The Miracle of Self Realization: A View from I Perspective

This contribution is rooted in Indian spirituality, more specifically in the tradition of dvaita Vednta or the philosophy of non-dualism. In this paper, an attempt is made to outline the biggest miracle of all, namely, the miracle of self-realization, I. In this paper, an attempt is made to demonstrate the limited nature of scholarship and worldly knowledge in the spiritual journey. By intellect is meant the pursuit of worldly knowledge (Loka vicra). We will seek to show that (a) spirituality is primarily about self- realization. (b) that the pursuit of scholarship is of little use in this search for self-realization; (indeed, it is a positive obstacle), and that (c) self-enquiry (tm Vicra) or surrender are the best means to achieve the goal. In this paper, we take it for granted that the words of a self Realized Master represent the supreme Truth as they emanate from his or her inner self. It is for this reason that so much important is attached to them in Indian spiritual traditions. Sri Ramana, the great Indian saint uniquely voiced that, The I casts off the illusion of I and yet remains as I. such is the paradox of Self-Realization. If you give up I and Mine, all are given up at one stroke. The very seed of possession is nipped in the bud or crushed in the germ itself. The self cannot be objectified because its Reality is not objective. It is entirely subject, it is the only subject. It is not through the mind, but by conquering the mind that the state of Self-Realization is achieved. The central challenge in all management is realizing the nature of oneself. The advancement of humankind is best served when a human being connects with his or her own dignity. In Indian spirituality, the world is best served when self understanding proceeds helping others. The world is changed for the better when we change ourselves. The key to a better world is self realization.