I'm getting lost here. What is the difference between "ego" and "Ego"? And is either of them seen as a solid and persistent "thing" rather than merely a convenient label for a temporary configuration of processes within consciousness?

You'll have to ask aion about that, Derek. I do not distinguish an ego from an Ego.

Ego in my view is not a "thing" so much as the experience of self/awareness we have as we are actively, intentionally engaged in the world (of duality, of course). This awareness is not separate from the deeper, non-reflective Self (witness) aspect of our human spiritual consciousness.

People can use these terms any way they wish, of course. What I am doing in my book is rooting them in an anthropology that is experientially accessible, congruent, and coherent.

Found another one which could be interpreted as the death of ego and the arising of something else:

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit."

John 12:24

What do you all make of that?

Derek, I think that works fine for the "death" of an Ego attached to perpetuating a certain image or Persona/mask. That attachment has to give way (die) so that the Ego can discover its deeper roots in Self and God.

I've just finished the semi-final draft of the book. If any of you would like to preview a pdf copy, send me an email (phil@shalomplace.com) and I'll send it over.

I was excited to discover John 12:24, but having read it in context now, I see that it comes immediately after a verse where Jesus is talking about himself. However, verses 24-26 do seem to be stating general principles.

I'd love to see what you're writing, but what would be helpful to you? I can give general feedback, I can do copyediting in Chicago/Webster's style, and I might be able to do some typesetting in InDesign.

I got your email and have sent you the document, Derek. Thanks for your offer to help out.

Got it. Thanks.