Acharya Prashant explains the difference between the temporary merging of the mind, or 'Laya', and its permanent destruction, or 'Manonash', based on a quote by Ramana Maharshi. He clarifies that merging, such as in deep sleep or certain meditative states, is a temporary condition where the mind becomes invisible but retains its identity and is bound to reappear. This creates a cycle of getting tired, seeking temporary relief, and then getting tired again. This cyclical relaxation is not the ultimate goal, as it only offers a brief, dualistic peace that begins and ends. The true aim, as stated by the Maharshi, is the destruction of the mind, which involves going to its very root. This root is identified as the 'Aham-vritti' or the 'I-thought'—the fundamental feeling of being incomplete and needing something. While the mind's activities and the objects it chases are varied and constantly changing, this core sense of incompleteness remains the one constant pillar around which the entire game of life is played. The mind is variety and differences, but the 'I-thought' is the singular, unchanging center. To destroy the mind, one must not accept ready-made answers, either from common sense or from spiritual teachings. Instead, one must engage in a sincere and ruthless self-inquiry, probing the central belief of one's own incompleteness. This involves persistently questioning, "Am I really incomplete? Am I really dependent? Do I really need?" This process requires personal effort and struggle. The answer is not a concept but the direct experience of this foundational pillar of belief crashing down. The speaker emphasizes that you are already the true Self, and this potential must be exercised to become a living, throbbing reality, not just a latent possibility.