What does 'Egoism' mean?

Egoism, in yoga philosophy, refers to the identification of the self with the ego, or the false sense of self. This identification can lead to feelings of separation and isolation and is considered a hindrance to spiritual development.

The Yoga Sutras, a text that outlines the philosophy and practices of yoga, discusses the concept of asmita, which is the identification of the self with the ego or the sense of “I-ness.” The text teaches that this identification must be overcome in order to achieve liberation or enlightenment.

In yoga practice, this is done through the cultivation of self-awareness and detachment from the ego.

Egoism impedes your spiritual progress

In the Yoga Sutras, Patanjali, the author, explains that the identification of the self with the ego, or asmita, is one of the five main obstacles or hindrances (kleshas) that impede spiritual progress. Asmita is the false belief that the individual self is separate from the universal self and that the ego is the true self. It is the sense of “I-ness” or “mine-ness” that attaches to thoughts, emotions, and experiences. This attachment creates a sense of ownership and clinging, which can lead to feelings of separation and isolation.

When we identify with the ego, we see ourselves as separate from others and the world around us. We become attached to our thoughts, beliefs, and emotions and use them to define ourselves. This identification with the ego can lead to negative emotions such as anger, fear, and envy, as well as a sense of lack and unfulfillment.

The Yoga Sutras teach that in order to overcome asmita, one must practice self-awareness and detachment from the ego. This is done through the practice of yoga, which includes physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation. Through these practices, one can cultivate awareness of the true self, which is beyond the ego.

The ultimate goal of yoga is to achieve liberation or enlightenment, which is the realization that the individual self and the universal self are one and the same. This realization leads to a state of inner peace and joy and the end of suffering caused by identification with the ego.

Egoism, ego, asmita, and ahamkara

In yoga philosophy, the terms “ego” and “egoism” are often used interchangeably to refer to the false sense of self that is identified with the ego. The term “asmita” is also used to refer to this identification, and it is often translated as “egoism” or “I-am-ness.”

Ahamkara is another term that is sometimes used synonymously with asmita and egoism. It is often translated as “the sense of ‘I’” or “the ego-making principle.” Ahamkara is considered to be the psychological process that creates the sense of “I” or “mine” in relation to thoughts, emotions, and experiences.

All these terms refer to the same concept: the identification of oneself with the ego, which is considered one of the main obstacles to spiritual progress. The ultimate goal is to overcome this identification through self-awareness and detachment from the ego and ultimately achieve liberation or enlightenment.

Conclusion

In summary, egoism refers to the identification of “self” with the ego or the sense of “I-ness,” which is considered one of the main barriers to spiritual progress. The ultimate goal is to get rid of this identification by becoming self-aware and letting go of the ego, so that you can be free or enlightened.