From ordinary self-determination to self-determination in accordance with the truth**

A central core on the spiritual path

On the spiritual path, there are themes that act as a focal point—themes upon which much hinges once we truly commit to this path. One of these central themes is self-determination . More precisely: the ability to distinguish between ordinary self-determination and a self-determination that lives in accordance with truth.

Both forms are self-determination, but they differ fundamentally in their modes of expression, their depth, and the space from which they emerge. This article traces a journey—from everyday, egocentric self-determination to a self-determination that is in harmony with truth.

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Two forms of self-determination

Ordinary self-determination

Ordinary self-determination is the kind we usually take for granted. It stems from the mind that understands and asserts itself as "I." This mind governs out of fear, control, and defense. It identifies with mental and vital existence—with what is traditionally called the ego or person .

This form of self-determination appears free. It feels autonomous and self-determined. But in truth, it is inwardly bound: bound to habits, to patterns, to mental and vital reactions. In it, the individual defends their freedom – but often they are merely defending their habits.

From this perspective, the ego fears surrender. Surrender is mistaken for submission or even annihilation. If the ego were to relinquish its accustomed self-determination, it believes its world would perish. Therefore, it reacts with fear, control, and defensiveness.

This protective reaction is not inherently wrong. It is a natural impulse of the ego. It only becomes problematic when the ego fails to recognize that this is not about its destruction, but about transformation.

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Self-determination in accordance with the truth

In contrast, there is another quality of self-determination: that which lives in accordance with truth . This is not about criticizing or abandoning self-determination. On the contrary: it is about transforming it.

The crucial question is not: *Do I have self-determination or not?*

But: Who decides?

Who or what carries out my will?

On the spiritual path, limited, ordinary self-determination is not abolished, but clarified, deepened, and consecrated. It transforms into a self-determination that is no longer isolated, but in harmony with truth.

This form of self-determination is not an act of blind submission. Nor is it a lack of will. Rather, the will remains – but it is no longer separate. It is embedded in a greater truth.

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Will, devotion, and transformation

A central misunderstanding on the spiritual path concerns the topic of surrender . Many believe that surrender means giving up oneself or losing one's own will. But that is precisely not what it means.

Human will should not be destroyed , suppressed , or eliminated . It should be transformed .

Transformation means:

* Clarification of will

* Deepening of the will

* Expansion and consecration of the will

Thus, isolated self-determination transforms into a self-determination that lives in accordance with truth. The will remains – but it no longer acts out of fear or habit, but out of truth.

In this true self-determination, no inner resistance arises. A feeling of dignity and freedom remains. Surrender here is not a loss, but a gain in depth and authenticity.

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True self-determination as harmony

True self-determination is the harmony of the eternal with form in this world. It is oneness with one's highest truth. At certain moments, it can even emanate from within the soul or psyche – from that depth which lies beyond fear and control.

At this level, it does not mean:

" I must not want ."

Rather:

" I want the truth ."

Nothing is rejected or negated here. Self-determination is not an obstacle. The only decisive factor is **what kind of self-determination we want to live**.

Giving up ordinary self-determination does not mean a lack of will. It means conscious alignment with the truth.

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A poetic view of the will

In essence, one could say:

The divine will does not work against man, but through him.

It is not the one who holds the will who breaks it,

but the one who illuminates it.

It is not about breaking the will of man,

but to expand it from the highest light,

to deepen and transform it.

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The great cycle of transformation

Thus, a great cycle of transformation unfolds:

* of an apparent freedom that is isolated,

* towards unlimited self-determination in agreement.

A self-determination that thrives on fear,

towards a self-determination that stems from truth.

In this light, ordinary self-determination loses its naive assumption of standing alone and isolated. A conscious ray of light penetrates the planes of existence and grants a new perspective – a glimpse into one's own deep worlds of consciousness.

The realms of the eternal are touched.

A song rises – the song of the Eternal.