Recent years have seen the idea of ‘Self-Inquiry’ skyrocket in popularity, championed by figures like Eckhart Tolle and Deepak Chopra. Not only is it hailed as an essential tool for personal development and well-being, but it also offers a beacon for those seeking authenticity in our labyrinthine modern world.
In titles like ‘The Power of Now’ and ‘A New Earth’, Tolle explores the facets of the ego, the value of the present, and the importance of self-awareness. Central to Tolle’s teachings is the principle of self-inquiry, urging readers to introspect for clarity and tranquility. Likewise, industry mainstay Deepak Chopra underscores the role of self-inquiry in achieving both spiritual clarity and personal development in his extensive body of work.
While it might conjure images of New Age retreats, the roots of Self-Inquiry dig deep into age-old spiritual foundations. Notably, the modern resonance of “Self-Inquiry” owes much to Indian sage Ramana Maharshi. He championed the introspective question, “Who am I?”, urging individuals to peel back layers of ego to discover their authentic selves.
Until the Self is realized, life is experienced as we commonly know it. The tangible world exists, our emotions fluctuate, and we navigate life’s ups and downs.
The central principle behind Self-Inquiry is to turn one’s attention inward, seeking to understand the nature of the “self” or “I” that we identify with. The ultimate aim of Self-inquiry is Self-Realization or the recognition of one’s true nature as pure consciousness. This recognition is also known as enlightenment.
By understanding the illusory nature of the ego, practitioners can transcend suffering and duality, experiencing a state of oneness with all existence.
Understanding Self-Inquiry
At its core, Self-inquiry involves a persistent introspection with the question “Who am I?”. Instead of searching for an external answer, the practitioner acknowledges that the “I” — the questioner — is a creation of our minds. By deeply reflecting on this question, we aim to move beyond our assumed identity and realize that our true essence is nothing but pure consciousness.
Sri Ashish’s Personal Experience with Self-Inquiry
When Sri Ashish first encountered the practice, the seemingly simple question of “Who am I?” took on profound depths. With diligent introspection, he began to see that the roles he identified with — be it a teacher, a son, or a friend — weren’t his true essence but transient identities.
During one particularly intense session of Self-inquiry, Sri Ashish experienced a profound silence, a space where the relentless noise of thoughts ceased. It was a moment of clarity, a recognition of his true nature beyond the worldly labels.
How to begin?
Starting out on the journey of Self-inquiry can be both enriching and challenging. For beginners, it’s important to understand that Self-inquiry is not just a technique but a way of life. Here are some steps to guide you on this introspective path:
1. Understand the Basics:
Before embarking on this journey, familiarize yourself with the fundamental concepts behind Self-inquiry. Reading works by sages like Ramana Maharshi or contemporary teachers like Eckhart Tolle, or Sri Ashish, can provide a foundational understanding.
2. Commit to Regular Practice:
Dedicate a specific time each day for Self-inquiry. It could be during your morning routine, before bedtime, or any time you find suitable. Consistency is crucial.
3. Start with a Simple Question
The foundational question in Self-inquiry is “Who am I?”. Sit in a quiet space, close your eyes, and silently ask this question to yourself. Don’t search for an answer; instead, focus on the feeling and space that arises after posing the question.
4. Note Your Initial Reactions
As you ask the question, various answers might pop up: I am a mother, I am an engineer, I am happy, and so on. Observe these answers without judgment, and then delve deeper by asking, “Who is the one observing these roles or emotions?”
Worldviews through the Lens of Self-Realization
Once Self-Realization, or enlightenment is discovered/experienced, whether momentarily or permanently, concepts of non-dualism become apparent. As Sri Ashish writes in “I AM Ashish to “I AM”:
“Non-dualism says there is only one Reality or Self. All of us are this Self, but we do not know it because of the external noise or our ignorance. When the mind is still and removed from the external world, this Self is revealed to us as pure awareness, which is blissful and often described in the older scriptures of Hinduism as Sat-Chit-Ananda (Being-Awareness-Bliss).”
As Sri Ashish describes it, there’s a realization that the world, objects, and even suffering are mere perceptions. A Self-Realized individual dwells in a state of Sat-Chit-Anand, embracing life’s joys and sorrows with equal equanimity.
Embarking on the path of Self-inquiry might seem challenging, but its rewards are profound. By continuously reflecting on the question “Who am I?”, we can slowly peel away the layers of our conditioned self, revealing the luminous consciousness within.