The Nature of Ahamkara

Ahamkara, or the sense of 'I,' is central to understanding human identity and ego. It manifests as a persistent feeling of self that accumulates over time, distinguishing it from transient thoughts and emotions. Early childhood experiences show that children develop a sense of possession and identity around the age of two, which shapes their reactions and perceptions of themselves. This accumulation interacts closely with other mental functions such as manas, the emotional mind, and buddhi, the analytical mind, creating a complex interplay that influences behavior and identity throughout life.