Sri Bhagavan's Replies to Questions

[Guest guest]

(The following are replies from Bhagavan on the practice of self-enquiry, as

recorded by Sri D.G.D. on 2.8.1944 and submitted as a chapter in " Surpassing

Love and Grace - an offering from His devotees. "

 

1. Japa of koham is not correct. Put the question once and then concentrate

on finding the source of the ego, and preventing occurrence of thoughts.

 

2. You should not attend to the breathing if you are capable of

concentrating on the enquiry without it. Some may have to attend to the

breathing if unable to concentrate on the enquiry alone. Some may practice

kevala kumbhaka during the enquiry. Some may require the help of regular

pranayama also to steady the mind an control thoughts. All these practices

are to be given up when the mind becomes strong enough to pursue the enquiry

without any aid. Pranayama is to be practised with the usual caution. It

will gradually increase the power and duration of kumbhaka. It will make the

mind one pointed. Take help if unable to concentrate without it. Pranayama

is like reins to control the mind horse, or like brakes to control wheels of

thought... 'Who am I?' and 'Whence am I?' are one and the same. They refer

to the ego only. No such questions can be asked in the case of the Real

Self.

 

To be continued....

 

[Notes: " Japa of Koham " - repetition of the question " Who am I? " is not the

practice. " Kevala Kumbhaka " - natural, effortless, retention of the breath.

Peter]

 

 

Peter