Answer :
Final answer:
The essential self in Hindu philosophy is called Atman, and it is understood to be one with the ultimate reality, Brahman. Through spiritual practices and living in accordance with dharma and karma, one aims to realize this unity and achieve moksha, the release from the cycle of rebirth.
Explanation:
The individual, or essential, self is called Atman and is one with Brahman and everything else in the universe. Everything is indeed a representation of Brahman, the formless, nameless, and changeless reality. In Hindu philosophy, particularly Vedanta, Brahman is considered the ultimate reality and first cause of the cosmos. While it has been characterized in various ways including Truth, Mind-essence, Transcendental Intelligence, and Noble Wisdom, in some Vedantic philosophies, Brahman is without qualities or beyond personhood; in others, it is associated with a god-like figure. To realize that Atman is Brahman and to achieve unity with it, one can engage in practices such as yoga, meditation, rituals, and observing dharma, the code of conduct prescribed by scripture, as well as karma, the actions and deeds. Thus, by understanding that Atman is one with Brahman, individuals work towards liberation from the cycle of reincarnation, seeking moksha, or release.
