The atman of advaita vedanta of Sankara: An analysis

The knowledge of Brahman cannot be expressed precisely because it is beyond description; it is what may be said as an intuitive experience. The Metaphysical implication of this experience is that the Absolute Reality is non-different. This is the highest Reality of Advaita Vedanta, that to recognise that the Absolute Reality and that Atman are identical, in order to say that there is no essential difference between Atman and Brahman. They are one and same at all times. By the nature, Atman is Consciousness and Distinctionless, as well it is beyond mind and speech. The Atman is the Universal Soul, which is presented in all beings; it is one but seen as many, like the moon in water.

Sankara's understanding of Reality is Non-dualistic or Advaita that is Brahman or Atman; it is Brahman when objectively considered, and Atman when subjectively thought of speak of this Non-dual Reality. Atman is Brahman. There is only an abheda relationship between Brahman and Atman. The Ultimate Reality Brahman cannot be spoken in literal terms, only it can be described symbolically.