It is easy to feel isolated in the modern, fast-paced, complicated world from others, from nature, and even from ourselves. But deep inside many philosophies and societies is a significant reality: every little thing is linked.
The oneness movement calls for us to change our outlook. Not only a philosophical theory, but also a perspective from which we see the world more clearly and empathetically.
Though it may seem natural, the idea that we are each independent people is mostly shaped by early events and cultural indoctrination. This illusion becomes our interpretation of practically everything over course of time.
Let’s look deeper into where this separation stems from.
We learn as children to define ourselves by titles, responsibilities, nationalities, and beliefs. Although they might help with belonging and identity, they also promote a split. We start to relate more to being a specific individual or people and less to being human or part of the greater whole.
In psychological and spiritual language, the ego is the aspect of us that declares “I am this” and “you are that.” It loves control, validation, and superiority. Although the ego is not by nature evil, it causes difficulties once it controls our sense of self.
Long before modern psychology or quantum theory, early peoples investigated the self and the character of existence. Many of their lessons revolved around the idea of unity. Let’s explore how various philosophies understood this universal connection.
The fundamental tenet of Indian philosophy, especially Advaita Vedanta, is that the ultimate reality (Brahman) and the true self (Atman) are not distinct. The world of differences, it is said in this non-dual view, is transitory and illusory. Beneath the surface, there is only one universal consciousness.
When we identify with our temporary roles, we suffer. But when we recognise the self as eternal and united with all, peace follows naturally.
Buddhism, while not based on the idea of a permanent self, teaches that all things are interdependent. Nothing exists in isolation. Every thought, object, and event is linked in a vast, constantly changing web.
This view encourages compassion. When we see that others are not distinct from us, we innately want to look after their welfare.
Christianity, Islam (particularly Sufism), and Judaism (Kabbalah) also emphasise the oneness movement with the divine using mystical traditions. Mystics usually refer to unity with God as the dissolution of the boundaries between self and source.
These experiences, though described differently, reflect a deep inner knowing that separation is not the ultimate truth.
Particularly in physics and biology, modern science, starting to reflect the knowledge of the past, Points of Interest: Ancient Wisdom. Notes: Though they speak different tongues, science and spirituality frequently yield the same realisation: everything is related.
Let’s explore how science supports the idea of unity.
At the most basic level, quantum physics holds that particles are probabilities within fields of energy rather than fixed things. What appears solid is actually space and motion.
Some understanding implies that a unified field connects all particles. This could be behind phenomena such as quantum entanglement, whereby two particles instantly affect each other independent of distance.
Science clearly challenges the concept of separation as ultimate, although it does not proclaim a spiritual truth.
Biologically speaking, humans have more than 99.9 percent of their DNA in common with other humans and around 98 percent with chimpanzees. Cells in our body need bacteria and microorganisms in order to operate. We are not quite as distinct as we believe.
Even our breath is a shared act. Trees once exhaled the oxygen we breathe, and the carbon dioxide we produce assists these same trees in growing. Life is deeply cooperative, not isolated.
Understanding philosophy is one thing, but how do we experience oneness in daily life? Usually, it starts not in the brain but rather in the heart.
Many people define periods of harmony in deep meditation, in prayer, in the middle of true love, or in nature. These fleeting moments let us sense that we belong to something more than only ourselves.
Have you ever felt completely in sync with someone, as if words weren’t necessary? These moments go beyond language. They reflect an energetic or emotional connection that points to our shared nature.
Healthy relationships often thrive when we let go of ego and listen deeply. In doing so, we remember that the other person is not “other” at all, but an extension of ourselves.
Many people find a deep sense of peace in nature. The sound of waves, the rhythm of wind in the trees, or the quiet of a mountaintop reminds us that we belong.
Nature doesn’t ask us to perform or prove our worth. It simply is. Being in nature brings us back to the essence of oneness, life flowing in harmony.
Some people, through spiritual practises or spontaneous insight, report experiences of profound unity. They describe losing the sense of self and merging into a vast, peaceful presence. These are not just mystical ideas. For many, they are life-changing encounters that shift how they see themselves and the world forever.
Understanding oneness intellectually is a start, but living it is where real transformation happens. The world doesn’t need more beliefs; it needs more connection, kindness, and awareness.
Compassion is a natural response when we recognise others as part of ourselves. Instead of judging people for their flaws or mistakes, we see their humanity.
Practising compassion doesn’t mean becoming passive or avoiding boundaries. It means acting from a place of care, not fear.
Judgment is often a defence mechanism. It keeps us feeling superior or in control. But the more we judge, the more isolated we become.
By noticing our judgments without acting on them, we begin to soften. Over time, this creates space for understanding and peace.
Mindfulness practises help quiet the ego and bring awareness to the present moment. When the mental noise settles, we often feel more connected, within and without.
Even a few minutes of meditation each day can make us more aware of the unity that underlies life.
At times, unity is rejected because it compromises the identity of the ego. For many people, the concept of “I am not only me” is bewildering or even terrifying. That is all right. Concern and uncertainty exist on the path.
Noticing these reactions and deftly moving forward is what counts.
So why go to all the trouble if the world is one of anarchy, suffering, and turmoil?
The solution is clearly peace.
In a world where people considered themselves members of the same human family rather than strangers, they ran. Though wars, hatred, and inequality might not disappear overnight, we would be heading toward a more compassionate, more connected civilization.
The philosophy of oneness is not about denying our individuality. It’s remembering the deeper truth behind it. We are all in the same sea. Waves in the same sea, the same life force finds expression in these ways. Once we start to dispel the illusion of division, we not only find tranquility within but also contribute to a larger global healing.
Ultimately, the path from division to unity is more of a way of being rather than a final destination.
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