“Be As You Are: The Teachings of Sri Ramana Maharshi” is a definitive collection of conversations and teachings from one of India’s most revered spiritual masters. Edited by David Godman, the book compiles the essence of Sri Ramana Maharshi’s wisdom, guiding seekers toward self-realization and liberation. In this comprehensive summary and review, we’ll explore all 21 chapters in six thematic parts, unpack the author’s message, and show how these teachings can transform your mindset and relationships.
Part 1: The Self
Chapter 1: The Nature of the Self
Sri Ramana Maharshi teaches that the true Self is not the individual ego but a universal consciousness that is always present. The Self is the silent witness behind all experiences, not the body, mind, or ego, but pure awareness that observes without attachment. Realizing this Self leads to liberation from suffering and the cycle of birth and death.
Chapter 2: Self-Awareness and Self-Ignorance
Ramana distinguishes between self-awareness and self-ignorance. Self-awareness is recognizing the true Self, while self-ignorance is identifying with the ego and its thoughts. He teaches that all suffering arises from self-ignorance, and true peace comes from self-awareness.
Chapter 3: The Jnani
The jnani, or realized being, is one who has realized the true Self. Ramana describes the jnani as someone who sees only the Self and is free from the illusion of separateness. The jnani’s presence is a source of peace and liberation for others.
Part 2: Enquiry and Surrender
Chapter 4: Self-Enquiry—Theory
Self-enquiry is the practice of asking “Who am I?” and tracing the “I”-thought back to its source. Ramana teaches that the mind is a bundle of thoughts, and the “I”-thought is the root of all. By tracing this thought to its source, one discovers the true Self.
Chapter 5: Self-Enquiry—Practice
Ramana provides practical guidance for self-enquiry. He advises putting attention on the inner feeling of “I” and holding that feeling as long as possible. When distracted by other thoughts, one should revert to awareness of the “I”-thought. The ultimate aim is to be continuously aware of the “I” that assumes responsibility for all activities.
Chapter 6: Self-Enquiry—Misconceptions
Ramana addresses common misconceptions about self-enquiry. He clarifies that self-enquiry is not a mental exercise but a direct experience of the Self. The practice is not about achieving a new state but realizing what is already there.
Chapter 7: Surrender
Surrender is the act of giving up the ego and all sense of “I” and “mine”. Ramana teaches that surrender to the Lord or the Self is a powerful means of liberation. By surrendering, one lets go of all worries and anxieties and experiences true peace.
Part 3: The Guru
Chapter 8: The Guru
The guru is a guide who helps seekers realize the Self. Ramana emphasizes the importance of the guru’s presence and guidance in the spiritual journey.
Chapter 9: Silence and Sat-Sanga
Silence is a powerful form of teaching. Ramana often taught in silence, allowing seekers to experience the Self directly. Sat-sanga, or association with the wise, is also a valuable practice for spiritual growth.
Part 4: Meditation and Yoga
Chapter 10: Meditation and Concentration
Meditation and concentration are practices that help quiet the mind and focus attention on the Self. Ramana teaches that these practices are useful but not essential, as the true Self is always present.
Chapter 11: Mantras and Japa
Mantras and japa (repetition of sacred sounds) are tools for focusing the mind. Ramana suggests that these practices can help seekers develop concentration and devotion.
Chapter 12: Life in the World
Ramana teaches that self-realization is possible in any circumstance, including daily life. He emphasizes that with a little practice, self-enquiry can be done under any conditions.
Chapter 13: Yoga
Yoga is a path of discipline and practice that leads to self-realization. Ramana sees yoga as a means to quiet the mind and focus attention on the Self.
Part 5: Experience
Chapter 14: Samadhi
Samadhi is a state of deep absorption in the Self. Ramana describes samadhi as a state of unbroken awareness of the Self.
Chapter 15: Visions and Psychic Powers
Ramana warns against being attached to visions and psychic powers, which can be distractions from the true path. He teaches that the goal is realization of the Self, not the acquisition of special powers.
Chapter 16: Problems and Experiences
Ramana addresses the problems and experiences that arise on the spiritual path. He emphasizes that all experiences, whether positive or negative, are opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
Part 6: Theory
Chapter 17: Creation Theories and the Reality of the World
Ramana discusses various creation theories and the reality of the world. He teaches that the world is a manifestation of the Self and that true reality is the Self.
Chapter 18: Reincarnation
Ramana explains the concept of reincarnation as the cycle of birth and death. He teaches that liberation from this cycle comes from realizing the Self.
Chapter 19: The Nature of God
Ramana describes God as the Self, the ultimate reality. He teaches that “I am” is God, not thinking “I am God”.
Chapter 20: Suffering and Mortality
Ramana addresses the nature of suffering and mortality. He teaches that suffering arises from self-ignorance and that true peace comes from self-awareness.
Chapter 21: Karma, Destiny, and Free Will
Ramana discusses karma, destiny, and free will. He teaches that there are two ways to conquer destiny: by enquiring for whom destiny exists and discovering that only the ego is bound by destiny, or by surrendering completely to the Lord.
The Author’s Message: What Sri Ramana Maharshi Wants to Convey
At the heart of “Be As You Are” is the message that self-realization is the vital quest we must all pursue. Sri Ramana Maharshi wants readers to understand that the true Self is always present, and that liberation from suffering comes from realizing this Self. He emphasizes that self-realization is not about achieving a new state but realizing what is already there. By practicing self-enquiry, surrender, and meditation, readers can discover their true nature and experience lasting peace and freedom.
Is “Be As You Are” Worth Reading?
Based on reviews and reader feedback, “Be As You Are” is praised for its clarity, practicality, and spiritual wisdom. Readers appreciate Ramana Maharshi’s ability to make complex spiritual teachings accessible and relevant to modern life. The book is particularly helpful for anyone seeking to cultivate mindfulness, improve self-esteem, and find greater meaning in their daily actions.
If you are ready to embrace your true nature and live more authentically, “Be As You Are: The Teachings of Sri Ramana Maharshi” is a powerful and inspiring place to start.
FAQs
Q1. What is the main teaching of Be As You Are?
The main teaching is self-enquiry—asking “Who am I?” to realize the true Self, which is pure awareness beyond the ego.
Q2. Who was Sri Ramana Maharshi?
Sri Ramana Maharshi was a revered Indian sage and spiritual teacher known for his teachings on self-realization and non-duality.
Q3. How does self-enquiry work?
Self-enquiry involves tracing the “I”-thought back to its source, letting go of identification with the ego, and abiding in pure awareness.
Q4. Can self-realization be achieved while living in the world?
Yes, Ramana Maharshi taught that self-realization is possible in any situation, including daily life, with consistent practice.
Q5. What role does surrender play in Ramana’s teachings?
Surrender means letting go of the ego and all sense of “I” and “mine,” leading to peace and liberation.