Ramana Gita I, 12-13

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Verse 5

For seekers of truth, is the critical study of the scriptures alone

enough for liberation? Or is spiritual practice in accordance

with Guru's guidance also necessary?

 

Verse 12

There is no doubt that mere critical study of scriptures cannot liberate

the one seeking truth.

Without 'Upasana', spiritual practice, there cannot be attainment.

This is certain.

 

Verse 13

Experience of the natural state during spiritual practice is called

'Upasana'. When that itself is unwaveringly attained,

it is called 'Knowledge' [jnana].

 

Commentary

The term 'upasana' or 'sitting near' has been differently interpreted.

According to some it is the study in depth of the scriptures.

Some others say that it is the spiritual practice in accordance with

the guru's guidance. Yet others say that it is the continuous repetition

of the holy mantras.

In line with the enquiry method taught by him Ramana equates it with

intermittent abidance in one's natural state during spiritual practice.

The emphasis clearly shifts to practice and experience.

When such abidance becomes steady it is termed Knowledge.

The means and the end are not different.

 

The question also arises as to what is the natural state reffered to. ...

It is the state in which all outward mental movements have ceased.

In that state one is inundated by bliss and consciousness shines in all

its fullness. ...

Implicit in the reply is the idea that knowledge and ignorance can alternate

till knowledge becomes steady. How does this fit with the concept that

when knowledge dawns ignorance ends once and for all?

That refers to the state of attainment, when abidance is unshaken by

sense attractions. During practice, when the experience of the natural

state is not yet stabilised, one moves away to ignorance.

 

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Ramana Gita, transl. and commentary by A.R. Natarajan

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