--> Skip to main content


We All Yearn For Permanence And This Can Happen Only Through Self-Realization - Hinduism Teaching

In Hinduism, the concept of permanence or eternal truth is closely tied to the idea of self-realization. The teaching suggests that true permanence, which transcends the temporary and fleeting nature of worldly existence, can be attained only through understanding and realizing one's true self or Atman. Here is a more detailed explanation:

Self-Realization in Hinduism

  1. Atman (The Self):

    • According to Hindu philosophy, each individual possesses an eternal soul or self, called the Atman. This Atman is fundamentally pure, immortal, and identical to Brahman, the ultimate reality or universal consciousness.
  2. Maya (Illusion):

    • The material world and the ego are seen as Maya, an illusion that distracts individuals from realizing their true nature. The transient pleasures and pains of worldly life are considered temporary and not the ultimate truth.
  3. Moksha (Liberation):

    • The goal of human life, as per Hindu teachings, is to attain Moksha, which is liberation from the cycle of birth and death (Samsara). This liberation can only be achieved through self-realization—recognizing the true nature of the Atman.
  4. Paths to Self-Realization:

    • Hinduism offers several paths to self-realization and ultimate liberation, including:
      • Jnana Yoga (Path of Knowledge): Involves studying scriptures, meditating on the nature of the self, and discerning the difference between the real and the unreal.
      • Bhakti Yoga (Path of Devotion): Centers on loving devotion to a personal god, surrendering the ego, and seeing the divine in all aspects of life.
      • Karma Yoga (Path of Action): Emphasizes selfless action performed for the benefit of others, without attachment to the results.
      • Raja Yoga (Path of Meditation): Focuses on controlling the mind and senses through meditation and ethical living to achieve inner peace and self-realization.
  5. Upanishads and Vedanta:

    • The teachings of self-realization are elaborated extensively in the Upanishads and the Vedanta philosophy. The Upanishads, ancient Hindu scriptures, explore the nature of reality, the self, and the relationship between Atman and Brahman.

The Teaching of Permanence through Self-Realization

The yearning for permanence is a deep-seated desire within humans, which Hinduism interprets as a longing for the eternal truth of the Atman. By realizing the self, individuals can transcend the impermanent nature of the physical world and experience the eternal, unchanging reality of their true self. This realization brings about inner peace, liberation, and an understanding of the interconnectedness of all existence.

In summary, Hinduism teaches that the permanence we yearn for can only be achieved through self-realization, which involves understanding and experiencing the true nature of the Atman, beyond the illusions of the material world. This spiritual journey leads to Moksha, the ultimate liberation and union with the universal consciousness, Brahman.