The Asymmetry of Existence in Advaita Vedānta

Abstract: Advaita Vedānta is a non-dualistic school of Indian philosophy, systematized by Śaṅkara (roughly eighth–ninth century c.e.). Central to Advaita Vedānta are two claims. First, Brahman is the sole existent. Second, the world or universe asymmetrically depends upon Brahman for its appearance. I argue that the conjunction of these two claims entails a contradiction. I consider potential solutions to this puzzle from both the tradition of Advaita Vedānta itself and the contemporary literature on metaphysical grounding. I tentatively conclude that the Advaitin's best strategy for solving the puzzle is to espouse a form of mysterianism with respect to Brahman's relationship with the world.