Significance of Highest Self
The Highest Self, as described in Purana, Yoga, and Vedanta, refers to the ultimate reality that transcends individual identity. It embodies the essence of existence, often equated with Brahman and recognized as the source of all beings. This concept includes the realization of a divine state associated with supreme consciousness, urging practitioners to connect with this eternal identity through meditation and Yoga. The Highest Self represents the purest form of consciousness, free from individual imperfections, and signifies the interconnectedness of all existence.
Synonyms: Higher self, True self, Inner self, Divine self, Spiritual self, Enlightened self
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Highest Self'
In Hinduism, the Highest Self denotes the ultimate reality, Brahman, characterized by immortality, omniscience, and transcendence over individual existence, serving as the focal point for meditation and spiritual enlightenment.
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The supreme or ultimate reality that transcends all forms and is the source of all beings.[1] (2) The imperishable essence of all existence, perceived as having all things as its body and the ultimate object of meditation.[2] (3) The ultimate reality or Brahman that transcends the individual self, representing the foundational aspect of existence.[3] (4) The ultimate reality or divine presence that the soul seeks to unite with.[4] (5) A concept suggesting the ultimate reality or divine essence beyond individual souls, which is understood through meditation and spiritual inquiry.[5]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Refers to the ultimate reality or Brahman, which is the true essence of existence beyond the physical realm.[6]
From: Kathopanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Refers to the ultimate reality or Brahman into which individual souls seek to merge after achieving liberation.[7]
From: Kaivalya Upanishad
(1) The ultimate realization or consciousness that transcends individuality and acknowledges the interconnectedness of all existence.[8]
From: Prashna Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The ultimate spiritual identity one achieves when fully realizing their oneness with the Absolute.[9]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The ultimate essence of being that transcends individual identity, often represented by Brahman.[10] (2) The ultimate reality or divine essence, identified as Paramatma, which practitioners aim to realize through Yoga.[11] (3) Refers to the ultimate divine state or consciousness associated with Shambhu.[12] (4) The universal consciousness that exists in all beings, synonymous with both Purusha and Shakti.[13] (5) The eternal, unchanging aspect of an individual that connects with the divine and reality beyond illusion.[14]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) The supreme being that is indestructible and transcends both the destructible and indestructible aspects of existence.[15]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) The supreme being or universal Self recognized as the source of all existence, often referred to by the name Vishnu.[16]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The ultimate realization of the self that transcends individual consciousness and connects with the divine essence.[17] (2) The ultimate realization or consciousness achieved through combined practices of Yoga and study, leading to enlightenment and awareness of unity with all existence.[18]