Paramatma

Paramātmā, meaning “Supreme Soul” or “Supersoul,” is a Sanskrit term used in Hindu philosophy to denote the inner, universal aspect of the divine that pervades all beings. It is often described as the indwelling witness, guide, and controller within each individual soul (jīvātma), distinguishing it from both the personal soul and from the ultimate, formless reality.

Different schools interpret Paramātmā in distinct ways. In Advaita Vedanta, Paramātmā is the inner witness within the self, while the ultimate reality is nondual Brahman; realization of true nature dissolves the distinction between jīvātma and Brahman. In the theistic traditions, such as Vishishtadvaita and Dvaita, Paramātmā is the personal God dwelling in the heart as a conscious guide. In many Vaishnavite contexts, Krishna or Narayana is identified as the Paramātmā within all beings, with the broader, transcendent form of God understood as Ishvara or Bhagavan.

Scriptural references commonly describe Paramātmā as residing in the heart, guiding intellect and senses, sustaining beings, and revealing spiritual knowledge to those who seek devotion. The concept provides a framework for understanding the relationship between the individual self, God, and ultimate reality, and it serves as a focal point for meditation and devotional practice in various traditions.

Notable sources include the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita, where the indwelling presence and its relation to liberation are discussed. Across different schools, Paramātmā is understood with varying emphasis, reflecting broader theological and metaphysical discussions about self, God, and the nature of reality.