1. Brahman’s nature: Nirguna vs Saguna Brahman, ineffability, Upanishadic metaphysics, realization through jnana yoga, critiques from dualistic schools, epistemological challenges
2. Feminine principle: Shakti in Shaktism, Devi Mahatmya, roles in Vaishnavism and Shaivism (e.g., Lakshmi, Parvati), symbolic duality, gender balance in metaphysical systems
3. Importance of scripture: Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Smriti vs Shruti, oral tradition, experiential over textual authority, regional and sectarian variations
4. Vedantic material reality: Advaita’s māyā doctrine, Brahman as sole reality, contrast with Dvaita (realism), metaphysical monism, spiritual liberation through detachment
5. Themes: Hindu epistemology, gender theology, scriptural authority, metaphysical pluralism; inter-school contrasts, experiential vs textual emphasis
6. 40-mark essay format; critical evaluation, scriptural references, philosophical debate, modern implications in Hindu identity and practice essential