Remove The Mask To Know The Real You - An Exploration Through Hinduism

We have created numerous boundaries around us. These boundaries are blockades. They block our energy, creativity and true potential. We identify ourselves with political, cultural, traditional and religious beliefs. We also are attached to them. Apart from identification and attachment, we begin to think this is what I am. You need to remove the various masks to know the real you. 

Another kind of identification comes out of social status, career and wealth. False social status stops us from mingling with different kinds of people. We are only ready to socialize with a particular group. This stops us from knowing our real self. This also stops us from gathering wisdom. It also acts as an impediment in realizing our true potential. Career and wealth also pushes us into a particular social group.

Ego plays an important role in holding on to the false what I am. This false personality that we create stops us from learning. It stops us from going through the various kinds of experiences, which helps in facing the difficulties of life.

For those interested in spirituality and self-realization it is very much necessary to let of what I am. This false ‘I’ is the main ignorance. It is stopping us from seeing the divine light. In some of us, this ‘I’ has become so hard that no light can pass through it. It prevents all kinds of wisdom. Such people face endless problems in life.

If you wish to become the real, then you need to drop the false I am. Drop all masks. Be free and be honest. 

Holding on to the false what I am stops from knowing the real you.

'When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.' John Heider

Abhilash
www.hindu-blog.com

Remove The Mask To Know The Real You: An Exploration Through Hinduism

In Hinduism, the concept of self-realization is deeply embedded in the spiritual and philosophical teachings. The idea of "removing the mask" to discover the "real you" is symbolic of the journey towards understanding one's true self, or Atman, beyond the superficial identities and roles we assume in our daily lives. This idea resonates with the teachings of various Hindu scriptures, symbolism, and stories, which emphasize the importance of self-discovery and inner truth.

Symbolism in Hinduism: The Mask and the True Self

In Hindu symbolism, the "mask" represents the Maya (illusion) that covers our true nature. According to Hindu philosophy, the material world and the ego-driven identities we form—our roles as professionals, family members, and societal contributors—are all layers of Maya. These layers are necessary for functioning in the world but often lead us away from realizing our true nature.

The Atman (soul or self) is considered the true self, which is eternal and unchanging. The journey of spiritual growth in Hinduism involves peeling away the layers of Maya to reveal the Atman. This process is akin to removing a mask that hides the real self, allowing us to perceive the world and ourselves with clarity.

Stories from Hindu Scriptures

1. The Story of King Janaka and the Sage Ashtavakra: In the Ashtavakra Gita, King Janaka, who is deeply troubled by the duality of life, seeks guidance from the sage Ashtavakra. The sage teaches him that his true self is beyond the mind and body, beyond all dualities and illusions. The story symbolizes the shedding of ego and the realization that one's true identity is the Atman, which is pure consciousness.

2. The Story of Nachiketa from the Katha Upanishad: In the Katha Upanishad, the young boy Nachiketa meets Yama, the god of death, and asks him profound questions about the nature of the self and what happens after death. Yama teaches him that the ultimate truth lies in knowing the Atman, which is beyond life and death. This story emphasizes the importance of understanding the true self, which is not the body or the mind, but the eternal soul.

Quotes from Hindu Scriptures

1. Mundaka Upanishad: "The Self cannot be known through study of scriptures, nor through intellect, nor through hearing learned discourses. It can be known only by the one whom the Self chooses. To such a one, the Self reveals its true nature."

   This quote underscores the idea that true self-realization comes not from external knowledge, but from direct experience and inner awakening.

2. Chandogya Upanishad: "Tat Tvam Asi" – "Thou art That." This Mahavakya (great saying) from the Chandogya Upanishad emphasizes the oneness of the individual soul (Atman) with the universal soul (Brahman). It suggests that the true self is not different from the ultimate reality, and recognizing this truth is the essence of self-realization.

Importance and Relevance in Modern Day Life

In the fast-paced world we live in today, people often find themselves lost in the roles they play—whether it’s in their careers, families, or social circles. These roles can become masks that obscure their true identity and lead to stress, anxiety, and a sense of emptiness. By "removing the mask," individuals can reconnect with their true selves, leading to a more fulfilled and authentic life.

1. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices like mindfulness and meditation, rooted in Hindu traditions, help individuals quiet the mind and peel away the layers of ego and illusion. These practices are ways of "removing the mask," allowing for deeper self-awareness and connection with the true self.

2. Self-Inquiry (Atma Vichara): Popularized by the sage Ramana Maharshi, self-inquiry involves asking oneself the question "Who am I?" repeatedly, leading to the realization that the ego and the mind are not the true self. This practice is a direct way to remove the mask of illusion and experience the Atman.

3. Living Authentically: In daily life, removing the mask can mean embracing authenticity in interactions and decisions. By being true to one's values and inner wisdom rather than conforming to societal expectations, one can live a more genuine and contented life.

Lesser Known Facts

• Multiple Layers of the Mask: Hindu philosophy suggests that there are multiple layers of "masks" that cover the true self, including the physical body (Annamaya Kosha), the energy body (Pranamaya Kosha), the mind (Manomaya Kosha), the intellect (Vijnanamaya Kosha), and the bliss body (Anandamaya Kosha). Each layer needs to be understood and transcended to realize the Atman.

• The Role of Guru: In Hindu tradition, the Guru plays a crucial role in helping individuals remove their masks. The Guru is not just a teacher but a guide who has already traversed the path of self-realization and can lead others through the process of removing their masks.

Practicality in Day-to-Day Life

• Awareness in Action: Applying the concept of removing the mask in everyday life involves acting with awareness and presence. Before reacting to situations, one can pause and reflect on whether their response is coming from the ego (the mask) or from a place of truth and compassion (the real self).

• Embracing Impermanence: Recognizing that all external identities and roles are temporary can help in detaching from them. By embracing impermanence, individuals can focus on what is eternal—the Atman—and live more peacefully.

• Balancing Roles and Self: While it is necessary to fulfill various roles in life, it is equally important to remember that these roles do not define one's true self. Striking a balance between worldly duties and spiritual awareness is key to living a harmonious life.

"Removing the mask" in Hinduism is a profound metaphor for the spiritual journey towards self-realization. It involves transcending the illusions of Maya, understanding the Atman, and living in accordance with one’s true nature. This concept is not just esoteric but has practical relevance in modern life, offering guidance for living authentically and with inner peace. Through mindfulness, self-inquiry, and awareness, individuals can gradually peel away the layers that obscure their true selves and experience the freedom and joy that come from living as the Atman.