selfenquiry

Self-enquiry (also spelled self-inquiry) is a meditative practice in certain Indian spiritual traditions that aims to reveal the true nature of the self. In Advaita Vedanta, and particularly in the teachings attributed to Ramana Maharshi, it is described as a direct path to self-realization that transcends conceptual knowledge. The core practice is simple in form but demanding in discipline: repeatedly directing attention to the sense of “I” or to the question “Who am I?”, and tracing the sense of ego back to its source. When thoughts or emotions arise, the practitioner asks, “To whom do these arise?” and follows the inquiry to the source of the sense of agency. The aim is experiential insight into awareness itself, rather than the accumulation of beliefs.

Historically, self-enquiry traces to Advaita Vedanta and has been developed by later teachers; it gained broad popular attention in the 20th century through Ramana Maharshi, who taught that self-realization comes through sustained inquiry rather than ritual, external practices, or devotional activity alone.

In modern contexts, some interpreters relate it to mindfulness or other contemplative approaches, but the emphasis remains nondual realization rather than symptom relief. Critics note that it can be challenging without guidance and that interpretations vary among teachers. Proponents emphasize its potential to transform identification from the ego to pure awareness.

Related topics include Advaita Vedanta, Ramana Maharshi, nonduality, meditation.