Talks with Sri Ramana Maharshi Complete ... - BrahminVoice.org

Talks with Sri Ramana Maharshi
Still again the illustration is not quite appropriate. For the ego has
its source from the Self and is not separate like the background
from the crystal. Having its source from the Self, the ego must only
be retraced in order that it might merge in its source.
The centre of the ego and its core is called the Heart, the same as
the Self.
A gentleman asked if the yogis also reach the anahata and thus realise
the Heart-centre as is done by the jnanis but in a different way.
M.: Anahata is not the same as the Heart-centre. If so, why should
they wander further on to Sahasrara? Moreover, the question arises
because of the sense of separateness persisting in us. We are never
away from the Heart-centre. Before reaching anahata or after
passing it, one is only in the centre. Whether one understands it or
not, one is not away from the centre. Practice of yoga or vichara
is done, always remaining in the centre only.
D.: What is to be our sadhana?
M.: Sadhana for the sadhaka is the sahaja of the siddha. Sahaja is
the original state, so that sadhana amounts to the removal of the
obstacles to the realisation of this abiding truth.
D.: Is concentration of mind one of the sadhanas?
M.: Concentration is not thinking one thing. It is, on the other hand,
putting off all other thoughts which obstruct the vision of our
true nature. All our efforts are only directed to lifting the veil of
ignorance. Now it appears difficult to quell the thoughts. In the
regenerate state it will be found more difficult to call in thoughts.
For are there things to think of? There is only the Self. Thoughts
can function only if there are objects. But there are no objects. How
can thoughts arise at all?
The habit makes us believe that it is difficult to cease thinking. If
the error is found out, one would not be fool enough to exert oneself
unnecessarily by way of thinking.
D.: Is not grace more effective than abhyasa?
M.: Guru simply helps you in the eradication of ignorance. Does he
hand over Realisation to you?
D.: We are ignorant.
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