Above and below Quote by Ramakrishna
“Imagine a limitless expanse of water: above and below, before and behind, right and left, everywhere there is water. In that water is placed a jar filled with water. There is water inside the jar and water outside, but the jar is still there. The 'I' is the jar.”
About This Quote
Source Spiritual Teaching: Advaita Vedanta discourse Ramakrishna, 19th century
The quote uses water as a metaphor for the boundless, all‑pervasive nature of consciousness, and the jar as the individual self that appears separate but is actually the same as the whole.
In simple terms: Consciousness is everywhere; the self is not separate.
Key Takeaway
Recognize your true nature beyond the ego.
Themes
spirituality
identity
non‑duality
perception
mindfulness
Mood
contemplative
peaceful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- meditation
- self‑inquiry
- philosophical discussion
- teaching sessions
Key Concepts
Advaita
self‑realization
metaphor
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you experience the sense of self as separate?
- What practices help you feel unity with everything?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor may be abstract for those unfamiliar with non‑dual philosophy.
