- Question: Then what is Samadhi?
Ramana Maharshi: In yoga the samadhi term refers to some kind of trance, and there are various kinds of samadhi. However, the samadhi I speak of is different. It is Sahaja Samadhi (state of permanent Realization). For, here you have Samadhana (see all things as the same), you remain calm and composed even while you are active; you realize that you are moved by the deeper Real Self within. You have no worries, no anxieties, no cares.
For, here you come to realize that there is nothing belonging to you. And everything is done by Something with which you get into conscious union.
- Question: If this is Sahaja Samadhi (the natural state) and the most desirable condition, there is no need for Nirvikalpa Samadhi (highest state of yoga that sees no differences)?
Ramana Maharshi: The Nirvikalpa Samadhi (no differences perceived) of Raja (Royal) Yoga may have its use. But, in Jnana (pure Knowledge), this Sahaja Sthiti or abidance in the natural state itself is the Nirvikalpa (no concepts) state. For, in this state the mind is free from doubts [and modifications]. It has no need to swing between alternatives of possibilities and probabilities. It has no vikalpa (tendency) of any kind.
- Question: Does samadhi (the state of oneness where one experiences the Self) mean that one is unaware of everything?
Ramana Maharshi: No. Meditation will go on without our effort. That is samadhi.
- Question: Then what is Sahaja Samadhi?
Ramana Maharshi: In that state, meditation will always be going on. In that state the thought, “I am meditating” or “I am not meditating” will not occur.
Note: Sahaja Samadhi is the permanent state of Self-Realization in which one functions normally in the world without thought, with no sense of oneness or separateness.
(Source: Bhagavan Ramana Answers 100 Questions, Edited and compiled by A.R. Natarajan)
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