If you have been on the “spiritual scene” for a while, you’d have heard about the book “I Am That – talks with Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj”. The book contains translations, by Maurice Frydman, of talks between Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj and the visitors to his humble abode in Mumbai. First edition appeared in 1973, and since then the book became “a modern spiritual classic”. Why then, the warning: approach it with care? It’s got all to do with your level of spiritual awareness.

Being one of many spiritual seekers, I can only speak from my own experience as to the impact of the book on my spiritual progress. Although, I could have equally said: “… as to the detrimental effect this book has had on my spiritual advancement”. Why two so different possibilities, for the work so highly regarded not only by spiritualists, but also by the atheists and free-thinkers? It all depends at what stage of your spiritual journey – your level of awareness, does the book enter your “spiritual toolbox”. In my case, although being aware of its existence for some time, I’ve begun reading it after receiving a very solid grounding, in the form of works by Dr David R Hawkins. Yes, it means reading all of his books (some twice, others more than that) and watching many seminars and lectures on DVDs.

Call it a good luck, or a blessing, the timing was perfect. Have I tried to read Maharaj’s book earlier, there’s no guarantee that his words of wisdom such as: “The real does not die, the unreal never lived.” Or, “Once you know that death happens to the body and not to you, you just watch your body falling off like a discarded garment.” Would I be ready to hear this, if not for the groundwork laid by studying Dr D R Hawkins? Probably not. The book would probably be put aside, to be read later or… never. Not to mention a degree of the backlash inevitable with the failure to comprehend the message, no matter how hard one tries. Fortunately for me, being ready made me embracing Maharaj’s book and his message wholeheartedly. Right now, I’m finishing reading it for the second time. Third reading will follow very soon, together with taking detailed notes, and copying some of the most memorable paragraphs… just to “understand” them better.

For me, Maharaj’s “I Am That” along with Dr Hawkins’ works forms the body of knowledge needed to transcend the mind. Now, regarding the warning: before you consider reading “I Am That” make sure you are ready to receive and absorb the message. Do some solid spiritual work; increase and solidify your understanding of consciousness and the Self. Only then, you’ll be ready to follow Maharaj and witness (and survive) the death of your “I”. For this is where you are heading on your way to enlightenment…