The Guardian Self (Ο Φύλακας Εαυτός)

-From the Meletic Scrolls.

Amongst the manifold forms that define humanity, there exists one that is the intrinsic foundation of all others, which is the self. The self is not merely a unique aspect of our existence, but the central pillar that upholds our virtues, character and essence. To understand the self is to embark on a personal journey towards understanding the fundamental truths of life, for it is through the self that we experience, perceive and act upon the world around us. The self is more than just a conscious entity; it is the guardian of our soul and ousia, two intrinsic elements that reside within us and define our metaphysical being.

The self, the soul and the ousia exist together within the body, forming an interconnected triad. Just as we must nourish and preserve the body and mind, we must also protect and cultivate the soul and ousia. However, this preservation is not merely an act of passive maintenance; it is an active guardianship, a role undertaken by the self in its highest form. When we ascend to a heightened state of consciousness, we realise the oneness that binds all aspects of our existence, and this realisation is facilitated through the self.

The great philosopher Socrates once declared, "Know thyself." This statement, simple in form yet profound in meaning, encapsulates the essence of self-discovery. To acquire knowledge of the self is to embark upon the greatest of all philosophical journeys. The self is not merely a reflection in a mirror, nor is it confined to our external identity. Instead, it is the sum of our daily experiences, perceptions, emotions and thoughts. It is the underlying agent that connects our inner world with the outwards reality we navigate. Through it, we gain access to the deeper elements of our being, our soul and ousia. Both of which define our true nature beyond the material plane.

Whilst manifold people associate the self with personality, it is far greater in scope. The self is the convergence of mind, body and soul. It is the point at which all aspects of our existence meet in unison. It does not exist independently of these components, but is their culmination and their unifying principle.

Virtues serve as the external manifestations of the self, reflecting its inner state. However, it is wisdom that allows us to cultivate and refine our virtues, ensuring that they are not mere habits, but deeply ingrained truths. When we acquire wisdom, we become aware of the self in its truest form. We begin to understand its powerful connection to the soul and ousia, and through this understanding, we learn to navigate life with defined clarity and purpose.

To know the self is to acknowledge the presence of the soul and ousia within us, but this knowledge is not simply intellectual, for it must be experienced, internalised and lived. It requires contemplation, an openness to self-examination and a willingness to confront the different aspects of ourselves that remain hidden in the depths of our consciousness.

In life, there exists an opposing force to the self, which is the ego. The ego is not merely a mental construct; it is the veil that distorts our perception of the truth. It is persistent, cunning and often deceptive, leading us away from the genuine wisdom of the self and towards illusion.

The ego thrives on misguidance. It lures us into attachments, desires and false identities that obscure our deeper nature. It convinces us that we are separate from others, that we must protect our interests at any cost, and that power, recognition and material wealth define our worth in society. When we succumb to the ego, we allow it to corrupt the self, leading us farther from the path of wisdom.

How does one overcome the ego? This is one of the most fundamental questions in philosophy. The answer does not lie in rejecting the ego outright, for it is an intrinsic part of human existence. Rather, we must transcend it through realisation and through the recognition of the truth. By seeking the truth with sincerity and profundity, we loosen the grip of the ego and bring ourselves closer to the self.

This process is not easy, nor is it instantaneous. It is a lifelong endeavour that requires discipline, awareness and introspection. The more we understand the self, the less power the ego holds over us. As we awaken to the truth, the self begins to fulfil its highest role, which is that of the guardian of the soul and ousia.

The self does not simply exist alongside the soul and ousia; it actively guards and nurtures them. Just as a guardian stands watch over that which is significant, the self protects the integrity of our inner essence. This guardianship is not unilateral; it is reciprocal. Whilst the self protects the soul and ousia, they, in turn, strengthen the self, reinforcing its clarity, stability and wisdom.

This mutual relationship creates an inner harmony, a state in which the self, soul and ousia are aligned. When this harmony is achieved, we no longer experience inner conflict or fragmentation. Instead, we become whole, unified in our thoughts, actions and purpose. This wholeness is reflected in our character, which is the external expression of our inner state revealed.

Our character is not something separate from the self; instead, it is its embodiment. When we cultivate virtues such as wisdom, temperance, humility and fortitude, we express the innermost strength of the self. Our actions become aligned with the truth, and we navigate the world with a perceived sense of purpose that is rooted in a profounder understanding of existence.

The journey towards self-realisation is neither linear nor predictable. It is unique to each individual, shaped by personal experiences, challenges and insights. Some people may understand the self through intense contemplation, whilst other people may arrive at it through lived experience.

Regardless of the path taken, the destination remains the same, which is the recognition of the self as the guardian of our inner essence. This realisation is not the end of the journey, but the beginning of a more meaningful engagement with life. It is the point at which we move beyond mere existence and begin to live with true awareness.

As we continue to refine our understanding, we appreciate the depth of our connection to the universe. The self in its highest form is not limited to the individual; it is a reflection of the greater whole. By embracing the self, we embrace the oneness of all things, recognising that our existence is intertwined with the vast, unfolding reality of existence itself.

To understand the self is to unlock the hidden mysteries of existence. It is through the self that we cultivate wisdom, navigate the challenges of life and find harmony within ourselves. It is the guardian of our soul and ousia, the link between the mind and body and the ultimate source of our virtues.

This understanding is not simply a matter of theory, it must be lived. It is in our actions, our choices and our way of being that the true strength of the self is revealed. And so, we must ask ourselves the questions: Are we truly in touch with the self? Are we living in alignment with its wisdom? Or have we allowed the ego to lead us astray willingly?

The path to self-awareness is open to all, but it requires dedication, sincerity and the courage to seek the ultimate truth. When we walk this path with determination, we realise the self not as an abstract concept, but as the foundation of our virtues. It is in that realisation that we find clarity, fulfilment and the influence of (To Ένa) the One in the unfolding of the self.

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