The Practicality of the Teaching

Ramana Maharshi's teaching is practical and can be practiced in daily life. It does not require one to renounce the world or to live in isolation.

Ramana Maharshi's teaching is practical and can be practiced in daily life. It does not require one to renounce the world, to live in isolation, or to give up one's responsibilities. Self-inquiry can be practiced while living a normal life, while working, while taking care of family, and while engaging in all the activities of daily life.

The practice is simple: whenever thoughts arise, ask "Who am I?" and trace the "I" thought to its source. This can be done at any time, in any situation. One does not need special conditions or circumstances to practice self-inquiry.

This practicality makes the teaching accessible to all. One does not need to be a monk or a renunciate to practice it. One can practice it while living in the world, fulfilling one's duties, and engaging in all the activities of life. The practice enriches life rather than requiring one to escape from it.