Understanding Our Essence: Are We All One in Substance?

Self-identity and the concept of individuality are often professed through personal anecdotes; however, in Hindu scriptures, there lies a profound understanding that our self-concept is merely a provisional identity caused by changes in name and form, known as nama-rupa. This belief challenges the notion of a fixed, unchanging self and instead suggests a deeper, underlying reality.

Personal Reflections on Identity

I do not excel in profiling myself explicitly. Yet, through my responses, one can see what I represent. According to Hindu scriptures, we all share a common essence, a 'substance' known as Atman, which is described as asti bhaati priyam—pure being, pure knowing, and pure feeling vitality. This essence remains constant regardless of the various names and forms we assume in life.

Examples of Substance-Transcending Form

A simple analogy unfolds when we consider the nature of gold. Gold can manifest in various shapes and names as a necklace, bangle, ring, chain, watch, or earring. Yet, its unchanging reality or substance remains the same. Similarly, clay can take many forms as a pot, plate, pan, vessel, jug, or pitcher, but its basic nature as clay persists. These examples illustrate that despite the differences in name and form, we all originate from the same ultimate substance.

Essence and Diversity in Humanity

Despite the many ways in which we differ in appearance and behavior, there is much that we share in common, including kindness, compassion, gratitude, altruism, laughter, and the desire for the well-being of loved ones. This shared essence, rather than the differences in names and form, is the foundation of our humanity.

Humanity's Unique Role in the Universe

Man, better known as Homo sapiens, is the protagonist of humanity. The aesthetic imperative, defined by the capacity to feel or sentience, has led to numerous speculations about the uniqueness of our species. Given our emotional sensitivity, it is plausible that Earth is one of the best places in the universe for inorganic material to transform into organic matter capable of sustaining intelligent life.

Our cultural endeavors include aiming to implement cultures of peace and using technology to promote food distribution to a greater number than the current 8 billion. There is a need to live in peace with others, improving our social and cultural skills to work together and minimize conflicts in various human endeavors.

A variety of variables points to complex issues that professional experts must address. However, it is important to also consider the role of ordinary people in society. For example, the use of inner speech and speech acts from speech acts theory, which is part of the philosophy of language at the University of Stanford, can provide valuable insights into how we approach and address complex problems like immortality or the limits of human knowledge.

Albert Einstein’s Perspective on Complexity

Albert Einstein once stated that the world is a very complicated place. Yet, there are often straightforward solutions that arise from common sense and a deep understanding of human language. While complex issues may require specialized knowledge and professional expertise, the wisdom of everyday insights, like those found in inner speech and speech acts, can illuminate the path towards resolving them.