The idea of discovering the "real you" by transcending race, gender, and nationality is rooted in the ancient teachings of Hinduism, particularly in the concepts of the Atman (the true self) and Maya (the illusion of the material world). These teachings encourage a journey inward, aiming to realize one's true essence, which is beyond physical attributes and social identities.
The Concept of Atman and Maya
In Hindu philosophy, the Atman is considered the innermost essence, the soul, which is identical to Brahman, the ultimate reality or universal consciousness. The idea is that the Atman is eternal, unchanging, and beyond all physical attributes. The Mundaka Upanishad (3.2.9) beautifully expresses this:
"The Atman is not this, not this" (neti, neti), meaning that the true self is beyond all worldly descriptions and identities.
On the other hand, Maya refers to the illusion or ignorance that leads individuals to identify with the transient aspects of existence, such as the body, mind, race, gender, and nationality. Adi Shankaracharya, a revered 8th-century philosopher, emphasized that the world perceived by our senses is an illusion created by Maya, and liberation (Moksha) comes from realizing the true nature of the self, beyond these illusions.
Modern Relevance
In today’s globalized world, where identity politics and social divisions are rampant, the teaching of transcending superficial identities like race, gender, and nationality is more relevant than ever. The excessive focus on these identities can lead to division, conflict, and a fragmented sense of self. By understanding and embracing the concept of Atman, individuals can cultivate a more profound sense of unity and connection with others.
A modern analogy can be drawn with the famous story of the Blind Men and the Elephant, often attributed to Jain, Buddhist, Sufi, and Hindu traditions. In this story, each blind man touches a different part of an elephant and comes to a different conclusion about what it is—one thinks it’s a snake (the trunk), another thinks it’s a tree (the leg), and so on. This story illustrates the dangers of limited perspectives, similar to how identifying solely with race, gender, or nationality limits the understanding of one’s true self.
Stories and Anecdotes
A well-known anecdote from the Bhagavad Gita involves Arjuna, who is confused about his duty on the battlefield. He is torn between his role as a warrior (Kshatriya) and his affection for his family, who are on the opposing side. Krishna, his charioteer and the divine incarnation, advises Arjuna to transcend these roles and realize his true self (Atman), which is beyond his temporary identity as a warrior, a cousin, or even as an individual with a body. Krishna's message emphasizes that these identities are merely roles in the play of life, while the true self remains unchanged and eternal.
"The wise mourn neither for the living nor for the dead. Never was there a time when I did not exist, nor you, nor any of these kings. Nor will there be a time when we will cease to be." (Bhagavad Gita 2.11-12)
This teaching underscores the importance of looking beyond temporary, external identities to discover the eternal self within.
Similar Teachings Around the World
The concept of transcending superficial identities is not unique to Hinduism. In Buddhism, the idea of Anatta (no-self) suggests that there is no permanent, unchanging self. Instead, what we consider "self" is a collection of transient phenomena. Similarly, in Sufism (Islamic mysticism), the quest is to transcend the ego and realize the divine presence within, often expressed in the phrase "Fana" (annihilation of the self).
In Western philosophy, Ralph Waldo Emerson, a transcendentalist thinker, wrote about the "Over-Soul," an underlying unity connecting all individuals, which resonates with the Hindu concept of Brahman and Atman. Emerson believed that our individual identities are part of a greater, universal soul.
The Importance of Transcending Identity
Understanding that our true self is beyond race, gender, and nationality can foster a more inclusive and compassionate worldview. It helps break down the barriers created by these identities and encourages the recognition of the shared humanity in others. This realization can lead to a more peaceful and harmonious society, where differences are celebrated rather than used as reasons for division.
Moreover, on a personal level, this understanding can bring about a sense of inner peace and contentment. The constant search for identity through external means—whether it’s through nationality, race, or gender—can be exhausting and ultimately unfulfilling. By connecting with the Atman, one can find a stable and eternal sense of self that is not dependent on external factors.
Lesser-Known Facts
The Upanishads, ancient Hindu scriptures, contain numerous teachings on the nature of the self and the illusion of the material world. The Chandogya Upanishad (6.8.7) is famous for the Mahavakya (great saying) "Tat Tvam Asi" or "Thou art That," indicating that the individual soul (Atman) is one with the ultimate reality (Brahman).
Ramana Maharshi, a modern Indian sage, taught the practice of self-inquiry (Atma Vichara) to realize the true self. He encouraged people to ask, "Who am I?" and to reject all superficial identities that arise in response to this question until only the pure consciousness remains.
In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna describes the Sthitaprajna (person of steady wisdom), who is unaffected by pleasure and pain, success and failure, or any dualities of the material world, having realized the true self.
The Hindu teaching of finding the real self beyond race, gender, and nationality remains profoundly relevant today. It offers a path to inner peace, personal fulfillment, and societal harmony by encouraging individuals to transcend the superficial identities that often divide us. By embracing the idea of the Atman, we can cultivate a deeper understanding of ourselves and our connection to the rest of humanity, leading to a more compassionate and united world.