Living By the Words of Bhagavan

by David Godman

Inspiring story of Annamalai Swami and his service to Bhagavan Ramana Maharshi.

Genres: Spirituality, Nonfiction, Biography

367 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[agnostic · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first two thirds of this book are a moderately interesting account of Annamalai Swami's life, focusing mainly on the time he spent in Ramanasramam. It's somewhat refreshing to read about Ramana's obvious humanity, given all the people who seem to think of him as this wholly divine creature. You will read about him bemoaning the "prison" (or some similar word) of being in the Old Hall all the time, poking fun at stoned sadhus, quietly manipulating those around him, and having his diarrhea caught in the cupped hand of a zealous (over-zealous?) devotee. But it is, in my view, too much detail, especially about all the construction over the years. So that part of the book is worth 3 stars to me. But the last third of the book, consisting of a spiritual "diary" and a great deal of dialogues, is in my view worth 5 stars. These are priceless non-dual teachings, not as dazzling as those of Nisargadatta, but full of timeless wisdom. I like them as much and probably more than anything in Talks with Sri Ramana Maharshi. It is clear that Ramana left a lineage. Maybe only a lineage of one, but a lineage nevertheless.

[Venkat Ram Reddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books to read about Ramana Maharshi day to day living and attitude towards disciples, ashram work. If you are reading the old version of this book you can also read the Diary entries of Sri Annamalai Swami and also read the one to one conversations with Annamalai Swami who himself got enlightened following the guidance of his Guru Ramana Maharshi.

[Swami Arunachalananda Puri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent