moksha

Moksha is a Sanskrit term meaning liberation or release. Etymologically from muk- “to release,” it denotes liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). In many Indian traditions, moksha also involves realizing the true nature of the self or ultimate reality, and thereby ending personal suffering.

In Hinduism, moksha is one of the four aims of human life (purusharthas), alongside dharma (duty), artha (prosperity), and kama (pleasure). It is approached through various paths, including knowledge (jnana), devotion (bhakti), action (karma), and disciplined practice (raja). Some schools emphasize realization of oneness with Brahman, while others describe liberation as union with a deity or residence in a divine realm. Concepts such as jivanmukti (liberation while living) and videhamukti (liberation after death) appear in different traditions, reflecting diverse soteriologies.

In Jainism, moksha refers to complete liberation from all karmic bondage, resulting in a purified, omniscient soul achieving kevala jnana and residence in the liberated realm of Siddha-loka. Jain practice centers on ethical conduct, knowledge, and faith to shed karmic heft.

In Buddhism, the analogous goal is often described as nirvana, the cessation of craving and the end of suffering, rather than a self-realization. Sikhism uses the term mukti to denote release from cycle of birth and death and union with the divine presence, framed as turning toward God and ethical living.

Overall, moksha denotes liberation from samsara, with varying doctrinal emphasis across Hindu, Jain, Buddhist, and Sikh frameworks.