How does Chapter 26 distinguish between the perceived physical world and the true nature of the Self?

Chapter 26 draws a sharp distinction between the illusory physical world and the eternal Self. The text posits that the entire universe, with its moving and non-moving objects, is an illusion (Maya) that appears manifest but is, in reality, unmanifest and woven into the soul. This is compared to a dream that feels real but dissolves upon waking. As explained in this chapter, the true nature of the Self is described as 'self-luminous and eternal.' The perceived world, in contrast, is an imagined display with no independent existence outside the Self. The chapter teaches that awakening to this truth occurs through the Guru's grace, when one realizes that the existence and inspiration of the universe have an independent foundation in the Guru-Soul, who is God.