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Swami Vivekananda on Himself
This book is a documentation of selected notes and utterances of Swamiji about himself and his work. These are arranged chronologically so as to form what may be called a near autobiography of the saint.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published May 2, 2006
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4123 people want to read
About the author
Vivekananda
1,648 books1,581 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)
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 - 30 of 30 reviews
December 14, 2016
Well, I have read the books on Yoga written by Vivekananda, the books he has written on meditation techniques, his lectures on the Bhagavad Gita, even the hardships about his master which was kind of depressing to see the pains he had to go through.
But this book reveals the real pain and torture Vivekananda went through. India was a wealthy country but the way Vivekananda carried himself was disheartening to read. Begging in the streets with glimpses of food being offered once in three days. He had fainted in the streets so unconscious in a dense rain that he could not realize what happened later. And these things he did not endure in days or weeks but for lots and lots of months. He had immense patience. Anyone who is attached to materialistic lifestyle would have easily jumped on the other side which was always available to him - see he was a learned scholar, he had the entire set of material life in front of him, but then he deeply realized and practiced them being just Maya. All those times he was having the idea and teachings he learned from him Master to stay away from the materialistic pleasures.
"Without himself being free, how can he make others free?" - was his argument. From the outset and with the inclination going towards a lot of material and there are books written in abundance and the community as the whole trying to adopt the occidental at the max would lead us to happiness that comes with the cost of equivalent or more sorrow. I could only understand certain things he says perhaps only in a logical plane (which his Jnana work is all about). However, I could not commit to completely give up everything; what I was before reading this text is different than after I've read it.
This book again is the perspective of Vivekananda about himself. There are not many insights one could get about the works he has done, for instance, the four major books on Yoga he has written - Raja, Jnana, Karma, and Bhakti. He might have just hinted as if he was done with them, but each of these is deep work when viewed in isolation. The time he spent in the west and all the hundreds of letters written in a chronological order shows how focused he was in his works and the innumerous resistance he had to face from religious leaders of those times.
The more I reached towards the end of the book, the heavier it felt as this was a man who chose when to exit. Although he could well have attained Mukthi (if you agree with the Advaita Principle), he chose and clearly mentioned that he wanted to be born again. Not just that, he and his master would come again and continue there as forecasted by Shri Ramakrishna. For him, death was simply dropping the body and taking a new one. The best thing I loved about this book was the authenticity and an unadulterated POV as it does not involve a third person penning down his life, but it was all written by himself. If you are a fan of his work, you will find this book very interesting. If you are just going to start with this book, I would recommend reading his 4 books on Yoga.
But this book reveals the real pain and torture Vivekananda went through. India was a wealthy country but the way Vivekananda carried himself was disheartening to read. Begging in the streets with glimpses of food being offered once in three days. He had fainted in the streets so unconscious in a dense rain that he could not realize what happened later. And these things he did not endure in days or weeks but for lots and lots of months. He had immense patience. Anyone who is attached to materialistic lifestyle would have easily jumped on the other side which was always available to him - see he was a learned scholar, he had the entire set of material life in front of him, but then he deeply realized and practiced them being just Maya. All those times he was having the idea and teachings he learned from him Master to stay away from the materialistic pleasures.
"Without himself being free, how can he make others free?" - was his argument. From the outset and with the inclination going towards a lot of material and there are books written in abundance and the community as the whole trying to adopt the occidental at the max would lead us to happiness that comes with the cost of equivalent or more sorrow. I could only understand certain things he says perhaps only in a logical plane (which his Jnana work is all about). However, I could not commit to completely give up everything; what I was before reading this text is different than after I've read it.
This book again is the perspective of Vivekananda about himself. There are not many insights one could get about the works he has done, for instance, the four major books on Yoga he has written - Raja, Jnana, Karma, and Bhakti. He might have just hinted as if he was done with them, but each of these is deep work when viewed in isolation. The time he spent in the west and all the hundreds of letters written in a chronological order shows how focused he was in his works and the innumerous resistance he had to face from religious leaders of those times.
The more I reached towards the end of the book, the heavier it felt as this was a man who chose when to exit. Although he could well have attained Mukthi (if you agree with the Advaita Principle), he chose and clearly mentioned that he wanted to be born again. Not just that, he and his master would come again and continue there as forecasted by Shri Ramakrishna. For him, death was simply dropping the body and taking a new one. The best thing I loved about this book was the authenticity and an unadulterated POV as it does not involve a third person penning down his life, but it was all written by himself. If you are a fan of his work, you will find this book very interesting. If you are just going to start with this book, I would recommend reading his 4 books on Yoga.
August 21, 2016
"He whose joy is only in himself, whose desires are only in himself, he has learnt his lessons." This is the great lesson that we are here to learn through myriads of births and heavens and hells- that there is nothing to be asked for, desired for, beyond one's self.
Oh man! What have I done in my life so far? How come I have not read this man. Swami Vivekananda is not a writer, he is a force that speaks to the most primal and most advance emotions in a man at the same time, and help him see in himself what he potentially can become. He is the most powerful writer I have read in my LIFE. Yes, you read it. In my life. I have never read words that are so alive.
Oh man! What have I done in my life so far? How come I have not read this man. Swami Vivekananda is not a writer, he is a force that speaks to the most primal and most advance emotions in a man at the same time, and help him see in himself what he potentially can become. He is the most powerful writer I have read in my LIFE. Yes, you read it. In my life. I have never read words that are so alive.
January 5, 2012
brutally honest . It reveals the great soul in all human shades
August 13, 2013
This book is in effect a biography of Swami Vivekananda, written by the author himself, gathered through letters he wrote and lectures he gave as he traveled throughout the world. This is the story of a man who clearly realized and validated the truths himself just as the ancient seers had done. He plunged into the depths of realization to as in his own words "realize the kernel of Brahman". The book reveals the many moods,facets, thoughts of the Swami Vivekananda and it shows what a universal thinker he was who was well ahead of his time.
June 5, 2014
What a powerful account of Swamiji's time in America before the organization was set up! Truly an inspiration to learn about how he handled those whose values differed from his.Unlike biographies or autobiographies which are written with a looking backward point of view, with properly planned trajectory, this is a peek into his journal, into letters written to friends while his life's journey was still on-.
November 3, 2014
This man was sheer potent energy. A mahatma in every sense. This book is a must read for every aspirant of Hindu philosophy.
December 28, 2016
Indians tried to damage Swami's image. They bad mouthed him, tried to pull him down. His various confusions in search for truth is remarkable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2015
Every one knew about the greatest speech given by Swami Vivekananda in Chicago for the religious gathering.This book gives the insight of the life of Swami Vivekananda ,the hardships he underwent to reach that heights.
The way the turban was pulled on his head,the way he was pushed for wearing the dress of a monk.The way he saw his mother and brothers die with hunger.
The fact that he smokes,drinks and eat Non-veg. Amidst all you will also learn what really made him the man who is highly reverend by people who know him or read about him.
The way he lead the life to show others how one should live to attain the purest form.The way he seen the action of a human should be.
Many Impressive contents from this book.Of all the below Sanskrit sloka which he explained simply made me feel what this life game is all about
Sarvasastrapuranesu vyasya vacanam dhruvam!
Paropakarah punyaya papaya parapidanam!!
I don't want to explain this sloka right away here ,would suggest you to go through the book to understand it and I can assure you that the nuances of his words will ennoble you!
The way the turban was pulled on his head,the way he was pushed for wearing the dress of a monk.The way he saw his mother and brothers die with hunger.
The fact that he smokes,drinks and eat Non-veg. Amidst all you will also learn what really made him the man who is highly reverend by people who know him or read about him.
The way he lead the life to show others how one should live to attain the purest form.The way he seen the action of a human should be.
Many Impressive contents from this book.Of all the below Sanskrit sloka which he explained simply made me feel what this life game is all about
Sarvasastrapuranesu vyasya vacanam dhruvam!
Paropakarah punyaya papaya parapidanam!!
I don't want to explain this sloka right away here ,would suggest you to go through the book to understand it and I can assure you that the nuances of his words will ennoble you!
April 26, 2016
“I go forth, to preach a religion of which Buddhism is nothing but a rebel child, and Christianity, with all her pretensions, only a distant echo.”- Swami Vivekananda
I have heard many a time in various speeches given by great speakers and spiritual leaders of India and outside, stating the common fact that Swami Vivekananda was the man of future. His visions and ideas for the uplifting of society, not only of India but through out the world, were not only applicable a centuries ago, but the present scenario is demanding the implementation of those ideologies in a much yearning manner.
https://reviewurbook.wordpress.com/20...
I have heard many a time in various speeches given by great speakers and spiritual leaders of India and outside, stating the common fact that Swami Vivekananda was the man of future. His visions and ideas for the uplifting of society, not only of India but through out the world, were not only applicable a centuries ago, but the present scenario is demanding the implementation of those ideologies in a much yearning manner.
https://reviewurbook.wordpress.com/20...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2017
"Swami Vivekananda on Himself" a marvelous collection of his work, his journey, his thoughts, his life, Sri RamaKrishna Parmahansa's life, his rent-less efforts. After reading, one finds out that how it may become possible for anyone to achieve so much in life and more courage lies in renunciation of the same without even thinking for a second. His self efforts and selfless feelings are there in this book to justify the word "Swami" before his name.
A book full of Positive energy, motivation and inspiration.... Must read for everyone, irrespective of the age group...
" It takes a seed to die to reforest the whole world. "
Glory Unto Him...
A book full of Positive energy, motivation and inspiration.... Must read for everyone, irrespective of the age group...
" It takes a seed to die to reforest the whole world. "
Glory Unto Him...
August 24, 2018
I read this in Bengali in Swami's own language and his letters were written straight through his heart as one of the greatest thinkers and spiritual leaders of our time. Reading this gives a real sense of realism - the struggle - the dilemma - the learning curve that Vivekananda went through during his short but eventful life. His travels around the world described with so much innocence, wonder and simplicity makes it more interesting with depth. In his own words the book will touch anyone and everyone who reads it. The fact that he lived such an amazing & eventful life even 120-130 years back makes it that much more interesting. A must read for all....
September 18, 2013
Being a spiritual enthusiast, I could understand every bit of this book. Swami Vivekananda, in the book, explains about his life, his encounter with his Guru Ramkrishna Paramhansa and his life, the years of wondering and much more. At times, it is very painful to read the accounts of nerve-cracking tales of this Sanyasi. It is a must read for all those, who see this man as an ideal.
Read
January 24, 2016What a grand life. God personified. Mystic, monk, sanyasin, master, servant and all of it in one. I am inspired to continue reading more on him as I dont think i have even scratches a surface. It was such a spiritual experience reading this piece of work.
May 1, 2023
"Swami Vivekananda On Himself" is an assortment of letters and works by the prestigious Indian rationalist, Swami Vivekananda. The book gives perusers a brief look into the life and lessons of this extraordinary profound pioneer.
The book starts with an itemized presentation by Master Nikhilananda, a pupil of Master Vivekananda, who gives foundation data on Vivekananda's life and work. The presentation is trailed by a progression of letters and expositions composed by Vivekananda himself, which cover a scope of subjects including otherworldliness, reasoning, and social change.
One of the qualities of this book is its own inclination. The letters and papers furnish perusers with a feeling of the man behind the way of thinking. Vivekananda's composing style is clear and direct, and his energy for his work and his convictions is obvious on each page.
One more strength of the book is its availability. While Vivekananda was an exceptionally regarded researcher and savant, he was likewise a talented communicator who had the option to make sense of mind boggling thoughts in a manner that was simple for the layman to comprehend. This book is no exemption, and perusers of all degrees of experience with Vivekananda's work will find a lot to see the value in here.
In general, "Master Vivekananda On Himself" is a magnificent prologue to the life and lessons of one of the extraordinary otherworldly heads of the advanced period. Whether you are hoping to extend your own profound practice, or essentially to study this intriguing figure, this book is a must-peruse.
The book starts with an itemized presentation by Master Nikhilananda, a pupil of Master Vivekananda, who gives foundation data on Vivekananda's life and work. The presentation is trailed by a progression of letters and expositions composed by Vivekananda himself, which cover a scope of subjects including otherworldliness, reasoning, and social change.
One of the qualities of this book is its own inclination. The letters and papers furnish perusers with a feeling of the man behind the way of thinking. Vivekananda's composing style is clear and direct, and his energy for his work and his convictions is obvious on each page.
One more strength of the book is its availability. While Vivekananda was an exceptionally regarded researcher and savant, he was likewise a talented communicator who had the option to make sense of mind boggling thoughts in a manner that was simple for the layman to comprehend. This book is no exemption, and perusers of all degrees of experience with Vivekananda's work will find a lot to see the value in here.
In general, "Master Vivekananda On Himself" is a magnificent prologue to the life and lessons of one of the extraordinary otherworldly heads of the advanced period. Whether you are hoping to extend your own profound practice, or essentially to study this intriguing figure, this book is a must-peruse.
September 5, 2019
Title: Swami Vivekananda On himself
Published by: Swami Muktidananda
Pages: 352
Language: English
🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼
This is not an autobiography. Swami Vivekananda probably wrote no book completely dedicated to himself. This book is a collection of letters, interviews, lecturers and such.
🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼
"Each work has to pass through these stages- ridicule, opposition, and then acceptance."
.
This book shows not the great saint- that he was, but a mere man who strove to achieve his goal against all odds. It shows his vulnerability as a human and his struggle against prejudiced socities. There is something about his persona that compels you to respect the great reformer. A man clad in orange robe influenced so many in America and England and later on in many other countires.
.
This book tells the story of a poor brahmin boy, whose unparalleled love and dedication to his teacher, took him to places around the world to preach his master's teachings.
.
Growing up I had some misconceptions about Swami Vivekananda. People always showed his larger than life image. This book put away that veil and showed a great yogi with immense mental strength and a resolute spirit.
.
Bought this book from the bookstore at RAMKRISHNA Belur Math, Howrah, West Bengal, India.
Published by: Swami Muktidananda
Pages: 352
Language: English
🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼
This is not an autobiography. Swami Vivekananda probably wrote no book completely dedicated to himself. This book is a collection of letters, interviews, lecturers and such.
🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼
"Each work has to pass through these stages- ridicule, opposition, and then acceptance."
.
This book shows not the great saint- that he was, but a mere man who strove to achieve his goal against all odds. It shows his vulnerability as a human and his struggle against prejudiced socities. There is something about his persona that compels you to respect the great reformer. A man clad in orange robe influenced so many in America and England and later on in many other countires.
.
This book tells the story of a poor brahmin boy, whose unparalleled love and dedication to his teacher, took him to places around the world to preach his master's teachings.
.
Growing up I had some misconceptions about Swami Vivekananda. People always showed his larger than life image. This book put away that veil and showed a great yogi with immense mental strength and a resolute spirit.
.
Bought this book from the bookstore at RAMKRISHNA Belur Math, Howrah, West Bengal, India.
February 5, 2024
From the title, it is normal to expect an auto-biographical account of swami vivekananda's life. However, it is a careful chronological compilation of pieces picked from Swami's discourses what he revealed about himself. The effort to put together Vivekananda's autobiography is commendable and the account itself is a great introduction. It felt that the order in which this book is read matters. After reading the yogas, this compilation felt a bit incomplete, perhaps may be disconnected at places. At places, it misses that trademark lucidity, and influence in swami's words.
March 21, 2024
The only regret I have after reading this book is - I should have read it years ago! Powerful, inspiring, hard-hitting at times, and sending chills down my spine. Reading this great man's story in his own words - the struggles he went through, the deep thirst for realising the Truth, and bringing the essence of that Truths to the world, in his own words - I felt I was always with him, revelling in his presence. Why did I not read this before!
July 25, 2023
While Swami Vivekananda's original Complete Works writings are very clear and informative on Indian philosophy, this re-arranged compilation seems to lack something and it is not clear what that would be as it is just the original pieces of work. However, it is possible that the re-arrangement somehow renders a different feel.
February 21, 2021
Not meant of everyone. For followers of Swami Vivekanand's life and teachings, this is an excellent compilation. Recommended!
October 8, 2021
A spiritual, secular, emotional and intelligent person, one of my gurus now that I have read nearly all his writings. My favorite was his interpretation of the Bhagavad Gita.
February 23, 2023
A hard read but a very worthwhile one showcasing the power of determination and willpower of a human. One of the first individual to introduce India and cultural heritage to the world.
February 28, 2024
A must read for all students of Vedanta and all those who are interested in Hinduism and Indian history. Swami Vivekananda is a giant in his field.
August 21, 2024
Truly inspiring novel.
January 5, 2025
A lion among men. We are not even 1% of what he was.
April 7, 2025
One of the best book, You can explore!
You'll be amazed absolutely after going through this Book!
One of my most favourite book of all time!❤️
You'll be amazed absolutely after going through this Book!
One of my most favourite book of all time!❤️
December 1, 2023
"Swami Vivekananda on Himself" offers readers an intimate and insightful journey into the self-perceptions and reflections of one of the most influential spiritual leaders, Swami Vivekananda. Authored by the saint himself, this book serves as a unique documentation of selected notes and utterances that collectively form a near autobiography of this luminary!
The chronological arrangement of these notes and utterances provides a structured narrative that traces the evolution of Swamiji's thoughts about himself and his life's work. It is, in essence, a self-portrait painted with the brushstrokes of his own words. Readers are invited to witness the unfolding of Swami Vivekananda's spiritual odyssey, from the early expressions of self-awareness to the mature reflections on his mission and teachings.
One of the distinctive features of this book is its authenticity. The words are not filtered through the interpretations of others; they are Swamiji's direct expressions, offering a raw and unfiltered glimpse into his inner world. The sincerity and honesty with which he communicates about himself contribute to the book's credibility and immediacy.
As readers traverse the pages, they encounter the complexities and nuances of Swami Vivekananda's self-perception. The notes provide insights into his struggles, aspirations, and the profound sense of purpose that propelled him forward. The book becomes a literary mirror reflecting the saint's evolving identity, both as an individual and as a spiritual leader.
Beyond being a mere autobiographical account, "Swami Vivekananda on Himself" is a testament to the clarity of Swamiji's vision. His reflections on his life's mission, the challenges he faced, and the principles he upheld shed light on the depth of his spiritual insights. The book serves as a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of the man behind the global icon.
In conclusion, this book is not just a historical artifact but a living testament to the enduring legacy of Swami Vivekananda. It invites readers to partake in his self-discovery, providing a window into the mind and heart of a spiritual giant. "Swami Vivekananda on Himself" is a literary treasure that transcends time, allowing readers to connect with the saint in a profoundly personal and meaningful way!
The chronological arrangement of these notes and utterances provides a structured narrative that traces the evolution of Swamiji's thoughts about himself and his life's work. It is, in essence, a self-portrait painted with the brushstrokes of his own words. Readers are invited to witness the unfolding of Swami Vivekananda's spiritual odyssey, from the early expressions of self-awareness to the mature reflections on his mission and teachings.
One of the distinctive features of this book is its authenticity. The words are not filtered through the interpretations of others; they are Swamiji's direct expressions, offering a raw and unfiltered glimpse into his inner world. The sincerity and honesty with which he communicates about himself contribute to the book's credibility and immediacy.
As readers traverse the pages, they encounter the complexities and nuances of Swami Vivekananda's self-perception. The notes provide insights into his struggles, aspirations, and the profound sense of purpose that propelled him forward. The book becomes a literary mirror reflecting the saint's evolving identity, both as an individual and as a spiritual leader.
Beyond being a mere autobiographical account, "Swami Vivekananda on Himself" is a testament to the clarity of Swamiji's vision. His reflections on his life's mission, the challenges he faced, and the principles he upheld shed light on the depth of his spiritual insights. The book serves as a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of the man behind the global icon.
In conclusion, this book is not just a historical artifact but a living testament to the enduring legacy of Swami Vivekananda. It invites readers to partake in his self-discovery, providing a window into the mind and heart of a spiritual giant. "Swami Vivekananda on Himself" is a literary treasure that transcends time, allowing readers to connect with the saint in a profoundly personal and meaningful way!
Want to read
November 14, 2011From mrs. Padbidri
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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December 19, 2014One word... Excellent !
September 20, 2023
This the the by far the most inspiring story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews