Ramana Maharshi
The Sage of Arunachala
30th Dec. 1879 to 14th April 1950
Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi, known as The Sage of Arunachala, is widely recognised as perhaps the most unique spiritual personality of the 20th Century. His life was a perfect example of simplicity, purity, equality and equanimity, born from an unalterable experience of supreme peace and oneness. He was a rare, pure channel of Divine Grace, that purposely made itself available to all living beings twenty-four hours a day.
His highest teaching of 'Self-enquiry' was understood in the infinite silence of his presence. Through this silence, countless numbers of devotees and visitors experienced the pure bliss of True Being. That same experience of perfect peace is still available to sincere souls who turn to him and practice his teachings with devotion. This act of perfect grace can be experienced anywhere, but it is especially palpable at his Ashrama in South India at the foot of the holy Arunachala Hill, a hill that has attracted saints and sages for thousands of years.
The Maharshi's teaching of 'Self-enquiry' (Pure Advaita) is simplicity itself, requiring no outward formalities, no outer change of life, only a simple change in 'point of view' and a sustained effort on the part of the seeker. The goal is no heaven after death or a faraway ideal, but rather the removal of the ignorance that prevents us from knowing that we are eternally one with our Source, the Supreme Self, or God. It is an experience than can be had now. All that is required is a sincere effort, which earns us the necessary grace.
On his deathbed the Maharshi told his grieving devotees, "You say I am going away, but where can I go? I am always here. You give too much importance to the body." His promise of a 'continued presence' is daily being experienced by numerous admirers and devotees from around the world, and it is that experience of 'continued presence' that has inspired many to devote themselves to the path of peace and love.
Devotees are not required to give up their current faith in God ( however perceived ) and practices of devotion or worship, in fact they are encouraged to continue in them as long as benefit is perceived. Self-enquiry does not require the seeker to leave home, job, family or anything else. Progress depends only upon effort and nothing else and help in Sadhana (Spiritual effort) is always available. |
