Brahman
Definition
In Hindu and Vedanta traditions, Brahman is the ultimate reality, the infinite ground or absolute from which all forms arise and in which all forms are held. It should not be confused with Brahma, the creator deity.
Literal meaning
The Absolute, ultimate reality, or divine ground in Hindu philosophy.
Esoteric meaning
Netism uses Brahman as a comparison for Source-language: the deeper unity beneath visible separation. The comparison is useful, but Brahman remains a Hindu/Vedantic term with its own history, schools, and meanings.
Allegorical meaning
The ocean beneath every wave. The waves differ, rise, and fall; the water is one.
Extended meaning
In the corpus, Brahman appears beside Tao, Great Spirit, Atum'Un, Zeru, and other names for underlying oneness. The strongest comparison is the Upanishadic teaching that Atman, the innermost Self, is not separate from Brahman. Netism can use that comparison when explaining unity, Source, and the soul's return, but it should not flatten all Hindu traditions into one formula. Advaita, qualified nondual, and dualist schools read Brahman differently.
Keep the distinction clear: Brahman is the Absolute; Brahma is a deity in the Hindu Trimurti.
Usage
Use this term in comparative religion, unity teachings, Atman-Brahman comparisons, and discussions of Source across traditions.
Ritual usage
Use only with respect for Hindu and Vedantic contexts. Netist rites may mention Brahman comparatively, but should not pretend to replace Hindu practice.
Comparative tradition
Upanishadic and Vedantic teaching; Atman and Brahman; saguna and nirguna Brahman; Advaita, Vishishtadvaita, and Dvaita interpretations.