Significance of Higher self
Higher self refers to the refined aspect of consciousness that transcends ordinary awareness, connecting individuals to divine or universal consciousness. In various spiritual traditions, such as Purana and Vedanta, it embodies the ultimate essence of a person, distinct from the individual ego, and associated with bliss, morality, and connection to Brahman. The higher self represents an elevated state of being, encouraging individuals to focus on their true nature and pursue enlightenment, rather than being limited by baser instincts or material concerns.
Synonyms: Higher consciousness, Higher being, True self, Spiritual self, Inner self, Transcendent self, Enlightened self, Higher mind, Divine self
In Dutch: Hoger zelf; In Finnish: Korkeampi minä; In Spanish: Yo superior; In German: Höheres Selbst
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Higher self'
In Hinduism, the Higher Self represents the supreme aspect of consciousness and existence, transcending individuality and ego, identified with Brahman and connected to ultimate reality, bliss, and universal consciousness.
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) Refers to the ultimate reality or supreme aspect of the self that transcends individuality and is associated with Brahman.[1] (2) The ultimate entity to which the mentioned qualities of seeing, ruling, and immortality truly belong.[2] (3) The Self that is free from all imperfections and is endowed with bliss, distinct from the individual soul.[3] (4) The ultimate or true essence of a person that resides in the heart and is associated with the practice of devout meditation.[4] (5) The supreme or highest aspect of Self that is identified with Brahman, as opposed to the individual soul.[5]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The transcendent aspect of self that connects deeply to existence.[6] (2) Vishnu as the charioteer in the journey to Brahmaloka.[7] (3) A concept of the self that is connected to ultimate consciousness and truth.[8]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) The higher Self is a concept that arises in the context of perfect conciliation, which could imply a distinction between a higher and lower self, but is later addressed in the text.[9] (2) Refers to the ultimate or most exalted state of being, which is characterized by bliss and abundance.[10]
From: Mundaka Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) A concept suggesting that genuine poetry and divinity originate from an elevated spiritual state or consciousness.[11]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) An ultimate existence inferred from the behavior of jivas, suggesting that all controlled activities stem from Brahman.[12]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The aspect of a person that transcends common experiences and connects with universal consciousness.[13]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The ultimate essence of a being, which is omnipresent and manifests in various organisms, both high and low.[14]
The concept of Higher self in local and regional sources
The Higher Self represents an individual's elevated nature, guiding them towards enlightenment and true purpose. It connects them to the divine, encouraging a focus on spiritual growth and moral virtue over baser instincts and ego.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The ultimate reality, which can be realized through the surrender of the apparent self, according to the text.[15] (2) One's own elevated being, to which one should only bow, as it represents the ultimate realization of self.[16] (3) This is the voice of the individual that one must obey, which is a directive from the inner being that guides individuals on their path.[17] (4) This term signifies the elevated aspect of an individual's being, encouraging focus on one's superior nature instead of dwelling on lower aspects of their character.[18] (5) This is the process of refinement of matter allowing the real Self to manifest Itself, and it is a concept.[19]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A term referring to one's spiritual essence or true nature beyond the ego and ordinary identity.[20] (2) The part of an individual that aspires towards moral virtue and the greater good.[21] (3) The contemplative aspect of an individual that seeks connection to the universe through love and beauty rather than material gain.[22] (4) A concept within the Gita symbolized by Krishna, representing a person's spiritual nature that guides them towards enlightenment.[23] (5) A state of being where individuals rise above basic instincts and pursue altruism.[24]