“One with” is a phrase often used in spiritual, philosophical, or nonduality contexts to describe a state of total connection and lack of separation between oneself and all that exists. Here is a detailed explanation to better understand this concept:
The basic meaning of “One with”
Being “one with” means recognizing that there is no real separation between you and the rest of the world.
Everything, including yourself, is part of a single, indivisible reality that underlies all experiences.
This idea is based on the principle that apparent distinctions (self/other, interior/exterior, subject/object) are mental constructions or illusions.
Example: When you look at a tree, you may feel separated from it. Yet, by observing deeply, you realize that you share the same air, that the light that illuminates the tree also illuminates you, and that you are both manifestations of the same reality.
The connection with non-duality
In non-duality (advaita), “one with” expresses the idea that:
- There are not two distinct realities (me/the world). Everything is one and the same essence or consciousness.
- The duality we perceive is an illusion created by the mind. In truth, there is only Unity.
Example in non-duality
You walk in nature. In a moment of inner silence, you feel that you are not just “in” nature, but that you are nature itself. The distinction between “you” and “she” disappears.
Being “one with” and direct experience
This concept is not just an intellectual idea or belief, but a direct experience:
- When you are fully present, without judgment or resistance, there can be a dissolution of the ego, this mental construct that perceives itself as a separate “me”.
- You then feel a unity with everything that is: objects, living beings, space, silence.
Example: In deep meditation, you might feel that your breath, the wind blowing outside, and life itself are one. It is an intuitive recognition, beyond words or the intellect.
“One with” and human relationships
Being “one with” is not limited to nature or objects; this also applies to human relationships:
- When you are fully present with another person, without judging or seeking to control, you can feel oneness with them.
- You understand that beyond appearances, differences in thought or culture, you share the same essence.
Why are we often “cut off” from unity?
The feeling of separation comes from:
- The ego: It perceives itself as a distinct entity, seeking to protect itself, to control or to define itself in opposition to “something else”.
- Dualistic thinking: The human mind constantly categorizes the world into opposites (me/other, good/bad, here/there).
- Conditioning: Society teaches us to value separation, individuality and control.
These mechanisms move us away from the recognition that, in essence, everything is already “one”.
How to experience the state of “one with”?
Mindfulness practice: Being totally present to what is, without judgment or analysis.
For example, when you drink tea, fully feel the warmth of the cup, the taste, the moment.
Observing interconnectedness: Think or meditate on how everything in the universe is connected. For example, the food you eat is connected to the earth, the sun, the water, and billions of invisible interactions.
Letting go of the ego: Recognize that the ego is only a temporary role or identity. True nature is much larger.
Total acceptance: Being “one with” involves welcoming all that is, without resistance, as part of an indivisible whole.
A metaphor to understand “one with”
Imagine a drop of water in the ocean:
- The drop seems distinct when isolated, but in truth it has never ceased to be the ocean.
- Likewise, each human being or object appears separate, but in their essence, all are part of a single “substance” or reality.
In summary
Being “one with” is a profound realization that the separation we perceive between “me” and “the other” or between “me” and “the world” is an illusion. In this recognition:
- The idea of “two” disappears, giving way to an experience of unity and interconnection.
- This perspective offers deep peace because it transcends divisions, conflicts and expectations.
“One with” n’est pas seulement une idée spirituelle, mais une manière d’être, une reconnaissance intuitive de la nature ultime de la réalité.