Grace and Self-Effort

Ramana Maharshi taught that both grace and self-effort are necessary for Self-realization. Self-effort opens the door, and grace enters.

Ramana Maharshi taught that both grace and self-effort are necessary for Self-realization. Self-effort is necessary to remove the obstacles that prevent one from recognizing the Self. But ultimately, it is grace that reveals the Self.

Self-effort includes the practice of self-inquiry, meditation, and surrender. These practices help to quieten the mind and remove the obstacles. But the final realization comes through grace, which is always available but must be received with an open heart.

The relationship between grace and self-effort is like that between a key and a door. Self-effort is the key that opens the door, but grace is what enters. Both are necessary, and both work together to bring about Self-realization.