Episode 6 – Atman ≠ Soul
Introduction
The word soul is frequently tied to Christian theology and used interchangeably with “spirit.” In many English-language discussions of Hindu Dharmas, soul has been used as a translation for the Sanskrit word ātman. However, this is an inaccurate and reductive translation, as the concept of ātman in Hindu philosophy carries a much deeper and more nuanced meaning than the Western notion of soul.
Origins of the Word
The English word “soul” traces back to a Proto-Germanic root, which was linked to pre-Christian beliefs in northern Europe. These traditions held that the life force came from the sea, and after death, this force would pause at lakes before transitioning to the afterlife. By the 14th century, after Christianization, “soul” became associated with the Christian concept of psyche, a term borrowed from Ancient Greek philosophy, which itself was heavily influenced by Indian philosophical thought.
Why We Should Avoid Using the Word
Using “soul” to translate the Sanskrit word ātman is problematic for several reasons:
- In Christian theology, the soul is tied to God breathing life into humans, and is often seen as the emotional and moral seat of a person.
- It is frequently confused or conflated with “spirit,” though the two are distinct in many Christian texts.
- The Abrahamic understanding includes a judgment-based afterlife (heaven/hell), which does not align with the broader and more nuanced perspectives found in Dharma traditions.
Dharma traditions distinguish between prāṇa (life force or breath), manas (mind), buddhi (intellect), and ātman, which is the eternal Self—a much deeper and metaphysically rich concept than the Western notion of soul.
What’s a Better Word or Translation
Rather than “soul,” better alternatives to translate ātman include:
- Self – as in the higher Self, or simply “myself,” depending on the context.
- Essence – the unique, unchanging core of an individual or the multiverse.
- Spirit – in limited contexts, particularly where audiences are unfamiliar with Hindu concepts, though it still carries Christian connotations and must be used carefully.
Ultimately, ātman is a concept that spans a vast range of philosophical interpretations within Hindu Dharma traditions. Reducing it to “soul” oversimplifies and misrepresents its depth, and relevance to seekers pursuing freedom, or mokṣa.
