Eternalism (Indian philosophy)

In Hinduism and Jainism, “eternalism” refers to the eternal nature of Brahman (the Supreme Being), the Ātman (eternal soul), and core Vedic principles, which remain unchanging despite the cyclical nature of the universe. This eternal perspective contrasts with the cyclical process of creation and dissolution, emphasizing that the underlying spiritual reality and the souls within it are timeless and unchanging, destined for liberation (moksha) from the cycle of rebirth.

Key Aspects of Eternalism in Hinduism

Brahman:

The Supreme Being or Divine Consciousness is considered eternal and all-pervasive, representing the foundational, timeless essence of the universe.

Ātman (Soul):

The individual soul or true self is believed to be eternal, without beginning or end, existing independently of temporary physical bodies. The soul’s journey involves evolving through many lifetimes until it achieves liberation.

Sanātana Dharma:

The term itself means “eternal truth of life” and refers to the universal principles and duties that are considered timeless and valid for all people.

Vedas:

The sacred scriptures are considered to contain eternal knowledge and truth, whose core principles remain valid forever.

Timeless Existence:

The eternal nature of the divine, the souls, and the core truths contrasts with the cyclical nature of the physical universe, which undergoes endless cycles of creation, preservation, and dissolution.

How It Contrasts with Temporal Events

While the physical universe is constantly changing, the true nature of reality, according to Hinduism, is eternal. This means that:

The spiritual realm is timeless:

The divine essence and individual souls are not affected by the rise and fall of the universe.

Core principles are perpetual:

The fundamental ethical and spiritual truths, such as those found in the Vedas, are considered to have perennial validity.

Liberation is the ultimate destiny:

The eternal soul’s goal is to resolve its karma and attain moksha (liberation), freeing it from the cycle of rebirth and merging with the Supreme Being.

See also:: Annihilationism (Indian philosophy)