Understanding reality at a different level does not negate the previous level, it simply adds another layer of understanding to it. It’s like zooming in and out on a microscope, where each level reveals new details and insights that were not apparent at the previous level.

The most common example in philosophical circles is that of a chair. The chair is solid and stable at our everyday macroscopic level, and we can sit on it without thinking about its underlying structure. However, when we zoom in to the atomic level, the chair’s solidness disappears. We see instead a vast emptiness filled with tiny particles moving at high speeds.

This doesn’t mean that the chair is not real or that our experience of its solidity is invalid. It simply means that there is another level of reality that exists beneath the surface of our everyday experience. This deeper level or higher level of reality explains how the chair is actually constructed, and it allows us to understand its properties in a more fundamental way. There are several such examples.

The Earth is round, but it appears flat to our senses. Bacteria exist, even though we cannot see them with the naked eye. Time is relative, but we experience it as flowing in a linear fashion. It doesnot mean that our senses are wrong or our experiences are invalid or our experience of time is wrong. It simply means that they are limited in their ability to perceive the world beyond a certain scale. It means that there is a whole world of invisible things that we can learn about through scientific investigation. It means that our perception of time is influenced by our own frame of reference.

So, while it may seem counterintuitive at first, understanding reality at a different level does not negate the previous level. Instead, it enriches our understanding of the universe and provides us with a more complete picture of how things work. It’s important to remember that each level of reality is valid and has something valuable to teach us.

It is a known fact that, we cannot solve a problem with the same mind or level of consciousness that created it. This is a fundamental principle of change and growth, and it applies to a wide range of situations, including personal development, business, spirituality and social issues.

Similar to physics or microbiology , Vedanta is also a higher/deeper science. Vedanta offers a method for overcoming the problem of Samsara, to overcome limitations and reaching a higher level of consciousness.

Here are some reasons why this statement is true:

1. Limited perspective: Our current perspective is shaped by our past experiences, knowledge, and biases. This limits our ability to see the problem from new angles and come up with creative solutions.

2. Fixation on existing solutions: When we are stuck in a particular way of thinking, we tend to focus on the same solutions that have failed us in the past. This prevents us from exploring new possibilities and finding more effective solutions.

3. Emotional attachment: We often become emotionally attached to our existing ways of thinking and doing things. This makes it difficult to detach ourselves from the problem and see it objectively.

Vedanta offers a method for overcoming these limitations and reaching a higher level of consciousness (a higher level of perception, taste, appreciation and enjoyment). This method involves:

1. Self-awareness: Cultivating awareness of our own thoughts, emotions, and biases is essential for identifying the limitations of our current perspective.
2. Receiving Teachings: Studying the teachings of Vedanta with a qualified teacher can provide us with new insights and perspectives that can help us validate and understand the problem and find solutions.
3. Inquiry: Questioning our assumptions and beliefs allows us to see things from new angles and open ourselves up to new possibilities.
4. Meditation: By quieting the mind and focusing on the present moment, we can access a deeper level of awareness that is not limited by our past experiences or beliefs.

The teaching of Vedanta in the Upanishads helps us understand reality at a higher/ deeper level but does not negate the previous level. It is a call to go beyond the surface of reality and discover the deeper truth that lies seemingly veiled underneath.

The Vedanta concept of Mithya, or “unreal,” is often misunderstood as negating the reality of the world and promoting a life of asceticism and detachment. However, this interpretation is inaccurate. When Vedanta calls the world Mithya, it is not referring to the physical world itself. Rather, it is referring to the illusory nature of our perception of the world. We perceive the world through our senses and minds, which are limited and subject to various biases and distortions. This limited perception creates an illusion of a separate, independent world that exists outside of ourselves.

Vedanta teaches that this illusion is not ultimately real. It corrects our perception. The true reality is Brahman, the eternal, unchanging Absolute. Brahman is the source of all existence, and everything in the world is a manifestation of Brahman. While the world may appear to be real to us, it is ultimately a projection of the one Brahman.

Understanding the world as Mithya does not mean that we should abandon our pursuit of happiness in the physical world. In fact, Vedanta recognizes the importance of fulfilling our duties and responsibilities in the world. It encourages us to live a life of action and service, while remaining detached from the outcome of our actions.

Mithya does not imply non-existent. The world is not non-existent, but its reality is relative and dependent on our perception. Fulfilling duties is important. Vedanta emphasizes the importance of fulfilling our Dharma, or duty, in the world. This includes taking care of our families, contributing to society, and striving for self-improvement. Detachment from results. Vedanta encourages us to act without attachment to the outcome of our actions. This means doing our best without being driven by desires or expectations. By letting go of attachment, we can experience inner peace and freedom. Happiness is not negated: Vedanta acknowledges the desire for happiness and does not advocate for self-denial or asceticism. However, it emphasizes that lasting happiness comes from realizing our true Self and experiencing the joy of identification with Brahman, not from external objects or experiences.

The understanding of Vedanta, far from diminishing our engagement with the world, actually helps us embrace it more fully, enriches our understanding of it, and amplifies our happiness. Vedanta acts as a powerful tool for liberation and strengthens us in our pursuits rather than weakening us.

Here’s why:

1. Shifting perspective: Vedanta shifts our perspective from the limited self to the universal Self. This shift allows us to see beyond our egoistic desires and attachments and appreciate the interconnectedness of all things. This expanded worldview leads to a deeper sense of compassion and empathy for all beings.
2. Embracing the present: Vedanta emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment, free from the burden of the past and the anxieties of the future. By focusing on the present, we can fully appreciate the beauty and richness of the world around us.
3. Promotes self-awareness: By understanding the workings of our own minds, we can learn to manage our emotions and responses more effectively.
4. Finding meaning: Vedanta provides us with a framework for understanding our role in the cosmic play. By understanding our purpose and place in the universe, we can find meaning and fulfillment in our lives.
5. Cultivating inner strength: Vedanta teaches us how to cultivate inner strength and resilience in the face of challenges. By relying on our inner resources, we can overcome obstacles and achieve our goals.
6. Encourages ethical action: Vedanta emphasizes the importance of living a life of compassion and integrity. By acting ethically, we contribute to the well-being of ourselves and others.
7. Promotes self-discipline: Vedanta encourages us to cultivate self-discipline and control over our minds and senses. This self-control allows us to focus our energies and achieve our goals.
8. Experiencing true happiness: Vedanta ultimately leads us to experience true happiness, which is not dependent on external circumstances. This happiness arises from the realization of our true nature as the eternal, unchanging Self.

Therefore, more than philosophy or vision, Vedanta offers a way of life that can empower us to live more fulfilling and meaningful lives. By embracing its teachings, we can tap into our inner strength, wisdom, and joy, ultimately leading us to Moksha or liberation and enlightenment.