Gospel | Chapter 7: Dec 14, 1882 (Part 5) | Swami Sarvapriyananda

Maya functions as the ego, a mental construct that obscures one's true nature as limitless consciousness, much like a thin cloud hiding the sun. While the ego integrates body, mind, and senses, it remains a transient function rather than the self. True liberation, or *Jivanmukta*, involves realizing one is the witness of the ego rather than the doer of deeds, thereby transcending the law of karma. The concept of *Upadhi*, or limiting adjuncts, explains how proximity to external factors—such as social status, possessions, or roles—falsely colors the perception of the self. Although deep concentration states like "flow" can temporarily quiet the ego, lasting enlightenment requires the grace of a guru and the persistent realization that the self is distinct from the body-mind complex.