vichara

Vichara (Sanskrit vicāra) means inquiry, discernment, or contemplation. In Hindu philosophical usage, it denotes a disciplined form of reflection aimed at truth, especially the investigation into the nature of the self and reality. In Advaita Vedanta, vichara is closely associated with atma-vichara or self-enquiry, a practice designed to discern the true self from the body, mind, and ego.

Practically, vichara involves turning attention inward and repeatedly asking questions such as "Who am I?" or analyzing the arising of the sense of "I" to trace its source. The method emphasizes following the sense of I-thought to its source, the witness or pure awareness, until dualities fade and non-dual awareness remains. It is often presented as a direct path to realization, distinct from ritual worship or external study, though those practices may accompany it in a broader spiritual regimen.

Historical context and influence: The term appears across Vedantic literature, with Shankara’s Advaita emphasizing discernment (viveka) and inquiry (vichara) as essential for liberation. In modern times, Ramana Maharshi popularized a simple form of atma-vichara centered on the question "Who am I?" as a means to realize the true self. The practice is associated with the path of jnana (knowledge) within nondual traditions and has influenced contemporary teachers and practitioners in various spiritual contexts.

See also: viveka, atma-vichara, nonduality, Advaita Vedanta.