pratibhasika

Pratibhasika is a Sanskrit term used in Advaita Vedanta philosophy to describe that which appears to be real but is ultimately unreal. It is often translated as "apparent," "illusory," or "ephemeral." Pratibhasika reality is distinct from the absolute reality (paramarthika) and the empirically real (vyavaharika).

An object or experience considered pratibhasika has a fleeting existence and lacks ultimate truth. It can be superimposed upon something else and its existence is dependent on the perceiver. For example, a dream is considered pratibhasika. While it feels real to the dreamer while they are dreaming, upon waking, the dream is recognized as not having possessed true reality. The snake seen in a rope due to dim light is another common example. The snake appears real for a moment, but upon closer inspection or with better light, it is revealed to be just a rope, and the perception of the snake was pratibhasika.

The concept of pratibhasika helps to distinguish between different levels of reality within Advaita Vedanta. It emphasizes that not all perceived realities hold the same ontological status. Understanding pratibhasika is crucial for the Vedantic path of distinguishing the real from the unreal, ultimately leading to the realization of the Self as the sole, immutable reality.