If atman and brahman mean the same thing, why are there two terms?

Answer 1

You can call it anything you want, does the name matter as long as you know it..

Answer 2

Two different levels of experience. Atman is experienced first, and only within. Brahman is experienced as pervading everything. That's why the text say "That Atman is Brahman", and not just "Atman is Brahman".

Answer 3

Ayam Atma Brahma - This Atman is Brahman says the Mahavakya.

We see the creation and the source of creation. To explain that the creation is nothing but its source perceived in a different way, two terms are required to indicate the so called different terms and arriving the conclusion that they are the same.

Like we have the LHS and RHS in a mathematical equation or in Set theory to prove that two sets are equal, you prove that one is the subset of the other and vice-versa.

To summarize, since we perceive duality, each is referred by a term for the purpose of explanation and finally make us understand that both are the same, true to the statement "Ayam Atma Brahma"

Answer 4

I think you're quoting the Upanishads... the process that comes to regard the individual "self" as having inner depths? The truth (satya) is the absolute (brahman) which is also the self (atman). It is understood when you reach a certain level of realization within Hindu studies. All about "bliss"... three things that really are one... you allegedly just have to realize it... so to speak... it's really hard to explain w/o you understanding a lot about Hindu terminology and studies.

_()_

Answer 5

Well, they are kind of the same thing.
atman is a "soul" kind of split off the main brahman.

Answer 6

Did she actually say 'the baby'? If she said 'a baby' she is right and you are wrong....since having a baby (in this context) signifies an unplanned pregnancy.