Inspired Talks

by Vivekananda

This is a reproduction of a book published before 1923. This book may have occasional imperfections such as missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. that were either part of the original artifact, or were introduced by the scanning process. We believe this work is culturally important, and despite the imperfections, have elected to bring it back into print as part of our continuing commitment to the preservation of printed works worldwide. We appreciate your understanding of the imperfections in the preservation process, and hope you enjoy this valuable book.

Genres: Philosophy, Nonfiction, Spirituality, Religion, Hinduism

236 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1958

About the author

"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)

Reviews

[Braga · Rating 5 out of 5]

These were the lectures given by Vivekananda between June and august 1895 at the thousand island park. These were recorded by Miss Waldo, one of his disciples. Electrifying and deeply insightful similar to his other works. Some of the beautiful quotes I wanted to share.
"All knowledge depends upon the calmness of mind"
"Adjust the microcosm (which is in your power to do) and the macrocosm will adjust itself for you"
"Identity yourself with Atman, not with human limitations. Dis-identify yourself with the body, and all pain will cease. This is the secret of healing."

[Urvashi Vats · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a self help book by Swami Vivekanand. In this book Swami Vivekanand has given the life lessons that everyone can apply to live a happy & a successful life.

"The greatest sin is to think yourself weak".

Swami Vivekanand was an Indian Hindu monk, a chief disciple of the 19th-century Indian mystic Ramakrishna.

He was a key figure in the introduction of the Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world and is credited with raising interfaith awareness, bringing Hinduism to the status of a major world religion during the late 19th century.

He was a major force in the revival of Hinduism in India, and contributed to the concept of Indian nationalism as a tool to fight against the British empire in colonial India. Vivekananda founded the Ramakrishna Math and the Ramakrishna Mission.

Some of the incidents from the book are:

Once when Swami Vivekananda went to America, a woman expressed his desire to marry him. When Swami Vivekananda asked the woman for what your intention was. Then the woman's answer was that she was very fascinated with the wisdom of Swamiji and wished for such a wise child. That is why she asked Swami whether he could marry her and give her a child like her?

Of this, Swamiji told the woman that since She is fascinated only by his wisdom, there is no problem. Swami Vivekananda said that "I understand your wish. It will take a long time to get married and bring a child into this world and then to know whether he is intelligent or not.

There is no guarantee that this should happen. Instead, I can give you a suggestion to fulfill your wish immediately. You accept me as your child. In this way, you will become my mother and thus your desire to have a wise child like me will also be fulfilled. "

For the evening walk, Vivekanand remained in his saffron robe, and while he was walking near a park, a woman (who had been conspicuously observing him for some time) stopped him.

Unable to control her thoughts, she asked him, “Can't you wear proper clothes to look like a gentleman?”

Vivekanand with a polite smile and gesture replied, “In your culture, a tailor makes a gentleman; but, in our culture, Character makes the gentleman.”

I like the Swami Vivekanand's
Life philosophy to see the things in such a simple way & the positive attitude towards life.
Being an Author & a Life Coach I would recommend this book to be read by everyone & especially to the students doing research in Philosophy.

While applying a rating I would love to give it a 5 star.

#bookreview, #booklibrary, #bookshop, #bookshelfie, #bookclub, #bookcommunity

[Neel Preet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspired Talks by Swami Vivekananda is a collection of speeches given by the spiritual leader during his travels in India and the United States in the late 19th century. The book is an inspiring and thought-provoking read, providing a window into the mind of one of India's most influential spiritual leaders and thinkers!

One of the strengths of this book is the depth and breadth of Swami Vivekananda's knowledge and understanding of a wide range of subjects, including philosophy, religion, science, and social issues. The author's oratory skills are also on full display, with each lecture delivered in a clear and concise manner that is easy to follow. The book is a testament to Swami Vivekananda's ability to communicate complex ideas in a way that is accessible to a wide range of audiences.

Another strength of the book is the relevance of Swami Vivekananda's ideas to contemporary society. Many of the topics that he addresses, such as the importance of self-reliance, the role of religion in society, and the need for social and economic equality, are as relevant today as they were over a hundred years ago. The book provides a fresh perspective on these important issues and encourages the reader to reflect on their own beliefs and values.

The author's insights into the role of religion in society are particularly noteworthy. Throughout the book, Swami Vivekananda stresses the importance of religion as a means of personal transformation and the promotion of social harmony. He also argues that religion should not be used as a tool of oppression or division, but instead should be a source of inspiration and guidance for individuals and society as a whole!

In conclusion, Inspired Talks by Swami Vivekananda is a must-read for anyone who is interested in spirituality, religion, and the role of religion in society. The book provides a comprehensive look at the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda, and is an excellent resource for anyone who is seeking inspiration and guidance on the path to spiritual growth and self-discovery. Whether you are a student of religion, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone who is interested in learning more about one of India's most influential thinkers, this book is definitely worth a read.

[Prakhar Prateek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Profound words by swami ji which we can been benefit from, renunciation of material desires will bring one true happiness. When one lets go of desires for money, fame, respect and comfort, then can they truly love God and be one with the universe(bramhan). The path to freedom is illuminated.

[Shishir · Rating 3 out of 5]

Inspired talks by Swami Vivekananda More philosophical Monist aspects of Hindu Religion examined. The mystical oneness with universe proclaimed and ways to achieve that union discussed. The higher the state of consciousness (over many life times) the closer you get to Atman. Use of metaphorical and poetic language the mysticism comes alive. Our perceptions create the world of Maya around us. Stoic detachment and contemplation to move to higher consciousness discussed. Love every living being equally.

[Rohan Rajesh · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fascinating record of the teachings of America's first Swami with interesting spiritual insights but with reductionist East-West dichotomies typical of 19th-century discourse.

[Thakur Digvijay Singh · Rating 4 out of 5]

The man [Vivekananda] is simply a wonder for oratorical power . . . the Swami is an honor to humanity.