Avidya

Avidya is often translated as ignorance, nescience, or delusion. It signifies a misunderstanding of the true nature of reality, specifically the failure to recognize the impermanence, interconnectedness, and lack of inherent self (anatman) in all phenomena.

In Advaita Vedanta, avidya is the veil that obscures the true nature of Brahman, the ultimate reality. This ignorance causes individuals to perceive the world as separate and distinct from Brahman, leading to the illusion of duality and individual existence.

Buddhism emphasizes avidya as the root cause of suffering (dukkha). It is the first link in the chain of dependent origination (pratītyasamutpāda), which explains how ignorance gives rise to karmic formations, consciousness, name and form, the six senses, contact, feeling, craving, clinging, becoming, birth, aging, and death.

The concept of avidya highlights the importance of self-awareness and introspection. By overcoming ignorance through practices like meditation and contemplation, individuals can gain insight into the true nature of reality and break free from the cycle of suffering.

The removal of avidya is considered essential for achieving liberation (moksha or nirvana). This liberation involves realizing the true nature of the self and the interconnectedness of all things, thereby transcending the limitations of the ego and the illusion of separation.

Different schools of thought within Hinduism and Buddhism offer varying interpretations of avidya. While the core concept remains consistent, the specific nuances and methods for overcoming it differ depending on the philosophical system.

Avidya is not simply a lack of intellectual knowledge; it is a deeper, more fundamental misapprehension about the nature of existence. It involves a distorted perception of reality that leads to attachment, aversion, and ultimately, suffering.

Overcoming avidya requires a sustained effort to cultivate wisdom (prajna) and compassion (karuna). Through these practices, individuals can gradually dismantle the layers of ignorance and realize their true potential for enlightenment.