Pittsburgh Self-Inquiry Group cover photo

What we’re about

"The path to Truth, or Reality or Essence is very simple:
It requires a Selfish man, an individualist not afraid of the annihilation of Individualism, a fearless man not afraid of powers within him that are much greater than himself, and a man of suicidal relentlessness once his commitment is given.
All that is necessary to find the Truth is an unconditional commitment – not putting a time on the commitment nor a greater value on any other desires or fears. If a person sincerely makes a commitment he automatically becomes a vector in a sure direction.
But if we wish to see the commitment become an Absolute result in this lifetime, we must be conscious of our limited time, and of ways and means to expedite the realization. All energies must give priority to the vector. Every hour must be used in a way to expedite the success.
So that as soon as the general commitment is made, we should immediately commit our energies which are generally used for anger or pleasure so that transmutation will bring Intuition. The voice of Intuition will be our most valuable teacher. It will furnish all future planning for the campaign. But do not rest. Make violent efforts but do not disturb the sleepers."
~ From an endpaper of The Direct-Mind Experience, by Richard Rose

'Who is it that exists?' or 'Who is it that is here?' are questions that can only be answered by looking inwardly, by whatever means possible, and not through beliefs or theoretical aspects of philosophy and psycholog, or through science or the dogma of religion. A search for an indisputable answer to the age-old question "Who Am I?" It is a critical analysis of first-hand subjective experience and observations, shared with and questioned by other serious seekers for answers to the big questions about life. And no one can give you those answers, but together we can help evaluate each others' thinking, feeling and experiences.

If you are drawn to this, regardless of your particular path, you can discover the benefits of finding others to compare notes, question and be questioned, helping the momentum of each other's search. If such a quest is a journey, then we are looking at expediting that journey by helping to eliminate our roadblocks.
Self-inquiry is the investigation of the "I" or "me", and the “selfing” that is convinced that it exists.

The format of our meetings is group confrontation, to examine, question and confront our convictions, motivations and identities in an organized way. We use others as mirrors as they question our own and others' opinions and views, in a respectful and sincere manner. Each meeting focuses on a prepared specific topic.

There is nothing to join, nothing to buy, meetings are free and there is nothing to believe in. This is not a solicitation for any belief system, organization or philosophy. Just “Take what you need, give something in return and leave the rest”. Think for yourself and figure out what’s true. That’s all it's about -sifting and asking yourself what’s true until you know. You are welcome if you are willing to question yourself.

Our topics are inspired often by:
Zen Christian Mysticism Sufism Advaita Vedanta Buddhism Ramana Maharshi Nisargadatta Douglas Harding Gary Weber
Richard Rose Bernadette Roberts Franklin Merrell-Wolff
John of the Cross Rumi Theresa of Avilla Huang Po
G.I. Gurdjieff Adyashanti Eckhart Tolle Rupert Spira
J. Krishnamurti P.D. Ouspensky Paul Brunton Hubert Benoit

Currently (2025) we hold two in-person meetings each month in person at Aladdin's Restaurant /Eatery, Squirrel Hill, Pittsburgh, an online Zoom meeting every Wednesday evening and occasional monthly book reviews and talks by speakers.
Our meetings are 2 hours long, based on a new optic each week, and everyone who wants to participate gets somewhat equal time to give their view or opinion and then be questioned.
Usually 8-12 people attend Wednesday evening online Zoom meetings, and 6-10 people attend Monday evening in-person meetings, both to which new people are welcome. The common thread is individuals who question and are willing to be questioned.
We do ask for a short introduction from newcomers.

Some resources regarding self-inquiry include:
TAT Foundation.org The self-inquiry organization that hosts four in-person weekend retreats each year at the Claymont Retreat Center https://claymont.org/ 80 miles NW of W.DC as well as "TAT Talks" one Sunday online each month. Check out the book titles for sale as well as references to the teachings of founder Richard Rose, various instructors and member activities in both the U.S. and Europe.
TAT Forum Monthly publication which includes a list of self-inquiry groups that meet nation-wide -subscription is free and your participation is welcomed.
spiritualteachers.org
selfdefinition.org
selfdiscoveryportal.com
mysticmissal.org
Meet-up groups: Pittsburgh Self-inquiry Group (listing of meetings since 2016) and Pittsburgh Self-inquiry Live for local in-person meetings first & third Mondays, 7-8:45PM Aladdin's Restaurant /Eatery, 5878 Forbes Ave, Squirrel Hill, Pittsburgh, 15217 (look for red raincoat on back of chair!)