Self-Inquiry, Ramana-style, and the householder
An excellent discussion of Ramana/Robert's method of self-inquiry, of going backwards into the self, by David Godman,
Notice this is almost exactly Nisargadatta's method of attending to the I Am-sensation. Ramana emphasizes attending to the I-"thought" as a person normally associates the thought I with an attribute or action in everyday life, while Maharaj focuses on the feeling of I Am, and the affect of love associated with the self. This opens a broader highway for the self to investigate itself, because you bring in the power of emotion into the going back process.
He then discusses the self-inquiry process for the householder with children, a job and home as not different. You do what you have to and practice self-inquiry when you remember, and if possible, sitting secluded from time to time.
Realizing the Manifest Self--the Life Force permeating our humanity--and the Unmanifest source from which it arises.
David put a lot of effort into making sure that his understanding was clear.
ReplyDeleteI think this is crucial.
The clearer the understanding the more focused and effective the 'practice' can be.
Ed, thanks for recommending "Master of Self-Realization".
It has been a great tool to sharpen and deepen my understanding.
Joan