In this conversation, I am joined by my good friend and brother, Jonathan Abdus-Samad, to delve into the profound topic of the self, often referred to as the ego. We explore the implications of the self in our spiritual journeys and how its understanding and transcendence can lead to deeper spiritual growth.
The self, or ego, is a significant focus in various spiritual traditions. In Buddhism, for instance, the concept of “no self” (anatta) is central, indicating that the self we perceive is an illusion. This illusion is often the root of our suffering. As one spiritual teacher succinctly put it, “no self, no problem.” This statement encapsulates the idea that many of our problems stem from our identification with a false sense of self.
Problems, as we perceive them, are often constructs of the mind. They are situations contextualized negatively by our thoughts. By learning to view these situations without the filter of a problematic mindset, we can begin to alleviate much of our self-created suffering. This requires a profound shift in consciousness, moving from a mind-centric to a heart-centric awareness.
The Quran presents various states of the self: the commanding self (nafs al-ammara), the self-reproaching self (nafs al-lawwama), and the peaceful self (nafs al-mutma’inna). Our spiritual goal is to evolve towards the peaceful self, which is content and serene, and ultimately welcomed into paradise.
René Descartes’ famous assertion, “I think, therefore I am,” suggests that our identity is rooted in our thoughts. However, this perspective can be limiting. In Islam, true consciousness transcends the psychological self and connects with the deeper, spiritual self. This deeper consciousness is free from the temporal and transient, anchored in the eternal spirit (ruh).
Meditation is a crucial practice in transcending the ego. It involves surrendering the mind and body to experience a state of being beyond the self. This stillness and surrender allow a deeper consciousness to emerge, leading to a profound awareness of reality and our connection with the Divine.
The journey beyond the self requires a shift from self-reliance to reliance on God. This surrender is not passive but involves an active trust in the Divine. It is through this surrender that we begin to dissolve the false self and connect with our true being.
Practical Steps and Reflections
The following suggestions will help you actualize and benefit from the principles and ideas shared in this post.
1. Consistent Practice
Regular meditation and remembrance helps us detach from the ego and connect with our deeper self. By maintaining a consistent meditative spiritual practice, we progressively rewire our neurology to increasingly experience a state of surrender, peace, connectedness and presence.
2. Patience and Endurance
Learning how to develop patience and endurance in difficult situations teaches us to surrender and align more closely with God’s will, for Allah Almighty states in the Holy Qur’an that, “Verily, God is with the patient” (Surah al-Baqarah, 2: 153).
3. Community and Guidance
Engaging with a supportive spiritual community and seeking guidance from experienced mentors can significantly enhance our spiritual journey, for the company we keep and connect with is one of the most significant factors and forces that shape our paradigms and determine the possibilities that we are able to awaken to and actualize.
Conclusion
Our discussion highlights the importance of transcending the ego to achieve spiritual growth. By understanding the illusory nature of the self and practicing meditation, we can move towards a state of inner peace and deeper connection with God.
We invite you to reflect on these concepts and incorporate them into your spiritual practices, and to take advantage of the resources available to support you upon your path of spiritual growth, development and awakening.
To your divine and eternal success.
