A must-have spiritual guide! Considered among the ancient-most religious works in the world, The Vedas and the Upanishad are revered texts. Their teachings are relevant for every age and situation. For thousands of years, they have guided people with the highest message of Hinduism lead a life with fearlessness and joy, and to be capable and dynamic even amidst crisis. Bringing out the real treasure of wisdom in these sacred texts, here is a spiritual guide that goes into the heart and soul of Vedic and Upanishadic knowledge, and delineates the most powerful life lessons to apply while facing any challenge.
About the Author
Pranay is a mystic philosopher. He is an expert on Indian and world spirituality. Pranay’s modules on ‘Advanced Spirituality for Leadership and Success’ (PowerTalks/MysticTalks for public and corporate audiences) have won global acclaim. Pranay is also a theatre personality and playwright. His original productions such as From Kabir to Kavi and Soul Stir have been acclaimed by world luminaries for their path-breaking spiritual content. Pranay and his partner Sohini run the socio-cultural philanthropic commune TAS, whose initiatives such as ‘Theatre Against Drugs’ (for addicts), ‘Geetimalya’ (for underprivileged children) and ‘Shohaag’ (for women empowerment) are well-known and have become movements. Presently, Pranay is collating his discourses on mind-body-spirit themes for various book series.
One of the best books on Spiritual Wisdom! Also ckeck out this author his content is really good.
‘Vedas and Upanishads are taken to be crown jewels of Hinduism.’ In this book Author very beautifully explains what our Vedas and Upanishads exactly are and what is their relevance and what is that they teach us. This Spiritual guide has crux of Vedas and Upanishads and it offers powerful life lessons to apply while facing any challenge and difficulty in life. It can also be said that , author urges us to change our perception about life and align it what these sacred texts are trying to teach us. I highly recommend not only this book but all the books written by this author!
The language is lucid and writing style is such that an average reader can easily connect to content. The glossary is really enriched. The Author has taken lines from Vedas and explained them in easy to understand manner. At various places meaning of various metaphors in spiritual context are explained , like lotus plant. The division of book into various chapters makes it easy for reader to retain.
I came across many new spiritual related word like ‘Spiritual Suicide’ and also got deep understanding of certain terms like : ‘ Aham Brahmasmi’ and ‘Confidence’.
The Author has also made references to great mystics like Adi Shankaracharya and Swami Vivekanada. Author says “ In the great Swami Vivekananda’s view , that is the only sin: thinking you are weak or small! Never do that : it is an insult to your innermost divine capabilities”. There is a separate chapter dedicated to Mystics. The book is full of such words of wisdom which change our perception towards life and make it more clear.
I feel the book has added a lot of spiritual value in my life . We all know the truth but when someone from outside comes and tells us the same by reminding us , then I creates deep impact on our inside i.e. our soul. So, this book was a reminder for me to resume my spiritual journey. I would soon re-read the book as this book has a lot to offer.
The cover page is very attractive in all aspects including color, design, formats. The Swastik sign on the cover page has added to the spiritual vibes and content of the book. It was the title and blurb, that made me read the book and I am really glad I did. The quality of paperback and printing is really good. I have read few books by this publisher and the printing of all the books I have come across is really good.
Constructive criticism helps in looking at all the aspects of book in an unbiased. Though this book is great in terms of spiritual wisdom but it is equally true that true spiritual wisdom can be achieved only through a perfect living Spiritual Master and through initiation by him. There may be differences of opinion on this fact. Also, I feel at the end of each chapter , there could be a summary of life lessons given in each chapter. Books like this are not to be read as page turner, rather reading such books should be coupled with lot of reflection. I feel each line of the book has a great depth and requires reader to ponder over each line and each thought that the author has tried to convey. The People who are seeking spiritual wisdom, the book is perfect for them. Even those not seeking this, would like the book as this book will give them a clear picture about spirituality and the crux of what the Vedas And Upanishads are about. Also, I feel that young adults should read such books as these will help them in shaping their personality and they will be spiritually oriented from a young age. I am really proud of such authors. I would like to read the books which are authored by this author . Also, look forward for more such books. Few Lines from the book: “You come into a heart-to-heart relationship relationship with the higher. And that heart-to-heart relationship with the higher is what meditation is. It is the essence of the Vedas, the Upanishads and Vedanta.”
As someone reading about these concepts in depth for the first time, I was expecting good details on each of the be vedas and the upanishads associated with them.
This book, in belief, brings out the essence of them.
Access to the Vedas is the greatest privilege this century may claim over all previous centuries. – Robert Oppenheimer
The book is divided into eight different chapters and here I am going to briefly explain few chapters.
The first chapter, ‘Four Vedas for Mind, Body, and soul’ gives a brief introduction to Vedas and how the original Sanskrit form is full of incantations addressed to the natural powers of the universe. The Vedas teaches to awaken soul, consciousness so that one can have the clear ability to analyze problems. The happiness which human search for outside is inside them. One needs to nurture its soul and mind first to have a healthy body and all the sutras of Vedas are made to enliven and empower the energy-centers of human beings. I would like to share these lines from this chapter which is very insightful and narrates the entire essence of Vedas.
‘Realization of self-potential is what the Vedas are concerned with. Outwardly, the Vedic Mantras of incantations seem like they are addressed to different deities or so on. But ultimately, deities in the Vedic and the Upanishadic vision resides within us’
The next chapter, ‘A Spiritual Science of inner peace’ mainly focuses on that if one is seeking peace with the world, they need to first have peace within himself/themselves. The Shanti Mantra is the backbone of Vedic wisdom. If a person has achieved inner peace, then there is not a single trait which they can’t achieve.
‘Greatness of Upanishads’ represents how all the Upanishads teach about unchanging reality? How they do not represent any religion and god as they are based on the ultimate truth. ‘The most immensely valuable thing is within you! Realize its totality. And find the pure ecstasy of your being!’
My perception:
I am so glad that I got a chance to read this book. Vedas are so important for human beings, it has the essence to live a life, but, sadly, many people are not aware of these important treasures of this country. I am thankful to the author for simplifying and capturing Vedic knowledge in such an easy way. This book is one of those books, which you would like to read and again and again. There are many beautiful lines in the book, which makes this book a must-read. If you want to know what the Vedas are and how they are important in anyone’s life, then this is one of the greatest introductions. I am amazed to learn that by changing simple things in life we can achieve so many things. From the last few years, I have read various books which exemplify life lessons, but I am amazed how everything has already been written in our ancient Vedas.
This book is one of its kind, if you want to know the secrets of life then this book is for you.
There are four Vedas which we all must have read during our schooling. What do these Vedas signify? Unless you read about them in detail or are specialised in it, you wouldn’t be knowing much about them. Worry not! Here comes another brilliant book from Pranay which takes you on a mystical journey.
This book is divided into 8 chapters namely:
Four Vedas for Mind, Body and Soul A Spiritual Science of Inner Peace Greatness of the Upanishads The Highest Is Within Steps to Joy Upanishads: The Heart of India Vivekananda and Other Mystics and The Upanishads and Tagore
Vedas & Upanishads = lighting the lamp of consciousness within your being
Do you know? The Vedas are not only melodious in their original form but are all about mind-body-spirit wellness.
Why are Vedas called Shruti?
Vedas are not man-made and are applicable to all.
Cosmic energy is within us. Our body is made up of all the elements like Wind, Fire, Air and Water. Don’t you agree?
There is a significance attached to each mantra/hymn. One of them is “Om Shanti Shanti Shanti Om” which finds its mention in this book.
The author mentions that one shouldn’t doubt our inner power.
The Upanishads absorbs all of the opposites as it doesn’t mention “God” or a god-like figure. This may be surprising to you but yes, it is a fact as they insist on higher consciousness.
Hinduism isn’t a religion but a form/style of life. If we are aware of this, Upanishads complements perfectly well. They talk about something eternal and can survive, even if all the religion is removed from this world, opines the author.
What will take you to Moksha/Multi/Nirvana even if you lose everything?
Aham Brahmasmi - is nothing but “I am the absolute, ultimate truth”
Abandon ego as it is joy and not the ego which is your greater reality says the author.
Tat Tvam Asi = You’re that ultimate truth: you’re that absolute
The Upanishads are the foundation of mysticism that they belong to all but doesn’t belong to none. Confusing? Not able to get it? I should stop here because this is where I ask you to pick the copy yourselves.
There are a couple of dedicated chapters for Swami Vivekananda & Rabindranath Tagore. Do not miss them.
Writing style was a little erratic but this was a thought provoking read and a gentle introduction to Hinduism for someone with little knowledge in the area.
In this concise 112-page guide published by Fingerprint! Publishing, Pranay seeks to distill the profound spiritual knowledge of the Vedas and Upanishads into an accessible format for contemporary readers. The book’s intent is to offer inner peace and resilience through an understanding of ancient wisdom. It is particularly geared toward those who are curious about how time-honored spiritual principles can inform and enhance modern life, especially during tough times.
Content and Structure The book is structured into several distinct sections or chapters, each focusing on different aspects of Vedic and Upanishadic teachings. Notable chapters include:
Four Vedas for Mind, Body, and Soul: This section provides an overview of the Rig, Sama, Yajur, and Atharva Vedas, emphasizing their roles not only as religious texts but also as guides to holistic wellness.
A Spiritual Science of Inner Peace: Here, the author explains how the philosophical underpinnings of these ancient texts serve as a foundation for achieving tranquility and balance in a chaotic world.
Greatness of the Upanishads: This part delves into the mystical aspects of the Upanishads, highlighting how their deeper spiritual insights contribute to the understanding of the self and the universe.
Integration of Wisdom from Renowned Mystics: The book includes discussions on influential spiritual figures such as Swami Vivekananda, Rabindranath Tagore, and Kabir. Their insights are woven into the narrative to illustrate the enduring relevance of spiritual practice and self-realization.
By organizing the content into these distinct yet interconnected themes, the author creates a roadmap that not only educates but also inspires readers to delve deeper into their own spiritual journeys.
Clarity, Accessibility, and Presentation One of the book’s standout features is its clarity. Pranay has managed to present complex philosophical ideas in straightforward, accessible language. This approach makes the book particularly useful for newcomers to Vedic literature and the Upanishads, while still offering depth for seasoned students of spirituality. The narrative avoids heavy academic jargon, ensuring that readers who are not well-versed in Sanskrit terminology or ancient philosophies can grasp the essentials without feeling overwhelmed.
Integration of Spiritual Insights Another commendable aspect is the integration of insights from revered mystics and scholars. The discussions around figures like Vivekananda and Tagore not only lend authority to the text but also help bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern interpretation. These interludes provide both historical context and practical applications of spiritual concepts, highlighting how these teachings remain relevant today. The inclusion of reflections on love, self-realization, and inner tranquility adds a motivational and practical layer to the book, inviting readers to apply these teachings in everyday situations.
Conclusion Vedas & Upanishads: Greatest Spiritual Wisdom successfully bridges the gap between ancient spiritual texts and contemporary life challenges. Pranay’s clear, engaging writing and thoughtful integration of the teachings of the Vedas and Upanishads make it an excellent starting point for anyone interested in understanding the spiritual heritage of these texts. Whether you are a newcomer to Indian philosophy or a seasoned spiritual seeker looking for concise wisdom in turbulent times, this book offers practical insights and inspiration that resonate in today’s fast-paced world.
Overall, the book stands out for its accessibility, practical application, and respectful nods to historical mystics, inviting readers to embark on a personal journey toward inner peace and resilience.
A good short read that gives a glimpse of the wisdom that Vedas and Upanishads bring to the table.
Key takeaways: - 4 vedas - Rig Veda, Sama Veda, Yajur Veda, Atharva Veda along with Upanishads remind us that all human bondages and limitations can be overcome - are all about lighting the lamp of consciousness within - Rig Veda says > Give sight to my eyes that they may truly see (metamorphical sense - be deeply perceptive in life) > Bring strength to us, bring courage, give us heroic power. We pray for power which bows to none. All that is weak in us, make firm and strong > Give me brilliant ability.. Bestow on me brilliance and inner power, so that it shines amongst people and becomes radiant with energy.. Bestow on me excellent things, the increase of wealth, the health of the body, the sweetness of speech.. Make my thoughts holy. > Welcome old age, accept all of life.. We worship Rudra who spreads fragrance and increases abundance. May He release me from mortal life but not from immortality - Sama Veda says > May we hear for a hundred years, speak for a hundred years, hold your heads high for a hundred years - Yajur Veda says > May we prosper over hundred years, rise over hundred years > Give me valour, give me strength, give me power, give me might > Make me strong, let all beings look, upon me with a friendly vision, and may I also look at all beings with a friendly vision. My we all look at each other in a friendly vision - Atharva Veda says > May I have such power within, such steadfastness and may my soul be unconquered > May I have no fear of the unknown, may everything in existence be my friend - Inner peace creates dynamism in human behaviour. Supreme peace is the existing quality of soul or atma; this just has to be realized in order for its power to be activated. This is why the Santhi mantra `Om Shanthi Shanthi Shanthi Hi' - The Highest is within: Brihadaranayika Upanishad from Yajur Veda says: Aham Brahmasmi (I am the absolute, ultimate truth) - Where there is joy, there is creation. Where there is no joy, there is no creation. Know the nature of Joy! - Tat Tvam Asi - You are the ultimate truth. - Krishnamurthy: To die to everything of yesterday so that your mind is always fresh, always young, full of vigour and passion - Kabir: He whose mind is filled with relaxation is free from fear. Pleasure and pain don't exist to the meditative eye - Rama - Be always cheerful. Do not get shaken by great fortune, nor get shaken by the loss of it. Simply be in a state of great balance
Vedas and Upanishads: Greatest Spiritual Wisdom for Tough Times authored by the mystical philosopher whose modules on advanced spirituality for leadership and success have won global acclaim is a treasure trove for readers like us who often times find themselves searching for the ultimate source of happiness, peace and the truth.
Vedas and Upanishads are one of most ancient Indian scriptures found till date, that were written back in later Harappan period. Even if they were written a long back, there learnings remain timeless as Vedas teach us something eternal about life that is not to change reality but the unchanging reality which stays agelessly true forever.
This book shares with us insights from the four Vedas : Rig, Sama, Yajur and Atharva and the different Upanishads through different quotations of the hymns. The life lessons that these Vedas and Upanishads intend readers to learn have been shared in comprehensive and lucid language so even a beginner who is not proficient in such subjects can still read, understand and impliment in their lives.
They provide us deep insights into the wellbeing of our body, mind and soul by focusing on the ultimate goal of human life. Realisation of self potential is what these texts are concerned with. They are reflection of all of the nature, the cosmos and all the miniatures that reside within us. If we start understanding them in their completeness, one can begin to understand their deeper meaning. Ultimately they emphasize a wholeness and heathfulness of being at all levels of ourselves.
By reading this book one can understand why it is needed to look inwards than outwards of oneself, how to cope up with tough times, what things to remember and practice in thoughts and thus gain peace in life.
I really liked reading about visions of Rabindranath Tagore, Krishnamurthy, Kabir regarding these scriptures alongside gaining more knowledge about the concepts of Aham Brahmasmi, non-duality of joy, Advaita Vedanta and many things more.
Ultimately I recommend this book to seekers, thinkers and readers who like to expand their prospectives.
In Vedas and Upanishads, Pranay has condensed the vast knowledge form our ancient scriptures, into a comprehensive and graspable spiritual guide. Talking about the lessons which age old sages wanted to pass on to mankind, the book is an essential guide to implement all their teachings in our everyday life, making the most out of each and every moment and being truly alive.
Something which made this book really likeable for me was the clear cut and impactful way in which the author talks about such deep concepts like the human consciousness, perception, immortality, inner peace, and much more. I could actually feel how confident the author is about the scriptures and their teachings, which made me more attentive and eager to learn something valuable. The writing style is quite lucid which makes it easy to comprehend what the author is talking about and actually retain what you learn.
Some of my key takeaways from this book are:
• All of us hold within ourselves a great and limitless power which, if awakened, makes each one of us capable of dealing with all sorts of problems that life throws our way.
• Our aim should be to harmonize our mind, body and spirit, which would make us strong in every sense, both physically as well as mentally.
• A strong sense of self confidence and belief in ourselves is important. We must get rid of all our fears, put ourselves out there and give our best in all situations.
• Happiness is the true essence of life. Joy invokes a strong sense of positivity which is really important for us to keep going.
• The Universe reflects our thoughts and beliefs. Be positive. Be strong. Be optimistic. We are the key to creating the environment we want to breathe in.
Spirituality is one thing which has always interested me. I was tempted when I received the book from @fingerprintpublishingbooks 🌄 Considered among the ancient-most religious works in the world, The Vedas and the Upanishad are revered texts. Their teachings are relevant for every age and situation. For thousands of years, they have guided people with the highest message of Hinduism lead a life with fearlessness and joy, and to be capable and dynamic even amidst crisis. Bringing out the real treasure of wisdom in these sacred texts, here is a spiritual guide that goes into the heart and soul of Vedic and upanishadic knowledge, and delineates the most powerful life lessons to apply while facing any challenge.
This book is divided into 8 chapters namely:
1) Four Vedas for Mind, Body and Soul. 2) A Spiritual Science of Inner Peace. 3) Greatness of the Upanishads. 4) The Highest Is Within 5) Steps to Joy. 6) Upanishads: The Heart of India. 7) Vivekananda and Other Mystics. 8) The Upanishads and Tagore.
Highlights of the book-
1) The author has showered the ancient texts knowledge with the teachings of Swami Vivekananda, Rabindranath Tagore and Kabirji.
2) This book summarises the wisdom of Vedas & Upanishads to its readers in the easiest of the meaning and language.
3) The language used is simple and plain.
4) I loved the cover of it especially the yellow touch.
5) I found The title "Greatest spiritual wisdom for tough times" is apt after reading the book.
6) It's a perfect read for those who are interested in spiritual knowledge.
7) Few quotes which I loved from the book are highlighted.
A well written book Vedas and Upanishads simplifies the teachings of four Vedas - Rig veda, Sama veda, Yajur veda and Atharva veda and upanishads and presents the very essence of the same.Their teachings energizes human to march forward irrespective of the obstacles ahead.The vedic knowledge help man to attain mind-body-spirit harmony.The author introduces the concepts of 'Aham Brahmasmi', 'Tat Tvam Asi, dwija and ashesha love. : In the later part of the book we come across the Vedic and Upanishads understanding of great persons like Vivekananda, Kabir, Mahapurush Ram, Sri Ramkrishna and Rabindranath Tagore among many others.Humans can realise ownself and achieve ultimate bliss only through living in present and by abandoning ego, negative thoughts, anger, anexity and worries. : Mystics of the world came to realization through their path of search that #Love is the primary energy which leads to the creation of each and everything in the universe.Love is self - illuminating, healing, empowers the bearer to transcend every barrier and finally leading to Nirvana. : The author has did an amazing job. I was engrossed in the book from start to the last word.Will definitely recommend this treasure to everyone.
📚 Vedas And Upanishads✨📖 𝐛𝐲 Pranay📚 ✨"Realization of self-potential is what the Vedas are concerned with. Outwardly, the Vedic Mantras of incantations seem like they are addressed to different deities or so on. But ultimately, deities in the Vedic and the Upanishadic vision resides within us"✨
#CelebratingIndianAuthors and #tbrpilereadathon hosted by @theoldbookbarn @letstalkbooksandmore
🔖 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Spirituality Non- Fiction 🔖 Synopsis:The Vedas and the Upanishad are revered texts. Their teachings are relevant for every age and situation. For thousands of years, they have guided people with the highest message of Hinduism lead a life with fearlessness and joy, and to be capable and dynamic even amidst crisis. Bringing out the real treasure of wisdom in these sacred texts, here is a spiritual guide that goes into the heart and soul of Vedic and Upanishadic knowledge, and delineates the most powerful life lessons to apply while facing any challenge.
🔖𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬:⭐⭐⭐ 🔖𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞: 🌸The Author: Mystic philosopher, theatre personality and a socio-cultural philanthropic person, spritual speaker with global acclaim🦋 Hence without doubt you dive into this book with the thought of getting a spritual guidance✨ The Book: This one is for those who want to expand their spiritual horizons🌸 As the title gives away, detailed interpretation of Four Vedas (Rig, Sama, Yajur and Atharva Ved) and various Upanishads are introduced to the reader in a language setup simple so as to communicate better with different individuals 🦋 Light is thrown on the visions of Rabindranath Tagore, Krishnamurthy, Kabir regarding these scriptures alongside gaining more knowledge about the concepts of Aham Brahmasmi, non-duality of joy, Advaita Vedanta and many things more in this read🌸 Grab the copy and explore the enormous and richly blissful knowledge shared like a gift altogether🎁
The book presents an interesting read on a complex concept of inner soul, peace and happiness. It signifies how important are Vedas and Upanishads which are not written under immediate dictation but rather passed onto others verbally. Among many parts to the texts, few of them focusses on the developing consciousness. Here, it presents some of the knowledge that inspired many scholars to help focus and grow organically. This offers the readers a right set of circumstances to focus and reflect on their own consciousness.
This liberating read presents the fundamental concept of human life which is the ultimate happiness through the greatness of Vedic Knowledge.
It tries to help clear some thoughts, particularly on impact of finding peace. This also dedicated some chapters to Vivekananda and Tagore. I think this should be supplemented with further resources if your seeking onto finding a way to connect Vedas to finding peace and inner consciousness. Also explains how relevant are Vedas in modern times where people have become conscious about their thoughts and whereabouts This is a peaceful read unless you have any contradictory opinions.
The book presents an extensive knowledge of our ancient scriptures in a comprehensive and easy-to-understand manner. It educates the readers about the lessons that the ancient sages wanted to pass on to mankind and the best ways to implement the same in their everyday life. The author talks in a clear and impactful manner about deep concepts such as human consciousness, perception, inner peace, and immortality, etc. It emphasizes the importance for readers to develop a strong sense of self-confidence and self-belief and get rid of all their fears and give their best in every situation. It also informs the readers about how the universe reflects their thoughts and beliefs and why it is essential to stay positive, strong, and optimistic to create the right environment for a joyful existence.
I hoped to chance upon a book which would dwell deeper on Vedas & Upanishads. This one raced past with feeble touches, as a result could not fulfill my reading pallet.