self-enquiry: only a tool to direct the mind back to its source

[Guest guest]

When I entered the hall a discussion was going on about self-enquiry.

Bhagavan was in his usual posture with adorable countenance.

A frequent visitor said:

 

Visitor:

Bhagavan has said that self-enquiry is simple, direct and effective.

Though I try to follow the same I cannot say I have understood it.

I put the question 'Who am I?' but there is no proper response from within.

However, I am getting a sort of stillness.

 

Bhagavan:

How can you get the answer in words? It is not a regular mental

enquiry to elicit a concrete answer. It is only a tool to direct the the

mind back to its source.

 

Visitor:

Yes, I follow. But the result is not clear to me.

There is a short stillness which does not last.

 

Bhagavan:

You should be steadfast in sadhana.

By repeating the process you fix attention on the ego, the 'I' thought.

Whenever the doubt arises repeat the process and make the enquiry.

Try to reach the source of the ego.

Once you reach the source, by one-pointed effort,

your peace will not be disturbed.

 

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More Talks with Sri Ramana Maharshi, p. 34

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