17)  What nonduality is (bliss) and isn't (no bliss)
 
Ramana Maharshi's key "markers" for nonduality:
 

1. persistent, uncaused bliss
2. persistent, effortless, no "problematic" thoughts (self-referential)
3. no free will, control or doership
4. self-inquiry practice
5. free, open teachings
6. "real world" functioning
7. living "now, now, now"
8. not religious
9. no "enlightenment"

 
Ramana on "practice", from "Talks":
 

1. That peace will be deeper and more prolonged with continued practice.  It will also lead to the goal.
2. By long practice the mind is controlled and made steady.
3. Practice alone will bring about continuity of awareness.

 
"Not nonduality" approaches include:
 

1. There are an infinite number of nondualities
2. No practice is necessary
3. Thoughts are not a problem, just ignore them
4. Religion is linked to nonduality
5. Nonduality is "going in and out of cessation a hundred times. Time and space punctuated with nothing" in a half hour.
6. Nonduality requires constant meditation
7. Enlightenment is whatever you want it to be or optimize for

 
Source: What nonduality is (bliss) and isn't (no bliss)...

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