Dvaita is a prominent school of Vedanta, a major branch of Hindu philosophy, founded by the 13th-century philosopher Madhvacharya. The term Dvaita means “dualism,” which reflects the core teaching of this philosophy: the fundamental distinction between the individual soul (Jiva) and the supreme reality, ब्रह्मन् Brahman (often identified with the Hindu deity Vishnu or Narayana). Dvaita Vedanta stands in contrast to the non-dualistic philosophy of Advaita Vedanta, which teaches the oneness of the soul and Brahman.

Core Principles of Dvaita:

Dualism (Dvaita): • The central tenet of Dvaita is the absolute difference between Jiva (individual souls) and Brahman (God). According to Madhvacharya, Brahman is the independent, supreme being, while Jivas are dependent entities. This dualism extends to the difference between God and the universe, God and matter, and among individual souls themselves.
Five Eternal Differences (Panchabheda): • Dvaita philosophy emphasizes five fundamental and eternal differences: • Difference between God and individual souls (Jiva-Ishvara Bheda). • Difference between God and matter (Ishvara-Jada Bheda). • Difference between individual souls (Jiva-Jiva Bheda). • Difference between individual souls and matter (Jiva-Jada Bheda). • Difference between different forms of matter (Jada-Jada Bheda).
God as Supreme and Independent: • In Dvaita, God (Brahman or Vishnu) is seen as the supreme, independent reality who controls the universe and the destinies of all beings. God is both the creator and sustainer of the universe, and is also the ultimate object of worship and devotion (Bhakti).
Hierarchy of Souls: • Dvaita posits that not all souls are equal; they are graded hierarchically based on their intrinsic nature and their relationship with God. Some souls are eternally destined for liberation (Moksha), while others are subject to eternal bondage or transmigration due to their Karma.
Devotion (Bhakti) and Grace: • Devotion to God, especially in the form of Vishnu or Krishna, is central to Dvaita practice. Liberation is achieved through the grace of God, and devotion (Bhakti) is seen as the most effective path to attain God’s grace. While knowledge (Jñāna) and righteous action (Karma) are important, they are considered secondary to devotion in the pursuit of liberation.
Scriptural Foundation: • Dvaita philosophy draws heavily from उपनिषद् The Upanishads, The Bhagavad Gita , and Brahma Sutras, but interprets these texts in a dualistic framework. Madhvacharya wrote extensive commentaries on these scriptures to support his interpretation, which became foundational to the Dvaita school.

Influence and Legacy:

Dvaita Vedanta has had a profound influence on the devotional practices and religious beliefs in various parts of India, particularly in Karnataka, where Madhvacharya was based. The philosophy inspired a strong tradition of Vaishnavism, emphasizing the worship of Vishnu and his incarnations.

The followers of Dvaita, known as Madhvas, continue to practice and propagate the teachings of Madhvacharya through religious observances, study of scriptures, and the establishment of temples and monasteries (mathas). The philosophy also influenced the Haridasa movement, which contributed significantly to the Bhakti literature in Kannada.

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Dualism

Hindu Lexicon