theoretical knowledge vs practical application

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The Teachings of BhagavanSri Ramana Maharshiin His Own WordsCHAPTER ONETHE

BASIC THEORYReaders of a philosophical turn of mind may find it strange tosee the first chapter of this work entitled "The Basic Theory".It may appear to them that the whole work should be devotedto theory. In fact, however, the Maharshi, like every spiritualmaster, was concerned rather with the practical work oftraining aspirants than with expounding theory. The theoryhad

importance, but only as a basis for practice.Devotee: Buddha is said to have ignored questions about God.Bhagavan: Yes, and because of this he has been called an agnostic.In fact Buddha was concerned with guiding the seeker to realiseBliss here and now, rather than with academic discussions aboutGod and so forth. 1D.: Is the study of science, psychology, physiology, etc.,helpful for attaining Yoga-liberation or for intuitive understandingof the unity of Reality?B.: Very little. Some theoretical knowledge is neededfor

Yoga and may be found in books, but practical applicationis what is

needed. Personal example and instruction are themost helpful aids. As for intuitive understanding, a personmay laboriously convince himself of the truth to be graspedby intuition, of its function and nature, but the actualintuition is more like feeling and requires practical andpersonal contact. Mere book learning is not of any greatuse. After Realisation all intellectual loads are useless burdensand are to be thrown overboard. 21 Maharshi's Gospel(12th Edition, 2000)2 Talks with Sri

Ramana Maharshi