According to the Upanishads, the body is a temple and the one residing in it is the Lord Himself. Humans have endeavored to replicate this message through the construction of temples. The heart is the cave where the soul dwells and the cave is the temple’s sanctum sanctum where the deity resides—in darkness and stillness. In all faiths, light is the archetype of transcendence. In the temple, it is only with the light of the lamp, purposefully raised, that the magnificent presence of God is revealed. In us, God is discovered with the light of knowledge: when it floods the cave, it banishes the darkness, illuminating and making the unknown gloriously known. What is this light? What does it disclose? How is it attained? With gratitude and humility, ‘Darkness to Light’ provides answers and makes suggestions. This book is a humble offering of gratitude at the feet of the great master Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda, founder of Chinmaya Mission, who has ignited the spark in the hearts of seekers worldwide.
Understand your mind and you understand life'. Wisdom lies in reaching the state of maturity, where we accept life as it is, without a single word of complaint, whether our problems stem at the physical or mental level. Conscious Living is a compilation of various articles that inspire us to discover the joy of life, that expresses itself as our thoughts, emotions, feelings and intelligence. However, the desire to live as the limited self is the nature of the ignorant while the pursuit to discover the eternal Self is the nature of the wise. This book deals with questions like- 1.What is death? .How to share and care? 2.How to accept life as it is? 3.How to gain control of mind? 4.How to lead a life of inspiration? 5.Hoe to develop a vision in our life? 6.How to evolve from ordinary to extraordinary? The author Swami Ishwarananda is a disciple of Swami Chinmayananda. He wrote these thought provoking articles for the CMW newsletter published from Piercy, California to inspire the readers to live a healthy, spiritually advanced life. He has a lucid style of writing, supported by anecdotes, quotes and messages from various regions of the world. His words are very convincing, apt to the well known saying - 'Wisdom is to be caught, not taught!
From the conversation between the supreme Lord Siva and his consort Goddess Parvati was born the Guru-Gita. The endless wisdom in this text has been distilled to the pithy Guru Stotram in fourteen verses, where the essence of the purpose and need for a Guru unfolds. Swami Ishwarananda, with his trademark laser like thinking guides the reader into a deeper understanding of who a guru is and what being guided by a learned one can mean to the individual who seeks to overcome disquiet and satisfy a yearning that is not yet fully understood. Gently, yet definitively, he shows us that guru-bhakti alone can take us toward the eternal.
A pilgrimage, as we usually understand it, is a journey taken toward His worldly abode. But, as Swami Ishwarananda points out in 'Pathways to Peace', the Lord's holiest dwelling is in our own hearts and a pilgrimage inwards, toward our own Self, is the ultimate journey. Swamiji asks the very fundamental of questions: what is this mind? And by gently guiding the sadhak with everyday tips and simple suggestions, he unravels a great mystery, so each of us can become a seeker, cleanse the mind and live out the true, inspired life of this human birth. Along with the practical wisdom comes an urgent message that is not be missed: be a seeker, a true devotee and do it all NOW ! And peace will be ours ! Click here and grab our OUR OTHER INSPIRATIONAL TITLES
What do you call a devotee who is also a king -- an emperor among saints or a saint among emperors? Kulasekhara Alvar, was a regal devotee who lorded over the Lord of His heart, Mukunda! He would cry, smile, weep, laugh, plead, throw a challenge to the lord and make Krishna give into His sweet adoration. Swami Ishwarananda in his erudite exposition on Mukundamala;, a composition of this saint says that love by itself is healing, but divine love is several notches higher and a Divine Lover is an alchemist who transforms an ordinary life into an inner pilgrimage, leading to an ecstatic union with the Lord. His exhaustive commentary is replete with easy examples and parallels from the Upanisads and the Bhagavad-gita;. This will be an illuminating affirmation for any devotee and an eye-opener to any atheist who is very sure of himself. Through this text you will discover the deeper dimensions of your emotional and spiritual personalities.
This booklet is a small collection of his communication with devotees through the internet as e-satsangs every month - inspiring, thoughtful and filled with humour!
Understand your mind and you understand life'. Wisdom lies in reaching the state of maturity, where we accept life as it is, without a single word of complaint, whether our problems stem at the physical or mental level. Conscious Living is a compilation of various articles that inspire us to discover the joy of life, that expresses itself as our thoughts, emotions, feelings and intelligence. However, the desire to live as the limited self is the nature of the ignorant while the pursuit to discover the eternal Self is the nature of the wise. This book deals with questions like- 1.What is death? .How to share and care? 2.How to accept life as it is? 3.How to gain control of mind? 4.How to lead a life of inspiration? 5.Hoe to develop a vision in our life? 6.How to evolve from ordinary to extraordinary? The author Swami Ishwarananda is a disciple of Swami Chinmayananda. He wrote these thought provoking articles for the CMW newsletter published from Piercy, California to inspire the readers to live a healthy, spiritually advanced life. He has a lucid style of writing, supported by anecdotes, quotes and messages from various regions of the world. His words are very convincing, apt to the well known saying - 'Wisdom is to be caught, not taught!
There’s deep connection between the name and the named. The name brings to our mind the image of the person thought of and the more one thinks, the more consistent the impressions; for example, when we say ‘flower’, we immediately conceive a mental picture of the flower. This is the sole principle behind association. The 1000 names of Lord Vishnu are meant to invoke a sense of bonding with the Lord, who’s the most intimate one, whether we recognize it or not. Yet how often and how deeply do we call out to him? The meanings of the names given out here will help in understanding the magnitude and depth of godhood. Vishnu Sahasranama was taught by Bhishma lying on a bed of arrows to Yudhishthira. It brought joy and solace to both. May it do the same to us as well.
Hindu culture is founded upon the sacred scriptures such as Vedas, which are revered even today, for they contain revelations of eternal Truth and embody the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Hindu people. The Vedas are the legacy of the rishis and subjective scientists, who touched a deep cord within, far beyond the physical, mental and intellectual layers, which allowed them to see all life as interconnected. They saw the One manifested throughout the universe, making everything sacred to them. When life is honoured and belief in holiness of all life is fostered, one cannot but help acquire a deep sense of reverence for life. Hindu culture has evolved out of this vision. This book provides concise and precise answers to basic questions about Hinduism, unfolding the foundation upon which Hindu culture rests.
Vedanta is the science of life. It shows us the gateway to peace and happiness. To understand this subtle science, knowledge of certain terms and concepts is mandatory. That is why we have prakarana-granthas or introductory books which explain the definitions of the special terms used in our sastras. Adi Sankaracharya's Atmabodha is one such text. It is a scientific journey, throwing light on the subtle concepts present in our sastras. With striking examples and ingenioius poetry he guides the reader along the path of Vedanta terminology. Pujya Swami Chinmayananda in his commentary effortlessly presents to the common man the timelss wisdom of Sankaracharya. Reflecting on these verses will uplift the mind and elevate the soul. A great guide for beginners and a meditation prop for advanced seekers.
In the Indian ethos, we encounter symbolism everywhere – in our shastras, in our celebrations and festivals, in the way we live. Symbolism has a language of its own. It is not necessarily meant to be cryptic or secretive, but it is meant to make on think, to ask questions. Why do we celebrate our festivals the way we do? Why are Hindu gods multi-armed, each one specific and distinct from the other? What is the significance of their individual vehicles and the weapons they carry? Pujya Gurudev, Swami Chinmayananda, sometimes spoke about symbolism and sometimes wrote about it. His style was unique and always to the point. The articles in this book have been compiled by Swami Nityananda (formerly R.S. Nathan), who was driven by a desire to share Gurudev’s wisdom with all. There are articles by others too, and they have been included because each one of them touches on one or the other aspect of symbolism. And if anybody is buzzing with questions, pick up this book and read on.
A small boy, who was already a realized soul, narrated his experience of Sell-knowledge to Bhagavan Adi Shankaracharya. To the boy this knowledge was as clear as 'a gooseberry (amalaka) kept on the palm (hasta)', and so the boy was named Hastamalaka, He became famous as one of the four renowned disciples of the Acharya and the conversation compiled by the Acharya is 'Hastamalaka stotram'. The famous saint of Maharashtra, Sant Ekanatha Maharaja has written a beautiful commentary on this stotra in Marathi. Swami Purushottamananda brings out the quintessence of that commentary, which will be most valuable to English knowing seekers for contemplation and Self-realization.
A pilgrimage, as we usually understand it, is a journey taken toward His worldly abode. But, as Swami Ishwarananda points out in 'Pathways to Peace', the Lord's holiest dwelling is in our own hearts and a pilgrimage inwards, toward our own Self, is the ultimate journey. Swamiji asks the very fundamental of questions: what is this mind? And by gently guiding the sadhak with everyday tips and simple suggestions, he unravels a great mystery, so each of us can become a seeker, cleanse the mind and live out the true, inspired life of this human birth. Along with the practical wisdom comes an urgent message that is not be missed: be a seeker, a true devotee and do it all NOW ! And peace will be ours ! Click here and grab our OUR OTHER INSPIRATIONAL TITLES
According to the Upanishads, the body is a temple and the one residing in it is the Lord Himself. Humans have endeavored to replicate this message through the construction of temples. The heart is the cave where the soul dwells and the cave is the temple’s sanctum sanctum where the deity resides—in darkness and stillness. In all faiths, light is the archetype of transcendence. In the temple, it is only with the light of the lamp, purposefully raised, that the magnificent presence of God is revealed. In us, God is discovered with the light of knowledge: when it floods the cave, it banishes the darkness, illuminating and making the unknown gloriously known. What is this light? What does it disclose? How is it attained? With gratitude and humility, ‘Darkness to Light’ provides answers and makes suggestions. This book is a humble offering of gratitude at the feet of the great master Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda, founder of Chinmaya Mission, who has ignited the spark in the hearts of seekers worldwide.
What do you call a devotee who is also a king -- an emperor among saints or a saint among emperors? Kulasekhara Alvar, was a regal devotee who lorded over the Lord of His heart, Mukunda! He would cry, smile, weep, laugh, plead, throw a challenge to the lord and make Krishna give into His sweet adoration. Swami Ishwarananda in his erudite exposition on Mukundamala;, a composition of this saint says that love by itself is healing, but divine love is several notches higher and a Divine Lover is an alchemist who transforms an ordinary life into an inner pilgrimage, leading to an ecstatic union with the Lord. His exhaustive commentary is replete with easy examples and parallels from the Upanisads and the Bhagavad-gita;. This will be an illuminating affirmation for any devotee and an eye-opener to any atheist who is very sure of himself. Through this text you will discover the deeper dimensions of your emotional and spiritual personalities.
From the conversation between the supreme Lord Siva and his consort Goddess Parvati was born the Guru-Gita. The endless wisdom in this text has been distilled to the pithy Guru Stotram in fourteen verses, where the essence of the purpose and need for a Guru unfolds. Swami Ishwarananda, with his trademark laser like thinking guides the reader into a deeper understanding of who a guru is and what being guided by a learned one can mean to the individual who seeks to overcome disquiet and satisfy a yearning that is not yet fully understood. Gently, yet definitively, he shows us that guru-bhakti alone can take us toward the eternal.
This booklet is a small collection of his communication with devotees through the internet as e-satsangs every month - inspiring, thoughtful and filled with humour!
The quest of health is essentially a quest for happiness. Which is why, beyond the superficial exercise, diet, nutritional supplements, yoga and similar therapies - although their benefits are by no means under dispute - the question of health needs to be addressed more holistically.... by encompassing the mental and emotional levels and reaching into the spiritual core. In this fine work, Swamiji illustrates through his personal experience and the teachings of the scripture, just how far-reaching the journey into health truly is.
Here is what Swami Chinmayananda says: "Mere study is not sufficient. Study gives us information. Scriptures and Sastras only give us a road map. However much you may study the road map, you will never reach the pilgrim centre. Study the map, roll it up and keep it handy by your side, as it may be useful en route the journey. Now get up from your chair, get into your vehicle and move on along the way the map indicates so clearly." "Work is unavoidable. Choose a field that inspires you, that is in line with your nobler tendencies.
In an age where scientific minded youngsters are turning away from religion, there is a great need for a clear, systematic and logical explanation of the ancient spiritual teachings of Hinduism. That is exactly what Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda has given us in Self Unfoldment - a step-by-step analysis of the thought development of Vedanta. In precise, simple and profound language, Gurudev takes us from the fundamental principles of life to the very highest philosophical truths in this spiritual masterpiece. Self Unfoldment has inspired thousands of young people over the years, bringing out the noblest and best in them. Swami Chinmayananda, pioneered the art of conveying sublime knowledge intricately wrapped in Sanskrit scripture through the medium of English discourse and commentary. On realising the true purpose of life he worked tirelessly and with tremendous energy for more than four decades to spread the message of Vedanta. A great writer, leader, patriot and spiritual giant: He brought about a spiritual renaissance of the Vedantic heritage to the world. A powerful orator with his own brand of wit and humour; he paints vividly the wisdom of the ages in front of us. His commentary on the Bhagavad Geeta and Upanishads are considered one of the best ever for their clarity and crisp logic.
‘Enlightening Stories’ is a collection of 74 stories culled from the Indian and other religious traditions. Geographically, they range from the jungles of India to the deserts of the Middle East and the hills of Italy; historically, from the Vedic period to the 20th century; culturally, from the Hindu, Buddhist, Sufi, and Christian traditions. Wide-ranging and eclectic, they reflect our rich heritage and illustrate the universality of spiritual truth. Compiled by Swami Vimohananda from Bengali title ‘Galpa Malika’ by Swami Chetanananda and other sources and published by Advaita Ashrama, a publication house of Ramakrishna Math, Belur Math. #AdvaitaAshrama #RKMathBelurMath
A versatile and multi-talented exponent of Vedantika thought, Swami Swaroopananda is quick to judge the pulse of his audiences. Over the years, he has spoken on many a platform and addressed several wide-ranging important topics of perennial interset. Life Changers is a collection of Swamiji's inspirational articles and quotes, published in prestigious national dailies and posted on social media. Chosen with care, his thoughts speak to varied audiences, seeking out the seeker at his level of interest. A compelling read, the book guides the reader through the clouds of confusion, to rise slowly toe reach the peaks of clarity and perfection.
The authors of the 'U.S. Declaration of Independence' declared that all men are endowed by their Creator with certain rights, including Pursuit of Happiness. However, they gave no hints as to where this elusive happiness might be found. Over 3,000 years earlier in the serene atmosphere of the Himalayan ranges, the sages of Veda period drew the same conclusion and proceeded to investigate into the nature of happiness. They wanted to know where happiness was located and how to find it. In their careful observations they noted three facts: Man's search for happiness is a universal tendency. Everyone is searching for lasting happiness in a world of change. Permanent happiness must be independent of a changing environment. Arriving at these conclusions, the sages turned their enquiry inward to discover a substratum of permanence on which the changing phenomena rose and fell. In the short essays in Pursuit of Happiness, Swami Chinmayananda lucidly communicates the conclusions drawn by these subjective scientists who realised their own divine nature and proposed a way of life so that others might follow on the inner journey to the true source of happiness. Hailed as the second Swami Vivekananda, Swami Chinmayananda (1916-1993) has left a great legacy behind for mankind. On realising the true purpose of life he worked tirelessly and with tremendous energy for more than four decades to spread the message of Vedanta. A great orator, writer, leader, patriot and spiritual giant, he is one of the finest representatives of Indian spiritual heritage. The sprawling worldwide organisation of Chimaya Mission carries on the torch lit by this great saint.
A selection of stories and parables, taken from talks given by Sri Swami Satchidananda. Readers can discover for themselves the peace and joy that lie within us all. Large type and universal themes make this attractive, easy-to-read book a family favorite and a welcome gift. More than a hundred drawings by Peter Max are an extra delight.A Yogi is like a surfer who knows how to balance on his board. He welcomes even a big, rolling wave because he knows how to enjoy it without getting caught in it.
Swami Adbhutananda, or Latu Maharaj, was one of the sixteen monastic disciples of Sri Ramakrishna. Swami Vivekananda called him Sri Ramakrishna’s greatest miracle. He remarked upon Latu Maharaj’s uniqueness saying: “Latu progressed so quickly in the spiritual realm that, considering the different circumstances of his background and ours, he is far greater than us. We were all born of high ancestry and came to the Master with an intellect refined by formal education whereas Latu was entirely illiterate. If we did not care to meditate or do other spiritual practices, we could escape such a mood by studying. But Latu had no other recourse. He had to hold on to a single idea throughout his life. Starting from a very ordinary and low state, by keeping his mind unruffled by meditation and other spiritual practices alone, Latu became fit to receive the highest spiritual wealth. This indicates his inner potential power and the limitless grace of our Master.” Published by Advaita Ashrama, a publication house of Ramakrishna Math, Belur Math, this is an English translation of ‘Sat Katha’ in Bengali by Swami Siddhananda. The translation was completed in 2012 and thereafter serialized in the monthly Prabuddha Bharata. Swami Siddhananda was Latu Maharaj’s attendant and was fortunate to hear the spiritual instructions which flowed from him. He published a number of his talks serially in the Udbodhan magazine under the title Satkatha which later was published in book form.
This collection includes dialogues from 1962-1966 that contain Swami Muktananda's replies to questions covering a wide range of spiritual topics, as well as rare photographs from the early days of his teaching mission.
Swami Vivekananda (l863-1902), a learned scholar and wandering monk from India, traveled to Chicago in 1893 for the first World Parliament of Religions and there won immediate acclaim as a spiritual teacher. He established the first Vedanta centers in the United States and made a tremendous impression on a range of scholars, writers, and spiritual seekers. Book jacket.
This is a valuable new guide to the practice of Vedanta and inner yoga: a priceless collection of spiritual instructions from Swami Ashokananda (1893-1969) to his close American disciples. Vedanta's eternal truths come alive in Swami Ashokananda's down-to-earth words of encouragement and advice. More than eight hundred passages for contemplation shed light on the spiritual path. Early chapters such as "The Agony of Conflict" and "The Secrets of Suffering" show how to cope with common problems; later chapters such as "Be Calm" and "Meditate" guide readers toward a higher state of consciousness.
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