualism: God includes but transcends the universe. More panentheism than pantheism.
Dvaita - Theistic
Dualism: God and souls are eternally distinct. This is traditional theism, not pantheism.
"Brahman is the only reality. The world is appearance. The individual soul is Brahman alone, not different."
- Shankara's summary of Advaita Vedanta
