<P> In Hindu traditions, moksha is a central concept and the utmost aim to be attained through three paths during human life; these three paths are dharma (virtuous, proper, moral life), artha (material prosperity, income security, means of life), and kama (pleasure, sensuality, emotional fulfillment). Together, these four concepts are called Puruṣārtha in Hinduism . </P> <P> In some schools of Indian religions, moksha is considered equivalent to and used interchangeably with other terms such as vimoksha, vimukti, kaivalya, apavarga, mukti, nihsreyasa and nirvana . However, terms such as moksha and nirvana differ and mean different states between various schools of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism . The term nirvana is more common in Buddhism, while moksha is more prevalent in Hinduism . </P> <P> Moksha is derived from the root Sanskrit: मुच्, muc, which means free, let go, release, liberate . In Vedas and early Upanishads, the word Sanskrit: मुच्यते, mucyate appears, which means to be set free or release, such as of a horse from its harness . </P> <P> The definition and meaning of moksha varies between various schools of Indian religions . Moksha means freedom, liberation; from what and how is where the schools differ . Moksha is also a concept that means liberation from rebirth or saṃsāra . This liberation can be attained while one is on earth (jivanmukti), or eschatologically (karmamukti, videhamukti). Some Indian traditions have emphasized liberation on concrete, ethical action within the world . This liberation is an epistemological transformation that permits one to see the truth and reality behind the fog of ignorance . </P>

The ultimate goal is release from the cycle of rebirth (samsara)