The phrase “He is myself and I am He” is a
significant teaching in Hinduism, encapsulating the concept of the divine unity
between the individual self (atman) and the supreme reality (Brahman). This
teaching emphasizes the idea that the essence of every individual is divine and
identical with the ultimate reality of the universe.
In Hindu philosophy, the atman refers to the innermost
essence of an individual, often described as the true self or soul. Brahman, on
the other hand, represents the ultimate reality or cosmic consciousness that
pervades everything in the universe. The realization that the individual atman
is identical with Brahman is a central tenet of Advaita Vedanta, a
non-dualistic school of Hindu philosophy founded by Adi Shankaracharya.
According to this teaching, the perceived distinction
between the individual self and the supreme reality is an illusion (maya).
Through spiritual practice, such as meditation, self-inquiry, and devotion,
individuals seek to transcend this illusion and realize their essential unity
with Brahman. This realization is known as moksha or liberation, where one
transcends the cycle of birth and death (samsara) and experiences ultimate
freedom and bliss.
“He is myself and I am He” thus serves as a
reminder of the inherent divinity within each individual and the goal of
realizing this divine unity through spiritual realization and enlightenment. It
emphasizes the oneness of all existence and the interconnectedness of the
individual self with the cosmic whole.