in the still depths of the Self

[Guest guest]

Maharshi: Those who have discovered great Truths have done so in the still

depths of the Self. The ego is like one's shadow thrown on the ground. If one

attempts to bury it, it will be foolish. The Self is only one. If limited it is

the ego. If unlimited it is Infinite and is the Reality. The bubbles are

different from one another and numerous, but the ocean is only one. Similarly

the egos are many, whereas the Self is one and only one. When told that you are

not the ego, realise the Reality. Why do you still identify yourself with the

ego? It is like saying, " Don't think of the monkey while taking medicine " - it

is impossible. Similarly it happens with common folk. When the Reality is

mentioned why do you continue to meditate Sivoham or Aham Brahmasmi? The

significance must be traced and understood. It is not enough to repeat the bare

words or think of them. Reality is simply the loss of the ego. Destroy the ego

by seeking its identity. Because the ego is no entity it will automatically

vanish and Reality will shine forth by itself. This is the direct method.

Whereas all other methods are done, only retaining the ego. In those paths there

arise so many doubts and the eternal question remains to be tackled finally. But

in this method the final question is the only one and it is raised from the very

beginning. No sadhanas are necessary for engaging in this quest. There is no

greater mystery than this - viz., ourselves being the Reality we seek to gain

Reality. We think that there is something hiding our Reality and that it must be

destroyed before the Reality is gained. It is ridiculous. A day will dawn when

you will yourself laugh at your past efforts. That which will be on the day you

laugh is also here and now.

 

Talks with Sri Ramana Maharshi