Significance of The self
The self is a multifaceted concept explored in various Indian philosophical traditions. In Jainism, it denotes the intrinsic interconnection of all beings, while in Vaishnavism, it reflects personal identity tied to individual experiences. Other schools like Kavya and Yoga emphasize the atman as distinct from external realities, focusing on inner essence. Vedanta describes self as an indivisible essence that is synonymous with Brahman, embodying immortality and enlightenment. Overall, the self represents the true essence of individuality, transcending physical existence and worldly experiences.
Synonyms: The individual, One's identity, The person, The true self, Self, Identity, Ego, Individual, Oneself, Being, Soul
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'The self'
The keyphrase "The self in Buddhism" encompasses individual identity that transcends ego, challenges the identification with impermanence, and invites philosophical interpretations, emphasizing the distinction between true essence and transient existence.
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) A concept frequently addressed in the text, arguing against the identification of one's identity with the impermanent aspects of existence.[1]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) Refers to individual identity or ego, which is mentioned as not being obtruded upon in the context of proclaiming knowledge.[2]
From: Mulamadhyamaka-karika (English)
(1) The concept of one’s own identity or essence, often subject to interpretations in philosophy.[3]
Hindu concept of 'The self'
In Hinduism, the self represents the true essence of an individual, encompassing immortality, ultimate reality, and the unity with Brahman. It transcends dualities and bodily distinctions, embodying pure consciousness and knowledge.
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The essence or true nature of an individual, which is viewed as synonymous with all existence and reality.[4] (2) The innermost essence or identity of a person, often discussed in philosophical contexts.[5] (3) The ultimate reality or consciousness that encompasses everything, as described in the quoted texts.[6] (4) The fundamental essence or true nature of an individual that provides illumination and understanding.[7] (5) An essential aspect of identity that is distinct from being represented merely by language or sentences.[8]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The essence or core being referred to in the text, which has the ability to take pranas and move within the body.[9] (2) The intrinsic, indivisible essence that cannot embody manifoldness, according to the thoughts presented.[10] (3) A concept that encompasses the essence or nature of Brahman, representing both the material cause and the operative cause in creation.[11] (4) The innermost essence or true identity of an individual, which is said to reside in the heart.[12] (5) The intrinsic essence of all beings, which is also encapsulated within the concept of Brahman.[13]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The immortal essence of an individual that leaves the body at death and never dies.[14] (2) A concept of an unchanging, immortal essence that is free from physical defects; it contrasts with the transient physical body.[15] (3) The Self is the entity that knows and is described as free, enjoying the sights it desires through the mind.[16] (4) The essence of an individual, which according to the text, must be known to truly grasp all knowledge and understanding.[17] (5) The true essence or identity of a person that is considered unchanging and without limitations, as discussed in the philosophical context.[18]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) The true essence of a being, which is recognized when knowledge ripens, leading to the dissolution of duality.[19] (2) The true essence or identity of an individual, which is often overshadowed by the physical body.[20] (3) The essence or true nature of an individual, which is equated with divine entities like Brahma, Vishnu, Indra, and Shiva.[21] (4) An inner essence or true nature of an individual, often associated with spirituality or consciousness.[22] (5) The true self or essence that is the Ruler of all, contrasting with the body which is subject to external control.[23]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) The essence of an individual that is recognized through the mastery of non-attachment, fearlessness, and angerlessness.[24] (2) The innermost essence or consciousness of an individual, which remains constant and unchanged.[25] (3) The true essence or substance of all Creation as described in the text, synonymous with the Highest Brahman.[26] (4) This term signifies the ultimate reality of existence that is unified and unchanging, underlying all individual distinctions and phenomena.[27] (5) An absolute and unchanging entity recognized within the framework of nonduality.[28]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The ultimate reality or essence that is to be understood and perceived, distinct from the physical form.[29] (2) The essential, unchanging essence that exists in all beings, which Shvetaketu's father seeks to convey to him.[30] (3) The deeper essence or conscious Being that is ultimately responsible for the creation and perception of existence.[31] (4) The true essence of an individual, described as immortal and fearless.[32] (5) The Self refers to the true essence of an individual, which is considered to be Immortal and the ultimate reality.[33]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The true essence or inner nature of an individual that the souls do not realize, leading to their earthly experiences of enjoyment.[34] (2) The core essence that is said to be higher than all other entities, representing the true identity beyond physical existence.[35]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The individual soul or consciousness, which is ultimately seen as part of the non-dual essence.[36] (2) Refers to the true essence or identity of an individual, synonymous with Brahman in this context.[37]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) The core essence or identity within all beings that transcends physical existence and individuality.[38]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) Refers to the true self or essence of individuals, which in Vedanta is synonymous with Brahman.[39]
From: Ishavasya Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The all-pervading, bright, incorporeal being that is pure and untouched by sin.[40]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) Refers to the essence or true nature of an individual, which becomes intertwined with the mind.[41] (2) The individual consciousness or essence that experiences freedom from errors, thus being able to engage with sacred texts.[42] (3) The essence that is free from rajas, referenced by different words with genders.[43] (4) Refers to the ultimate reality or essence of an individual, synonymous with atma.[44]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The essential aspect of an individual, referred to as atman, which is distinct from the external world and temporary experiences.[45]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Refers to the identity or essence of an individual, in this case, the king's personal reaction to the events occurring.[46]
From: Nyayakusumanjali of Udayana (study)
(1) An entity that is considered distinct from the body, as posited by Nyaya, and characterized by qualities such as knowledge and desire.[47]
From: Narayaniya (Narayaneeyam)
(1) The innermost essence or identity of a person, often the subject of philosophical contemplation.[48]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) Refers to one's true essence or soul, distinguishing from the external or material aspects of existence.[49]
From: Sivaprakasam (Study in Bondage and Liberation)
(1) The individual's awareness or consciousness that interacts with and influences the psychic senses and their perception.[50]
Jain concept of 'The self'
In Jainism, the self is viewed as an inherent aspect of all entities, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all things and underscoring a foundational unity rooted in the Self. This reflects a deep philosophical understanding of existence.
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) Conceptualized as intrinsic to all things, suggesting that all entities are interconnected and rooted in the Self.[51]
The concept of The self in local and regional sources
The self, as discussed in the text, encompasses various interpretations, including Krishnamurti's unique view, a core identity shaped by memory, an ultimate consciousness, and the true essence or Atman, signifying pure existence and knowledge.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The true essence or Atman that is self-effulgent and the source of all knowledge and existence.[52] (2) An organism that embodies persistent characteristics and the unchanging aspect that makes knowledge and recognition possible.[53] (3) The ultimate consciousness, represented as pure existence that observes but remains detached from life’s changes.[54]
From: Self-Knowledge in Krishnamurti’s Philosophy
(1) A concept described as the center of the 'me', from which all activity springs, yet it is not permanent and is sustained by memory.[55] (2) The concept explored in Chapter two, focusing on Krishnamurti's interpretation of self as distinct from conventional understandings.[56]