Behind My Hand

Svasvarupanusamdhanam bhaktirityabhidhiyate. Svatmatattvanusamdhanam bhaktirityapare joguh. (Vivekacudamani) ——— svasvarupa means “true nature”. svatmatattva means “principle of one’s nature”.  Translation: “Reflecting by constant enquiry into the true nature of one’s own form is called “Bhakti”.” “Others say investigation into the principle of one’s own nature is “Bhakti”.” In the second case the “Atman” is seen as an abstract concept to be investigated requiring subject and object (indirect investigation). In the first it is the fundamental state of being and not an abstract concept. No object required (direct investigation). The first should be the attitude of the vicharin.  At first glance this might be seen as a subtle and philosophical distinction. However this is a fundamental point of importance. Sanskrit quotation from Vivekacudamani 31/32 cf. Ramana Maharshi in Talks 274 & 642