Ramana-Arunachala

Ramana-Arunachala" by Arthur Osborne is a well-known work that delves into the life and teachings of Sri Ramana Maharshi, one of the greatest spiritual luminaries of the 20th century, and his deep connection with Arunachala, the sacred mountain in Tamil Nadu, India. The book beautifully combines biographical insights, spiritual teachings, and the profound significance of Arunachala as a spiritual beacon, providing readers a holistic view of Ramana Maharshi’s life and philosophy.

Overview of the Book:

"Ramana-Arunachala" is a blend of biography, spiritual philosophy, and devotional narrative. The book not only introduces readers to the life of Ramana Maharshi but also explains the central role that Arunachala played in Ramana's spiritual journey and in the lives of his devotees.

1. Sri Ramana Maharshi's Life:

• The book starts with the early life of Ramana Maharshi, born as Venkataraman Iyer in 1879 in the town of Tiruchuli, Tamil Nadu. His sudden and profound spiritual awakening at the age of 16, when he experienced the deep realization of the Self (Atman), is a pivotal moment in the narrative.
• Osborne takes readers through Ramana’s pilgrimage to Arunachala, where he settled at the base of the mountain and remained in silence, meditating, contemplating, and guiding others. Arunachala, which is believed to be a manifestation of Shiva, became Ramana's permanent abode and symbol of spiritual awakening.

2. The Significance of Arunachala:

• Arunachala, the sacred mountain, holds a special place in the hearts of Ramana Maharshi’s devotees and in the Tamil spiritual tradition. According to legend, Arunachala is believed to represent the form of Lord Shiva in the form of a flame that never extinguishes.
• For Ramana, Arunachala was not just a physical place but a spiritual center, a source of divine energy and enlightenment. In his teachings, he often spoke about the significance of Arunachala as the "spiritual heart" of the universe and a means to attain self-realization.
• The book reflects on how Ramana Maharshi’s association with Arunachala is intertwined with his personal spiritual awakening, his practice of self-enquiry (Atma Vichara), and the profound guidance he offered to all those who visited him in search of wisdom.

3. Ramana Maharshi’s Teachings:

• The core of Ramana Maharshi's teachings revolves around the question "Who am I?", an inquiry that he recommended for anyone seeking truth. According to Ramana, the root of all suffering is the false identification with the body and mind. Through the process of self-enquiry, one can discern the true nature of the Self, which is eternal, pure, and beyond the ego.
• The book emphasizes Ramana's simple yet profound teachings, where the path to liberation is not through intellectual knowledge or ritualistic practices but through the direct experience of one's own being. Ramana often expressed that silence was the highest form of teaching, and his presence and quietude had a transformative impact on those who came to him.

4. Devotion and Surrender:

• Another important theme in "Ramana-Arunachala" is the spiritual practice of surrender to the divine. Ramana taught that through surrender to the higher Self or to the divine presence of Arunachala, one can transcend the ego and find peace.
• The book discusses the intimate relationship between Ramana Maharshi and his devotees, illustrating how he guided them with love, compassion, and clarity. Many of his followers were drawn to him by the powerful energy of Arunachala and the Maharshi's aura of serenity.

5. A Unique Spiritual Legacy:

• The book also captures the broader impact of Ramana Maharshi's teachings. His unique approach to spirituality, which emphasized direct self-realization over religious dogma or philosophical speculation, attracted people from all walks of life — scholars, saints, seekers, and even people from foreign lands.
• Osborne beautifully conveys Ramana's universal appeal, showing how his teachings transcend all cultural and religious boundaries.

Importance and Legacy:

• "Ramana-Arunachala" is considered a classic on Ramana Maharshi's life and teachings. Arthur Osborne, who was deeply influenced by the Maharshi, was one of the first Westerners to live in Tiruvannamalai and receive direct guidance from Ramana. His firsthand experience gives the book a personal and intimate tone.
• The book is valuable not only for those interested in Ramana Maharshi's philosophy but also for seekers of truth who wish to understand the essence of self-inquiry and spiritual awakening.
• The book's focus on Arunachala highlights the spiritual significance of the sacred mountain, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of spirituality and geography, where a sacred place becomes a living guide for those on the path of realization.

Conclusion:

"Ramana-Arunachala" by Arthur Osborne is a profound and inspiring account of the life, teachings, and spiritual significance of Sri Ramana Maharshi and the sacred mountain of Arunachala. The book paints a vivid picture of the Maharshi’s deep inner peace and wisdom and illustrates the transformative power of his presence, which continues to resonate with spiritual seekers to this day.