In the context of Indian philosophy, the doctrine of 'Advaita' advocates:

Correct Option

The correct option is

The oneness of the individual soul and the Supreme God

Explanation

Advaita Vedanta is a school of Hindu philosophy and spiritual discipline, most prominently expounded by Adi Shankaracharya. The term Advaita translates to "non-dualism" (a = not, dvaita = two). Its core tenet is the essential identity of the individual self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman).

Option Analysis

• The oneness of the individual soul and the Supreme God: Correct. The fundamental doctrine of Advaita is that Brahman (the Ultimate Reality) is the only truth, the world is an illusion (Maya), and the individual soul (Jiva or Atman) is non-different from Brahman. The realization of this oneness leads to liberation (Moksha).
• The distinctness of the soul from God even after union: Incorrect. The distinctness of the soul from God is the central theme of the Dvaita (Dualism) school propounded by Madhvacharya. It posits that the soul and God are eternally separate entities.
• The worship of God with form and attributes: Incorrect. While Advaita accepts the worship of God with attributes (Saguna Brahman) as a preliminary step for spiritual purification, its ultimate philosophical stance advocates the realization of Nirguna Brahman (God without form or attributes).
• The rejection of God and focus on human effort: Incorrect. Advaita does not reject God; rather, it redefines the nature of divinity as an all-encompassing, formless consciousness. The rejection of God and exclusive focus on human effort is more characteristic of heterodox schools like early Buddhism or Jainism, or the Mimamsa school's focus on ritual action.

Key Takeaway

Advaita Vedanta, associated with Adi Shankaracharya, teaches Monism: the ultimate reality is singular, and there is no distinction between the individual soul (Atman) and the Supreme Soul (Brahman).