Words of Grace

by Arthur Osborne

This book consists of Who Am I? , Self-Enquiry , and Spiritual Instruction which are answers given by Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi to questions put by some of his earliest devotees, namely, Sivaprakasam Pillai, Gambhiram Seshayyar, and Swami Natanananda.

These three texts contain profound essential teachings of nondual Self-Knowledge. These texts, that embody Bhagavan's Grace to us, will inspire all who study them with an unshakeable aspiration to realize the eternal Knowledge.

71 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2000

Reviews

[Martin Mistry-Ratcliffe · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm ambivalent about this book. My main impression from reading it is that it is awkwardly written, confused and confusing. Osborne makes an attempt at comparative religion, with the boldness and authority of someone who claims to know all of the paths inside out. I personally found some of his views on Buddhism, which I study and practice, to be in some places one sided and in other places to contradict himself. It is quite a confusing read and as I read, I wonder what on earth I am achieving from reading this.

Arthur Osborne is a followerer of Ramana Maharshi, who is known for his simple and direct message of simply resting in what he called the awareness of self. Compare that, to this winding, rambling tome.

I have given the book two stars because there was in introduction to some of the terms and ideas of other religions.

Perhaps the material could have been better presented, I don't know. There is a lack of directness, warmth or sincerity in Osbornes writing. Because it seems to lack heart, it comes off as needlessly pedantic and rambling in my opinion.

I don't like giving poor book reviews, but It might help to deter you from hunting around India for this book like I did after seeing the last copy disappear from the ramanashramam shop.

Needn't have bothered.