The Eternal Self

• “The Eternal Self” often refers to the concept of Atman in Hinduism.
• Atman is the individual soul or spirit, considered the true self or essence of each individual.
• This is believed to be eternal and divine, unchanging and unaffected by physical and worldly actions.
• The Atman is ultimately one with Brahman, the ultimate reality or supreme cosmic power in Hinduism. This concept is often encapsulated in the phrase “Tat Tvam Asi” (“Thou art that”).
• The goal of life in Hinduism, according to the Vedanta school, is to realise that one’s Atman is identical to Brahman.
• The Atman carries impressions and consequences of actions, known as karma, from one life to another in the process of Samsara, the cycle of death and rebirth.
• Liberation from Samsara, a state called Moksha, is achieved when one realises the true nature of the Atman and its identity with Brahman. This brings an end to suffering and the cycle of rebirths.
• The concept of the Atman is foundational to many Hindu practises and beliefs, including meditation, yoga, and various moral and ethical guidelines.
• There’s a variety of views within Hinduism about the nature of the Atman, reflecting the diversity of belief within the religion. This includes differing beliefs between dualistic schools (which see Atman and Brahman as separate) and non-dualistic schools (which see no difference between Atman and Brahman).
• Whilst discussing the Eternal Self or Atman, Hindu scriptures such as the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita are important sources to consider and quote.