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How does Dvaita Vedanta explain the relationship between the individual soul and the Supreme Soul?

According to Madhvacharya, the founder of Dvaita Vedanta, the relationship between the individual soul and the Supreme Soul can be understood through the concept of duality. Dvaita Vedanta believes in the existence of two distinct and eternal entities – the individual soul (jiva) and the Supreme Soul (Brahman).

The individual soul is seen as a finite and limited being, while the Supreme Soul is infinite and all-pervading. The individual soul is also known as the jivatma, and it is believed to be a part of the Supreme Soul, just like a drop of water is a part of the ocean. However, the individual soul and the Supreme Soul are not the same, and they maintain their individuality even after liberation.

The relationship between the individual soul and the Supreme Soul is often compared to that of a servant and a master. The individual soul is seen as a servant of the Supreme Soul and is dependent on it for its existence. Just as a servant serves and obeys their master, the individual soul must serve and surrender to the Supreme Soul in order to attain liberation.

Dvaita Vedanta also explains the relationship between the individual soul and the Supreme Soul through the concept of karma. It is believed that the individual soul is bound by its karma, which is the result of its actions in previous lives. The Supreme Soul, on the other hand, is not bound by karma and is the ultimate controller of the universe.

According to Madhvacharya, the individual soul can only attain liberation by surrendering to the will of the Supreme Soul and performing selfless actions. This surrender is known as bhakti, or devotion, and it is seen as the most effective means to attain liberation.

The relationship between the individual soul and the Supreme Soul is also explained through the concept of dualistic devotion, where the individual soul sees the Supreme Soul as a separate and superior entity and offers devotion and worship to it. This devotion helps the individual soul to purify its mind and attain a higher state of consciousness, ultimately leading to liberation.

In conclusion, Dvaita Vedanta sees the relationship between the individual soul and the Supreme Soul as one of duality, where the individual soul is dependent on the Supreme Soul for its existence and liberation. Through devotion and surrender, the individual soul can attain liberation and become one with the Supreme Soul.