Acharya Prashant addresses a question regarding the nature of the ego and the Self (Aatma) with reference to the Bhagavad Gita. He begins by clarifying that the universe is an object that exists only for the ego, which is the eternal subject. There is no universe separate from the ego's perception of it. Explaining the verse about the ego casting off old bodies for new ones, Acharya Prashant states that this does not mean an individual ego hops from one body to another. Instead, it signifies that bodies are in a constant state of change, forming and deforming. The fundamental "I-tendency" (Aham-vritti) is an eternal presence that associates itself with these changing bodies. Every constitution, down to a molecule, can be said to possess this tendency to say "I." The ego completes its identity by associating with a particular body, forming the statement "I am X," where X is the body. To illustrate this further, he presents a model where the ultimate Truth (Aatma) is described as non-dual, like a non-existent point ('Bindu'). From this non-duality, Maya (the principle of duality) arises, creating the primary split between subject and object. The subject is this eternal "I-tendency," while the object is the entire universe of countless, ever-changing forms. This I-tendency is perpetually present, attaching itself to any form that arises. For instance, when a body 'A' forms, the I-tendency says, "I am A." Even when a body is destroyed, the I-tendency attaches to that state of destruction, leading to expressions like "I am dead." This ego-tendency is inherent in all matter, including a stone, which, under the right conditions, can evolve into what is recognized as life. In response to a subsequent question about the journey to liberation, Acharya Prashant explains that it is not about reaching a specific destination or state, such as a coordinate of 'zero-zero'. Rather, liberation is found in the constant and correct movement towards that goal. The ultimate state serves as a guiding light, but the essence of the spiritual path lies in the movement itself, not in the final achievement.
