If a man considers that he is born, he cannot avoid the…
“If a man considers that he is born, he cannot avoid the fear of death. Let him find out if he has been born or if the Self has any birth. He will discover that the Self always exists, that the body that is born resolves itself into thought and that the emergence of thought is the root of all mischief. Find from where thoughts emerge. Then you will be able to abide in the ever-present inmost Self and be free from the idea of birth or the fear of death.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Understanding the Self as ever-present and distinct from birth and death frees one from fear and egoic identification.
In simple terms: Self is beyond birth and death.
Contemplate the timeless Self to overcome fear.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- meditation
- philosophical study
- daily reflection
- stress coping
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does recognizing the Self alter your view of life?
- What practices help you experience the ever-present Self?
Self-concept can be deeply ingrained, making insight difficult.