Upanishads

When I read the assigned reading from the selections of the Upanishads, I was taken back to my philosophy of self and personhood course taught by Professor Haproff in the spring of two thousand six. The first question that we studied in the course was, “What is Self?” “Who determines self? Or what, rather, determines self?” This is the exact selection that we read before answering that question from a philosophical stand point. I did not really like reading the Upanishad selections because most of the time I had to re-read them; I am a very fast reader, with a great comprehension level, but it is hard to really absorb and read into the Upanishads when reading only once, and fast.
All of that being said, reading this selection again and having the experience in my previous philosophy class that I render, I would like to propose that everyone ask themselves the above questions while reading this. “What is the self and who determines it? What determines self?” The conclusion I have drawn from the selection assigned to us, is that the Hindus believed that they are one with the earth; that there are two different selves: one that is enclosed in the body that is the spirit, has the emotional and spiritual connection with God and beings. The other self is contained within all other living things (not other humans…) found on earth. Each of these selves experience different things throughout life, which gives the person as a whole perspective and meaning, as well as fulfillment. These two different selves bring peace of mind and complete the person.
I did find similarity between Hinduism and Christianity in the selection; talking about knowing God is for fools. He is a great and mysterious wonder and to have knowledge but still fear and love at the same time is wise. (Not exactly what was said, but it is my interpretation…)