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Osho on Is cowardice an essential part of the ego?

Is cowardice an essential part of the ego?

Cowardice is not just a part of the ego; it is the very essence of the ego, which thrives on fear and distance, while true courage arises when the illusion of the self dissolves.

— Osho
Synthesized from Source definition
Core Insight:
According to Osho, cowardice isn’t merely an aspect of the ego—it is the ego itself. Ego is a nonexistential mirage that survives only at a distance and lives in constant fear of exposure, so it avoids intimacy, love, and closeness. When this illusion dissolves, what “dies” is only the false self; your real being emerges, bringing natural courage and authenticity.
The ego is a pretend self that’s scared of being seen; when you drop it, your real, brave self appears.
Why this matters practically
- Notice where you keep people at a distance; that fear signals ego at work.
- Practice honest closeness and vulnerability to weaken the illusion.
- Use awareness or meditation to disidentify from ego and uncover natural courage.
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