The Enlightened Individual's Quest: Helping Others or Just Upholding the Self?

In the wake of spiritual realizations, one often contemplates deeper truths about the nature of existence and the concept of self. The idea of Self is at the core of these reflections. This paper explores the concept of enlightenment and the role of the individual in helping others understand their true nature. Despite the belief that all is an illusion of self, why do we still feel the urge to guide and assist others? This inquiry delves into the paradox of aiding others in a world where there is only the self.

Understanding the Illusion of Self

The belief in the existence of a separate self is a common human concept, but in the realm of enlightenment, this self is seen as an illusion. Philosophers like Ramana Maharshi and Nisargadatta Maharaj have suggested that the true self is beyond the mind and senses, transcending the concept of a separate self. This realization often leads to a state of consciousness where one no longer sees a distinct boundary between the self and the world.

The Confusion of Others

However, even with this understanding, the enlightened individual may still feel compelled to communicate with others about this realization. Nisargadatta believed that when we see others who are lost and confused, we naturally respond and try to provide assistance. This paradox arises because, despite knowing that all is one consciousness, confusion and misunderstanding still persist in the world.

Why Help Others?

The question then emerges: why help others if everything is an illusion of self? The answer lies in the recognition of the interconnectedness of all beings. When we help others, we are not just helping them, but ourselves as well. By alleviating the confusion and suffering of others, we reaffirm our own enlightenment and deepen our understanding of the truth.

Practical Applications of Enlightenment

From the perspective of Advaita Vedanta, enlightenment is the awareness of one's true nature, which includes the mind, emotions, and senses. To advance towards this state, one should engage in actions that promote the well-being of others rather than oneself. The idea is to focus one's thoughts and emotions towards the divine rather than personal desires.

Dealing with Modes of Consciousness

To truly merge with the self, one must navigate the three modes of consciousness: jeevatma buddhi (mind/intellect), Dehatma buddhi (senses/body), and Brahmatma buddhi (awareness of self). By engaging in purifying actions and diverts one's energy towards others, we can sublimate these modes and move closer to a state of oneness.

Conclusion

The practice of helping others is not just a moral imperative but a method to maintain and deepen our own enlightenment. Even in a world where there is only the self, there is a profound duty to assist others in their journey towards self-realization. This act is a reminder that we are all interconnected and our efforts to aid one another are a testament to the ultimate unity of all existence.

References

Ramana Maharshi Nisargadatta Maharaj Advaita Vedanta philosophy

Note: The content provided is a compilation of philosophical ideas and perspectives from various sources. These ideas are presented for informational and contemplative purposes only.