Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 11.28.36
Mukti· LiberationPure Identity Beyond Body and Mind
“Whatever apparent duality is perceived in the self is simply the confusion of the mind. Indeed, such supposed duality has no basis to rest upon apart from one’s own soul.”
What the purport teaches
- The spirit soul contains no matter. Treating the gross body or subtle mind as a fundamental part of the self is mental confusion.
- False ego is a mistaken identity imposed upon the soul through identification with matter. The underlying sense of individual identity comes from the soul itself.
- Pure identity is expressed as ahaṁ brahmāsmi, “I am pure spirit soul.” Perfect knowledge in Kṛṣṇa consciousness also recognizes the Supreme Personality of Godhead as the omniscient controller of everything.
Try this today
Notice one thought that equates you with your body or mind, and reflect instead: “I am pure spirit soul.”
Ask yourself
How can I distinguish my individual spiritual identity from identification with my body or mind?
Carry the question through the day, then answer it in your own words before sleep.
From Canto 10, chapter 14 onward, the translation and purports were completed by Śrīla Prabhupāda's disciples after his departure, and published by the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust.