Eckhart Tolle Analyzes A New Earth with Religious Icons

I am so excited to bring you something truly special today—a conversation that transcends time and tradition. We are diving into the profound teachings of A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle, a book that has touched millions of lives and opened hearts to a new way of seeing the world.

But we’re not stopping there. In this unique, imagined dialogue, Eckhart Tolle is joined by some of the greatest spiritual leaders in history—Jesus Christ, Prophet Muhammad, Confucius, and Buddha.

These luminaries, each representing different traditions and eras, will come together to explore the core themes of A New Earth: transcending the ego, awakening to our true purpose, and creating a more conscious, compassionate world. Imagine the wisdom that unfolds as they discuss how these universal principles can guide us in our personal lives and shape a better future for humanity. This conversation is not just about understanding these teachings intellectually; it’s about feeling them in your soul and applying them in your daily life.

So, sit back, open your heart, and prepare to be inspired as we embark on this extraordinary journey into the depths of spiritual awakening and collective consciousness.

The Ego and Its Role in Human Dysfunction

Nick Sasaki: "Welcome, everyone. Today, we're diving into a profound topic: 'The Ego and Its Role in Human Dysfunction.' Eckhart Tolle, in A New Earth, describes the ego as the root of much of the suffering we see in the world. To explore this idea further, we have some of the most influential spiritual leaders: Jesus Christ, Prophet Muhammad, Confucius, and Buddha. Let’s begin by discussing how each of your teachings addresses the ego and its impact on human life and spiritual growth."

Eckhart Tolle: "Thank you, Nick. The ego, as I see it, is a false sense of self created by identifying with thoughts, emotions, and external circumstances. It thrives on separation and thrives in a world where people feel disconnected from their true essence and from one another. This disconnect leads to suffering, conflict, and dysfunction on both personal and societal levels."

Jesus Christ: "Eckhart, your understanding of the ego aligns with my teachings about the dangers of pride and self-centeredness. The ego blinds people to the presence of God within themselves and others. It fuels pride, envy, and hatred, which are the root causes of many of the world’s problems. When I said, 'Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth,' I was emphasizing the importance of humility. The meek are those who have transcended their egos and have opened their hearts to God’s love. They understand that true power comes from surrendering the ego and living in alignment with the divine will."

Prophet Muhammad: "Indeed, Jesus. In Islam, the ego is often referred to as 'Nafs.' It is the aspect of the self that is driven by desires and impulses. The ego, or Nafs, can lead to arrogance, greed, and other destructive behaviors if left unchecked. One of the core teachings of Islam is the need to submit to the will of Allah, which involves overcoming the ego. The practice of regular prayer, fasting during Ramadan, and giving to charity are all means of purifying the ego and aligning oneself with Allah’s will. By doing so, a person can achieve a state of peace, known as 'Islam,' which is not only the name of the religion but also the goal of its spiritual practice."

Confucius: "The ego, or what we might call self-centeredness, disrupts social harmony and obstructs the cultivation of virtue. My teachings focused on the importance of understanding one’s role in society and acting with humility, respect, and compassion. The superior person, or 'Junzi,' is someone who transcends personal desires and ego-driven actions, instead striving for the greater good of the community. When individuals act out of ego, they create disharmony not only within themselves but also within their families, communities, and nations. Therefore, the cultivation of virtue—such as Ren (benevolence), Yi (righteousness), and Li (proper conduct)—is essential in overcoming the ego and fostering harmony in society."

Buddha: "Eckhart, what you describe as the ego aligns closely with the concept of attachment in my teachings. The ego clings to desires, aversions, and the illusion of a permanent self, which leads to Dukkha, or suffering. The first of the Four Noble Truths is that life is suffering, and this suffering is rooted in attachment—the ego’s need to identify with and cling to transient things. The path to liberation, or Nirvana, involves seeing through the ego’s illusions and realizing the truth of Anatta, or no-self. When one lets go of the ego, they are no longer enslaved by desires and fears, and they can experience the profound peace that comes from living in accordance with the Dharma."

Nick Sasaki: "It’s fascinating to see how each of your teachings converges on the idea that the ego is a source of suffering and dysfunction, and that overcoming the ego is essential for spiritual growth. Eckhart, you’ve described the ego as a ‘false sense of self.’ How does one begin the process of recognizing and transcending the ego in daily life?"

Eckhart Tolle: "The first step is awareness. Most people are unaware of the ego’s influence on their thoughts and actions. By observing your thoughts without attachment, you begin to recognize the ego’s voice as separate from your true self. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, and being present in the moment are crucial in this process. The more you become aware of the ego, the less power it has over you. As Jesus and Buddha have both emphasized, surrendering the ego allows you to connect with a deeper sense of being, where true peace and fulfillment reside."

Jesus Christ: "Awareness is indeed key. I spoke of the need to ‘become like little children’—to approach life with a pure, open heart, free from the ego’s distortions. This childlike humility allows for a deeper connection with God and others, fostering a life of love, compassion, and service."

Prophet Muhammad: "And in Islam, this awareness is cultivated through constant remembrance of Allah (Dhikr). By keeping Allah at the center of one’s thoughts, a person can guard against the ego’s influence and remain on the path of righteousness."

Confucius: "Cultivating awareness and virtue go hand in hand. By practicing self-reflection and moral discipline, one can gradually diminish the ego’s hold and contribute to the harmony of society."

Buddha: "Through mindfulness and meditation, one can observe the arising and passing of thoughts and emotions without attachment, weakening the ego’s influence and leading to a state of equanimity and insight."

Nick Sasaki: "Thank you all for your profound insights. It’s clear that transcending the ego is a universal principle across all these great spiritual traditions, and it’s essential for both individual peace and collective harmony. Next, we’ll explore the power of presence and conscious awareness, which ties directly into overcoming the ego. But for now, let’s take a moment to reflect on what has been shared."

This concludes the discussion on the first topic, "The Ego and Its Role in Human Dysfunction." Each spiritual leader has provided a unique perspective on the dangers of the ego and the path to overcoming it, highlighting the universal nature of this challenge across different cultures and belief systems.

The Power of Presence and Conscious Awareness

Nick Sasaki: "Thank you, everyone, for the deep exploration of the ego in our last discussion. Now, let's move on to our second topic: 'The Power of Presence and Conscious Awareness.' In A New Earth, Eckhart Tolle emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment and cultivating conscious awareness as essential practices for transcending the ego. I’m curious to hear how each of you views the role of presence and awareness in spiritual growth and how these concepts are reflected in your teachings."

Eckhart Tolle: "Presence is the key to awakening. When you are fully present, you step out of the stream of habitual thinking that is dominated by the ego. In presence, you connect with the essence of who you truly are, beyond thoughts and emotions. This connection to the ‘Now’ allows you to see reality clearly and respond to life with wisdom and compassion, rather than reacting from conditioned patterns. Conscious awareness is the foundation of true transformation."

Jesus Christ: "Eckhart, your emphasis on presence resonates with what I taught about the Kingdom of God. I often said, 'The Kingdom of God is within you,' which means it is not a distant place or a future event, but something that can be realized here and now. To enter the Kingdom, one must be fully present and open to the divine presence within. I encouraged people to live in the moment, free from anxiety about the future or regret about the past, and to trust in God’s provision. When you are present, you become aware of God’s presence in every moment and every interaction."

Prophet Muhammad: "In Islam, presence and awareness are cultivated through the practice of 'Taqwa,' which is often translated as God-consciousness. It involves being constantly aware of Allah’s presence and maintaining mindfulness of His commands in every aspect of life. The daily prayers, 'Salah,' are a practice of returning to presence, reminding oneself of the connection with Allah throughout the day. By being present, one can guard against the distractions and temptations that the ego presents and stay on the path of righteousness. The Qur'an teaches that those who are mindful of Allah in all their actions will find peace and fulfillment."

Confucius: "Presence, as Eckhart describes it, is akin to the practice of mindfulness in my teachings, though it is expressed differently. I emphasized the importance of living with ‘Li,’ or proper conduct, which involves being fully aware of one’s role and responsibilities in each moment. A person who is present is able to act with deliberation, wisdom, and virtue. This conscious awareness allows for the cultivation of ‘Ren,’ or benevolence, as it fosters genuine concern for others and harmony in relationships. Presence, therefore, is not just about personal peace but about contributing to the greater good of society."

Buddha: "The concept of presence is central to the practice of mindfulness, which I taught as a path to enlightenment. The practice of ‘Sati,’ or mindfulness, involves being fully aware of each moment without judgment or attachment. Through mindfulness, one observes the arising and passing away of thoughts, sensations, and emotions, gaining insight into the nature of reality and the impermanence of all things. Presence brings one into direct contact with the ‘Dharma,’ or truth, and allows for the cessation of suffering. When one is present, they are not caught in the illusions of the ego, but can experience the peace and clarity of ‘Nirvana.’"

Nick Sasaki: "It’s fascinating to see how each of your traditions emphasizes the importance of being fully present and aware. Presence seems to be a gateway to connecting with something greater—whether that’s the Kingdom of God, Allah, social harmony, or the realization of the Dharma. Eckhart, how do you suggest people begin cultivating this presence in their daily lives?"

Eckhart Tolle: "The simplest way to begin is to bring attention to your breath or your inner body, which are always present in the Now. Whenever you notice your mind drifting into thoughts of the past or future, gently bring it back to the present moment by focusing on your breath or the sensations in your body. Another practice is to fully engage in whatever you are doing at the moment, whether it’s washing dishes, walking, or listening to someone speak. When you are fully present, even the most mundane activities can become portals to deeper awareness and inner peace."

Jesus Christ: "I often taught through parables, using simple, everyday activities to illustrate deeper spiritual truths. Whether it was the parable of the sower or the lost sheep, the message was to be fully engaged in the present moment, where one can encounter the divine. I also encouraged solitude and prayer as ways to connect with God in the present moment, away from the distractions of the world."

Prophet Muhammad: "The daily practice of prayer in Islam is designed to cultivate presence and awareness. Each prayer is a moment to pause, to reconnect with Allah, and to center oneself in the present. By consistently returning to prayer, a Muslim develops a rhythm of presence throughout the day, which helps in maintaining mindfulness and awareness in all aspects of life."

Confucius: "The cultivation of presence is reflected in the practice of rituals and proper conduct. These are not just formalities, but opportunities to bring awareness to one’s actions and relationships. By being mindful of how one interacts with others, whether in the family, in society, or in governance, one contributes to social harmony and the cultivation of virtue."

Buddha: "Mindfulness is a practice that can be developed through meditation, where one observes the breath, body, and mind with full awareness. However, mindfulness extends beyond formal meditation into every aspect of life. Whether one is walking, eating, or speaking, the practice is to be fully present in each moment. This presence dissolves the illusion of the ego and opens the door to wisdom and compassion."

Nick Sasaki: "It’s evident that cultivating presence and conscious awareness is not only a personal practice but also has profound implications for our relationships and the world around us. Whether through prayer, meditation, or simply being mindful in everyday actions, presence is a powerful tool for overcoming the ego and living a more connected and fulfilling life. Thank you all for your wisdom on this topic. Next, we’ll discuss how transcending the ego and aligning with our true purpose can lead to a more meaningful existence. But for now, let’s take a moment to reflect on the power of presence."

This concludes the discussion on the second topic, "The Power of Presence and Conscious Awareness." Each spiritual leader has provided a unique perspective on the importance of presence in spiritual practice and daily life, highlighting how this principle is central to achieving inner peace and spiritual growth across different traditions.

Transcending the Ego and Aligning with Our True Purpose

Nick Sasaki: "Thank you for those insightful reflections on the power of presence. Now, let’s move on to our third topic: 'Transcending the Ego and Aligning with Our True Purpose.' Eckhart, in A New Earth, you discuss how recognizing and detaching from the ego allows us to connect with our higher purpose, which is not driven by personal desires but by a deeper sense of meaning and contribution. Let’s explore how each of your teachings guides us in transcending the ego and discovering our true purpose in life."

Eckhart Tolle: "Our true purpose is not something we need to seek externally, but rather something we uncover within ourselves by letting go of the ego. When the ego is no longer dominating our thoughts and actions, we can hear the inner voice that guides us toward our life’s true calling. This inner purpose is aligned with the universal consciousness, and it often involves service to others, creativity, and contributing to the greater good in ways that bring fulfillment beyond the ego’s limited perspective."

Jesus Christ: "Eckhart, your words echo the teaching that 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.' To deny oneself means to let go of the ego—the attachment to one’s own desires, status, and pride. When a person surrenders these to God, they are able to align with their true purpose, which is to love God and love others as oneself. This love is not egoic but is rooted in the divine, and it manifests through acts of compassion, service, and sacrifice for the well-being of others. By following this path, one lives in accordance with the will of God, which is the ultimate purpose of life."

Prophet Muhammad: "Indeed, the journey of transcending the ego is central to the path of submission to Allah. In Islam, the concept of 'Nafs' is often used to describe the ego and its lower desires, which must be disciplined and purified. The true purpose of life is not found in satisfying these desires but in submitting to the will of Allah, which leads to a state of peace and fulfillment. This submission is not about losing oneself, but about discovering the deeper self that is in harmony with the divine purpose. Through acts of worship, charity, and service to others, a Muslim can transcend the ego and align with their true purpose, which is to be a servant of Allah and a steward of His creation."

Confucius: "The ego, when left unchecked, leads to selfishness and disrupts the social harmony that is essential for a flourishing society. In my teachings, I emphasized the importance of cultivating virtue, such as 'Ren' (benevolence) and 'Yi' (righteousness), which guide individuals to act in ways that benefit others and contribute to the greater good. When a person transcends the ego, they become a 'Junzi,' or superior person, who acts with integrity, humility, and a sense of duty to others. This is the true purpose of life in the Confucian tradition—to cultivate oneself in such a way that one’s actions promote harmony and benefit society as a whole. The fulfillment of one’s purpose is found in living a life of virtue and contributing to the well-being of others."

Buddha: "The concept of transcending the ego is central to the path of enlightenment. The ego, with its attachments and desires, is the source of 'Dukkha,' or suffering. The true purpose of life, according to the Dharma, is to realize 'Nirvana,' which is the cessation of suffering and the end of the cycle of rebirth. This is achieved by following the Noble Eightfold Path, which involves right understanding, right intention, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration. When one transcends the ego and its attachments, they align with the ultimate purpose of life, which is liberation from suffering and the realization of the true nature of existence. This purpose is not about achieving something external, but about awakening to the truth that has always been within."

Nick Sasaki: "Each of you has shared profound insights into how transcending the ego leads to the discovery of a higher purpose, one that is rooted in service, virtue, and alignment with the divine or universal truth. It’s inspiring to see how these teachings, though from different traditions, all point to the idea that our true purpose is not about personal gain but about contributing to something greater than ourselves. Whether it’s through love, service, virtue, or enlightenment, living in alignment with this purpose leads to a life of deeper meaning and fulfillment."

This concludes the discussion on the third topic, "Transcending the Ego and Aligning with Our True Purpose." Each spiritual leader has offered unique perspectives on how letting go of the ego can lead to the discovery of a more meaningful and purposeful life, highlighting the shared values across their teachings.

The Shift in Consciousness and Spiritual Awakening

Nick Sasaki: "Thank you for the enriching discussion on transcending the ego and aligning with our true purpose. Now, let's turn to our fourth topic: 'The Shift in Consciousness and Spiritual Awakening.' In A New Earth, Eckhart, you speak about the necessity of a global shift in consciousness, where humanity collectively moves beyond egoic thinking to a higher state of awareness. I’m eager to hear how each of you views the concept of spiritual awakening and the transformation of consciousness, both on an individual and societal level."

Eckhart Tolle: "The shift in consciousness that I refer to is a movement away from egoic thinking—characterized by fear, greed, and the need for control—towards a state of presence and awareness. This awakening is not just an individual journey but a collective one, where humanity begins to realize its interconnectedness and the importance of living in harmony with each other and the earth. Spiritual awakening involves recognizing that our true identity is not tied to the mind or ego, but to a deeper, universal consciousness that transcends the individual self. As more people awaken, this shift in consciousness will naturally lead to a more peaceful and sustainable world."

Jesus Christ: "Eckhart, the idea of a collective awakening resonates with the message of the Kingdom of God. I taught that the Kingdom of God is at hand, and that it is something that can be realized within each person. This awakening is a transformation of the heart and mind, where one turns away from sin and self-centeredness, and instead embraces love, compassion, and humility. On a societal level, this shift in consciousness would manifest as a world where the principles of the Kingdom—justice, mercy, and peace—prevail. The transformation begins within, but it spreads outward, influencing communities and ultimately the entire world."

Prophet Muhammad: "The concept of spiritual awakening is deeply rooted in Islam, where the ultimate goal is to attain closeness to Allah through submission and righteousness. The Qur'an speaks of the 'straight path' (As-Sirat Al-Mustaqim) that leads to spiritual awakening. This path involves a conscious decision to live according to Allah's guidance, transcending the desires of the ego (Nafs) and striving for purity of heart. On a collective level, this shift in consciousness would lead to a just and moral society, where the principles of Sharia (Islamic law) are upheld, and where peace and justice prevail. The awakening is both a return to the natural state of fitrah (innate purity) and a collective movement towards a world governed by the principles of faith, compassion, and justice."

Confucius: "Spiritual awakening, as discussed in your work, Eckhart, can be likened to the concept of moral awakening in Confucianism. The goal of life is to cultivate virtue and wisdom, leading to a state of Ren, or benevolence, where one acts with compassion and integrity. This moral awakening is both personal and collective. When individuals cultivate virtue, they contribute to the harmony of society. This, in turn, leads to the awakening of the entire society, where laws, customs, and governance reflect the principles of justice, respect, and harmony. The shift in consciousness you describe would be reflected in a society where the teachings of the sages—such as the importance of family, community, and ethical behavior—are lived out fully by all members."

Buddha: "The concept of a shift in consciousness aligns closely with the idea of enlightenment in Buddhism. Enlightenment, or Nirvana, is the ultimate spiritual awakening, where one transcends the cycle of birth and death (Samsara) and realizes the true nature of reality. This awakening involves a profound shift in consciousness, where one sees beyond the illusions of the ego and the material world, understanding the interconnectedness of all life. On a collective level, as more individuals achieve enlightenment, the entire world would move towards a state of greater compassion, wisdom, and peace. The teachings of the Dharma provide a path for this awakening, emphasizing mindfulness, ethical conduct, and the cultivation of wisdom."

Nick Sasaki: "It’s remarkable how each of your traditions emphasizes the idea of a shift in consciousness or awakening, whether it’s called the Kingdom of God, enlightenment, or moral awakening. This shift, as you’ve described, is not just an internal process but has far-reaching implications for society as a whole. When individuals awaken to their true nature and transcend the ego, they naturally begin to act in ways that promote peace, justice, and harmony in the world around them. This collective awakening could indeed lead to a world that is more compassionate, just, and connected."

The discussion on the fourth topic, "The Shift in Consciousness and Spiritual Awakening," reveals how each spiritual leader views the process of awakening as a transformative experience that not only changes individuals but also has the power to create a more harmonious and enlightened society. Their insights offer a vision of a world where spiritual growth and collective consciousness are deeply intertwined.

The New Earth: Creating a More Conscious World

Nick Sasaki: "We’ve come to our final topic: 'The New Earth: Creating a More Conscious World.' In A New Earth, Eckhart, you envision a future where humanity has collectively awakened to a higher state of consciousness, resulting in a more compassionate, sustainable, and peaceful world. Let’s explore how each of your teachings envisions the creation of such a world and the role that spiritual growth plays in shaping a better future for humanity."

Eckhart Tolle: "The idea of a 'New Earth' is one where humanity has transcended the egoic state of consciousness that has dominated for so long. In this new world, people recognize their interconnectedness with all life and live in harmony with the planet and each other. This shift begins with individual spiritual awakening, but as more people awaken, a collective consciousness emerges that transforms societies and cultures. The New Earth is not just a dream but a potential reality that we are all contributing to through our inner work and our interactions with the world around us."

Jesus Christ: "Eckhart, the vision of a New Earth resonates with the prophecy of a new heaven and a new earth found in the Scriptures. This is a world where God’s will is done on earth as it is in heaven—a world of justice, peace, and love. The transformation of this world begins with the transformation of the human heart. When individuals embrace the teachings of love, forgiveness, and compassion, they become agents of God’s Kingdom on earth. This Kingdom is not just a spiritual realm but has tangible effects on the physical world. The New Earth is a place where the values of the Kingdom—mercy, humility, and service—are lived out fully, leading to a world where all people are valued, and creation is respected."

Prophet Muhammad: "The vision of a more conscious world is also reflected in the teachings of Islam, where the ultimate goal is the establishment of a just and moral society. The New Earth, as you describe it, Eckhart, is akin to the ideal of an Ummah (community) that lives according to the principles of Islam—where justice, compassion, and humility guide all actions. This is a world where the rights of all individuals are respected, and where peace (Salaam) prevails. The creation of such a world begins with the submission to Allah and the purification of the heart from the ego’s influence. As more people align their lives with the will of Allah, a more just and peaceful world can emerge, reflecting the divine order intended by the Creator."

Confucius: "The concept of a New Earth is similar to the Confucian vision of a harmonious society, where the values of virtue, respect, and social responsibility are upheld. In such a world, leaders act with wisdom and integrity, and citizens fulfill their roles with a sense of duty and compassion. The creation of this harmonious society begins with the cultivation of the self—developing virtues such as Ren (benevolence), Yi (righteousness), and Li (proper conduct). When individuals embody these virtues, they contribute to the harmony of their families, communities, and ultimately, the entire world. The New Earth, in Confucian terms, is a world where everyone strives for moral excellence, leading to a society that is just, peaceful, and flourishing."

Buddha: "The idea of a New Earth aligns with the Buddhist concept of a world where beings have transcended the cycle of suffering (Samsara) and live in accordance with the Dharma. This world is one where compassion, wisdom, and mindfulness are practiced by all, leading to the cessation of suffering and the realization of Nirvana. The creation of such a world requires the collective awakening of individuals, who, through their practice, contribute to the greater good of all beings. The New Earth is a realm where the Eightfold Path is lived out fully, and where the interconnectedness of all life is recognized and respected. This leads to a world where not only human beings but all sentient beings can live in peace and harmony."

Nick Sasaki: "Each of your teachings offers a compelling vision of what a more conscious and enlightened world could look like. Whether it’s the Kingdom of God, an Ummah, a harmonious society, or a world where beings live in accordance with the Dharma, the common thread is the idea that spiritual growth and the cultivation of virtues are essential to creating a better world. This New Earth isn’t just an abstract idea; it’s something that can be realized through our collective efforts to live more consciously, compassionately, and in alignment with higher principles."

The discussion on the final topic, "The New Earth: Creating a More Conscious World," highlights how each spiritual tradition envisions the possibility of a transformed world, grounded in spiritual principles and collective awakening. The insights provided by these spiritual leaders show that, while the language and concepts may differ, the ultimate goal of creating a more just, peaceful, and harmonious world is a shared aspiration across all traditions.

Short Bios:

Eckhart Tolle is a renowned spiritual teacher and author, best known for his books The Power of Now and A New Earth. His teachings focus on the importance of living in the present moment and transcending the ego to achieve inner peace and spiritual awakening. Tolle's work has inspired millions worldwide to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal transformation.

Jesus Christ is the central figure of Christianity, believed by Christians to be the Son of God and the Savior of humanity. His teachings emphasize love, forgiveness, humility, and compassion. Through parables and miracles, Jesus conveyed the message of the Kingdom of God, calling people to live in accordance with God's will and to love their neighbors as themselves.

Prophet Muhammad is the founder of Islam and is regarded by Muslims as the final prophet of God. His teachings, as revealed in the Qur'an, focus on submission to the will of Allah, social justice, compassion, and moral integrity. Muhammad's life and teachings have shaped the spiritual and ethical foundations of Islamic civilization, guiding millions of Muslims around the world.

Confucius was a Chinese philosopher and teacher whose ideas have profoundly influenced East Asian culture and thought. His teachings, compiled in the Analects, emphasize the importance of virtue, family loyalty, and social harmony. Confucius advocated for a life of moral integrity and ethical conduct, stressing the need for education, respect, and the cultivation of personal and societal virtues.

Buddha, also known as Siddhartha Gautama, was a spiritual teacher and the founder of Buddhism. He achieved enlightenment under the Bodhi tree and spent his life teaching the path to liberation from suffering, known as the Dharma. The core of his teachings revolves around the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path, which guide individuals toward Nirvana—a state of ultimate peace and freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth.