In our fast-paced, ever-connected world, it’s easy to get lost in the noise and forget to ask the fundamental questions about our existence. Who am I? What is my true nature? These questions have puzzled humanity for centuries and are central to many spiritual traditions.
I come from a simple background and, like many, have navigated life with its ups and downs. My journey led me to explore these profound questions more deeply, and I want to share an extraordinary experience that has shaped my understanding of the self and reality.
The Quest for Truth
I have always believed in a higher power, Ishwor, with many forms. My spiritual path has been influenced by reading the works of Adi Shankaracharya, such as “Tattva Bodha” and “Vivekachudamani,” and listening to spiritual gurus on YouTube. These teachings emphasize the idea that our true nature is beyond our physical body and mind – it is something immortal and infinite.
A Miraculous Dream
One afternoon, I fell asleep with thoughts of Atman (the soul), Brahman (the ultimate reality), and Shiva swirling in my mind. As I dreamed, I found myself walking with my brother and others in a world that felt as real as our waking life. Suddenly, I realized I was dreaming. I became aware of two versions of myself: one sleeping and one dreaming.
Remembering a video of Ramakrishna, I began to ask, “Who am I?” in my dream. Instantly, everything around me started to dissolve. Mountains turned to dust, and rivers absorbed the debris. I saw an image of Ganesha and Shiva combined – a Ganesha head on a Shiva-like body. As I continued to question my identity, the entire dream world merged into water, leaving only myself behind.
The Dream and Reality
This profound experience made me see the world differently. Just as the dream world vanished when I realized its illusory nature, our waking reality may also be an illusion. Scriptures often teach that Brahman, the ultimate reality, manifests as the diverse world we perceive, much like how our consciousness creates the dream world.
Reflecting on the Self
My experience reinforces the idea that our true self is not our name, body, or mind. Names are given to us at birth, and our bodies will eventually perish. But our true essence, the Atman, is eternal and unchanging.
Seeking Wisdom
From my experience, I don’t claim to know everything about the nature of reality, but it gives me a strong sense that this world might also be a dream. This idea is echoed by many spiritual gurus in Hindu scriptures. Despite this understanding, I find myself living much the same as before. If anyone can help in finding true spiritual gurus to enlighten ourselves, I would greatly appreciate it.
Conclusion
The journey to understanding our true nature is deeply personal and transformative. By questioning the nature of our identity and reality, we can begin to see beyond the illusions and connect with our immortal essence. Sharing our experiences and insights can help us grow collectively and support each other on this path.
So, I ask you: Who are you? Beyond your name and body, what is your true essence? Exploring these questions can lead to profound realizations and a deeper connection with the divine. If you have suggestions for true spiritual gurus who can guide us further, please share. Together, we can seek enlightenment and understanding.
Image Credit: Image by morn in japan from Pixabay