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QUESTION
19
Disciple: Although I have listened to the explanation
of the characteristics of enquiry in such great detail,
my mind has not gained even a little peace. What is
the reason for this?
Master:
The reason is the absence of strength or one-pointedness
of the mind.
QUESTION 20
Disciple: What is the reason for the absence of
mental strength?
Master:
The means that make one qualified for enquiry are meditation,
yoga, etc. One should gain proficiency in these through
graded practice, and thus secure a stream of mental
modes that is natural and helpful. When the mind that
has in this manner become ripe, listens to the present
enquiry, it will at once realize its true nature which
is the Self, and remain in perfect peace, without deviating
from that state. To a mind which has not become ripe,
immediate realization and peace are hard to gain through
listening to enquiry. Yet, if one practices the means
for mind-control for some time, peace of mind can be
obtained eventually.
QUESTION 21
Disciple: Of the means for mind-control, which is
the most important?
Master:
Breath-control is the means for mind-control.
QUESTION
22
Disciple: How is breath to be controlled?
Master:
Breath can be controlled either by absolute retention
of breath (kevala-kumbhaka) or by regulation
of breath (pranayama).
Copyright
Sri Ramanasramam, Tiruvannamalai, India.
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