This quote is a central tenet of Hinduism that reflects the concept of the eternal and immortal nature of the soul, encapsulated in the philosophy of Atman. At the heart of Hinduism is the belief in the eternal, unchanging essence of the self or soul, known as Atman, which is distinct from the transient physical body. The quote emphasizes the timeless existence of the soul, asserting that it neither undergoes birth nor death. It suggests that the soul is beyond the cyclical process of life and death, transcending the limitations of the physical body.
In Hindu cosmology, the soul is considered eternal, existing across multiple lifetimes through the process of reincarnation (samsara). The idea of being "unborn" signifies that the soul has no origin and, therefore, is not subject to the limitations of time. It is a timeless and unchanging entity that persists beyond the mortal lifespan.
The concept of the immortal soul is closely tied to the idea of karma, where the actions of an individual in one life influence their future lives. The belief in the eternal nature of the soul encourages individuals to focus on spiritual growth, moral conduct, and the pursuit of self-realization to break free from the cycle of reincarnation and attain moksha, the ultimate liberation.
This quote, often attributed to the Bhagavad Gita, is a profound expression of the fundamental Hindu belief in the enduring and transcendental nature of the self, providing a philosophical foundation for understanding the purpose of life and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.