Acharya Prashant explains the concept of self-realization using the analogy of a jewel covered in mud. He points out that when we talk about cleaning a jewel, we often dismiss the mud as something worthless to be quickly removed, focusing all our attention on the sparkling jewel that will be revealed. This approach, when applied to spirituality, leads to a misunderstanding. People imagine a pure, gem-like Atman (Self) residing within, and consider the mind and body as mere layers of dirt to be discarded. This creates a flawed image where the Atman is the subject of all spiritual discussion, while the mind and body are ignored. The speaker clarifies that this is a misconception. Influenced by this analogy, many believe that self-realization means experiencing this inner, radiant Atman. However, he asserts that the Atman is not an object to be realized or seen. Self-realization is, in fact, the realization of the mind and body—the layers of mud. It is the direct seeing of Maya (illusion). The Atman is not a substance that can be an object of your sight; it is the very seer behind the eyes. The Atman is not something you can see; you see *through* the Atman. He further explains that the path to liberation is not about seeing the Atman, but about seeing Maya. When you see Maya for what it is, you become one with the Truth, which is the Atman. The speaker uses another analogy of a train: self-realization is like seeing the train (Maya) coming, which allows you to get out of the way. Hearing the Guru's words is like hearing the train's whistle, a warning. The one who truly sees themselves is not someone who sees a divine light within, but one who sees their own distorted and ugly form, their own inner deceptions. This seeing leads to a sense of revulsion from the false, which is liberation. The one who has seen the truth of Maya is freed from it. This is the state of being 'Krit-kritya'—one who has done all that needed to be done and is now free from personal motives. Such a person may still engage in actions, but these actions are for the sake of others, not for personal gain.