Mokṣa

Mokṣa is a Sanskrit word meaning liberation or release. In Indian philosophy, it refers to the ultimate freedom from the cycle of birth and death (saṃsāra). Mokṣa is not escape but realization: awakening to the truth of the Self beyond ego, karma, and illusion. It is the state of unity with Brahman, where the soul rests in its eternal nature — often described as Sat–Cit–Ānanda, being–consciousness–bliss.

Origins & Background

The concept of Mokṣa is central to Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism (where it is closely related to nirvāṇa).

In Vedānta, Mokṣa means realizing one’s identity with Brahman.
In Yoga, it is the culmination of the eightfold path, where the seer abides in pure awareness.
In Jainism, Mokṣa is freedom of the soul from karmic bondage.
In Buddhism, liberation is described as nirvāṇa, though distinct in framing.

Across these traditions, Mokṣa represents the highest human goal (puruṣārtha), the fulfillment of life’s journey.

Meaning in Context

When I use the term Mokṣa, it points to the liberation that comes not from leaving life but from entering it with full awareness. It is the dissolution of the illusions of separation, where the soul recognizes its own eternal nature. Mokṣa is the flowering of practice, devotion, and wisdom — the freedom to live from essence rather than conditioning.

Applications & Benefits

Freedom from Saṃsāra: Liberation from cycles of rebirth and karma.

Union with the Self: Direct realization of Sat–Cit–Ānanda.

Inner peace: Dissolution of attachments and fears.

Purpose fulfilled: Considered the ultimate aim of life in Indian philosophy.

Related Teachings & Lineages

Antoine'S NOTES

Semantic Keywords

4. Related terms

Ānanda

Ānanda is a Sanskrit word that means bliss, joy, or supreme happiness. In spiritual traditions, it points to a state of transcendental bliss that arises from union with the Self or the Divine. More than an emotional feeling, Ānanda represents the inherent bliss of existence itself — the power of the Divine expressed as joy.

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Sat–Cit–Ānanda

Sat–Cit–Ānanda is a Sanskrit expression describing the essence of ultimate reality, Brahman. It is a triad of three inseparable qualities: Sat (absolute being), Cit (pure consciousness), and Ānanda (transcendental bliss). Together, they point to the eternal nature of the Self beyond time, form, and limitation. Far more than abstract philosophy, Sat–Cit–Ānanda describes the lived experience of enlightenment — the realization of one’s true nature.

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