According to the text, what is the nature of Maya or Avidya, and what are some examples of its effects?

Maya, which is also referred to as ignorance or Avidya-Prakriti-Pradhan, is described as a powerful delusion that makes a non-existent world seem real. Chapter 50 explains that this delusion can cause one thing to appear as something else entirely. For instance, a rope might be mistaken for a snake, a shell might seem to contain silver, or a whirling firebrand can create the illusion of a solid circle of fire. This ignorance also manifests as ego and pride, such as the attachment to the body and possessions like a wife and home, or the arrogant belief that one is superior in skill and genius. To attain true knowledge, these veils of ignorance must be removed.