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Significance of Inner self

The inner self is a multifaceted concept across various Indian philosophical traditions, representing the deeper, spiritual essence of an individual beyond superficial identities and material existence. In Buddhism, Jainism, Vaishnavism, and other traditions, it is often linked to a higher consciousness or divine nature that remains unaffected by external distractions. The inner self is considered essential for spiritual realization, representing a state of purity and awareness that connects individuals with the universal essence, Brahman. This central theme highlights the importance of introspection and the quest for true understanding of one鈥檚 identity.

Synonyms: True self, Spiritual self, Essence, Innermost being, Inner being, True nature, Innermost self

In Dutch: Innerlijk zelf; In Finnish: Sis盲inen min盲; In Spanish: Yo interior; In German: Inneres Selbst; In Swedish: Inre jag; In Malay: Dalaman diri; In French: Soi int茅rieur

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Inner self'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, the inner self is understood as a non-permanent identity, denied by the notion of non-self, while also representing a deep, constant consciousness that links to the essence of being, undisturbed by external factors.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

(1) The inner self refers to the concept of a permanent identity that is negated through the understanding that all dharmas are non-self.[1]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Significance in Buddhism (general):

From: The Great Chariot

(1) The deeper aspect of consciousness that remains still and connected to the essence of being, even amid external disturbances.[2]

Hindu concept of 'Inner self'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, the Inner Self represents the true essence of an individual, transcending physical identity and worldly attachments. It is eternal, identical with Brahman, and connects all beings to the divine consciousness within.

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)

(1) The essence that resides within all beings, both sentient and non-sentient, portrayed as the source of supreme bliss and conscious awareness.[3] (2) Brahman as viewed in the context of being the core essence of all existence, distinct from the individual soul.[4] (3) The notion that the highest Self intrinsically exists within all individual beings and inanimate objects.[5] (4) The aspect of each individual that reflects the highest Brahman, obscured by Nescience.[6] (5) The essence of all beings which is free from evil and is considered the divine and only god Narayana.[7]

From: Taittiriya Upanishad

(1) The inner self refers to the deeper layer of identity that transcends the outer physical and psychological layers, culminating in the realization of Brahman.[8] (2) The true essence of an individual that is identical with Brahman, free from distinctions and impurities imposed by ignorance.[9] (3) The deeper, spiritual aspect of oneself that experiences true bliss beyond the temporary pleasures of the external world.[10] (4) Brahman as the innermost essence or Self, identified with the true nature of an individual.[11] (5) A term for Brahman, emphasizing the concept of the inner essence that is responsible for consciousness and existence.[12]

From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)

(1) The essence of all things, identified with the highest Lord, which is the source of all beings and is not the embodied soul or the pradhana.[13] (2) The inner Self is the Self consisting of bliss, and it is the innermost and real Self, and the text teaches that this Self is the real Self.[14] (3) The essence of all beings which is identified with the highest Brahman, indicating its omnipresence.[15] (4) Refers to Brahman as the core essence inherent in everything, representing selfhood.[16] (5) A deeper aspect or layer of Self that exists beyond the outward manifestations, specifically referenced in relation to other Selfs like that of food.[17]

From: Kathopanishad (Madhva commentary)

(1) Refers to the Antar-atma or the inner aspect of the Lord, residing within every individual.[18] (2) The Inner Self is the divine aspect of the individual, which is realized by turning the senses inward, away from external objects.[19] (3) The fundamental consciousness that exists within all beings, which remains unaffected by sorrows and external influences.[20]

From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad

(1) The self that is within all, denoting the personal essence or spirit that resides in each individual.[21] (2) The deeper aspect of an individual that connects to knowledge of Brahman, contrasting with the superficial aspects of identity.[22]

From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)

(1) The essence of all beings, equated with the Supreme Brahman, indicating the interconnectedness of all living entities.[23]

From: Mundaka Upanishad (Madhva commentary)

(1) The concept that the Divine Lord resides within all beings, reflected through the presence of the Jiva-soul.[24]

From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika

(1) Shruti states that than this one formed of prana (etasmat pranamayat) there is another inner self formed of manas.[25]

From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)

(1) The innermost Self, or Atman, of all sheaths, which is regarded as the essence of life itself.[26]

From: Kena Upanishad with Shankara鈥檚 Commentary

(1) The deeper aspect of one's being, distinct from physical or external identities, which one should seek to understand.[27]

From: Ishavasya Upanishad with Shankara鈥檚 Commentary

(1) The aspect of all beings, denoting the understanding that one is connected to the unity of existence.[28]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) The internal state of Brahma, where he contained his wrath for the benefit of creation.[29] (2) The core essence or true self of an individual, which rests in divine consciousness and is integral to the practice of devotion.[30] (3) The true essence of an individual that exists beyond material existence and worldly attachments.[31]

From: Sanatsujatiya (English translation)

(1) The pure and immovable aspect of one鈥檚 being that reflects true consciousness beyond external influences.[32] (2) The core essence of an individual, likened to the size of a thumb, which migrates due to the connection with the subtle body.[33]

From: Anugita (English translation)

(1) The core identity lacking in natural knowledge, which transcends natural qualities upon understanding the higher state of being.[34] (2) The inner self represents the true essence of an individual, distinct from the material body and perception.[35]

From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4

(1) The inner self represents the true core of a person, beyond the ego and social identities, which connects to deeper spiritual understanding.[36]

From: Harivamsha Purana

(1) The knowledge that allows individuals, like the Brahmanas, to be immersed in communion and understand their spiritual essence.[37]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India鈥檚 vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Yoga (school of philosophy):
Yoga Books

From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)

(1) The aspect of the self referred to as Antaratma, which resides in the Sahasrara and is linked to achieving liberation.[38]

From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)

(1) The true essence of man that manifests itself when mental obstacles to concentration are removed.[39]

Yoga is originally considered a branch of Hindu philosophy (astika), but both ancient and modern Yoga combine the physical, mental and spiritual. Yoga teaches various physical techniques also known as asanas (postures), used for various purposes (eg., meditation, contemplation, relaxation).

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation

(1) The Inner Self indicates the role of Mahavishnu who transcends limitations by sustaining and controlling the functions of Brahma and Rudra.[40]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (鈥榯en avatars of Vishnu鈥�).

The concept of Inner self in local and regional sources

History Books

The Inner self represents one's deeper consciousness and true essence, reflecting the soul's nature in harmony with the Supreme. It involves a personal journey of introspection, understanding emotions, and expressing authentic identity despite societal pressures.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) The deepest emotions and thoughts of a character, which Anita Desai probes through imagery.[41] (2) The deeper aspect of one's identity, often associated with the soul or true essence.[42] (3) The authentic identity and true feelings of a person, which characters strive to understand and express against societal pressures.[43] (4) The core essence of an individual that great writers, including Viswanatha, connect with during their creative process.[44] (5) The core essence of an individual that finds delight through transcendent experiences rather than through external circumstances.[45]

From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda

(1) This is Y plus mind, and it is the internal self, which is a concept, and it is important.[46]