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Teachings of Vivekananda

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It is an undoubted fact that the message of Vivekananda has influenced, inspired, and transformed thousands of lives. Here in this recording are given some quotations from the great spiritual leader for the benefit of those who do not have time to go through his voluminous writings and speeches, so that they may get at least a partial glimpse of the strength and sublimity of his teachings. These quotations may be helpful even to those who have studied his works, because sometimes one or two words of this great dynamic personality are sufficient to invigorate a drooping spirit, or to awaken one to a new sense of hope and courage when everything seems dark and circumstances appear insurmountable.

Vivekananda was born Narendranath Datta in Calcutta on January 12, 1863. He was interested in spirituality from a young age. William Hastie (principal of Christian College, Calcutta, from where Narendra graduated) wrote, ""Narendra is really a genius. I have travelled far and wide but I have never come across a lad of his talents and possibilities, even in German universities, among philosophical students. He is bound to make his mark in life.” In 1881, Narendra first met Ramakrishna, who became his spiritual master. Everything changed after that. Vivekananda would go on to become one of the most profound, influential spiritual philosophers of all time. He passed away on July 4, 1902.

Listeners should be aware that Vivekananda spoke to a wide variety of students and followers, whose religions, cultures, and national origins differed widely. His remarks are calibrated for those hearers, both in India and abroad.

This production includes a one-hour introduction by Christopher Isherwood.

©1971 Vedanta Society (P)1971 Audio Connoisseur

Audible Audio

First published June 1, 1971

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About the author

Vivekananda

1,643 books1,575 followers
"Arise Awake and Stop not til the goal is reached"

Vivekananda left a body of philosophical works (see Vivekananda's complete works). His books (compiled from lectures given around the world) on the four Yogas (Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and Jnana Yoga) are very influential and still seen as fundamental texts for anyone interested in the Hindu practice of Yoga. His letters are of great literary and spiritual value. He was also considered a very good singer and a poet.By the time of his death, He had composed many songs including his favorite Kali the Mother. He used humor for his teachings and was also an excellent cook. His language is very free flowing. His own Bengali writings stand testimony to the fact that he believed that words - spoken or written - should be for making things easier to understand rather than show off the speaker or writer's knowledge.

Swami Vivekananda [ স্বামী বিবেকানন্দ ] (1863 – 1902), born Narendranath Datta, was an Indian Hindu monk, philosopher, author, religious teacher, and the chief disciple of the Indian mystic Ramakrishna. He was a key figure in the introduction of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world and is credited with raising interfaith awareness, and bringing Hinduism to the status of a major world religion.

Born in Calcutta, Bengal Presidency, British India (present-day Kolkata, West Bengal, India)

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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
Profile Image for Araf Karsh.
11 reviews1 follower
June 2, 2013
An amazing book with a lot of Vivekananda's ideals and teachings across a broad variety of topics... :)
Profile Image for S.
50 reviews
June 28, 2014
Great teaching., full of knowledge great share.. :) :)
Profile Image for Sunil Newatia.
26 reviews
July 2, 2020
It’s a very heavy read. Lot of patience n concentration needed to absorb the teachings of Vivekanand
Profile Image for Tanya.
8 reviews
July 7, 2017
Whether you read him in book or listen the voice of him, it is always a pleasure to catch his words. He was a great personality and so his teaching was. His teaching belongs to every Indian who is proud of their motherland. Our sovereignty has been hijacked by Mugulas an Britisher, Someone has to come to re throne to blissful seat where we belong, and Swamiji was the person.
Profile Image for Kunal Verma.
1 review
June 17, 2016
Just one of those reads which will take you into a different zone altogether.
Profile Image for Ashish Chauhan.
1 review
July 13, 2016
read it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
6 reviews10 followers
January 9, 2019
Very insightful book written in a simple manner. The principles given by Swami Vivekananda still hold true in today's day and age.
1 review
April 14, 2014
I like Gandhi more than Swami Vivekananda. Gandhi's religion is more life positive. I do not like life negative religions. In his teachings family and relationship has no value. Family life is almost considered obstacle to spiritual growth. The way his mother and sister died, a normal man with reasonable self respect could not have tolerate that. I feel sorry about him. He could not raised beyond the normal, what Gandhi did.
Moreover, his teachings are not new, mostly from Buddha and Upanishads. Now a days his teachings are only used for propaganda and publicity for getting public donations.
Profile Image for Feroz.
23 reviews4 followers
June 19, 2012
An amazing book with a lot of Vivekananda's ideals and teachings across a broad variety of topics... :)
Profile Image for Marco.
430 reviews68 followers
February 3, 2022
A beautifully-narrated and very didactic explanation of Adveita Vedanta by Vivekananda, one of the disciples of Ramakrishna.

Vivekananda had an enormous influence in the west, specially through his Vedanta Society. Authors such as Aldous Huxley, for instance, got their perennial philosophy from him.
1 review
May 14, 2022
The knowledge of Swami Vivekananda does not need reviews from mere mortals. Read every chapter twice to get to the essence.
An absolute necessity in today's world...This book will ask you to contemplate, introspect and inquire life, will make you question many aspects of life and provide you with profound insights. Reviews cannot do proper justice to this spiritual encyclopedia.
Profile Image for Christopher David.
67 reviews5 followers
February 20, 2019
A good book that uses primary sources of Vivekananda to communicate his core teachings in a subject.
Profile Image for Neel Preet.
Author 3 books65 followers
December 1, 2023
"Teachings of Swami Vivekananda" stands as a comprehensive compilation of the profound wisdom and insights offered by the patriot saint of India, Swami Vivekananda. This anthology, skillfully arranged by subject, serves as a timeless repository of his teachings, providing readers with a holistic understanding of the spiritual luminary's philosophy!

The book opens with a biographical introduction by Christopher Isherwood, offering readers a glimpse into the life of Swami Vivekananda. This introduction sets the stage for the transformative journey that unfolds through the teachings encapsulated in the subsequent chapters. As readers delve into the sayings of Swamiji, they encounter a rich tapestry of wisdom that reflects his deep spiritual insights and commitment to the upliftment of humanity.

A central theme that resonates throughout the teachings is the emphasis on manliness, a concept that Swami Vivekananda embraced as a guiding principle. As expressed in his own words, "The older I grow, the more everything seems to me to lie in manliness. This is my new gospel." This profound statement encapsulates the essence of Swamiji's teachings, highlighting the significance of cultivating qualities such as courage, strength, and integrity in the pursuit of spiritual growth.

The teachings are thoughtfully organized by subject, allowing readers to explore specific aspects of Swami Vivekananda's philosophy in a structured manner. Whether addressing topics related to self-realization, human values, or the universal truths embedded in various spiritual traditions, Swamiji's insights offer practical guidance for individuals navigating the complexities of life.

What makes "Teachings of Swami Vivekananda" particularly impactful is its accessibility. The sayings are presented in a concise and straightforward manner, making them easily digestible for readers of all backgrounds. Swami Vivekananda's ability to distill profound spiritual truths into simple, relatable messages contributes to the universal appeal of his teachings.

Beyond the spiritual realm, Swami Vivekananda's teachings extend into the domains of social responsibility and service to humanity. His vision for a harmonious society built on the foundations of compassion, tolerance, and understanding is evident throughout the book. Swamiji's call for the synthesis of spirituality and social responsibility continues to inspire individuals to contribute positively to the welfare of society!

In conclusion, "Teachings of Swami Vivekananda" is not just a book; it is a spiritual guide that transcends time and cultural boundaries. Swami Vivekananda's teachings, as compiled in this anthology, serve as a source of inspiration, offering timeless principles that remain relevant in the contemporary world. For those seeking guidance on the path of self-realization and a deeper understanding of the principles that underpin a meaningful life, this collection of teachings stands as a beacon of wisdom and enlightenment.
Profile Image for Manik Saluja.
30 reviews1 follower
Read
November 21, 2017
I had earlier heard about the teaching of Vivekananda but had never been ready comprehensively about them. So with this book i thought to get some learning from the writings of Vivekananda. His work is amazing. It is also inspiring that because of his teachings he got very famous in USA. Some of the take always from his work are -: His thought process on religion are very genuine . After a long time i read a teaching that so based on communal harmony and respect of each and every ones religion. The writings on strength and fear are amazing. I would definitely read this book again and wold suggest you all also the same.

Happy Reading :)
Profile Image for Robin Rana.
11 reviews4 followers
January 13, 2024
brilliant introductory book on the ideas of Vivekananda. Can be used to get into the official 9 volumes available
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews

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