01
Reversing Attention
Ordinary attention flows outward to objects (sights, sounds, thoughts). Self-Inquiry reverses this flow, turning the light of awareness back onto its own source. It asks: 'Who is aware of these objects?'
Scope of Investigation
Self-Inquiry is the direct path of self-realization taught by Ramana Maharshi. It is a phenomenological investigation into the root of personal identity. Rather than analyzing thoughts, it traces the 'I-thought' back to its silent origin.
02
The Death of the Ego
The separate ego exists by identifying with thoughts and memories. As attention remains fixed on the core sense of 'I', the conceptual ego dissolves. This leaves only the silent, self-evident presence of the Self.
03
Abidance in the Source (Jnana)
The transition from the active questioning ('Who am I?') to silent abidance in the source of attention, where the mind dissolves in the Heart. This is not a state of unconsciousness, but the realization of pure being.
Key Thinkers
Recommended Readings
Be As You AreDavid Godman ed.