"Meditation vs Investigation" - From Talks

[Guest guest]

Seeker: When I read Sri Bhagavan's works, I find that

investigation is said to be the one method for Realization.

 

Sri Ramana Maharshi: Yes, that is vichara.

 

S: How is that done?

 

M: The questioner must admit the existence of his or her self. "I

AM" is the Realization. To pursue the clue till Realization is

vichara. Vichara and Realization are the same.

 

S: It is elusive. What shall I meditate upon?

 

M: Meditation requires an object to meditate upon, whereas there

is only the subject without the object in vichara. Meditation

differs from vichara in this way.

 

S: Is not dhyana one of the efficient processes for Realization?

 

M: Dhyana is concentration on an object. It fulfils the purpose of

keeping away diverse thoughts and fixing the mind on a single

thought, which must also disappear before Realization. But

Realization is nothing new to be acquired. It is already there, but

obstructed by a screen of thoughts. All our attempts are directed

for lifting this screen, and then Realization is revealed.

If a true seeker is advised to meditate, many may go away

satisfied with the advice. But some one among them may turn round,

and ask, "Who am I to meditate on an object?" Such a one must be

told to find the Self. That is the finality. That is vichara.

 

S: Will vichara alone do in the absence of meditation?

 

Sri Ramana Maharshi: Vichara is the process and the goal also. "I

AM" is the goal and the final Reality. To hold to it with effort is

vichara. When spontaneous and natural it is Realization.

 

Talks 390.