Ask Osho!

Why is there jealousy in love?

Synthesized from Source definition

"Jealousy is the shadow of love, revealing the ego's need to possess; true love transcends this darkness, recognizing the divine in the other and embracing surrender over ownership."

Core Insight:
According to Osho, jealousy appears when what we call love is actually the ego’s urge to possess and use the other as a means. Jealousy is darkness proving love’s absence. True love recognizes the divine in the other, surrenders possessiveness, and becomes service. When love is real—reverent and non-possessive—jealousy naturally disappears.
Jealousy happens when we try to own someone; real love lets them be and serves them, so jealousy fades.
Why this matters practically
- Spot when ego is posing as love, so you can correct it.
- Treat partners as sacred ends, not means.
- Use a test: where jealousy persists, practice service, surrender, and non-possessiveness.
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