The Presence

“Arunachala, the magnetic mountain, never stirring from His motionless state, with no resolve whatsoever on His part, merely by the power of His presence, bestows perfect Grace that erases all the nescience of His devotees, like the sun bestows life. Truly, He is the Lord of strange, wondrous and exceeding might, indescribable and beyond compare.” Arunachala Akshara Mana Malai commentary by Murugunar.

“Bhakti cleanses and purifies the mind, preparing it for the practice of atma vichara and the attainment of Brahmavidya. Our best efforts are needed to bring us to the point where Grace takes over ; after this, all happens automatically and effortlessly.” Sri Ramana Maharishi

In this presence, a mysterious current of peace flows without end.

Here, minds fall still and weary hearts find solace and repose.

In the shade of this mighty tree, cool and blessed relief from the scorching fire of samsara is immediately bestowed.

Here, all sorrows fade, all hurt disappears.

In this sacred presence, Grace, though invisible and intangible, is unmistakably felt in the very core of one’s Being: a vibration of blissful awareness, so sweet, so sublime!

Here, all desires are dissolved forever in perfect fulfillment.

In this presence, the essence of all the Vedas shines in eternal radiance.

Here, merging in Brahman puts an end to all seeking, all knowing.

In this presence, the Heart-lotus blossoms , as flowers bloom in sunlight.

Here, the nectar of immortal bliss springs forth like the fountain of eternal life.

“ The Maharishi emanates the perfume of spiritual peace as a flower emanates fragrance from its petals. In his presence, yesterday’s bitter memories and tomorrow's anxious cares have disappeared completely. I have attained divine liberty and an almost indescribable felicity, for I understand, in the deepest possible way, that to know all is not merely to pardon all but to love all. My heart is remoulded in rapture!” Paul Brunton, writing about Sri Ramana Maharishi.