Self-inquiry, also known as "Who am I?" meditation, is a powerful method of liberation taught by the Indian sage Ramana Maharshi. It is a form of meditation that focuses on the direct investigation of one's true nature or essence. This practice is based on the belief that the root cause of all suffering and dissatisfaction in life is the identification with the ego or the false sense of self.

The main difference between self-inquiry and other forms of meditation is the focus and intention behind the practice. In traditional forms of meditation, the goal is often to quiet the mind and achieve a state of inner peace or relaxation. While this can be beneficial for reducing stress and increasing mindfulness, it does not necessarily lead to a deeper understanding of one's true nature.

Self-inquiry, on the other hand, is a more active and direct form of meditation. It involves questioning the very nature of one's existence and seeking to uncover the source of the "I" or the sense of self. This process of self-inquiry requires a deep level of introspection and self-reflection, as well as a willingness to let go of preconceived notions and beliefs about oneself.

Another key difference between self-inquiry and other forms of meditation is the role of the teacher or guru. In self-inquiry, the guru is not seen as an external authority figure, but rather as a guide who helps the seeker to turn their attention inward and discover their true self. The guru's role is to point the seeker towards their own inner wisdom and guide them through the process of self-inquiry.

Self-inquiry also differs from other forms of meditation in its ultimate goal. While traditional forms of meditation may aim for a state of inner peace or enlightenment, self-inquiry seeks to go beyond temporary states of mind and reach a permanent understanding of one's true nature. The goal is to realize the true self, which is said to be pure consciousness, beyond the limitations of the ego.

In conclusion, self-inquiry is a unique and powerful form of meditation that goes beyond relaxation and mindfulness. It is a direct and active practice that aims to uncover the true nature of the self and ultimately lead to liberation from suffering. By questioning "Who am I?", one can embark on a journey of self-discovery and uncover the ultimate truth of existence.