Introduction

What is the self? Is it a conscious entity or merely an illusion of our consciousness?

The False Self vs. The True Self

When you realize that 'I AM' or 'what you believe that I AM' is your false or unreal self, it is just as it is termed: an illusory product, emerging from some vibration or movement. Beyond this, there is a true, non-illusory self: consciousness itself.

Consciousness as the True Self

Consciousness is not exactly 'conscious' in the sense that the self is. Consciousness is the purest form in which you, as an individual, exist. The self, however, is a filter through which consciousness perceives the world.

Arguments Against the Existence of Self

In discussing the existence of the self, one must question whether there truly is such a thing. According to Dr. Joseph Suglia, the self is merely one phenomenon among others, not an immutable center around which feelings, experiences, and sensations coalesce. Dr. Suglia's argument includes experiences where a sense of self does not manifest, such as in dancing, listening to music, being engrossed in work, meditation, or sex.

Existence as an Illusion

There is an illusion in the sense that our existence is merely a few observables of a much intricate universal dynamics. The self we identify with our body and name is an illusion, as it can change based on the external observer. The true self is the inner awareness whose beginning and ending are unknown and cannot be controlled.

Our Purpose in the Relative World

Our presence in the relative world serves a unique purpose: to experience itself as seemingly separate and individual conscious beings. The one awareness is real, and it is the sole thing in all of existence that is real. Everything else we perceive in the relative world is part of the illusion.

The Relative World vs. Awareness

The relative world is an illusion, and the one awareness is experiencing itself as separated beings immersed in this illusion. The one awareness is the true self and the only reality, while everything else in the relative world is an appearance or an illusion.

Conclusion

The nature of self is a profound and complex question. As SEO for Google, understanding these concepts helps us create content that resonates with users and addresses their queries effectively. Whether the self is a conscious entity or an illusion, the core of the human experience remains the awareness that perceives it.