How does Bhagavan see the world?

Sri Ramana Maharshi

Q. Does Bhagavan see the world as part and parcel of Himself? How does He see the world?

M. The Self alone is and nothing else. However, it is differentiated owing to ignorance. Differentiation is threefold: (1) of the same kind (2) of a different kind, and (3) as parts in itself. The world is not another self similar to the self. It is not different from the self; nor is it part of the self.

Is not the world reflected on the Self?

For reflection there must be an object and an image. But the Self does not admit of these differences.

Does not then Bhagavan see the world?

Whom do you mean by Bhagavan?

A jiva advanced more than I.

If you understand your jiva the other jiva is also understood.

I do not want to discuss. I want to learn. Please instruct me.

Because you desire to learn, discussion is unavoidable. Leave all this aside. Consider your sleep. Are you then aware of bondage or do you seek means for release? Are you then aware of the body itself? The sense of bondage is associated with the body. Otherwise there is no bondage, no material to bind with and no one to be bound. These appear, however, in your wakeful state. Consider to whom they appear.

To the mind.

Watch the mind. You must stand aloof from it. You are not the mind. And the Self will remain ever.