SSC CHSL 2025 PYQ — Question 99

Correct Answer: Option 4 (Inner Self or Soul)

• In the Upanishads, the term 'Atman' carries a profound spiritual significance. The key points regarding it are detailed below:
• Core Meaning: According to the Upanishads, 'Atman' refers to an individual's Inner Self or their immortal Soul.
• Advaita Principle: The central philosophy of the Upanishads teaches that the individual soul (Atman) and the cosmic reality or Supreme Soul (Brahman) are fundamentally one and the same.
• Characteristics: The Atman is regarded as unborn, indestructible, and eternal. It is the consciousness—existing beyond the body and mind—that serves as the foundation of a human being's true existence.

Analysis of Other Options:

• Ritual Fire: This is referred to as 'Agni,' which constitutes a central element of Vedic rituals; however, it does not represent the meaning of 'Atman.'
• Sacred Hymns: These are known as 'Suktas' or 'Mantras.' Although spiritual in nature, they do not define the Atman.
• Supreme Deity: In the Upanishads, the Supreme Reality is often referred to as 'Brahman.' The Atman is the inner essence of that very Brahman, rather than merely a specific deity.