I. Introduction
The question 'What is the soul?' is not just a philosophical query but a universal contemplation that often arises alongside 'Who am I?' and 'What is my true nature?' This collective exploration of the soul from philosophical, spiritual, and scientific perspectives is a journey that stimulates our intellect and broadens our understanding, engaging us in a thought-provoking process of profound depth.
Basic understanding of the soul
What is the unifying force that transcends individuality? What persists when we realise we are not just our bodies or minds? The soul is a universal essence that exists beyond the physical, mental, and time, inspiring profound awe and wonder, sparking our fascination and curiosity, and leaving us intrigued by its profound and mysterious nature.
Every living being, including humans and creatures, possesses a soul. Yet, only through recognition can we truly grasp the profound meaning of our lives. This realisation not only enlightens but also empowers us, guiding us towards a more profound understanding of our existence and inspiring us to live our lives to the fullest.
The philosophical perspective on the soul is that it is a realm that stimulates our intellect and broadens our understanding.
In Indian philosophy, especially in the Upanishads, the soul is not just recognised but revered as an eternal, unchanging divine force. Our body is born, grows, and dies, but the soul never changes; it is infinite.
Spiritual perspective: As stated in the Bhagavad Gita, the Upanishads, and other spiritual texts, the soul is a particle of the Supreme Soul. To know this, we need to increase our consciousness through Meditation, yoga, and philosophical thought.
Scientific perspective: While science may not directly use the term' soul,' it does delve into consciousness. How do we think? If the mind controls the body, is there a power above it? Scientists are actively investigating these questions, keeping the quest for understanding the soul alive and engaging.
Let's explore the idea of the soul, its defining characteristics, and how we can comprehend it. It will help us gain a thorough understanding of our lives and existence.
II. Definition of the soul
What is the "soul"? Are we the body or the mind? Or is there something eternal beyond both? These questions have puzzled the human mind since ancient times. Many philosophical texts, religious books, and modern scientists have explored the concept of the soul. Understanding the historical evolution of this concept can provide us with a broader context and a deeper understanding of its significance.
A. Explanation of the soul in the Puranas, Upanishads, and Philosophical texts
Indian philosophy, particularly the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, and other Puranas, clearly explains the concept of the soul.
1. What do the Upanishads say?
According to the Upanishads, the soul is an imperishable force. Only the soul remains when we understand that we are not the body or the mind.
According to the Mundaka Upanishad, "The soul is pure and eternal. It is not subject to birth and death."
The Chandogya Upanishad contains the great verse "Tattvamasi." It means, "Your true form is the soul."
2. The soul in the Bhagavad Gita
In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna tells Arjuna, "The soul is not born; it does not die; it is eternal."
That is, even if the body perishes, the soul never changes.
3. What do the Puranas say?
According to Hindu Puranas, the soul is a particle from the Supreme Soul. We change the body like clothes. But the soul never changes.
4. Other Philosophical Perspectives
In Buddhism, the concept of "soul" is replaced with the term "Stream of Consciousness."
According to Jain philosophy, every living being has a soul that is reborn through the effects of karma. In this context, karma refers to an individual's accumulated actions and intentions that determine their future experiences and life circumstances. It is a key factor in the soul's journey through successive births and deaths, shaping the conditions of each new life based on the moral quality of past actions.
B. Scientific and Logical Aspects
Although science does not directly use the term "soul," extensive research exists on "consciousness."
1. Medical Science & Neuroscience
How does consciousness arise in the brain?
What occurs to our consciousness when the body is not there?
Is there a soul related to human thoughts?
Scientific research continues to explore questions about the soul and consciousness, with many still awaiting definitive answers.
2. Logical perspective
Philosophers and logicians present several perspectives:
Dualism (two separate objects) → We are a combination of body + soul.
Materialism (materialism) → The soul is only an imagination; the mind is primary.
Idealism (idealism) → The physical world exists only in our mental vision.
In summary, the Puranas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and other philosophical texts say that the soul is eternal, unchanging, and beyond the physical body. Although scientific research does not fully understand the essence of the soul, it continues to discover many new things about consciousness, keeping the quest for understanding the soul alive and engaging.
The soul can be considered pure, eternal energy from all these perspectives. To know the soul is to understand our true nature!
III. Characteristics of the Soul
The soul is not a mere figment of imagination. It is a force that transcends our body and mind, a profound entity we often overlook daily. While we tend to our physical bodies and navigate our emotional landscapes, the soul remains beyond these realms, eternal and unchanging. Our Puranas, Vedas, and philosophical texts have shed light on this, guiding us to understand the main characteristics of the soul.
1. Imperishable soul: Our body is born, grows, grows old, and finally dies. But the soul, with its eternal nature, transcends this cycle of birth and death, existing beyond the limitations of time. It is a constant, a timeless essence that endures even as our physical form changes.
As the Bhagavad Gita eloquently states, the soul is neither born nor dies. It is eternal, a concept that, once understood, can transform our perception of life. We may change our bodies, but the soul, like a steadfast beacon, remains unchanged, transcending the transient nature of our physical existence.
If we understand this verse, we may change our bodies, but the soul never changes. Just as we discard old clothes and put on new ones, we change our bodies, but our original form —the soul —remains unchanged.
Imagine a light bulb. The bulb lights up on any candle, but the light, like the soul, does not change its form. Similarly, even if the body changes, the soul remains unchanged.
2. Immutable soul: The soul never changes. Our body changes, thoughts and emotions change, but the soul remains the same forever.
For Example: A river is constantly changing its water, but the name of that river remains the same. Similarly, even if we experience many births, our souls remain unchanged.
3. Eternal soul (eternity): Every object in the material world has a time limit. But the soul has no time limit. It is an eternal force.
For Example, no matter how great a tree grows, it will perish one day. But the seed in the tree will sprout again and give rise to new life. Similarly, even if the body perishes, the soul continues its journey.
4. Soul beyond the physical body: The soul is beyond our body and mind. We suffer if the body experiences pain, but the soul does not feel discomfort. No matter what our emotions are, the soul is beyond them.
From a scientific perspective, even after the brain stops working in our body, some people say they have a "Near-Death Experience" (NDE). That is, even though the body is dead, they say they have seen another world and returned. Researchers have conducted many studies.
5. Soul as a form of consciousness: Soul means Pure Consciousness. Are we talking? Are we thinking? What are we experiencing? All these things are happening because of the soul.
For Example, just as a watch cannot work without a battery, our body cannot live without a soul. The body remains lifeless but is alive as long as the soul exists.
6. Soul connected to the Supreme Soul: Hindu philosophy teaches that the Supreme Soul directly connects to our soul. Divine energy comes from the Supreme Soul in every human being and living being.
According to the Bhagavad Gita: Every living being is within me. Every soul belongs to my world.
If we understand this, we will feel that we are all one. There is no difference between the soul within us and the soul within another. That is why love, compassion, and kindness are natural qualities of a human being.
Understanding these qualities allows us to see life from a different perspective. When we realise that the soul is eternal and that we are not the body, many fears and anxieties will diminish.
Who are you? Your body? Your mind? Or the eternal soul?
Think about this question. To know your true nature is to see the soul!
IV. Philosophical View of the Soul
Every religion and culture has its unique ideas about the "soul." This topic explores how various religions, cultures, and philosophical traditions perceive the concept of the soul.
1. The concept of the soul in different religions and cultures
Although many religions and cultures exist, all try to see the soul as a permanent, unchanging entity.
Indian culture: In Indian philosophy, thinkers view the soul as a distinct force that remains separate from the body and mind, believing it stays unchanged.
Other cultures: Some cultures define the soul as an individual consciousness or life force and encourage people to understand life through personal experiences.
2. Analysis of the soul in Hindu, Buddhist, Jain and other philosophical doctrines
In Hindu philosophy, the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita describe the soul as a distinct, imperishable, and unchanging force separate from the body.
For Example, the phrase "Na Jayate Mriyate Va Kadachin" in the Bhagavad Gita tells us that the soul is neither born nor dies.
Buddhist doctrine: Buddhist philosophy does not include the concept of "soul." Instead, it examines the concepts of consciousness and feeling, discussing how life continues through our personal experiences and emotions.
In Jainism, every living being possesses a soul that experiences stimulation through rebirths influenced by its karma. Purifying the soul and adhering to ethical practices are essential for attaining one's true nature.
Other Philosophical Theories: Some philosophical theories also view the soul as pure consciousness or a form of self-awareness. All our thoughts, feelings, and knowledge connect to the soul.
3. Theories that Western Philosophers Have Said About the Soul
Western philosophers have also proposed various theories about the soul:
Dualism: According to this theory, the body and mind are separate entities. People view the soul as a distinct, enduring entity.
Materialism: In this theory, the soul is just a product of our perception, not a permanent entity in the body.
Idealism: In this view, we see the material world as a result of the feelings in our minds. Therefore, we can understand the soul as a pure form of consciousness.
Every religion and philosophical theory has explained the concept of the soul from different perspectives. In Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain philosophies, the soul is an eternal, unchanging, divine force. Western philosophers have also expressed different ideas about the soul through theories such as dualism, materialism, and idealism.
By understanding these different perspectives, we can gain a comprehensive and profound understanding of the critical question, "Who am I?"
V. The Relationship Between Soul, Mind, and Body
Our body, mind, and soul form our life together. But what is the relationship between these? Which of them is the real us? The body? The mind? Or the soul? By understanding this, we can experience our life more deeply.
1. The Relationship Between Soul and Consciousness
What is "consciousness"?
We can think, speak, and act only because of the life force within us. If we are alive, we possess a life force within us. That is consciousness. Without the soul, there is no consciousness.
Do you know how electricity works in physics? Look at a light bulb. The presence of a bulb is one thing, but whether it lights up or not depends on the presence of electricity. Similarly, the body is an instrument, but the soul is the energy that gives it life.
Consciousness is a characteristic of the soul. Consciousness is where the soul is. Without consciousness, the body becomes just a machine.
Example: Look at a computer. It cannot function without power, even if it has all the hardware and software. Similarly, if our body is not conscious, it is a mechanical object.
2. Relationship between soul and body
Our body is physical. It is born, grows, and eventually dies. But the soul never changes. The body changes like a garment, but the soul remains unchanged.
The Bhagavad Gita also states, "Just as one leaves old clothes and puts on new ones, the soul leaves one body and takes on another."
The body is a tool; the soul is its lifeblood. The soul is the real power that controls the body. Even if we leave the body, the soul continues its journey.
Example: A car runs only when there is a driver. Without a driver, it is just a piece of metal. Similarly, the body cannot function without the soul.
3. Relationship between soul, mind, and body
For our life to run smoothly, these three must work in harmony. Let us see how they work together:
Body - a machine
Mind - the program that runs that machine
Soul - the actual owner
What role does the mind play?
The mind acts as a mediator. It receives signals from the body and sends them to the soul, conveying the soul's excitement and thoughts to the body.
To understand: Let's say a person puts his hand in hot water. The heat sends a signal to the mind through the body. The mind conveys that information to the soul. The soul responds and tells the mind to "Take your hand out immediately!" Then, the mind sends that information to the body, and we remove the hand.
That is, without the soul, the mind cannot function; without the mind, the body cannot function!
Body – The tool for doing things
Mind – The place where thoughts and emotions are processed
Soul – The actual owner, the power that drives everything
Example: A computer works well only if it has hardware (body), software (mind), and user (soul).
Soul – The original us, the unchanging power
Body – A tool for the soul, which changes physically
Mind – The machine that makes the soul & body work together
It is essential to balance these three. We can use our bodies correctly and gain true self-knowledge if we control our minds. When we understand the true nature of "I am not the body, I am the soul," we can live more peacefully and happily.
VI. Ways to understand the self
It is essential to understand that our life is not limited to the body; an introverted consciousness, or soul, is at its core. But what are the ways to know the nature of the soul? We need to ask this question. Our Puranas, philosophical texts and various spiritual paths explain this matter in detail.
Now, let's look at some essential ways to understand the soul.
1. Knowing the soul through the paths of yoga, Meditation, devotion, and knowledge
Four main ways in ancient Indian philosophy helped us understand the concept of the soul.
1.1. The Path of Yoga (Rajayoga)
The Puranas state that yoga is not merely a physical exercise but a profound means of connecting with our inner selves. Through yoga, we can control the mind and direct our consciousness inward. Primarily through Meditation, we can calmly change our thoughts.
How to meditate?
Sit in a quiet place. Take a deep breath and exhale slowly. Meditate with the feeling, "I am not the body; I am the soul." We should imagine the eternal form of the soul in our minds.
Benefits: The mind becomes calm. Through self-knowledge, positive energy increases. We can overcome the instability of the material world.
1.2. The Path of Devotion (Bhakti Yoga)
If we are devoted, we are wholly absorbed in the Supreme Soul. Worshipping God with faith is a handy way to know the soul.
How do you achieve devotion?
One should chant God's name constantly, sing devotional songs, and meditate on God's qualities. One should live selflessly and without pride with a sense of service.
Benefits: Love will fill our hearts. Through God's experience, we can discover the ultimate meaning of the soul. We will eliminate our unnecessary desires and attain true peace.
1.3. The Path of Knowledge (Jnana Yoga)
Knowledge means understanding something. One can know oneself by pondering the question, "Who am I?"
How do we follow the path of knowledge?
One should study Vedanta texts, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Upanishads. One should have philosophical discussions and follow good teachers. Through self-inquiry, one should ponder, "Am I the body? Or am I the soul?"
Benefits: We gain a clear understanding of ourselves. We realise that the material world is temporary and that we can attain eternal happiness. We understand our true purpose in life and strive to cultivate humility.
2. Understanding the nature of the soul through philosophical thoughts
To understand the soul, we can discern its qualities through Meditation, devotion, yoga, and philosophical thought.
2.1. Is the soul eternal?
Yes! The body changes, but the soul never changes. The Vedas and the Bhagavad Gita clearly say nothing can destroy the soul.
2.2. Is the soul separate from the body?
Yes! We experience many things in dreams, but upon waking up, they often do not seem real. Similarly, the body is only a temporary experience.
2.3. Is the soul always pure?
Yes! There is no sin or virtue in the soul. The Upanishads say, "Tattvamasi" (Your proper form is the form of the Supreme Soul).
We can follow various paths to realising the self. Yoga involves controlling the mind through Meditation and becoming introverted.
The path of devotion – worshipping God with love and gaining self-knowledge.
The path of knowledge – seeking the answer to "Who am I?" through philosophy.
Regardless of which path we follow, we can gain a clearer understanding of ourselves. This self-awareness can transform our lives into one of peace and joy.
"You are not the body; you are the soul. Know your true form!"
VII. The Importance of the Self
Why is it necessary to know the self in our lives? Is this a philosophical matter, or is it useful for real life?
Self-knowledge is an excellent way to change our lives qualitatively. Self-awareness enhances our thoughts, relationships, morality, and world understanding.
Let us divide this importance into three:
How does self-knowledge enhance the quality of life?
Self-consciousness in human relationships
Self-consciousness in the pursuit of righteousness and the supreme goal
How does self-knowledge enhance the quality of life?
Many of us constantly strive for peace and true happiness. But we fail to realise that happiness lies within us. Eternal happiness is the natural characteristic of our soul.
Self-knowledge stabilises our minds. Most of our problems and sufferings stem from our ego, which causes us to forget our true nature. Knowing "I am not the body, I am the soul" increases our self-control and patience. We can live happily without worrying too much about what others say.
Eliminates fear: We have many fears—about the future, death, and social pressures. But the concept of "the soul never perishes; it is eternal" reduces our worries. It increases our courage and helps us live courageously.
Things to consider: We should spend a few minutes of self-meditation daily, repeatedly reminding ourselves that we are not the body but the soul, viewing problems as temporary, and adopting a more permanent perspective.
Self-awareness in human relationships: We base our daily lives entirely on relationships with parents, friends, spouses, children, and colleagues. How we are connected also affects our happiness.
Natural love increases: We see differences if we see each other as bodies. But if we have a soul perspective, we can love every person equally. The quality of seeing the soul and not the body in others increases.
Pride decreases: Most problems stem from pride. But if we become aware of "I am just playing a role," we suffer less. It can also improve our relationships.
Anger decreases, tolerance increases: If we look at a person from the perspective of the body, we get angry because of his mistakes. But, if we have the perspective of the soul, we develop patience and naturally accept the failures of others.
Dharmika, Self-Awareness in Paramartha Sadhana: Dharmika is not just about visiting temples. True dharma involves cultivating self-awareness, practising love for others, and being honest.
Real dharma develops through self-knowledge. True dharma is not at the level of the body but at the level of the soul. As the feeling that we are all one increases, hatred tends to decrease.
Helps in Paramartha Sadhana: To experience the Supreme Soul, we must recognise our true nature. If we feel that "the soul is the essence of the Supreme Soul," we come closer to God.
Self-knowledge changes our lives positively. It reduces our fears, anger, and ego, bringing peace to the mind. It enhances human relationships and enables us to experience genuine love and kindness. It leads us to pursue the Supreme Being and makes life meaningful.
"True peace and happiness are within us. Let us transform our lives by getting to know ourselves!
VIII. Conclusion
"What is the soul?" Knowing and understanding this question is very important. We often immerse ourselves in the material world daily, but our actual form is not the body; we are the soul.
If we live as the body, fears, pride, anger, and dissatisfaction haunt us. However, we can achieve complete peace of mind and eternal happiness with self-knowledge.
"What is the soul?" – A comprehensive perspective. So far, we have discussed the soul from various angles:
Definition of the soul, the Explanation given in the Puranas, Upanishads, and philosophical texts.
Characteristics of the soul are unchanging, imperishable, and eternal.
The relationship between soul, mind, and body – The soul is beyond the body.
Yoga, Meditation, devotion, and paths of knowledge are the ways to know the soul.
The importance of the soul: How does it affect our life and relationships?
This comprehensive understanding changes our perspective on life. We can change the course of our lives through the soul. Achieving real peace requires us to recognise the soul. By doing so, we can reduce our fears and egos. We can live a meaningful and fulfilling life. Our relationships fill us with humanity and love, bringing us closer to experiencing the Supreme Soul.
"True happiness is not outside, but within us."
"You are not the body; you are the soul. Recognise your true nature!"