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Tag: Ramana Maharshi

  • The Sacred Shift: From Seeking to Being

    Following the path of meditation can feel like a gradual unraveling of the known—a shedding of what we once held onto, leading us into the mystery of contemplation. As I continue reflecting on the works of St. John of the Cross, this sacred shift from meditation into contemplation becomes clearer. It is not a step we take with effort but a grace that gently unfolds when the time is right.

    St. John speaks of this transition as a call to surrender, but it is not the kind of surrender we can will into existence. Instead, it is a letting go that happens when we stop striving, when we allow ourselves to simply rest in the presence of the Divine. This is where the familiar practices of meditation—focused attention, mental inquiry, or breath awareness—fall away, giving space for something more profound to emerge.

    Today, I felt this shift more deeply, not as an intellectual understanding, but as a living experience. The pratyayas—the thoughts, sensations, and memories that rise and fall—became like whispers, their pull softening in the presence of curiosity. This curiosity is not the kind that seeks answers, but one that witnesses, without needing anything to happen. In that gentle witnessing, something new emerged: a spaciousness, a quiet stillness that felt like home.

    This experience is not unique to Christian mysticism. In Advaita Vedanta, the practice of self-inquiry often begins with a repetitive questioning—”Who am I?”—an active search for truth. But, as with St. John’s teachings, there comes a time when even the inquiry must dissolve into silence. The seeker steps back, not into a place of knowing, but into a place of being. In that being, all effort falls away, and we are left with the pristine awareness that has always been there.

    In silence, love calls,

    No longer through words or thought,

    But in quiet grace.

    This is the threshold between seeking and being, a place where the Divine does its quiet work in us. It is no longer about striving or yearning for a deeper experience; it is about trusting in the unfolding of love, which asks only that we rest in its presence.

    For those of us on this journey, may we continue to trust this sacred shift—moving from meditation into contemplation, from seeking into being. In this silent surrender, we come closer to the essence of who we truly are.

    🙏🕊️🙏



  • Into the Mystic: The Journey from Meditation to Contemplation

    As I re-read the works of St. John of the Cross, I have become more attuned to the threshold of transition—the dryness and emptiness that so often precede the invitation to move from meditation into contemplation. This is not unique to St. John; it is something pointed to by many of the great teachers. Whether it’s Namkhai Norbu, Ramana Maharshi, Thich Nhat Hanh, the Dalai Lama, or Orgyen Chowang in Pristine Mind, they all plant the seeds of meditative absorption, which only take root when the time is right. Now, it seems, those seeds are beginning to bloom, not as intellectual concepts, but as a living, unfolding experience.

    Today, I found myself drawn into this quiet transformation. As I lay in stillness, the pratyayas—those passing thoughts, sensations, and memories—began to rise and fall, like waves on a distant shore. Curiosity, that soft and patient witness, guided me deeper, not into understanding but into presence.

    The breath came of its own accord, a deep release from somewhere beyond my conscious will, as if the body itself knew what needed to unfold. And then, an awareness—a spaciousness—arose. It was not something I had summoned, nor could I hold it in place. It was simply there, naked and pure, like a clear blue sky.

    St. John of the Cross speaks of this as a kind of surrender, but not the kind we can choose. It is a grace bestowed, not earned. In the stillness, I realized that my role was not to force this shift but to allow it to happen. To remain as the observer, the witness, as the Divine unfolded in its own time.

    What struck me most deeply was the paradox of this surrender. The very act of trying to let go becomes an obstacle. Instead, it is curiosity that opens the door to pure awareness—curiosity that has no desire, no need for something to happen, but simply observes what is.

    Today, in this unfolding, I realized that even the longing for deeper experience can become a barrier. The path is not one of striving but of witnessing. And in that witness, the Divine does its quiet work, purifying what needs to be released, and bringing us ever closer to the essence of who we truly are.

    As I reflect on my own journey today, it is my hope, and the shared intention (Sankalpa) behind all of this work, that by sharing these reflections, insights, and experiences, they may serve as a guide, a comfort, or a spark of inspiration to those who come across them.

    🙏🕊️🙏

    Book Recommendation: St. John of the Cross, Dark Night of the Soul

    Dark Night of the Soul by St. John of the Cross is a spiritual masterpiece that explores the transformative power of suffering and the journey toward union with the Divine. This work describes the profound spiritual experience of being stripped of all attachments, both inner and outer, as a necessary process for purification and deeper connection with God. For those experiencing a time of spiritual dryness or emptiness, St. John’s words offer hope and guidance through the darkness, illuminating the path to deeper faith and surrender. The Dark Night is not a time of despair, but of ultimate transformation, where we are invited to let go of our limited understanding and trust in the unfolding of the Divine. This book serves as a timeless companion for anyone navigating the challenges of the contemplative path, especially those who feel drawn to the shift from meditation to deeper contemplation.

    Book Recommendation: Orgyen Chowang, Our Pristine Mind

    In The Pristine Mind, Orgyen Chowang offers profound teachings on accessing our natural state of mind—a state of clarity, openness, and peace. He draws from the Dzogchen tradition, emphasizing that our true nature is already pure and perfect, and that through practice, we can return to this unconditioned state. For those on a contemplative journey, Chowang’s words provide a practical path for moving beyond mental noise and distractions, guiding us back to the inherent stillness of the mind. This book is especially helpful for those who wish to deepen their meditation practice or shift from intellectual understanding to living experience. The Pristine Mind invites readers to discover the profound joy and serenity that arises when we rest in the awareness of our true nature.



  • A Journey Into the Infinite: The Call to Awaken to Our True Nature

    A Journey Into the Infinite: The Call to Awaken to Our True Nature

    There is a voice that calls from deep within, faint yet steady, whispering to you through the silence of your heart: “The kingdom of God is within you.” You hear it in the stillness of the dawn, in the quiet moments when the world falls away. This voice is not far from you—it is not hidden in the heavens nor buried beneath the earth. It lives in the very breath you take, in the still center of your being, inviting you to “Be still and know that I am God.”

    How often we search outside ourselves, looking for the divine in places far from our own hearts. But God, the essence of all that is, has always been nearer than we can imagine. “God is the center of my soul,” wrote St. John of the Cross, and in that hidden center, as we approach the divine, we find that it expands within us, like an infinite wellspring of love and truth. And what is this love? As St. Teresa of Avila tells us, “It is love alone that gives worth to all things.”

    You, too, are the bearer of this love, this infinite truth that resides within the deepest chambers of your soul. “At the center of our being is a point of nothingness,” Thomas Merton reminds us, untouched by the noise of the world, pure and sacred, a place where you and the divine are one. In that sacred space, the distractions of life fall away, and we see ourselves as we truly are—not bound by illusion or time, but free, radiant, and eternal.

    Just as this sacred center resides within each of us, the mystics of many traditions remind us that the divine is not something that can be grasped by the mind alone. “The infinite is concealed from all the living,” say the mystics of Kabbalah. It is not something to be dissected, understood, or named. It can only be known through the soul’s journey into the unknown, through the deep, unnameable mystery of existence. It is the same mystery that “wherever you turn, there is the face of God.” The divine pervades all things, from the rising sun to the faces of strangers on the street, from the endless stars to the quiet rustling of leaves in the wind.

    In this profound unity, “man is a microcosm of the universe,” as David Bohm said. What we are, what we become, reflects the very nature of the cosmos itself. We are not separate; we are threads in the vast fabric of existence, each one of us a clue to the whole, each one a reflection of the infinite. “The Supreme Reality is beyond both the unmanifest and the manifest,” the Bhagavad-Gita tells us. It is the eternal and all-pervading essence of life, the unnamable source from which we arise and to which we will one day return.

    To recognize this truth is to realize, as Ramana Maharshi said, that “Your own Self-Realization is the greatest service you can render the world.” Only through the shedding of the ego, the dissolution of the false self, can we see the formless reality of who we truly are—nameless, timeless, and infinite. This formless reality is the space between thoughts, the silence in which everything arises and fades—eternal, yet present within every moment, like the quiet breath of the universe itself. “There is only one truth—God,” Swami Sivananda wrote, reminding us that everything else, all the fleeting shadows of the world, are but temporary.

    This realization of our true nature, this casting off of the little self, allows us to “recognize yourself as the vast Spirit,” in the words of Swami Paramahansa Yogananda. Beyond all limitations of form and thought, we are the boundless Spirit, free and ever-expansive. What is this freedom but the awakening to the truth of what has always been? The Buddha tells us, “What we think, we become.” Our thoughts shape our world, but beyond thought lies the ultimate realization of unity—of the one truth that binds all.

    We are not separate. We have never been. “We are here to awaken from the illusion of our separateness,” Thich Nhat Hanh gently reminds us. Our divisions, our dualities, are but veils that obscure the deeper truth of our oneness. Beyond the illusions of duality—right and wrong, self and other—lies a greater reality. As Rumi said, “Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field. I’ll meet you there.” In that field, where duality dissolves, we awaken to the truth of who we really are—expressions of the infinite, woven together in the fabric of existence.

    This journey into the infinite is not a process of adding to ourselves, but of shedding the illusions that have kept us from recognizing the divine within. It is a return to the essence of our being, where we find, as Lao Tzu so profoundly reminds us, “The Tao that can be told is not the eternal Tao.” The eternal truth, the infinite source, cannot be grasped by the mind; it can only be realized in the stillness of the heart.

    In this awakening, we are free. Free from the illusions of separation, free to live in the truth of our unity with all that is. As we return to this realization, we find, as St. John of the Cross said, “To reach satisfaction in all, desire its possession in nothing.” The journey is one of surrender, of letting go of all that is not real, to rest in the infinite, eternal love that is our true nature.

    This is the call that has always been with us, whispering through the silence of our hearts. It is not just a call—it is the very essence of life, the truth that lies at the core of all existence, waiting for us to embrace it. To awaken to the infinite is to recognize ourselves as the vast, boundless Spirit, and to live in the truth of our oneness with all that exists.

    🙏🕊️🙏



  • Verse 3: The Mirror of True Knowledge — Insights from Ramana Maharshi

    Verse 3: The Mirror of True Knowledge — Insights from Ramana Maharshi

    “Having known the Self, which is awareness, there is nothing more to know. That which is, is consciousness itself. To seek it elsewhere is to wander far away.”

    — Ramana Maharshi, Forty Verses on Reality

    There comes a moment in each of our lives when the questions that have followed us, haunting our thoughts, cease to carry the same weight. It is as though we have been wandering through a vast wilderness, searching endlessly for something, only to realize that it has been with us all along. This, Ramana tells us, is the moment of true knowledge—the moment when we recognize the Self, and in doing so, find that there is nothing more to seek.

    This knowledge is not like the knowing of facts or the gathering of worldly wisdom. It is the unveiling of the very essence of awareness, that which sees all, yet remains unseen. To touch this awareness is to come home, to realize that the search has always been for ourselves.

    And how often we search elsewhere! How often we cast our gaze into the far distance, imagining that the truth lies in some distant land, or hidden in the words of another. But Ramana reminds us that to seek it elsewhere is to wander further from the source. The truth we seek does not live in far-off places; it lives in the heart of our own being, as close as breath, as present as this very moment.

    Like a mirror reflecting all without judgment, true knowledge is the simple, clear awareness of what is. When we come to see that all that exists is consciousness itself, we are no longer captivated by the shadows on the wall. We see, instead, the light—the steady, unwavering light of awareness, which has been with us from the beginning.

    To know the Self is to realize that there is nowhere else to go. The seeking ends, and in its place arises a quiet, unshakable peace. It is not the end of curiosity or wonder, but the end of searching outside ourselves for what can only be found within.

    To know that there is nothing more to seek is not to say there is nothing more to do. In the realization that the Self has always been present, there is still the practice of abiding, of resting in the gentle awareness that is always here. It is this abiding, this quiet discipline of being, that becomes the ongoing practice.

    Yes, the search has ended, but the journey of returning, over and over again, to the pristine mind continues. For in this ordinary mind—this space filled with distractions, thoughts, and the pull of the world—there is the temptation to forget, to stray from the simplicity of awareness. And so, we practice. Not as seekers anymore, but as those who have touched the truth and wish to live in its light.

    The practice now is not one of effortful striving, but of allowing—of surrendering into the effortless effort, the gentle doing of non-doing. This is where the paradox lives: to rest in what is, and yet remain disciplined in that rest. It is not that there is nothing more to do, but rather that what is to be done is a continual letting go, a surrendering to the ever-present awareness that requires nothing from us but our willingness to be with it.

    And so, we abide. With each breath, with each passing moment, we return—not to search, but to rest. And though the Self needs no searching, the practice of staying with it remains. In this, there is the dance of wu-wei, the graceful action of inaction, the peaceful unfolding of all that is.

    Perhaps one day the effort, too, will fall away, and only the abiding will remain.

    Coming Up Next: Verse 4

    In the next verse, we will reflect on the nature of thought and the root of all actions. How do our thoughts shape our reality, and what lies at the core of true understanding? Join us as we continue this journey through the depths of Ramana Maharshi’s teachings.

    🙏🕊️🙏



  • Neti Neti Series No. 5: Integrating “Not This, Not This” into Daily Life

    Question:

    How can the mantra Neti Neti continue to arise spontaneously throughout the day, and how might one practice it during ordinary tasks and interactions in the dualistic world

    Dear friend,

    As your practice deepens, it is only natural that the mantra “Neti Neti” begins to echo beyond the confines of formal meditation, weaving itself into the very fabric of your daily life. This is a beautiful and auspicious development, for the true power of this practice lies not only in moments of stillness and silence but in its capacity to transform your experience of the world in each passing moment.

    Imagine, if you will, the gentle rhythm of “Neti Neti” accompanying you throughout your day. Whether you are engaged in the simplest of tasks or the most complex of interactions, this mantra can serve as a quiet, steady undercurrent, reminding you of the deeper truth that lies beneath the surface of all appearances.

    As you move through the day, allow “Neti Neti” to arise naturally in your mind, especially when you find yourself caught up in the dualities of life—the push and pull of desires, the highs and lows of emotions, the ceaseless demands of the world around you. When a thought or feeling arises that seems to pull you away from your center, gently remind yourself, “Not This, Not This.” This simple act of negation is not a rejection of life, but rather an invitation to see beyond the fleeting, to touch the eternal within the everyday.

    Consider the ordinary tasks that fill your day—the washing of dishes, the folding of clothes, the tending to work or errands. These moments, though seemingly mundane, are fertile ground for your practice. As you engage in these tasks, silently repeat “Neti Neti” to yourself. Notice how this mantra helps to dissolve the sense of separation between you and the task at hand. The distinction between the doer and the doing, the subject and the object, begins to fade, leaving you with a simple, clear awareness of being.

    This practice brings a certain lightness to even the most routine activities, a reminder that nothing in this world can truly define or confine you. “Not This, Not This,” the mantra whispers, freeing you from the weight of identification, allowing you to move through your day with a sense of ease and grace.

    And what of your interactions with others, in this dualistic world where we often find ourselves entangled in the roles we play—the parent, the partner, the friend, the colleague? Here, too, the mantra “Neti Neti” can be a guiding light.

    When you feel the pull of attachment or aversion in your relationships, when you sense the stirrings of ego in your interactions, gently remind yourself, “Not This, Not This.” This does not mean withdrawing from the people you care about or disengaging from the world. On the contrary, it allows you to engage more fully, with a heart that is open and free from the constraints of egoic identifications.

    In this way, you interact not from a place of separation or need, but from a place of wholeness and completeness. “Not This, Not This,” the mantra says, and in doing so, it clears the way for true connection, untainted by the projections and fears that so often cloud our relationships.

    As you continue to carry “Neti Neti” with you throughout your day, you may find that the boundaries between your formal meditation and your daily life begin to blur. The mantra becomes a thread that connects all aspects of your existence, reminding you constantly of the truth that lies beyond all appearances.

    There will be moments when the mantra arises spontaneously, without any effort on your part. In these moments, let it guide you back to your center, to the stillness that underlies all movement. And in the spaces between the mantra, rest in the awareness that is your true self, free from all identifications, all dualities.

    Dear friend, this is the essence of living the practice—allowing the wisdom of “Not This, Not This” to permeate every aspect of your life, transforming the mundane into the sacred, the ordinary into the extraordinary. It is a journey of continual letting go, a path that leads ever deeper into the heart of your being.

    May your practice bring you the peace and clarity you seek, and may you walk this path with the gentle strength and quiet joy that comes from knowing you are always, already whole.

    🙏🕊️🙏



  • Verse 2: The Deathless Ones — Insights from Ramana Maharshi

    “Deathless are they who know the Self. Those who know intense fear of death seek refuge only at the feet of the Lord who has neither death nor birth. Dead to themselves and their possessions, can the thought of death occur to them again? Deathless are they.”

    — Ramana Maharshi, Forty Verses on Reality

    In the silent expanse of existence, a profound truth emerges: those who truly know themselves are untouched by the shadow of death. Their awareness transcends the fleeting nature of the physical, awakening them to a reality where the Self shines eternally, free from the confines of birth and demise.

    Fear, that primal instinct which grips the emotional self, leads many to seek solace at the feet of the Divine. Here, in surrender, they find refuge in the Lord—the embodiment of timelessness, the one who remains unscathed by the cycle of life and death. In the presence of such love, the urgency of worldly attachments falls away, revealing the deeper essence of being. I look forward to resting in the presence of such love, revealed within our mind—our true heart—where all attachments dissolve into the stillness of pure awareness. To realize this ever-present pure love is to know the deeper essence of what we are, the part of us that remains untouched by the fears and desires of the world.

    As one becomes “dead” to the clamor of possessions and the incessant desires that bind the soul, the thought of death loses its power. No longer a specter to be feared, it becomes a mere whisper, an echo of a past long forgotten. In this state of liberation, the deathless heart pulsates with the rhythm of life, embracing the eternal now.

    To know the Self is to awaken to the infinite, to dance beyond the duality of existence, where life and death are but two sides of the same coin. In this awakening, we find the courage to let go—to release the chains of identification with the transient and embrace the essence of who we truly are. Here lies the secret of the deathless ones, an invitation to live fully, unencumbered by the fears that often confine us.

    And yet, when we speak of the deathless state, we do not turn our gaze away from the undeniable truth of death. The body, like all things that come into being, will one day return to the earth. Those we love will pass, as will we. But the wisdom of this teaching beckons us to look beyond the visible horizon, beyond the fragile shell of the physical.

    Death, as we know it, is but a passage in the realm of form. What truly passes? Not the Self. Not the essence of who we are. This teaching whispers to us that the grasping after what is fleeting—the desires, the aversions, the worldly attachments—these are the threads that weave the illusion of permanence where there is none.

    In the letting go, in the softening of our hands from the things we thought we needed to hold so tightly, there is a kind of renunciation. But not a renunciation of life itself, rather, a release from the belief that life’s changing faces can define us. We release, not into emptiness, but into fullness—the fullness of the pristine mind, the quiet, undisturbed expanse of the deathless.

    To recognize this is to taste the sweetness of a deeper truth: the Self is untouched by the passing of days, by the birth and death of forms. This is where we find our liberation—not by denying the body’s end, but by resting in the awareness that transcends it.

    And so, in this gentle abiding, we come to understand: death may touch what is temporal, but it cannot lay a finger on what is eternal. Here, in the heart of this realization, there is peace—a peace that no worldly circumstance can steal away, for it is woven into the very fabric of our being.

    Coming Up Next: Verse 3

    In our next exploration, we will turn our attention to the third verse, where we will reflect on the nature of true knowledge and how it reveals the interconnectedness of all beings, inviting us into a deeper understanding of existence.

    🙏🕊️🙏



  • Verse 1: The Heart of Reality — Insights from Ramana Maharshi

    “Reality exists as the Heart, your very Being. If Reality did not exist, could there be any knowledge of existence? Free from all thoughts, Reality abides in the Heart, the Source of all thoughts. It is, therefore, called the Heart. How then is one to contemplate it? To be as it is in the Heart, is Its contemplation.”

    — Ramana Maharshi, Forty Verses on Reality

    The Heart of Reality

    In the stillness of our being, where thoughts dissolve like mist under the sun, we come upon the essence of reality—the Heart, our very existence. This Heart is not a distant concept, a mere abstraction; it pulses with the life that courses through us, inviting us to recognize that our true nature is intricately woven into the fabric of all that is.

    What if reality, in its purest form, did not exist? Could we then grasp the very notion of existence, the flicker of awareness that dances in our minds? Each thought, each fleeting moment of recognition, springs forth from this source, the Heart, which abides in silence beyond the noise of our incessant chatter.

    To contemplate this truth is not to embark on a journey of the mind but rather to return home, to dwell as we are in the Heart itself. Here, in this sacred space, contemplation transforms into a state of being, a surrender to the profound simplicity of what is. We find ourselves not as separate seekers but as the very essence of the inquiry—a realization that calls us to rest in the Heart, to know ourselves as we truly are.

    For many years, I carried a fog of confusion around the word “heart,” a tangle of meanings that seemed to obscure more than they revealed. I remember being in circles where people would say, “Come from your heart,” and I would listen, trying to grasp the depth of what they meant. Often, it seemed to point toward emotion, to some form of deeper truth that was still bound in the personal—an authentic expression of ego, perhaps a sincerity in feeling, but still caught in the dualities of love and pain, fear and longing.

    But what did it mean, really, to come from the heart?

    In the midst of this confusion, Ramana’s words come like a gentle clearing of the fog. The heart, as he speaks of it, is not the emotional center we so often equate with the word. It is not the place of fluctuating feelings, nor is it simply a retreat from the mind’s logical discourse. What Ramana points to is something far deeper: the heart as the essence, the source of pure awareness itself.

    This reminds me of the self as Carl Jung describes it—not just the conscious mind, but the unconscious, and not just those personal aspects, but everything, the entire universe and reality. Jung’s idea of the Self expands far beyond the individual, reaching into the totality of existence itself, much like Ramana’s use of the word heart. In this sense, Reality, the Self, and the Heart all point to the same fundamental truth—the essence that underlies both duality and non-duality, the very nature of what is.

    In both Jung and Ramana’s teachings, we see that the self, or reality, is not something to be sought outside of ourselves or separated from the world. As Jesus says, we are to be in the world but not of the world. This aligns perfectly with the non-dual teaching: there is no need to escape the dualities of life to realize non-duality. Instead, we are invited to recognize that the essence of duality itself is non-dual.

    To come from the heart, then, is not merely to speak from personal truth or emotion, but to rest in the deeper awareness that embraces all experience without attachment. It is to be anchored in the non-dual essence of Reality, knowing that even in the world of forms and opposites, the underlying truth remains whole, undivided.

    And yet, how often we use the word “heart” to point to something else—something closer to our personal feelings or opinions, mistaking emotional honesty for the deeper truth of our being. But here, in this teaching, the heart is revealed as the true source of non-dual clarity, the place from which true forgiveness, compassion, and love naturally arise—not as personal qualities, but as emanations of our most pure self.

    As I reflect on this teaching in, it becomes clear that the heart Ramana speaks of is not a center of personal feelings or emotion, but the eternal essence that transcends the body and mind. This heart, or true Self, is the witness that remains even when personal identity fades. In some ways, this description feels similar to the concept of the Holy Spirit or God, which abides within and beyond us.

    When we speak of the heart as Ramana does, we are pointing to the essence of pure awareness, the unchanging “I” that exists beyond the temporary forms of the body and ego. This teaching invites us to recognize the heart as the source of non-dual awareness, a presence that continues even when the personal self dissolves.

    Coming Up Next: Verse 2

    In the next reflection, we will explore how those who know the Self are deathless, transcending the fear of mortality. We’ll delve into the liberation found in surrendering to the Divine, awakening to the eternal nature of existence beyond the physical realm.

    🙏🕊️🙏

  • Neti Neti Series No. 3: Seeking to Understand the True Nature of the Self

    Question:

    As I continue with the mantra “Not This, Not This,” a new layer of understanding has begun to unfold. I realize that even what I have thought of as Witness Consciousness is not the ultimate truth. The Witness, as I experience it, seems to be the cultivation of equanimity—a state of being not distracted or disturbed by whatever arises.

    But even this Witness, this sense of “I” that observes with equanimity, is still not the Atman, is it? It is a step in the right direction, a refinement of awareness, but it is still an identification, a subtle form of ego that remains.

    It occurs to me that the mantra “Not This, Not This” could continue indefinitely, as long as there is an “I” who is meditating, an “I” who witnesses. For even this witnessing, even this equanimity, is not the ultimate reality. The mantra, I think, would stop on its own when the meditator dissolves into the natural state of non-dual awareness. And then, as soon as the sense of “I” returns—as in the awareness of being a meditator—the mantra would begin again naturally.

    Is this understanding correct? How should I continue with my practice, knowing that even the Witness is “Not This”?

    Dear friend,

    Your reflections are filled with a deep and subtle wisdom, and it is clear that your practice is guiding you ever closer to the heart of truth. You are right to recognize that even the Witness Consciousness, the state of equanimity where one observes without being disturbed, is not the ultimate realization. It is a significant step, yes—a refinement of the mind that allows for greater clarity and peace—but it is still within the realm of duality.

    The Witness, as you experience it, is still a form of identification. It is the “I” that watches, the “I” that remains calm in the face of arising thoughts and sensations. But as long as there is an “I” who observes, there is still a subtle separation between the observer and the observed, between the subject and the object. This is why your mantra, “Not This, Not This,” continues even here.

    Indeed, the mantra serves to negate everything that arises, even the most refined states of awareness. It is a tool that guides you to see that the true self, Atman, is beyond all states, beyond all experiences—even beyond the experience of witnessing.

    You are correct in thinking that the mantra would naturally stop on its own when the sense of “I” dissolves into the natural state. In this state, there is no longer a subject who perceives and an object that is perceived—there is only pure being, pure awareness, which is Atman. This state is non-dual; it is beyond the distinctions of self and other, beyond the need for a mantra, beyond the need for any practice at all.

    But until this dissolution occurs, until the “I” fully merges with the infinite, the mantra serves as your faithful guide. It may continue in the background, a gentle whisper that affirms “Not This, Not This,” as you move closer to the realization of your true nature. And yes, as you so insightfully noted, the mantra may begin again whenever the sense of “I” returns, whenever duality reappears.

    This is the natural ebb and flow of practice, dear traveler. The mantra is not something you force to stop; it stops when there is no longer an “I” to sustain it. And when the “I” re-emerges, the mantra resumes, continuing its sacred work of leading you back to the stillness, the silence, the undivided whole that is your true self.

    Continue with this understanding, with patience and trust in the process. The path of “Not This, Not This” is one of deepening subtlety, where even the most refined states are ultimately seen as steps along the way to the infinite. Your journey is leading you ever closer to the realization of Atman, where the distinctions of self and other dissolve into the pure, unchanging awareness that is your true essence.

    May your practice bring you peace and clarity, and may you continue to walk this path with grace and humility.

    🙏🕊️🙏




  • Neti Neti Series No. 2: The Mantra That Dissolves into Silence

    Question:

    As I sit in meditation, repeating the mantra “Neti Neti,” I understand that this sacred phrase helps to strip away all that I am not. Thoughts arise, and I negate them. Emotions surface, and I let them go. Even the awareness of being a witness or the experience of stillness—these too, I recognize as not the ultimate reality.

    Yet, a subtle dilemma has emerged. I wonder, what happens when the very idea of “I” who is meditating dissolves? Is it not true that as long as there is an “I” who continues the practice, the mantra “Neti Neti” must also continue? And if this is the case, does the mantra cease only when the “I” itself disappears into the natural state of pure being? In such a moment, is it the case that the mantra stops on its own, not by my choosing, but because there is no longer an “I” to hold it?

    And then, when the sense of “I” returns, does the mantra begin again naturally, as the duality of subject and object re-emerges? I seek your wisdom on this matter, for I wish to understand the true nature of this practice and its ultimate purpose.

    Dear friend,

    Your question, born from a place of sincere inquiry, touches upon the very heart of the “Neti Neti” practice. I commend you for your diligence and the subtlety of your understanding, which reveals a mind that is both reflective and deeply engaged in the journey inward.

    Yes, you have grasped a key truth: the mantra “Neti Neti” is indeed a tool for continuous negation. It is a practice of peeling away the layers of illusion, gently, one by one, until nothing remains but the pure, unadorned awareness that is your true nature.

    As long as there is an “I” who perceives itself as meditating, this “I” exists within the realm of duality—where there is a subject (the meditator) and an object (the practice, the mantra, the thoughts). In this dualistic state, the mantra serves its purpose, guiding the mind to recognize that each arising thought, each sensation, each experience of stillness or witnessing, is not the ultimate reality. “Not this, not this,” the mantra whispers, reminding you that you are not these transient phenomena.

    But what happens when the sense of “I” begins to dissolve? When the boundary between perceiver and perceived starts to blur and fade? Herein lies a profound mystery: as the “I” that meditates melts into the ocean of pure being, the mantra, too, falls silent. For in the state of non-duality, where all distinctions have vanished, there is no need for the mantra—no “I” to repeat it, no “other” to negate. What remains is the natural state, the effortless being that is beyond all concepts, all forms, all practices.

    In this state, you do not stop the mantra; rather, the mantra ceases on its own, like a river merging with the sea, no longer distinguishable as a separate entity. This silence is not a void but a fullness, an infinite expanse of awareness where the true self—Atman—is realized, free from the confines of duality.

    And yet, the journey doesn’t end there. If and when the sense of ‘I’ re-emerges, as it often does, the mantra returns naturally. This is not a step backward but a return to the dualistic state where the mind resumes its habitual patterns. The mantra then resumes its sacred task of guiding you back toward the still, silent center where the distinctions between self and other can once again dissolve.

    So, dear friend, your understanding is indeed correct. The mantra “Neti Neti” is not something to be stopped by an act of will, but rather it fades away of its own accord when there is no longer an “I” to sustain it. And when the “I” returns, the mantra too returns, ready to lead you back into the depths of stillness and silence.

    Trust in this process, and allow the practice to unfold naturally, without forcing or grasping. The journey of “Neti Neti” is one of gentle negation, patient observation, and deep surrender. In time, you will come to rest more and more in the natural state, where the mantra is no longer needed, and the self is known in its true, infinite nature.

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  • Introducing the Neti Neti Practice Series: A Journey of Self-Inquiry

    Welcome to the Practices of Neti Neti series, an exploration into one of the most profound methods of self-inquiry within the Advaita Vedanta tradition. This series is dedicated to the practice of Neti Neti—a Sanskrit phrase meaning “not this, not this”—which serves as a guide for stripping away all that is not the true Self, leading to the recognition of our pristine, unchanging nature.

    What is Neti Neti?

    Neti Neti is a process of negation that helps practitioners identify and discard false identifications with thoughts, emotions, and sensations. It is a method of peeling back the layers of the ego to reveal the stillness and silence of the pristine mind—the pure consciousness that is unaffected by the fluctuations of the mind. This practice is at the heart of Advaita Vedanta and is used to guide the seeker toward the realization of the Self, or Atman, which is ultimately one with Brahman, the universal consciousness.

    About This Series

    In this series, you will find a collection of questions and answers that delve deeply into the practice of Neti Neti. Each question is a reflection of the natural inquiries that arise during meditation and self-inquiry. The answers are written in a contemplative and encouraging style, as letters from a friend —offering wisdom, clarity, and support as you navigate your own journey of self-discovery.

    Why Questions and Answers?

    The format of questions followed by reflective answers is inspired by the teaching styles of great spiritual masters like Ramana Maharshi and Papaji. This approach allows for a dynamic exploration of the practice, addressing the doubts and insights that naturally emerge as one progresses on the path. By engaging with these questions, you’ll find that the answers are not merely intellectual responses, but invitations to deeper inquiry and realization.

    How to Use This Series

    This series is designed to be read sequentially, as the posts build upon each other, following the natural flow of practice and understanding. However, you are also welcome to explore the posts in any order, depending on where you are in your own practice.

    Each post presents a question that might arise during your meditation or reflection, followed by a letter that offers guidance on how to address it. These letters are not just answers—they are invitations to deepen your practice, to explore the subtleties of Neti Neti, and to connect with the stillness that lies beyond all mental events.

    Beginning the Journey

    As you embark on this journey through the Neti Neti practice, remember that this path is not about attaining something new, but about recognizing what has always been present. The goal is to gently guide the mind away from its distractions, allowing the pristine mind—your true nature—to shine through.

    Whether you are new to Neti Neti or looking to deepen your understanding, I invite you to explore these letters with an open heart and a quiet mind. May they serve as a steady guide on your path to self-realization.

    Engage and Explore Together

    I warmly encourage you to leave any questions or reflections in the comments section of each post. If a question resonates deeply or sparks a new line of inquiry, I may create additional blog posts to explore these topics further. Your engagement helps to create a community of shared learning, where we can all benefit from each other’s insights and experiences.

    Let us begin this journey together, one question and one insight at a time, as we uncover the truth of who we truly are.

    For those who wish to explore further the concept of pristine mind and its practices, I highly recommend Orgyen Chowang Rinpoche’s book, Pristine Mind: A Journey into Self-Awareness. Although this book does not specifically address the Neti Neti practice, it offers profound insights into the nature of pristine mind, a state of pure awareness that lies beyond the mental events and distractions that often cloud our perception. Rinpoche’s teachings provide a clear and accessible guide to realizing and resting in this natural state, which closely aligns with the ultimate goal of Neti Neti. You can explore the Kindle version of this book below, which may serve as a valuable companion on your journey of self-inquiry and spiritual awakening.

    🙏🕊️🙏

  • An Introduction to Advaita Vedanta and Self-Inquiry: A Journey to the True Self

    The purpose of this post is to offer a gentle introduction to the philosophy of Advaita Vedanta and the practice of self-inquiry. These teachings invite us to explore the true nature of the Self, to go beyond the surface identities we cling to, and to rest in the awareness that unites all of existence. For those who wish to dive deeper into these topics, I’ve included links to several related posts below, which offer further insights and practical guidance.

    The Journey into Advaita Vedanta and Self-Inquiry:

    In the quiet mystery of life, there are moments when the questions we ask begin to turn inward, drawing us closer to the core of our being. For those of us who sense the call of something deeper, something beyond the surface of everyday experience, Advaita Vedanta offers a path of profound inquiry and realization. It is a philosophy, an invitation to explore the oneness of all existence, and a reminder that our true nature lies beyond the identities we so often carry—beyond our thoughts, emotions, and physical forms.

    Advaita Vedanta, rooted in the ancient wisdom of India, whispers to us that the Self, or Atman, is not separate from the ultimate reality, often called Brahman. In Jewish mysticism, this ultimate reality is known as Ein Sof, the boundless, infinite source of all that is. In Buddhism, it is pointed to as Buddha Nature, the inherent purity and potential for awakening in every being. The Dzogchen tradition speaks of Pristine Mind, the natural state of awareness, while many Indigenous traditions refer to the Great Spirit or Grandfather as the essence that permeates all life. Though the names may differ, they all point to the same underlying truth: that we are not separate from the divine or the infinite source. This insight offers a profound shift in how we understand ourselves and the world.

    Advaita Vedanta and Self-Inquiry:

    The world, as we perceive it, is seen as a veil—a temporary illusion that hides the underlying unity of all that is. This illusion, known as Maya, clouds our awareness and leads us to believe that we are separate individuals, bound by the limitations of time, space, and our bodies. But the teachings of Advaita Vedanta remind us that the true Self, or Atman, is not bound by these limitations. Atman is one with Brahman, the unchanging, eternal reality that underlies all existence.

    The practice of self-inquiry is central to uncovering this truth. It involves turning inward and asking the fundamental question: “Who am I?” At first glance, this question may seem simple, but its implications are profound. When we ask this question sincerely, we begin to notice that the identities we typically associate with ourselves—our name, our body, our thoughts—are all temporary and subject to change. If we are not our body, not our thoughts, not our emotions, then who are we?

    This process of questioning leads us deeper and deeper into the nature of the Self. Rather than seeking an intellectual answer, self-inquiry encourages us to observe the experience of “I”—the feeling of being, of awareness itself. By turning our attention inward, we can trace the sense of “I” back to its source, discovering that our true essence is pure awareness, untouched by the fluctuations of the mind or the conditions of the world.

    Ramana Maharshi, one of the great sages of modern times, taught that the practice of self-inquiry is the most direct path to realizing this truth. He encouraged seekers to continually ask, “Who am I?” and to follow this inquiry until the ego, or the false sense of self, dissolves into the pure awareness of the Self. This awareness is not a distant goal to be achieved but is ever-present, simply waiting to be recognized beneath the layers of thought and identification.

    The Benefits of Engaging in Self-Inquiry:

    For those new to this practice, the benefits of self-inquiry may not be immediately obvious. It’s easy to get caught up in the mind’s need for answers and certainty. However, the more we engage with this inquiry, the more we begin to experience a profound shift in how we relate to ourselves and the world around us. The practice of self-inquiry gradually dissolves the boundaries between the self and the other, leading to a direct experience of oneness, or non-duality.

    This realization brings about a sense of inner peace and freedom that is not dependent on external circumstances. By understanding that we are not the fluctuating thoughts, emotions, or experiences of the body, we become less attached to the ups and downs of life. Self-inquiry allows us to rest in the awareness that remains unchanged and undisturbed, no matter what arises in the mind or in the world.

    Furthermore, as we deepen our practice, we begin to see that the same awareness that we discover within ourselves is present in all beings. This insight fosters compassion, kindness, and a sense of connection with others, as we realize that, at the deepest level, we are all expressions of the same underlying reality.

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    Here are some related posts for diving deeper into this topic:

    Seeing Beyond Our Senses: Expanding Perception in the Practice of Self-Inquiry and Advaita Vedanta

    For those beginning their journey, you might find it helpful to explore how our sensory perceptions are limited, as described in the post “Seeing Beyond Our Senses: Expanding Perception in the Practice of Self-Inquiry and Advaita Vedanta”. Explore the limits of human perception and discover how self-inquiry and Advaita Vedanta can help you see beyond the physical senses to realize the true nature of the self. This blog post delves into the teachings of Pravrajika Divyanandaprana, emphasizing the importance of expanding consciousness beyond the sensory world in the pursuit of self-realization and non-dual awareness.

    An Introduction to Ramana Maharshi’s Forty Verses on Reality

    In the teachings of Ramana Maharshi, self-inquiry is seen as the most direct path to uncovering our true Self. His work, “An Introduction to Ramana Maharshi’s Forty Verses on Reality” outlines how we can dissolve the ego through the persistent practice of asking “Who am I?” and tracing the source of the ‘I’ thought. Discover the essence of self-inquiry (Atma Vichara) and non-duality as elucidated by one of the greatest spiritual masters of the 20th century. This introduction provides an overview of the key themes, including the illusion of the ego, the nature of the true Self, and the path to self-realization. Whether you’re a seeker of Advaita Vedanta or interested in spiritual awakening, this guide offers valuable insights into the timeless wisdom of Ramana Maharshi.

    Penetrating the Five Sheaths: A Path to Self-Inquiry and Realization

    For a more practical understanding of self-inquiry, you may want to read “Penetrating the Five Sheaths: A Path to Self-Inquiry and Realization” which explains the layers of identity that must be transcended to reach the core of the Self. This post guides you through the koshas—the sheaths that veil our true essence. Explore the transformative practice of self-inquiry in Advaita Vedanta through the penetrating process of the five sheaths (koshas). Discover how questioning “Who am I?” or “What am I?” can help transcend physical, mental, and emotional identities to uncover the true Self, or Atman. Learn practical applications, integration with meditation, and the profound journey towards self-realization and pure awareness. Join our community in understanding the deeper layers of existence and achieving spiritual growth.

    Introduction to Raja Yoga: The Path of Meditation and Mental Discipline

    Similarly, in “Introduction to Raja Yoga: The Path of Meditation and Mental Discipline” we explore how mental discipline can complement self-inquiry by calming the mind and preparing it for deeper introspection. Meditation helps us quiet the mind so we can observe the fluctuations and see the truth beyond. Explore Raja Yoga, the “Royal Path” of meditation and mental discipline, in this introductory post. Learn how the eightfold path (Ashtanga) of Raja Yoga, as outlined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, guides practitioners toward self-realization and spiritual enlightenment. Discover the key principles of mental clarity, emotional stability, and inner peace, and how Raja Yoga integrates aspects of other yoga paths to lead to ultimate spiritual awakening. This post offers insights rooted in the teachings of Advaita Vedanta and spiritual leaders like Ramakrishna, Swami Sivananda, and Swami Vivekananda, making it ideal for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of meditation and the deeper aspects of yoga.

    Self-Inquiry and Meditation: A Pathway to Inner Awareness

    In “Self-Inquiry and Meditation: A Pathway to Inner Awareness” you’ll find insights on how combining meditation with self-inquiry sharpens our awareness and leads to the realization of our true Self. Discover the transformative power of self-inquiry and meditation in this comprehensive guide based on Pravrajika Divyanandaprana’s teachings. Learn how the ancient practice of asking “Who am I?” or “What am I?” can dissolve the ego, increase awareness, and lead to profound inner peace. This blog post delves into the integration of self-inquiry with meditation, offering practical steps for spiritual awakening and personal growth. Ideal for those exploring Advaita Vedanta, mindfulness, and non-dual awareness, this guide provides a pathway to uncover your true self.

    Deepening the Practice of Self-Inquiry

    If you are ready to deepen your practice even further, you may enjoy “Deepening the Practice of Self-Inquiry” which explores how the question “Who am I?” can be applied to everything we experience. It encourages us to witness all thoughts and sensations from a place of stillness and curiosity. Explore the profound practice of Self-Inquiry (Atma Vichara) to deepen your understanding of non-duality and the nature of the ‘I-thought.’ This comprehensive guide provides key insights, practical steps, and reflection points to help you recognize all experiences as expressions of Brahman or pristine mind. Learn how to cultivate a unified awareness, dissolve the separation between the observer and the observed, and rest in the underlying awareness that remains constant amidst mental fluctuations. Whether you’re new to self-inquiry or seeking to deepen your practice, this post offers valuable guidance for your journey towards self-realization and inner peace.

    Witnessing the Journey: Strengthening the Seer in Life’s Transitions

    In life’s many transitions, it can be helpful to recognize the steady witness within us. In “Witnessing the Journey: Strengthening the Seer in Life’s Transitions” we reflect on how this witnessing presence remains unchanged even as external circumstances shift. In this reflective blog post, explore the deepening of witness consciousness, non-duality, and spiritual growth through life’s transitions. Drawing on insights from Buddhist teachings, Advaita Vedanta, and Jewish mysticism, we discuss how to strengthen the seer within by balancing trust, detachment, and awareness. Whether you’re navigating challenges like moving, illness, or emotional fluctuations, this post offers practical guidance for cultivating inner peace, mindfulness, and the presence of awareness. Learn how the journey from the mind to the heart opens the door to the divine and leaves behind wisdom for others on the path. A profound exploration of karma yoga, meditative mind, and the union of Atman and Brahman.

    Caravan of Love: The Universal Path of Righteousness Across All Traditions

    For an exploration of the universal values that connect spiritual traditions across cultures, “Caravan of Love: The Universal Path of Righteousness Across All Traditions” delves into the shared principles of righteousness and compassion, uniting people from all walks of life. This post explores the universal values shared across major world religions, highlighting how concepts like Sadhu Dharma, Tzaddikim, and being a Mensch align with the teachings of Jesus and the principles of Islam and Buddhism. It invites readers to reflect on the shared human quest for a life of righteousness, compassion, and inner peace, offering a path to greater interfaith harmony.

    Embracing the Eternal Now: Cultivating Spiritual Presence in Daily Life

    The post “Embracing the Eternal Now: Cultivating Spiritual Presence in Daily Life” offers insights into how we can cultivate mindfulness and equanimity, bringing the practice of presence into every moment of life. Discover the transformative power of living in the present moment with Embracing the Eternal Now: Cultivating Spiritual Presence in Daily Life. This blog post explores how mindfulness, equanimity, and spiritual connection can bring profound peace and clarity to your everyday life. Through practices rooted in Christian and Jewish traditions, learn how to listen to the ‘still small voice’ within, connect with the Holy Spirit, and respond to life’s challenges with balance and calm. Dive deep into the wisdom of ‘Hineni’ and uncover the sacred space where true spiritual awakening begins.

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  • Poem: Look to the Moon

    The finger points to where the moon does shine,
    But gaze not at the hand that beckons you.
    Let go the grasp of thoughts that claim as mine,
    And turn your sight to what is pure and true.

    Ramana speaks of Self, the quiet core,
    Where all the world and mind do gently fade.
    Orgyen’s Pristine Mind, and Buddha’s lore,
    Reveal the light that nothing can degrade.

    In God’s vast silence, there you’ll find the key,
    A truth that words and thoughts cannot contain.
    Release the need to seek, just let it be,
    For in the stillness, all is clear and plain.

    Stop searching for the truth outside, afar,
    The moon is shining, constant in the night.
    Turn inward now and see just where you are,
    The light you seek is your own inner light.

    Midnight.
    No waves,
    No wind,
    The empty boat
    Is flooded with moonlight.


    — Zen Master Dogen

    🙏🕊️🙏