In this vision of qualified non-dualism, individual souls (jīvas) are understood as real, eternal entities that exist as modes or attributes of Brahman, never illusory or merely apparent. They are distinct centers of consciousness, yet inseparably related to Brahman, much like a body is related to its indwelling self. This body–soul analogy expresses both dependence and intimacy: souls are sustained, governed, and pervaded by Brahman as their inner controller, yet they are not reducible to Brahman’s own identity. Even in the highest state, the individuality of each jīva is not erased, but preserved within an all-encompassing unity.

As conscious selves, jīvas possess awareness and agency, though their knowledge and power are limited in contrast to the infinite consciousness and power of Brahman. Bound by karma and ignorance, they wander through cycles of birth and death, exercising free will within the constraints of their embodied condition. Their essential nature is to exist in a relationship of dependence and service, oriented toward Brahman as the supreme reality to whom they belong. In this sense, the diversity of individual souls contributes to the richness and articulation of the one reality, providing genuine plurality within an underlying unity.

The spiritual journey of the jīva unfolds through devotion (bhakti), surrender (prapatti), and righteous action, all under the overarching influence of divine grace. As ignorance is dispelled, the soul’s true status as a conscious, loving servant and enjoyer of Brahman becomes manifest. Liberation (mokṣa) does not entail a dissolution into an undifferentiated absolute; rather, it is a state of eternal, blissful communion in which the soul retains its distinct identity. In that liberated state, the jīva participates fully in the knowledge, bliss, and qualities of Brahman, engaging in loving service and intimate fellowship while remaining forever dependent upon, and inseparable from, the supreme.