Question

Why is the doctrine of Anatman regarded as being a complete break with the traditional teaching of Hinduism

Answer 1

The traditional teaching of Hinduism emphasizes on existence of self, the me part, the "Atman". This atman or soul is the part of Brahma. It emphasizes inorder to achieve moksha or nirvana one has to realize about self or atman, and give up bodily distractions. Whereas, the "Anatman" of Buddhism is denying of oneself, that everything in this world is illusion, and the world only could offer sorrow. Hence, to achieve Nirvana one has follow the teaching of Buddha and deny the me concept of self because it is mere illusion. Thus, the doctrine of "Anatman" is opposite to the doctrine of "Ataman".