The Nature of Reality - Understanding Maya and the Absolute

In the context of non-duality, the concept of Maya refers to the illusion of the world as we perceive it. According to this teaching, the world of forms, objects, and experiences is not the ultimate reality but a projection of the mind. Both Ramana Maharshi and Nisargadatta Maharaj spoke of Maya as a veil that obscures the true nature of the Self.

Ramana Maharshi’s Insights on Maya

Ramana Maharshi taught that Maya is the result of the mind's tendency to project duality onto the world. He explained that the mind creates distinctions such as subject and object, self and other, which lead to the experience of separateness. By seeing through the illusion of Maya, one can realize that all forms and experiences are expressions of the one, undivided consciousness.

Nisargadatta Maharaj on the Absolute

Nisargadatta Maharaj often spoke of the Absolute, the ultimate reality that is beyond all concepts and distinctions. He taught that the Absolute is beyond the dualities of existence and non-existence, being and non-being. The Absolute is the true nature of the Self, which is not bound by the illusions of time, space, or individuality.

The Path to Realizing the Absolute

The teachings of both Ramana Maharshi and Nisargadatta Maharaj emphasize that realizing the Absolute involves transcending the illusions of Maya. This requires a deep understanding that all experiences, thoughts, and perceptions are not separate from the Self but are manifestations of the same undivided reality.

Key Takeaway: Seeing Beyond the Illusion

Maya, the illusion of separateness, can be transcended by understanding that the world of forms is not the ultimate reality. By realizing the Absolute, one can see beyond the illusions of the mind and experience the true nature of existence as a unified, non-dual reality.