Self-Inquiry as taught by Ramana Maharshi is best understood as a direct spiritual and experiential method rather than a religious practice in the conventional sense. It does not depend on worship, prayer, rites, or adherence to any particular scripture, deity, or institutional framework. The emphasis falls on tracing the sense of “I” back to its source, engaging in an introspective investigation into the nature of consciousness and identity. In this respect, it resembles a form of philosophical inquiry or phenomenological exploration more than a ritual or creed-based path.

Although it arises within the Advaita Vedānta tradition of Hinduism and aims at liberation or Self-realization, its method is presented as universal and non-sectarian. Ramana Maharshi taught seekers from various religious backgrounds without requiring them to abandon their existing traditions or adopt new dogmas. There are no external requirements such as temples, intermediaries, or ceremonial observances; the essential “laboratory” is one’s own awareness. Because of this, it can be meaningfully practiced by those who are religious, those who are spiritual but not religious, and even those primarily inclined toward philosophical reflection.

At the same time, Self-Inquiry can harmoniously coexist with religious life and may be integrated into devotional or doctrinal frameworks. Many practitioners treat it as a complementary inner discipline that deepens the understanding and experience of truths already affirmed in their faith. Its orientation toward liberation (moksha) naturally aligns with the highest aspirations of many religious and spiritual traditions, yet it does so without demanding formal affiliation or belief. Thus, it is most accurately described as a non-denominational contemplative method of Self-realization that can stand alone or function within a religious context, but is not inherently a religious practice in itself.