I am the body, I am sense organs, the life breaths, I am a Brahmana, a Kshatriya, I am born, I am happy, miserable, I have lost this, gained this, all these and other functions of ordinary everyday life are due to the identification of the atma (self) with the action of the buddhi. In reality all these notions are in the buddhi, not in the self. But through ignorance they are taken to be in the Self. So long as this continues, the course of worldly life runs on.
Ramagita is part of Ramayana and in it Bhagavan Sri Ram answers philosophical questions of brother Lakshman.
Expanded Explanation of the Teaching "Not This, Not This" (Neti-Neti) from the Upanishads
The teaching of "Not This, Not This" (Neti-Neti) is one of the most profound principles in the Upanishadic philosophy. It offers a pathway to self-realization by negating all transient phenomena, guiding the seeker toward the ultimate, unchanging reality: the Supreme Self (Atma or Brahman). Let us delve into this teaching's meaning, importance, symbolism, relevance, and application in modern life.
Meaning and Importance
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Essence of Neti-Neti:
The phrase signifies the process of negation to transcend material and mental limitations. The Atma (Self) is not the body, mind, intellect, or any concept that can be described or perceived. By systematically rejecting all that is finite and impermanent, one realizes the infinite, eternal truth. -
Why Important:
- It emphasizes that Brahman (the Supreme Reality) cannot be captured by words, thoughts, or sensory experiences.
- This teaching aligns with the core Advaita Vedanta philosophy, which posits that the individual self is none other than the Supreme Self.
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Liberation from Suffering:
Neti-Neti helps dissolve attachment to transient pleasures and sorrows, leading to inner peace and liberation (moksha).
Deep Symbolism
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Negation as a Tool:
The teaching uses negation, not as a rejection, but as a means to discern the Real from the unreal. It symbolizes the stripping away of illusions (maya) that obscure the eternal truth. -
Beyond Duality:
The phenomenal world is steeped in duality—good and bad, joy and sorrow, success and failure. Neti-Neti teaches us to rise above these opposites to realize the non-dual reality.
Universality of the Teaching
- Relevance in Past, Present, and Future:
- In ancient times, this teaching inspired renunciates and seekers to explore the depths of existence beyond material pursuits.
- Today, it resonates with those seeking freedom from stress, anxiety, and the chaos of modern life.
- In the future, as humanity evolves, Neti-Neti remains a timeless reminder of the impermanence of all things.
Lesser-Known Facts
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Similar Teachings Across Cultures:
- In Buddhism, the concept of "anatta" (no-self) mirrors Neti-Neti in rejecting all conditioned existence.
- Taoism’s ineffable "Tao" also resonates with the idea that the ultimate truth is beyond description.
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Scriptural References:
- The Brihadaranyaka Upanishad elaborates on Neti-Neti, describing the Atma as that which is "not gross, not subtle, not seen, not unseen."
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Application in Modern Science:
- The Neti-Neti approach mirrors scientific inquiry, where hypotheses are eliminated to arrive at the underlying truth.
Simple Explanation with Examples
Imagine peeling an onion. Each layer represents an identity you associate with—your body, emotions, thoughts, and so on. By peeling away each layer (Neti-Neti), you reach the core: your true self, which is not the layers but the unchanging observer.
Example:
- You are not your body because it changes over time.
- You are not your thoughts because they are fleeting.
- What remains is the eternal awareness that witnesses all changes.
Modern-Day Relevance
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Stress and Mental Health:
Neti-Neti teaches detachment from negative emotions, helping individuals cultivate resilience and inner calm. -
Consumerism and Minimalism:
In a world obsessed with material acquisitions, Neti-Neti advocates simplicity and inner contentment. -
Climate Change and Global Warming:
By recognizing the impermanence of material possessions, Neti-Neti inspires sustainable living. The teaching encourages us to reduce overconsumption and adopt practices that prioritize the planet's well-being over fleeting gains.
Influence on Modern Problems
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Overcoming Anxiety:
By detaching from transient worries, individuals can focus on the unchanging essence within. -
Addressing Global Divisions:
Neti-Neti fosters unity by transcending labels of race, religion, and nationality, emphasizing the shared essence of all beings. -
Leadership and Ethics:
Leaders inspired by this philosophy are likely to prioritize long-term welfare over short-term gains.
Quotes and Stories from Scriptures
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From the Upanishads:
- "The Self is not this, not this. It is ungraspable, for it cannot be grasped; indestructible, for it cannot be destroyed." — Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 4.5.15.
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Illustrative Story:
Sage Yajnavalkya, in the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, uses Neti-Neti to guide his wife Maitreyi toward understanding that true immortality comes from realizing the Self, not through wealth or possessions. -
Bhagavad Gita:
- "The wise do not grieve for the living or the dead. That which pervades all is eternal; it is neither born nor does it die." — Gita 2.11-12.
Practical Exercises for Neti-Neti
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Meditation Practice:
Sit in silence and observe your thoughts. Repeatedly remind yourself: "I am not this thought, I am the observer." -
Journaling Exercise:
List your identities (e.g., student, parent, employee) and reflect: "Who am I beyond these roles?" -
Minimalism in Action:
Practice letting go of one material attachment each week. Reflect on how it impacts your sense of self.
Final Thoughts
The teaching of Neti-Neti is not a denial of life but a call to transcend the superficial and recognize the eternal within. It is a guiding principle for anyone seeking truth, freedom, and fulfillment, regardless of time or culture. By embracing this teaching, humanity can overcome individual and collective challenges, forging a harmonious relationship with oneself and the world.