Rarely Does Anyone Realize the Absolute Self

आश्चर्यवत्पश्यति कश्चिदेनमाश्चर्यवद्वदति तथैव चान्य: |

आश्चर्यवच्चैनमन्य: शृ्णोति श्रुत्वाप्येनं वेद न चैव कश्चित् || 2.29||

Meaning of the Shloka: Some view the Absolute Self as amazing, some describe It as amazing, and others get amazed by hearing about It. However, despite that, they can’t fully comprehend the Absolute Self. (Bhagvad Gita 2.29)

Context: The Absolute Self is the multiverse, which encompasses everything that we are and perceive in the entirety of our civilizational consciousness. It is immaterial, permanent, and eternal.

The Absolute Self can also be understood as God, for it is all that exists. It is the source and destination of everything that was, is, and will be.

Hence, even if we dedicate our lives completely to reading scriptures that describe the Absolute Self, participate in relevant discussions, and conduct independent research, it is impossible to realize It completely.

We are an infinitesimal, material manifestation of the Absolute Self. By definition, absorbing all the knowledge that the cosmos has to offer is difficult, to say the least.

At the same time, there is a way to merge into the Absolute Self and become a part of the all-pervading Supreme consciousness.

Humans live in a material world

Our lives are materially dominant in every way. Most, if not all, of our problems emerge because we desire more material goods — house, money, assets, partners, cars, and bottles. 

The phenomenon runs so deep that our ambitions, goals, emotions, strategies, plans, wins, and losses are deeply tied to material possessions. Consequently, subtle, more permanent things, such as our self-worth, confidence, and inner peace, are dependent on it.

If we wish to rise above matter, the first step is to acknowledge its transient nature. Yes, we do still exist in the material universe, and our material self requires us to accrue material for its sustenance. 

While it makes the pursuit of material wealth important and meaningful, it is not the sole objective of life. Moreover, the significance doesn’t suddenly make material more permanent.

Once we understand and acknowledge that our body and its traits are temporary, the path beyond starts to open up. What you need to do here is to accept that your thoughts, dreams, desires, preferences, afflictions, and complaints are fleeting.

Of course, you need to tend to them based on current circumstances, but keep in mind that the chaos associated with it never dies. 

Suddenly, it will alleviate a huge amount of weight off your shoulders. You will still be able to grapple with life’s daily challenges associated with the material world effectively, while floating through the universe with detachment.

How to merge with the Absolute Self

Simply focus on your righteous duties and approach them without laziness, attachment, and desire. Do things because you are supposed to do them and give it your all. One meaningful task after another.

Contrary to popular belief and general perception, your duties aren’t optional. 

The phase of life, our present needs, available opportunities, and a virtuous approach to life will clearly tell you what exactly you need to do next.

When we become entitled due to our ego and arrogance, the perspective toward our prescribed actions shifts. After this, every effort is judged based on how quickly and easily it can give us a reward.

Many in today’s society suffer from this mentality. Everyone is looking for shortcuts to pleasure, success, and achievements. 

Anyway, the way forward here, toward the Absolute Self, is to only indulge in meaningful tasks that carry a sense of purpose. Refrain from activities that reward you with cheap dopamine hits and the comfort of the flesh.

Over time, you will see yourself floating through the multiverse, interacting with other creations of the cosmos as your situation demands. Any kind of attachment to material objects or proclivities to indulge in nuisance will fade away.

Practice is the most effective way to mastery. Plenty of folks attempt to merge with the Absolute Self through theory. Sure, there is value in breaking things down in a notebook and a debate, but that will only make you an expert theorist.

True masters endure pain, suffering, and hardship to make the necessary sacrifices, which enable them to see beyond matter. They can actively leverage detachment while still being present in the material world, embodying the Absolute Self by the minute.

Conclusion: Take actionable elements

If knowledge remains theoretical, it makes you a fool. If it translates into action, you become wealthy. And it is not the wealth that can be taken away by time, for it is immaterial.

Adopting eternal knowledge and living your life to the highest moral standards keeps you content and happy. This is the ultimate antidote for all obstacles, challenges, and curses in your path.

Remember, at every moment of your life, do the best you can without laziness, attachment, and desire to maximize every opportunity and avoid regret. With time, you will view yourself growing beyond matter, while enjoying your daily experiences on a higher level.

Every day you say yes to dutifulness and no to indulgence, you get closer to immortality, for you will embody the Absolute Self.

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Next Chapter: Coming Soon

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Index (with Prologue): Krishna Said That: Prologue