famous nonduality advaita vedanta spiritual teachers

Nonduality, also known as Advaita Vedanta, is a spiritual philosophy that teaches the ultimate reality of the universe is the oneness of all things. This oneness is often referred to as the “Self” or “Atman” and is believed to be the same as the ultimate reality, Brahman.

There have been many teachers throughout history who have shared their understanding and knowledge of this philosophy. Here are some of the most influential nonduality teachers:

1. Adi Shankara: Adi Shankara was an 8th century Indian philosopher and theologian who is considered to be one of the greatest exponents of Advaita Vedanta. He wrote extensively on the subject, and his commentaries on the Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita are still widely studied today. Shankara’s teachings emphasized the idea of the oneness of the individual self and the ultimate reality, and he argued that the ultimate goal of human life is to realize this oneness.
2. Ramana Maharshi: Ramana Maharshi was an Indian sage and jivanmukta (liberated soul) who lived in the 20th century. He is considered one of the most important teachers of Advaita Vedanta in modern times. Ramana’s teachings were centered around the idea of self-enquiry, which is the process of turning the mind inward to discover the true nature of the self. He believed that by understanding the nature of the self, one can realize the ultimate oneness of all things.
3. Nisargadatta Maharaj: Nisargadatta Maharaj was an Indian teacher who lived in the 20th century. He is known for his unique approach to Advaita Vedanta, which emphasized the idea of “I am” as the starting point for understanding the true nature of the self. Nisargadatta’s teachings were based on the idea that by understanding the true nature of the self, one can transcend the ego and realize the ultimate oneness of all things.
4. Papaji: Papaji was an Indian teacher who lived in the 20th century. He was a direct disciple of Ramana Maharshi and considered one of the most influential nondual teacher in modern times. He shared the teachings of Advaita Vedanta, emphasizing the realization of the self as the ultimate goal of human existence.

These are just a few of the many teachers who have shared their understanding and knowledge of nonduality throughout history. Each teacher has their own unique approach and perspective, but all share the common goal of helping individuals to realize the ultimate oneness of all things. Their teachings continue to be studied and followed by many people today, providing guidance and insight into the nature of ultimate reality.