Rely On The Self, The OverSelf

Rely On The Self, The OverSelf

Bhagawan has spoken lavishly on the supreme truth of the Self that is the ultimate reality human sojourn is after. How man can know his truth, The True Truth by focusing on the Self, explains Bhagawan narrating a famed Shankaracharya episode.

If one concentrates on the Self, which has no change or characteristics, no subtraction or senility, no decline or damage, man can conquer death. Therefore, the most effective prescription is the injection of the Knowledge of the Self, the Soul as One’s Real Self.

Now I shall describe to you a beautiful incident from the life of Sankaracharya. One day, when he was in Benares, he was returning from the river through a narrow lane and a person who was considered to be untouchable was coming opposite to him. Then Sankara asked him to move out and keep away at a distance so that himself, the Brahmin could move unpolluted. Then that untouchable asked Sankara, “Are you asking the body to keep at a distance? If that is so, one body which is inert is asking another inert body and it has no authority to do so. If you are asking the Soul to keep away and at a distance, the Soul that is in me is the same as the Soul or the Self that is in you. Therefore the same Self cannot ask itself to move away from itself and be aloof.”

Then Sankara thought, “This so-called untouchable is the one who knows what is ‘Real Self’ and what is ‘real non-self’, what is the body and what is He Who knows the body and I must respect him.” So saying, he prostrated before the ‘untouchable’. The untouchable was none other than Lord Vishwanatha HimSelf. He then appeared in His true form to Sankara. Let him be a Brahmin or let him belong to any caste, if he knows the Principle Of Oneness, then he has the true spiritual enlightenment.

Several persons put the question: “Swami, please tell us where the Self goes after the death of the body?”

The sky is reflected in the water in a vessel. When the vessel breaks, the image of the sky merges with the limitless sky. So also, with the disintegration of the physical body, the Self merges with the OverSelf.

Realise that the Self is the OverSelf that is the Higher Knowledge. Krishna exhorted Arjuna to meditate on the Unchanging in order to experience the OmniPresent Reality Of The OverSelf.

II Samastha Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu II

Rely on the Self, the OverSelf – A Path to Inner Divinity

Human life is often filled with uncertainty, challenges, and constant change. In such circumstances, people naturally seek support from the world around them. They depend on wealth, relationships, social status, and external achievements to gain a sense of security and happiness. While these things may provide temporary comfort, they cannot offer lasting peace. The spiritual teaching contained in Rely On The Self, The OverSelf reminds us that true strength and guidance come from within, from the divine presence that resides in every heart.

The Self referred to in spiritual teachings is not the physical body, the restless mind, or the changing emotions. It is the divine consciousness that remains constant through all experiences. This inner reality is pure, eternal, and untouched by the ups and downs of life. The OverSelf is the universal Divine, the supreme consciousness that pervades the entire creation. Though these terms appear different, spiritual wisdom reveals that the individual Self and the Supreme Self are deeply connected. Realizing this truth is one of the highest goals of human life.

The message of Rely On The Self, The OverSelf encourages individuals to develop faith in their inner divine nature rather than becoming dependent solely on external circumstances. Many fears arise because people identify themselves only with the body and the material world. When difficulties occur, they feel weak and helpless. However, spiritual awareness teaches that the source of courage, wisdom, and peace already exists within. By turning inward and cultivating faith, one discovers a reservoir of strength that cannot be shaken by changing conditions.

Throughout history, saints and spiritual masters have emphasized the importance of self-inquiry and inner reflection. They taught that every individual possesses divine potential waiting to be awakened. Through prayer, meditation, devotion, and selfless service, the mind becomes purified and the awareness of the inner Self grows stronger. As this awareness develops, dependence on external validation gradually decreases. The individual begins to experience confidence rooted not in ego but in the realization of divine presence.

The principle behind Rely On The Self, The OverSelf does not encourage selfishness or isolation. Instead, it points toward a deeper understanding of one’s true identity. When a person realizes that the same divine consciousness exists in all beings, compassion naturally arises. Such awareness strengthens unity, kindness, and respect for others. It transforms relationships by replacing judgment and separation with understanding and love.

One of the greatest obstacles on the spiritual path is doubt. People often question their abilities, their purpose, and even the presence of God in their lives. These doubts create anxiety and confusion. The wisdom of relying on the Self teaches that divine guidance is always available. Through a quiet mind and sincere faith, individuals can receive clarity and direction from within. This inner guidance often appears as intuition, wisdom, or a deep sense of knowing that helps navigate life’s challenges.

The teachings of Shri Sathya Sai Baba frequently highlighted the importance of recognizing the divinity within. He reminded devotees that God is not distant but resides in every heart. The search for truth therefore begins within oneself. By cultivating purity of thought, word, and action, individuals become more aware of the divine presence guiding their lives. This realization brings courage during adversity and gratitude during times of success.

The practice of Rely On The Self, The OverSelf becomes especially valuable during difficult periods. When external support seems limited and obstacles appear overwhelming, turning inward provides stability and hope. Faith in the divine Self helps individuals face challenges with patience and resilience. Instead of becoming discouraged, they learn to trust that every experience contributes to spiritual growth and carries a deeper purpose.

True reliance on the OverSelf also involves surrender. It means recognizing that while human effort is necessary, the ultimate outcome rests in divine hands. This understanding frees the mind from excessive worry and attachment. Individuals continue to perform their duties sincerely while maintaining trust in God’s wisdom. Such surrender creates inner peace and allows life to unfold with greater harmony.

Ultimately, Rely On The Self, The OverSelf is a call to discover the divine source of strength, wisdom, and love that exists within every individual. It teaches that lasting security cannot be found in temporary worldly possessions but in the eternal reality of the spirit. By turning inward, cultivating faith, and recognizing the presence of the Supreme Self, one can experience true peace and fulfillment. The journey from the individual self to the realization of the OverSelf is the path toward spiritual freedom, divine awareness, and everlasting joy.

The Divine Name Is The Panacea