The teaching "We realize we are peace when we drop ego, desires, and attachments" is deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy, especially in the concepts of Vedanta, Bhagavad Gita, and the Upanishads. This teaching suggests that inner peace, which is our true nature, is veiled by ego (ahankara), desires (kama), and attachments (moha). When we transcend these, we connect to the state of inner tranquility, or shanti, that is always present within us. This wisdom holds great significance both in spiritual practices and in modern day life, where the pursuit of peace is often complicated by external distractions.
Symbolism in Hindu Philosophy
Ego (Ahankara): The ego represents the false sense of self, the "I" that identifies with the body, mind, and external achievements. In Hindu teachings, the ego is seen as an obstacle to realizing the true self (Atman). The lotus flower symbolizes the journey from ego to self-realization. A lotus grows in muddy waters but rises above to bloom in beauty, symbolizing how the soul rises above worldly entanglements.
Desires (Kama): Desires are compared to a fire in Hindu scriptures. Just like fire grows when fuel is added, desires grow the more they are indulged. The Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 3, Verse 39) compares desires to an insatiable flame: "Desire is a constant enemy of the wise, and it burns like fire."
Attachments (Moha): Attachments bind us to the transient world and prevent us from realizing our eternal, unchanging self. The snake is often used as a symbol in Hinduism for attachments, as it coils around things, representing how attachments entangle the soul. The Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 2, Verse 62-63) says, "From attachment comes longing, and from longing arises anger. From anger comes delusion; from delusion, loss of memory; from loss of memory, the ruin of intelligence, and when intelligence is ruined, one perishes."
Importance of Dropping Ego, Desires, and Attachments
In Hinduism, the path to moksha (liberation) is seen as a journey of shedding ego, desires, and attachments. These are viewed as the primary barriers between the soul (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). When we cling to our false identities, our ever-changing desires, and our attachments to material things or relationships, we remain trapped in the cycle of samsara (birth, death, and rebirth). Dropping these leads to the realization of peace—our true nature.
Modern Day Relevance
In today's fast-paced world, people often seek peace externally—through wealth, success, or recognition. However, Hindu teachings remind us that peace is already within us, and it can only be realized by quieting the mind, releasing attachments, and living in harmony with our higher self. Here’s how the teaching applies practically:
Releasing Ego: In a world that emphasizes personal achievements and individual success, the ego can lead to constant comparison and stress. Letting go of ego fosters humility, reduces conflict, and enhances relationships.
Managing Desires: Consumerism encourages endless desires, but fulfilling every desire does not bring lasting happiness. By controlling desires and focusing on contentment, we reduce anxiety and find joy in the present moment.
Detaching from Outcomes: Attachments to specific outcomes, whether in relationships, career, or personal goals, lead to disappointment when things don’t go as planned. Practicing detachment helps us navigate life’s ups and downs with grace.
Similar Teachings
Other spiritual traditions also emphasize the importance of letting go for inner peace:
Buddhism teaches the Four Noble Truths, where the root of suffering (dukkha) is desire (tanha), and freedom from suffering is achieved by eliminating attachment.
Stoicism in ancient Greece shares a similar view. Stoic philosophers like Marcus Aurelius believed in accepting what is beyond our control and focusing on inner peace, detached from external circumstances.
Simple Stories from Hinduism
1. The Story of King Janaka
King Janaka, a great ruler and sage, is often cited as an example of someone who lived in the world but was detached from it. One day, during a discussion on detachment, his kingdom caught fire, and his courtiers rushed to save their belongings. Yet Janaka remained calm and said, "Nothing of mine is burning," indicating that he was not attached to material possessions. Even though he ruled a kingdom, he was free from ego, desires, and attachment. This inner peace made him an enlightened king.
2. The Snake and the Rope
In the Advaita Vedanta philosophy, the illusion of ego, desires, and attachments is often compared to mistaking a rope for a snake in the dark. The snake is an illusion, just as our attachment to the ego and desires is. Once the light of knowledge (jnana) shines, we realize that there was never a snake, only a rope, just as when enlightened, we realize our true nature is peace, not the ever-changing mind or body.
Quotes from Hindu Scriptures
Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 2, Verse 71):
“He attains peace who, abandoning all desires, moves about without longing, without the sense of ‘I’ and ‘mine,’ and is free from egoism.”Katha Upanishad (2.3.14):
"When all desires that dwell in the heart are cast away, then does the mortal become immortal and attain Brahman."Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 5, Verse 23):
"He who can withstand the impulse of desire and anger in this very life before giving up the body is a yogi, and he is a happy man."
Practicality in Day-to-Day Life
Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices like meditation help one to observe the mind’s tendencies towards ego, desires, and attachments. By simply observing these thoughts without judgment, we begin to loosen their hold on us.
Service and Selflessness: Performing actions with the spirit of karma yoga—acting without expecting any rewards—helps us drop the ego. By serving others, we rise above the selfish "I" and connect to the larger collective consciousness.
Gratitude and Contentment: Cultivating gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack (desires) to what we have. This simple practice nurtures inner peace and helps detach from constant cravings.
Letting Go of Perfectionism: Whether in career, relationships, or personal goals, the attachment to perfect outcomes often causes stress and dissatisfaction. Learning to accept imperfection brings peace and freedom from disappointment.
Additional Thoughts
Peace is our natural state, and it is always available to us. However, the ego, desires, and attachments cloud this realization. In Hinduism, spiritual practices like yoga, meditation, and devotion (bhakti) serve to remove these layers and reveal the peaceful essence of the self. In modern life, this teaching encourages us to simplify, live mindfully, and cultivate detachment for a more peaceful and harmonious existence.
In essence, the realization that "we are peace" isn't an external journey but an internal awakening—one that can have profound implications for how we live, work, and interact with the world today.