In analyzing the fundamental basis of Creation, a sense of complete bewilderment is bound to happen. Advaita Vedanta - as enunciated in the Upanishads also known as Vedanta and included at the end of the holy vedas - propounds the principle of Oneness or Non Duality. In simple words it establishes the oneness of the entire creation and negates the variety seen in nature as a mere appearance - a play of what is technically known as Maya.

This principle does come in for a lot of criticism from different quarters. Indeed different kinds of scholars, saints and sages have interpreted the Vedanta according to their own thoughts and value systems. And yes, each propounds its own version as the ultimate exposition of the Highest Truth.

I am neither a scholar nor a saint or a sage. However, like any other human being with some amount of intelligence, I have my views on what Vedanta says and means. Vedanta is best studied under the guidance of a teacher who knows it completely. Only the right teacher is capable of quelling doubts that invariably accompany a study of this tradition. The Guru Shishya principle is firmly enshrined in the Vedas and Vedanta and at least this much is not in contention.

In my opinion - the basic principle of Non Duality meets the standards of basic logic. However it is also true that Logic is of little use in Understanding the Ultimate Truth - the Primordial Brahman - the basis for all that exists and does not exist. Yet, at the beginning of this arduous journey on the path of Vedantic Studies - one stands benefited by the proper use of intellect in clearing the initial hurdles enabling oneself to proceed steadily towards a complete understanding of the Ultimate Truth.