ISSUE No. 78 JUL - SEP 2013
RAMAKRISHNA MISSION SINGAPORE MICA(P)0003/09/2012 ISSN0218-7183 State of Spiritual enlightenment or illumination. Nirvana releases humans from Pearls of Wisdom the cycle of birth, suffering, death and all forms of worldly bondage.
In this issue... Uddhava Gita Translated by Swami Madhavananda
Pearls of Wisdom 1 Śrī bhagavān uvāca Editorial 2
Bestower of Knowledge 3 The Lord said:
Sri Rama, the Embodiment of Dharma 10 The highest charity is the relinquishing of the idea of viol- Celebration at Vivekanandar Illam 14 ence towards beings. Penance is the giving up of desires. Valour is the conquest of one's nature. Honesty is looking Vivekananda: A Monk with a Mission 17 upon everything with an equal eye.
S occer Tournament 19 Truthfulness is true and agreeable speech which the sag- es praise. Purity is non-attachment to work, and renunci- New Ramakrishna Temple consecrated 24 ation is the giving up of work.
Commemorative Stamps Govt. of India 25 Religion is that wealth which men may covet. I, the Sup- reme Lord, am the sacrifice. The imparting of knowledge is religious remuneration. The highest strength is the control of Prana.
Fortune is my Divine State. The best profit is devotion to Me. Learning is the destruction of the idea of multiplicity in the Self. Shyness is abhorrence of evil deeds.
Edited and Published by Swami Muktirupananda, President, Ramakrishna Mission, (To be continued) Uddhava Gita, 14 37- 40 179 Bartley Road, Singapore 539784 Tel: 6288 9077 Fax: 6288 5798. email: [email protected], Website: www.ramakrishna.org.sg Print Production: EAZI Printing Pte Ltd
State of Spiritual enlightenment or illumination. Nirvana releases humans from Pearls of Wisdom the cycle of birth, suffering, death and all forms of worldly bondage.
In this issue... Uddhava Gita Translated by Swami Madhavananda
Pearls of Wisdom 1 Śrī bhagavān uvāca Editorial 2
Bestower of Knowledge 3 The Lord said:
Sri Rama, the Embodiment of Dharma 10 The highest charity is the relinquishing of the idea of viol- Celebration at Vivekanandar Illam 14 ence towards beings. Penance is the giving up of desires. Valour is the conquest of one's nature. Honesty is looking Vivekananda: A Monk with a Mission 17 upon everything with an equal eye.
S occer Tournament 19 Truthfulness is true and agreeable speech which the sag- es praise. Purity is non-attachment to work, and renunci- New Ramakrishna Temple consecrated 24 ation is the giving up of work.
Commemorative Stamps Govt. of India 25 Religion is that wealth which men may covet. I, the Sup- reme Lord, am the sacrifice. The imparting of knowledge is religious remuneration. The highest strength is the control of Prana.
Fortune is my Divine State. The best profit is devotion to Me. Learning is the destruction of the idea of multiplicity in the Self. Shyness is abhorrence of evil deeds.
Edited and Published by Swami Muktirupananda, President, Ramakrishna Mission, (To be continued) Uddhava Gita, 14 37- 40 179 Bartley Road, Singapore 539784 Tel: 6288 9077 Fax: 6288 5798. email: [email protected], Website: www.ramakrishna.org.sg Print Production: EAZI Printing Pte Ltd
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Editorial Bestower of Knowledge Character Swami Muktirupananda A person is known by his mental and moral qualities and they form the basis of his character. In other words character is the sum total of these traits either good or bad. One who possesses desired qualities At most of our centres during the Holy Mother’s simplicity and of has good character and one of undesirable qualities has bad character. evening prayers we sing a her extremely unsophisticated life In society we find persons of both high or low characters. Why such a devotional song on Sri Sarada very few people knew of her greatness. The majority looked difference exists in human beings and what is the cause of it? How Devi. It starts with प upon her as a saintly woman and does one acquire these character traits? Is it by birth or by learning, or (Prakritim paramaam), which a consort of a great saint. by instinct or practice? Geneticists say genes, carriers of heredity, means she is the Supreme Externally she did not perform largely determine at birth the form of one’s character, that is to say one Prakriti or primordial power, the any miracles, nor revealed her inherits these qualities. On the other hand, environmentalists or cause of creation. This hymn was true identity. Only those closest to nurturists say our environment, physical as well as mental composed in Sanskrit by Swami her, her own divine companions surroundings, primarily moulds one’s character. It is discovered that Abhedananda, a monastic knew who she was, and the nature and nurture both play their important roles in human life and disciple of Sri Ramakrishna. The purpose of her life on the earth. they work together. Genes obey nature as much as nurture or unique feature of this hymn is that Mother herself said, “Excessive experience. If everything is pre-determined at the time of birth then Holy Mother herself listened to it show of divine manifestation there is no hope for any improvement and development and human sung by Abhedananda. When she frightens people and they do not effort becomes meaningless. It is true that certain traits inherited at was living at Nilamabar come near us.” For this reason birth remain with a person. And many new ones also are acquired from Mukerjee’s garden house at she carefully guarded her divine the surroundings. Belur, Abhedananda recited his nature and wore a mask of composition before her. While modesty. She was accessible to So the quality of family life and socio-cultural environment are the listening Mother went into all her children, rich and poor, determining factors in shaping character, behaviour and human life. ecstasy. When the singing was young and old. Just as no child Poet John Milton wrote, ‘The childhood shows the man, as the morning over she cast her graceful glance shows any reservation to go and shows the day.’ The formative years of a child are vey important. A at the Swami and blessed him, talk intimately to its mother, so child absorbs everything either good or bad as it is unable to know the “My son! May Divine Mother with Holy Mother every one felt difference. Children learn to imitate the elders at home and outside. Sarasvati ever live on your free in her presence and Therefore, the elders have to lead by their good example. If they wish tongue.” She is depicted in the unburdened their hearts without to see their children to grow up with blameless character and behaviour song as the Universal Mother, fear or inhibition. It was the sweet they too have to lead such a life. Pious wishes, cascade of advice and Mother of all, who incarnated and pure relationship of a mother prayers are of little use. If elders want to see good things in younger herself to remove the sufferings and child. generation those very things must first manifest and blossom in of people. Worship of God as themselves. The sad thing is none is serious about it. Character Mother is not a strange thing to In the hymn, the poet in ten building on sound values does not receive as much importance as the Hindu mind. Hindus are quite verses written on behalf of all passing the examinations. Because everything in modern society is at home in worshiping God as children beseeches Mother to measured in terms of economy, status and power. A person of sterling Father or Mother. Because of character may not be wealthy, famous or without any status. But he is a happy, trustworthy and respected person in society.
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Editorial Bestower of Knowledge Character Swami Muktirupananda A person is known by his mental and moral qualities and they form the basis of his character. In other words character is the sum total of these traits either good or bad. One who possesses desired qualities At most of our centres during the Holy Mother’s simplicity and of has good character and one of undesirable qualities has bad character. evening prayers we sing a her extremely unsophisticated life In society we find persons of both high or low characters. Why such a devotional song on Sri Sarada very few people knew of her greatness. The majority looked difference exists in human beings and what is the cause of it? How Devi. It starts with प upon her as a saintly woman and does one acquire these character traits? Is it by birth or by learning, or (Prakritim paramaam), which a consort of a great saint. by instinct or practice? Geneticists say genes, carriers of heredity, means she is the Supreme Externally she did not perform largely determine at birth the form of one’s character, that is to say one Prakriti or primordial power, the any miracles, nor revealed her inherits these qualities. On the other hand, environmentalists or cause of creation. This hymn was true identity. Only those closest to nurturists say our environment, physical as well as mental composed in Sanskrit by Swami her, her own divine companions surroundings, primarily moulds one’s character. It is discovered that Abhedananda, a monastic knew who she was, and the nature and nurture both play their important roles in human life and disciple of Sri Ramakrishna. The purpose of her life on the earth. they work together. Genes obey nature as much as nurture or unique feature of this hymn is that Mother herself said, “Excessive experience. If everything is pre-determined at the time of birth then Holy Mother herself listened to it show of divine manifestation there is no hope for any improvement and development and human sung by Abhedananda. When she frightens people and they do not effort becomes meaningless. It is true that certain traits inherited at was living at Nilamabar come near us.” For this reason birth remain with a person. And many new ones also are acquired from Mukerjee’s garden house at she carefully guarded her divine the surroundings. Belur, Abhedananda recited his nature and wore a mask of composition before her. While modesty. She was accessible to So the quality of family life and socio-cultural environment are the listening Mother went into all her children, rich and poor, determining factors in shaping character, behaviour and human life. ecstasy. When the singing was young and old. Just as no child Poet John Milton wrote, ‘The childhood shows the man, as the morning over she cast her graceful glance shows any reservation to go and shows the day.’ The formative years of a child are vey important. A at the Swami and blessed him, talk intimately to its mother, so child absorbs everything either good or bad as it is unable to know the “My son! May Divine Mother with Holy Mother every one felt difference. Children learn to imitate the elders at home and outside. Sarasvati ever live on your free in her presence and Therefore, the elders have to lead by their good example. If they wish tongue.” She is depicted in the unburdened their hearts without to see their children to grow up with blameless character and behaviour song as the Universal Mother, fear or inhibition. It was the sweet they too have to lead such a life. Pious wishes, cascade of advice and Mother of all, who incarnated and pure relationship of a mother prayers are of little use. If elders want to see good things in younger herself to remove the sufferings and child. generation those very things must first manifest and blossom in of people. Worship of God as themselves. The sad thing is none is serious about it. Character Mother is not a strange thing to In the hymn, the poet in ten building on sound values does not receive as much importance as the Hindu mind. Hindus are quite verses written on behalf of all passing the examinations. Because everything in modern society is at home in worshiping God as children beseeches Mother to measured in terms of economy, status and power. A person of sterling Father or Mother. Because of character may not be wealthy, famous or without any status. But he is a happy, trustworthy and respected person in society.
3 bestow her grace on her erring information we acquire in school, cannot release one from miseries, know the capability of his student children. He says, “Mother, you college and at the higher seats of worries, anxieties and fear. How so that he could lead him from know our sorrowful state. We lack learning. As Hindus we believe can the knowledge of physics or that stage to higher things. in virtues, we are full of faults and through Sarasvati’s blessings we chemistry or history or geology or Narada started to enumerate the commit same mistakes and get knowledge, skill and of any other subject remove one’s number of subjects he had blunders again and again being intelligence. Therefore we deep sufferings and distress? studied. “Sir, I have studied the under the spell of delusion. worship and pray to her at home Even Nobel prize winners are not Vedas, Puranas, history, Mother, kindly remove this and educational institutions. She free from afflictions. So objective grammar, logic, mathematics, delusion and take us in your lap. is the presiding deity of Vidya. knowledge can neither bring astronomy, physical sciences, After all you have come to this She is praised, ‘Vidye, vidyam peace of mind nor happiness. It is music, dance and fine arts. I have world for that purpose only. We dehi namostute’ – you are the necessary and useful to make our vast information about these pray to you to free us from these embodiment of knowledge. life physically more comfortable, subjects. But one thing I don’t fetters.” The poet says in one To us knowledge means what is safe and trouble free. Science know is the Self. place, gathered from books and what is and technology have provided all . imparted and learnt in the things we need at our finger tips. प (mantravit asmi na atmavit) I educational institutions. Various Truth is, man needs much more Lajja Patavrite nityam have heard from sages like you ( branches of knowledge and skills than the secured and pleasant that only those who know the Self Sarade Janadaayike) – ‘You thus acquired, are doubtless external life. It is self-knowledge are able to overcome sorrow covered yourself always with the useful and necessary to society or inner knowledge of oneself tarati veil of modesty, O Mother and for one’s livelihood. The which no amount of study of . ( Sarada, bestower of knowledge.’ wellbeing of the human society, books can give. This is a higher shokam atmavit). I am suffering She is Sarada or Sarasvati, giver our economic prosperity and knowledge which is beyond from grief, Sir, kindly take me of sara or essence of all social progress depend on this intellect and sensory perceptions. across the sea of sorrow.” knowledge. Sri Ramakrishna also secular knowledge. But this is Chandogya Upanishad tells said, “She is Sarada, Sarasvati; one type of knowledge and is not through an illustration the We have been brought up on a She has come to impart all encompassing. This secular importance of this self-knowledge wrong belief that if we gather knowledge” On another occasion knowledge pertains to the world or Atmavidya. Narada was a great more information, accumulate he said, “She is the communicator and names and forms of its scholar and an expert in many vast knowledge like Narada, we of knowledge; She is full of rarest objects. In other words, matter is subjects. Inspite of his prodigious will be more happy. But contrary wisdom.” During her worship the its sole subject. Therefore it is scholarship he was restless and is our bitter experience. We live in an age of information revolution, following line is chanted, objective knowledge. It is the suffered from lack of mental means to an end and not an end peace. So he went to the sage and in every field there is an Sarva प ( in itself. For example, obtaining Sanatkumar and with great incredible advancement. Despite Vidyaa Swarupaam taam) – ‘The degrees and diplomas is not the humility said, “Sir, would you all comforts and wealth we burn personification of all vidyas.’ end but it is to serve some ulterior please teach me?” Sanatkumar inwardly with deep dissatisfaction goal. However encyclopaedic replied, “Tell me what you already and grinding unrest. Externally we The word knowledge always one’s knowledge may be, it has know and from that point I will have become giants and inwardly brings to our mind the amount of limitations. This knowledge teach you” The teacher wanted to we remain dwarfs. The vaccum in
4 bestow her grace on her erring information we acquire in school, cannot release one from miseries, know the capability of his student children. He says, “Mother, you college and at the higher seats of worries, anxieties and fear. How so that he could lead him from know our sorrowful state. We lack learning. As Hindus we believe can the knowledge of physics or that stage to higher things. in virtues, we are full of faults and through Sarasvati’s blessings we chemistry or history or geology or Narada started to enumerate the commit same mistakes and get knowledge, skill and of any other subject remove one’s number of subjects he had blunders again and again being intelligence. Therefore we deep sufferings and distress? studied. “Sir, I have studied the under the spell of delusion. worship and pray to her at home Even Nobel prize winners are not Vedas, Puranas, history, Mother, kindly remove this and educational institutions. She free from afflictions. So objective grammar, logic, mathematics, delusion and take us in your lap. is the presiding deity of Vidya. knowledge can neither bring astronomy, physical sciences, After all you have come to this She is praised, ‘Vidye, vidyam peace of mind nor happiness. It is music, dance and fine arts. I have world for that purpose only. We dehi namostute’ – you are the necessary and useful to make our vast information about these pray to you to free us from these embodiment of knowledge. life physically more comfortable, subjects. But one thing I don’t fetters.” The poet says in one To us knowledge means what is safe and trouble free. Science know is the Self. place, gathered from books and what is and technology have provided all . imparted and learnt in the things we need at our finger tips. प (mantravit asmi na atmavit) I educational institutions. Various Truth is, man needs much more Lajja Patavrite nityam have heard from sages like you ( branches of knowledge and skills than the secured and pleasant that only those who know the Self Sarade Janadaayike) – ‘You thus acquired, are doubtless external life. It is self-knowledge are able to overcome sorrow covered yourself always with the useful and necessary to society or inner knowledge of oneself tarati veil of modesty, O Mother and for one’s livelihood. The which no amount of study of . ( Sarada, bestower of knowledge.’ wellbeing of the human society, books can give. This is a higher shokam atmavit). I am suffering She is Sarada or Sarasvati, giver our economic prosperity and knowledge which is beyond from grief, Sir, kindly take me of sara or essence of all social progress depend on this intellect and sensory perceptions. across the sea of sorrow.” knowledge. Sri Ramakrishna also secular knowledge. But this is Chandogya Upanishad tells said, “She is Sarada, Sarasvati; one type of knowledge and is not through an illustration the We have been brought up on a She has come to impart all encompassing. This secular importance of this self-knowledge wrong belief that if we gather knowledge” On another occasion knowledge pertains to the world or Atmavidya. Narada was a great more information, accumulate he said, “She is the communicator and names and forms of its scholar and an expert in many vast knowledge like Narada, we of knowledge; She is full of rarest objects. In other words, matter is subjects. Inspite of his prodigious will be more happy. But contrary wisdom.” During her worship the its sole subject. Therefore it is scholarship he was restless and is our bitter experience. We live in an age of information revolution, following line is chanted, objective knowledge. It is the suffered from lack of mental means to an end and not an end peace. So he went to the sage and in every field there is an Sarva प ( in itself. For example, obtaining Sanatkumar and with great incredible advancement. Despite Vidyaa Swarupaam taam) – ‘The degrees and diplomas is not the humility said, “Sir, would you all comforts and wealth we burn personification of all vidyas.’ end but it is to serve some ulterior please teach me?” Sanatkumar inwardly with deep dissatisfaction goal. However encyclopaedic replied, “Tell me what you already and grinding unrest. Externally we The word knowledge always one’s knowledge may be, it has know and from that point I will have become giants and inwardly brings to our mind the amount of limitations. This knowledge teach you” The teacher wanted to we remain dwarfs. The vaccum in
5 our hearts, the emptiness in our seeking fresh knowledge all the and you are a man of When people hear about the life cannot be filled up with nano time. Of course we cannot ignore knowledge!” M’s pride was badly importance of Self-knowledge or gadgets and a plethora of luxury the value of this knowledge hurt and for the first time he as Socrates said, ‘Man, know thy goods. We have tried and it has because our welfare and understood that there was self ‘, they ask what is there so added more frustration and livelihood depend on it. another kind of knowledge which special in knowing about oneself? despair. transcends the study of books. I know everything concerning But this Apara Vidya is not myself, my age, qualification, The Upanishads call objective enough. It only fulfils partially the Books and laboratories for Self- income, my family, my personal knowledge as a lower form of needs of man. Man is neither just knowledge are not essential. identity, so on and so forth. What knowledge and Self-knowledge a physical entity nor a slave of Because the Self is not an object, more is there to know? We have as the higher form of knowledge. sensory enjoyments. He has it is not a thing which we can a big load of information about The Mundaka Upanishad defines higher aspirations. He has the observe and study. It is the ourselves. It is interesting to note the difference between lower and tremendous urge to go beyond knower, seer and it knows and that this self-identity or self-image higher knowledge and their the prison of sense life and free sees everything. Eye cannot see is not stable. It keeps on respective goals. Shaunaka, an himself and know the ultimate itself but can see other things, fire changing. When we were children earnest householder approached mystery. In his quest the higher or cannot burn itself but can burn we had a simple self-image, in the sage Angirasa and expressed spiritual knowledge alone can other things. Self is the subject youth another, in middle age still his wish, “Sir, please teach me dissolve his doubts. The higher and everything else is object. The another and in old age quite that by knowing which everything knowledge is an intuitive insight mind and body are objects and different from earlier ones – which becomes known.” The student which does not depend on book- able to function through the one of these is our real self- wanted to learn directly the very learning or scholarship. power of the Self. Mind is able to identity? So the ideas about soul of knowledge, instead of Mahendranath Gupta, the think, the senses are able to oneself are constantly changing going around in circles. The sage compiler of the Gospel of Sri perceive. This is because of the and not even one identity is replied, “Those who have realized Ramakrishna, was a scholar and presence of the Self. The Self or permanent. Then what is my true the Supreme Truth, the Atman, had a university education. He soul is not a thing, it is awareness identity, who really am I, a say that there are two kinds of had the belief that everything in or consciousness. We are eager collection of several identities? knowledge, lower (apara) and the world, including God- and curious to know everything in But in the midst of these changes higher (para). The lower relates to realization, could be obtained this world except ourselves. Our something deep down in us this phenomenal world and the through the study of books. With focus is always outward and remains unchanged and always higher relates to the Self.” Apara such belief he met Sri never inward. Therefore we forget present. It is the sense of Vidya, secular knowledge is the Ramakrishna. The Master asked the knower and remember only existence, the feeling ‘I am’. This study of the subjects of this about his family and the nature of the known or seen. In the sunlight knowledge ‘I am’ is constant, it changing world. The world is his wife. ‘M’ replied, “She is all we see all other things except the does not change. For example, a always changing, change is its right but I am afraid she is sunlight. None ponders that it is person may say, I am wealthy, I nature. So the knowledge we ignorant.” In fact, she had little the sunlight that makes things am poor, I am miserable, I am acquire is not permanent and school education. Sri visible, the world visible. This happy, I am healthy and I am sick after sometime it becomes Ramakrishna with an irritated sunlight is the Self or and so on. I am or one’s obsolete. We have to go on tone said. “Oh, she is ignorant consciousness. existence is constant and it is
6 our hearts, the emptiness in our seeking fresh knowledge all the and you are a man of When people hear about the life cannot be filled up with nano time. Of course we cannot ignore knowledge!” M’s pride was badly importance of Self-knowledge or gadgets and a plethora of luxury the value of this knowledge hurt and for the first time he as Socrates said, ‘Man, know thy goods. We have tried and it has because our welfare and understood that there was self ‘, they ask what is there so added more frustration and livelihood depend on it. another kind of knowledge which special in knowing about oneself? despair. transcends the study of books. I know everything concerning But this Apara Vidya is not myself, my age, qualification, The Upanishads call objective enough. It only fulfils partially the Books and laboratories for Self- income, my family, my personal knowledge as a lower form of needs of man. Man is neither just knowledge are not essential. identity, so on and so forth. What knowledge and Self-knowledge a physical entity nor a slave of Because the Self is not an object, more is there to know? We have as the higher form of knowledge. sensory enjoyments. He has it is not a thing which we can a big load of information about The Mundaka Upanishad defines higher aspirations. He has the observe and study. It is the ourselves. It is interesting to note the difference between lower and tremendous urge to go beyond knower, seer and it knows and that this self-identity or self-image higher knowledge and their the prison of sense life and free sees everything. Eye cannot see is not stable. It keeps on respective goals. Shaunaka, an himself and know the ultimate itself but can see other things, fire changing. When we were children earnest householder approached mystery. In his quest the higher or cannot burn itself but can burn we had a simple self-image, in the sage Angirasa and expressed spiritual knowledge alone can other things. Self is the subject youth another, in middle age still his wish, “Sir, please teach me dissolve his doubts. The higher and everything else is object. The another and in old age quite that by knowing which everything knowledge is an intuitive insight mind and body are objects and different from earlier ones – which becomes known.” The student which does not depend on book- able to function through the one of these is our real self- wanted to learn directly the very learning or scholarship. power of the Self. Mind is able to identity? So the ideas about soul of knowledge, instead of Mahendranath Gupta, the think, the senses are able to oneself are constantly changing going around in circles. The sage compiler of the Gospel of Sri perceive. This is because of the and not even one identity is replied, “Those who have realized Ramakrishna, was a scholar and presence of the Self. The Self or permanent. Then what is my true the Supreme Truth, the Atman, had a university education. He soul is not a thing, it is awareness identity, who really am I, a say that there are two kinds of had the belief that everything in or consciousness. We are eager collection of several identities? knowledge, lower (apara) and the world, including God- and curious to know everything in But in the midst of these changes higher (para). The lower relates to realization, could be obtained this world except ourselves. Our something deep down in us this phenomenal world and the through the study of books. With focus is always outward and remains unchanged and always higher relates to the Self.” Apara such belief he met Sri never inward. Therefore we forget present. It is the sense of Vidya, secular knowledge is the Ramakrishna. The Master asked the knower and remember only existence, the feeling ‘I am’. This study of the subjects of this about his family and the nature of the known or seen. In the sunlight knowledge ‘I am’ is constant, it changing world. The world is his wife. ‘M’ replied, “She is all we see all other things except the does not change. For example, a always changing, change is its right but I am afraid she is sunlight. None ponders that it is person may say, I am wealthy, I nature. So the knowledge we ignorant.” In fact, she had little the sunlight that makes things am poor, I am miserable, I am acquire is not permanent and school education. Sri visible, the world visible. This happy, I am healthy and I am sick after sometime it becomes Ramakrishna with an irritated sunlight is the Self or and so on. I am or one’s obsolete. We have to go on tone said. “Oh, she is ignorant consciousness. existence is constant and it is
7 qualified by different states. It is Secondly japa slows down she always covered herself with a So the Mother is, or the ground on which many things the disturbing hyper activity veil, that is the literal meaning. jnanadaike appear and disappear. These of the mind. When the mind प ( or But metaphorically it means the adjectives come and go, thinking I is quiet it acquires depth and sarvavidya swarupa) the giver of higher knowledge is covered by am this and that is an subtlety to probe deeply into both para-vidya, higher the veil of worldly knowledge. imagination. itself. When japa becomes knowledge and apara-vidya, People think this worldly deep it leads to meditation. In lower knowledge. Lower, knowledge is all and beyond that Vivekananda threw light on this meditation the flow of mind objective knowledge is necessary there is nothing else. Isha and said, “This one and only God remains unbroken towards and useful. But it is only a means Upanishad in unmistakable terms is the ‘knownest’ of the known… the object or chosen form of for the human’s physical well- declares that those who do not try all know their own Self, all know ‘I the deity. It is a deep being. Higher knowledge is an to attain Self-knowledge are am’, even animals. All we know is absorption. Later even the end in itself which frees us from doomed to enter the world of the projection of the Self.” meditator disappears and delusion, miseries and sorrows. darkness. Those people who (C.W.S.V. Vol. 7 p. 93) “God is God alone remains. Absence Only a few people seek this have neglected this higher man’s very Self. God is our own of the individual is the knowledge. As the poet says, knowledge are the slayers of the Self.” (C.W.S.V. vol. 8 p. 127) presence of God, the lajjapatavrite Self. (Ye ke ca atmahano janah). प ( presence of the individual is nityam). When Mother was alive I am such and such a person, this the absence of God. When idea is so deep-seated in every one is there the other is not. one that none believes when told that it is a phantom entity, actually 2) Another spiritual exercise is there is no individual inside. Even surrender ie gradually if one believes this he cannot so surrendering the wily ego to easily get rid of it. Individual and the cosmic power. The ego is the ego are one and the same. A only a concept and not real. person has an ego. How to free Though illusory, it brings a lot oneself from this pseudo entity, of suffering. Accepting more the most troublesome ghost? and more the existence of all- Sages suggested practice of a knowing and omnipotent few spiritual disciplines. higher power is to negate the existence of the ego. In other 1) Japa and meditation or words it is constantly chanting of God’s name. reminding oneself, “Not I but Chanting of God’s name is to you Lord”, or “Thy will be accept the existence of done and not my will be higher power and ignore the done.” assertive role of the ego.
8 qualified by different states. It is Secondly japa slows down she always covered herself with a So the Mother is, or the ground on which many things the disturbing hyper activity veil, that is the literal meaning. jnanadaike appear and disappear. These of the mind. When the mind प ( or But metaphorically it means the adjectives come and go, thinking I is quiet it acquires depth and sarvavidya swarupa) the giver of higher knowledge is covered by am this and that is an subtlety to probe deeply into both para-vidya, higher the veil of worldly knowledge. imagination. itself. When japa becomes knowledge and apara-vidya, People think this worldly deep it leads to meditation. In lower knowledge. Lower, knowledge is all and beyond that Vivekananda threw light on this meditation the flow of mind objective knowledge is necessary there is nothing else. Isha and said, “This one and only God remains unbroken towards and useful. But it is only a means Upanishad in unmistakable terms is the ‘knownest’ of the known… the object or chosen form of for the human’s physical well- declares that those who do not try all know their own Self, all know ‘I the deity. It is a deep being. Higher knowledge is an to attain Self-knowledge are am’, even animals. All we know is absorption. Later even the end in itself which frees us from doomed to enter the world of the projection of the Self.” meditator disappears and delusion, miseries and sorrows. darkness. Those people who (C.W.S.V. Vol. 7 p. 93) “God is God alone remains. Absence Only a few people seek this have neglected this higher man’s very Self. God is our own of the individual is the knowledge. As the poet says, knowledge are the slayers of the Self.” (C.W.S.V. vol. 8 p. 127) presence of God, the lajjapatavrite Self. (Ye ke ca atmahano janah). प ( presence of the individual is nityam). When Mother was alive I am such and such a person, this the absence of God. When idea is so deep-seated in every one is there the other is not. one that none believes when told that it is a phantom entity, actually 2) Another spiritual exercise is there is no individual inside. Even surrender ie gradually if one believes this he cannot so surrendering the wily ego to easily get rid of it. Individual and the cosmic power. The ego is the ego are one and the same. A only a concept and not real. person has an ego. How to free Though illusory, it brings a lot oneself from this pseudo entity, of suffering. Accepting more the most troublesome ghost? and more the existence of all- Sages suggested practice of a knowing and omnipotent few spiritual disciplines. higher power is to negate the existence of the ego. In other 1) Japa and meditation or words it is constantly chanting of God’s name. reminding oneself, “Not I but Chanting of God’s name is to you Lord”, or “Thy will be accept the existence of done and not my will be higher power and ignore the done.” assertive role of the ego.
9
SriRama, The Embodiment of would have blamed him had he traitor to his family, king and Dharma returned from the forest. After all country. They fail to understand - Jayasekar he had departed to the forest. It the great sacrifice on his part. was Bharata who made him Dharma is the supreme principle return. But no. Rama was not like and all other considerations must (From the previous issue) others. The ideal was higher than give way before it. This is the The whole purpose of the when Bharata wanted to give it all other considerations. It cannot foundation of a just and ethical banishment had been to install back to him. be compromised. society. Unless there are people Bharata on the throne. When that who stand by Dharma whatever very Bharata himself said that he Rama’s logic stood on entirely And similar is Swami the consequences, the result will did not want the throne, and that different principles. He set all of Vivekananda’s exhortation to us. be the triumph of might over therefore all the promises made Bharata’s arguments to nought meekness, evil over good. And by Dasharatha and Rama were with his reply. The promise made “Hold the ideal a thousand times, Vibhishana exemplifies one who cancelled on that account, what by Dasharatha to Kaikeyi bound and if you fail a thousand times, sacrificed all for Dharma. need was there for Rama to not just Rama but Bharata as make the attempt once more.” remain in the forest? Even the well. Just as it was Rama’s (Complete Works Volume II, The only two people who dared sage Vasishtha, the Guru of the duty to go to the forest, so it is page 152) to speak out against Ravana’s Ikshvaku dynasty, accepted the Bharata’s duty to rule the action of kidnapping Sita were logic and propriety of the kingdom. They had no choice in “Die you must, but have a great his brothers - Kumbhakarna arguments put forward by this matter. ideal to die for, and it is better to and Vibhishana. Having Bharata, die with a great ideal in life.” committed sin and run into and “No son can (Complete Works Volume V, danger, he sought the advice of requested ever page 383) his counsellors. All justified his Rama to adequately action except the two brothers. return to repay what “Choose the highest ideal, and But Kumbhakarna, while Ayodhya. he takes give up your life to that.” condemning his wrong action, from his (Complete Works Volume VII, was not prepared to redress the But Rama father and page 45). wrong done, instead supported lived by his mother. I will perpetuating the wrong by own not fail to do Surrender and Divine Grace whatever means. Vibhishana on standards, what my the other hand while his own parents’ The episode of the surrender of condemning his wrong action ideals. The poet Valmiki wove a honour requires me to do.” And Vibhishana at the feet of Rama is was also for correcting it by masterpiece here in the dialogue he ordered Bharata too to fulfil one of the important events of returning Sita and seeking between the two brothers on the his obligation. the Ramayana, at once dramatic pardon. Unable to accept the Citrakoota hill. Rama gave up as well as full of spiritual unpalatable truth and good the kingdom not once but We see here how Rama always significance. There are those advice, Ravana banished twice – first when Kaikeyi asked stood by his own ideals, even in who condemn Vibhishana as a Vibhishana. him to do so, and then again the face of all opposition. No one
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SriRama, The Embodiment of would have blamed him had he traitor to his family, king and Dharma returned from the forest. After all country. They fail to understand - Jayasekar he had departed to the forest. It the great sacrifice on his part. was Bharata who made him Dharma is the supreme principle return. But no. Rama was not like and all other considerations must (From the previous issue) others. The ideal was higher than give way before it. This is the The whole purpose of the when Bharata wanted to give it all other considerations. It cannot foundation of a just and ethical banishment had been to install back to him. be compromised. society. Unless there are people Bharata on the throne. When that who stand by Dharma whatever very Bharata himself said that he Rama’s logic stood on entirely And similar is Swami the consequences, the result will did not want the throne, and that different principles. He set all of Vivekananda’s exhortation to us. be the triumph of might over therefore all the promises made Bharata’s arguments to nought meekness, evil over good. And by Dasharatha and Rama were with his reply. The promise made “Hold the ideal a thousand times, Vibhishana exemplifies one who cancelled on that account, what by Dasharatha to Kaikeyi bound and if you fail a thousand times, sacrificed all for Dharma. need was there for Rama to not just Rama but Bharata as make the attempt once more.” remain in the forest? Even the well. Just as it was Rama’s (Complete Works Volume II, The only two people who dared sage Vasishtha, the Guru of the duty to go to the forest, so it is page 152) to speak out against Ravana’s Ikshvaku dynasty, accepted the Bharata’s duty to rule the action of kidnapping Sita were logic and propriety of the kingdom. They had no choice in “Die you must, but have a great his brothers - Kumbhakarna arguments put forward by this matter. ideal to die for, and it is better to and Vibhishana. Having Bharata, die with a great ideal in life.” committed sin and run into and “No son can (Complete Works Volume V, danger, he sought the advice of requested ever page 383) his counsellors. All justified his Rama to adequately action except the two brothers. return to repay what “Choose the highest ideal, and But Kumbhakarna, while Ayodhya. he takes give up your life to that.” condemning his wrong action, from his (Complete Works Volume VII, was not prepared to redress the But Rama father and page 45). wrong done, instead supported lived by his mother. I will perpetuating the wrong by own not fail to do Surrender and Divine Grace whatever means. Vibhishana on standards, what my the other hand while his own parents’ The episode of the surrender of condemning his wrong action ideals. The poet Valmiki wove a honour requires me to do.” And Vibhishana at the feet of Rama is was also for correcting it by masterpiece here in the dialogue he ordered Bharata too to fulfil one of the important events of returning Sita and seeking between the two brothers on the his obligation. the Ramayana, at once dramatic pardon. Unable to accept the Citrakoota hill. Rama gave up as well as full of spiritual unpalatable truth and good the kingdom not once but We see here how Rama always significance. There are those advice, Ravana banished twice – first when Kaikeyi asked stood by his own ideals, even in who condemn Vibhishana as a Vibhishana. him to do so, and then again the face of all opposition. No one
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Why did Vibhishana seek out or not beneficial. To him all Vibhao v Sugrva yadi v Vivekananda in his triangle of Rama and help him to destroy considerations of personal gain Rvaa svayam. Love: His brother? Is that not wrong? or loss was not the issue, but the 1. Love knows no bargaining Should he not have remained ideal principle. Rama replied, This is the doctrine of 2. Love knows no fear neutral? Dharma requires the “Whether this titan is ill- surrender and divine grace. It 3. Love knows no rival active effort of those who are intentioned or not is not the point. is the highest stage of bhakti – able to fight for it, otherwise One who surrenders should not prapatti – highly extolled by If at all we ask for anything in adharma will only triumph while be slain, even if he is a foe. The Ramanujacharya. The Lord return, it should be for devotion good people stand and watch. duty of the great is to give shelter accepts all who in absolute alone, as sang the great Saint There is no sitting on the fence to those who throw themselves surrender seek shelter at his Tulsidas: as far as adharma is concerned. at his mercy.” Giving a lengthy feet, regardless of their merits discourse on this point with and defects. Their sins are burnt Nny sph Raghupate Standing before the Vanaras, examples he concluded: by the very act of surrender. This hdaye’smadye Vibhishana informed his intent, is the heart of the religion satyam vadmi ca bhavn “Banished by my brother I stand Sakdeva prapannya tavsmti centred on bhakti – there is hope akilntartm, before you renouncing kingdom, ca ycate, for even the worst of us, if only Bhaktim prayaccha wife and children and seek Abhayam sarvabhtebhyo we surrender to the Lord. This is Raghupugava nirbharm me sanctuary at Rama’s feet.” A dadmi etad vratam mama . the assurance given by the Lord kmdi-doa-rahitam kuru great debate took place among Himself, the message of hope to mnasam ca. the Vanaras on whether to “Any being who has sought erring humanity. accept Vibhishana. Some were refuge in me saying ‘I am thine’ “O Lord of the Raghus, let me for killing him outright, others is assured of my protection. It is But we must make ourselves tell you this, the truth. No other were for accepting him cautiously my vow to give protection to all worthy to receive such grace. desire do I entertain anytime in for the help he can render, some beings who seek my refuge.” This act of surrender is expected my heart; You being the Inner others for testing him to (Yuddha Kandam, chapter 18 to be complete, without any Self of all know it too well. I determine his true intentions verses 33,34). calculation or selfish motive on have, however, one request; before deciding one way or our part, without expecting grant me, O best of the Raghus, another. Like this the Vanara “When one comes to me for anything in return. It should be such devotion which is chieftains gave their respective refuge I cannot reject him. This bhakti of the highest type – par exclusive and all-engulfing that views all from the point of the is my dharma,” says Rama. “It bhakti – with the three features it rids my mind of the taint of best war strategy under the does not matter if as a result of described by Swami desire and greed.” circumstances. Finally, after this I suffer. Even at the cost of everyone had spoken they my life I must do this duty of Rama, the ancient idol of the historic ages, the embodiment of truth, turned to Rama for his decision. mine. Even if Ravana himself comes to me for sanctuary I of morality, the ideal son, the ideal husband, the ideal father, and And in this situation too Rama shall accept him without above all, the ideal king, this Rama has been presented before us by stands apart from ordinary hesitation.” (Yuddha Kandam, the great sage Valmiki. - Swami Vivekananda. mortals. Not for him the normal chapter 18 verse 35). path based on what is beneficial
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Why did Vibhishana seek out or not beneficial. To him all Vibhao v Sugrva yadi v Vivekananda in his triangle of Rama and help him to destroy considerations of personal gain Rvaa svayam. Love: His brother? Is that not wrong? or loss was not the issue, but the 1. Love knows no bargaining Should he not have remained ideal principle. Rama replied, This is the doctrine of 2. Love knows no fear neutral? Dharma requires the “Whether this titan is ill- surrender and divine grace. It 3. Love knows no rival active effort of those who are intentioned or not is not the point. is the highest stage of bhakti – able to fight for it, otherwise One who surrenders should not prapatti – highly extolled by If at all we ask for anything in adharma will only triumph while be slain, even if he is a foe. The Ramanujacharya. The Lord return, it should be for devotion good people stand and watch. duty of the great is to give shelter accepts all who in absolute alone, as sang the great Saint There is no sitting on the fence to those who throw themselves surrender seek shelter at his Tulsidas: as far as adharma is concerned. at his mercy.” Giving a lengthy feet, regardless of their merits discourse on this point with and defects. Their sins are burnt Nny sph Raghupate Standing before the Vanaras, examples he concluded: by the very act of surrender. This hdaye’smadye Vibhishana informed his intent, is the heart of the religion satyam vadmi ca bhavn “Banished by my brother I stand Sakdeva prapannya tavsmti centred on bhakti – there is hope akilntartm, before you renouncing kingdom, ca ycate, for even the worst of us, if only Bhaktim prayaccha wife and children and seek Abhayam sarvabhtebhyo we surrender to the Lord. This is Raghupugava nirbharm me sanctuary at Rama’s feet.” A dadmi etad vratam mama . the assurance given by the Lord kmdi-doa-rahitam kuru great debate took place among Himself, the message of hope to mnasam ca. the Vanaras on whether to “Any being who has sought erring humanity. accept Vibhishana. Some were refuge in me saying ‘I am thine’ “O Lord of the Raghus, let me for killing him outright, others is assured of my protection. It is But we must make ourselves tell you this, the truth. No other were for accepting him cautiously my vow to give protection to all worthy to receive such grace. desire do I entertain anytime in for the help he can render, some beings who seek my refuge.” This act of surrender is expected my heart; You being the Inner others for testing him to (Yuddha Kandam, chapter 18 to be complete, without any Self of all know it too well. I determine his true intentions verses 33,34). calculation or selfish motive on have, however, one request; before deciding one way or our part, without expecting grant me, O best of the Raghus, another. Like this the Vanara “When one comes to me for anything in return. It should be such devotion which is chieftains gave their respective refuge I cannot reject him. This bhakti of the highest type – par exclusive and all-engulfing that views all from the point of the is my dharma,” says Rama. “It bhakti – with the three features it rids my mind of the taint of best war strategy under the does not matter if as a result of described by Swami desire and greed.” circumstances. Finally, after this I suffer. Even at the cost of everyone had spoken they my life I must do this duty of Rama, the ancient idol of the historic ages, the embodiment of truth, turned to Rama for his decision. mine. Even if Ravana himself comes to me for sanctuary I of morality, the ideal son, the ideal husband, the ideal father, and And in this situation too Rama shall accept him without above all, the ideal king, this Rama has been presented before us by stands apart from ordinary hesitation.” (Yuddha Kandam, the great sage Valmiki. - Swami Vivekananda. mortals. Not for him the normal chapter 18 verse 35). path based on what is beneficial
13 Celebration at Vivekanandar Illam followed by the Chief Minister Minister released Tamil version of lighting the lamp (Kuthu-vilakku) Photographs of Swami The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Revered Swami Gautamanandaji, to mark the start of the Vivekananda, and presented the Selvi J Jayalalitha, inaugurated Adhyaksha of Sri Ramakrishna programme. The Manager of first copy to Swami the year-long celebration of Math, Chennai, and other heads Chennai Math, welcomed the Gautamanandaji. The Chief Swami Vivekananda’s 150th Birth of the Ramakrishna Math and Chief Minister and thanked her for Minister’s address, given in Tamil, Anniversary, organized by Sri Mission centres in Tamilnadu, extending the lease period of the focused Swamiji’s message to the Ramakrishna Math, Mylapore, received the Chief Minister with Vivekanandar Illam for 99 years. modern world and its Chennai. A large number of bouquet at the Illam entrance contemporary relevance. In her monks, devotees and admirers of while the students from Amidst Jai Swamiji Maharaj ji ki speech she said, “Swami Swamiji attended the hour-long Ramakrishna Mission Students’ Jai, the Chief Minister lighted the Vivekananda lived for others and function, held at Vivekanandar Home, Mylapore, played welcome Viveka Jyoti, an electrically not for the self. Right from my Illam (Vivekananda House), on 27 tune on the brass band. operated lamp, which will be kept childhood I have a great regard February 2013. A host of lighted for a year, in front of the for the teachings of Swami ministers, members of Tamilnadu The programme began with the Vivekanandar Illam, to mark the Vivekananda and his Guru Sri legislative assembly, and officials singing of the Tamil anthem (as is year-long celebrations. The Chief Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. was also present. customary in Tamilnadu),
Lighting the Viveka Jyoti to mark the year long celebrations Chief Minister lighting of the lamp.
14 Celebration at Vivekanandar Illam followed by the Chief Minister Minister released Tamil version of lighting the lamp (Kuthu-vilakku) Photographs of Swami The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Revered Swami Gautamanandaji, to mark the start of the Vivekananda, and presented the Selvi J Jayalalitha, inaugurated Adhyaksha of Sri Ramakrishna programme. The Manager of first copy to Swami the year-long celebration of Math, Chennai, and other heads Chennai Math, welcomed the Gautamanandaji. The Chief Swami Vivekananda’s 150th Birth of the Ramakrishna Math and Chief Minister and thanked her for Minister’s address, given in Tamil, Anniversary, organized by Sri Mission centres in Tamilnadu, extending the lease period of the focused Swamiji’s message to the Ramakrishna Math, Mylapore, received the Chief Minister with Vivekanandar Illam for 99 years. modern world and its Chennai. A large number of bouquet at the Illam entrance contemporary relevance. In her monks, devotees and admirers of while the students from Amidst Jai Swamiji Maharaj ji ki speech she said, “Swami Swamiji attended the hour-long Ramakrishna Mission Students’ Jai, the Chief Minister lighted the Vivekananda lived for others and function, held at Vivekanandar Home, Mylapore, played welcome Viveka Jyoti, an electrically not for the self. Right from my Illam (Vivekananda House), on 27 tune on the brass band. operated lamp, which will be kept childhood I have a great regard February 2013. A host of lighted for a year, in front of the for the teachings of Swami ministers, members of Tamilnadu The programme began with the Vivekanandar Illam, to mark the Vivekananda and his Guru Sri legislative assembly, and officials singing of the Tamil anthem (as is year-long celebrations. The Chief Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. was also present. customary in Tamilnadu),
Lighting the Viveka Jyoti to mark the year long celebrations Chief Minister lighting of the lamp.
15 Vivekananda: A Monk with a Mission I have a good collection of books development works but also William Page. on Swami Vivekananda and Sri serves the people at the time of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa in natural calamities such as my personal library. I read them earthquake, storm, flood, and January 12, 2013, marks the Parliament of Religions in th quite often. As for as I am carry out rehabilitative measures 150 anniversary of the birth of Chicago. concerned, it is Swami across the world. Swami Vivekananda, one of the Vivekananda who inspired me to great reformer-monks of India. There he burst upon the world enter politics. In 1982, when I Even after 100 years, the Mission During his short life of 39 years like a bombshell, giving speeches entered politics, I had mentioned instituted by Swami Vivekananda (1863-1902), Vivekananda explaining Vedantic ideals and about Swami Vivekananda in an is still continuing its service to the fulfilled a twofold role as prophet promoting the harmony of all interview. people adhering to its principles. and patriot, introduced Indian religions. He was a striking figure This deserves appreciation. It will thought to the West, forged a new in his maroon tunic and saffron With twin objective of not be an exaggeration to say interpretation turban, and renunciation and service, Swami that only such institutions serve of the ancient radiated Vivekananda founded as role model for youngsters. I Vedanta dynamism Ramakrishna Mission. ‘Work request the Ramakrishna Math philosophy, and charisma. without any selfish motive,’ said authorities to plan projects for and roused Subsequently Swami Vivekananda. Only where involving the youngsters in the Indian he traveled there is no selfishness, selfless service and to serve with nation to around the renunciation can be there which dedication and to execute them stand up and United States enables one to serve others. with determination. I feel much be proud of giving Service means to work for the happy to announce S$ 453,000/- its heritage. lectures, and welfare of others without any as Tamil Nadu Government’s founded selfish motive. There are various contribution for the construction of Born into an Vedanta kinds of service: service to nation, ‘Vivekananda Cultural Centre’ for aristocratic societies to service to poor, service to God. which the foundation stone was Kolkata perpetuate his laid today. My greetings to family, message in Generally, all philanthropic everyone.” Vivekananda became a disciple New York and San Francisco. “I institutions do only one of the of the Hindu mystic Ramakrishna, have a message for the West,” he types of service. It would not be The entire programme was who taught that the goal of declared, “as Buddha had a an exaggeration to mention that telecast live by local television human life is to realize God. After message for the East.” He also Sri Ramakrishna Math carries out channels and was widely reported Ramakrishna’s death, visited England and Europe, all these three services. This in print media in Tamil Nadu. Vivekananda started a monastic returning to India to establish the Mission not only carries out social order dedicated to his memory Ramakrishna Order on a firmer works such as hospitals, schools, and wandered all over India for footing. colleges, hostels, rural two years as an itinerant monk. Finally, in 1893, aided by some What is Vedanta? disciples, he sailed for the United States to attend the World’s Vivekananda’s teachings fill nine
16 Vivekananda: A Monk with a Mission I have a good collection of books development works but also William Page. on Swami Vivekananda and Sri serves the people at the time of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa in natural calamities such as my personal library. I read them earthquake, storm, flood, and January 12, 2013, marks the Parliament of Religions in th quite often. As for as I am carry out rehabilitative measures 150 anniversary of the birth of Chicago. concerned, it is Swami across the world. Swami Vivekananda, one of the Vivekananda who inspired me to great reformer-monks of India. There he burst upon the world enter politics. In 1982, when I Even after 100 years, the Mission During his short life of 39 years like a bombshell, giving speeches entered politics, I had mentioned instituted by Swami Vivekananda (1863-1902), Vivekananda explaining Vedantic ideals and about Swami Vivekananda in an is still continuing its service to the fulfilled a twofold role as prophet promoting the harmony of all interview. people adhering to its principles. and patriot, introduced Indian religions. He was a striking figure This deserves appreciation. It will thought to the West, forged a new in his maroon tunic and saffron With twin objective of not be an exaggeration to say interpretation turban, and renunciation and service, Swami that only such institutions serve of the ancient radiated Vivekananda founded as role model for youngsters. I Vedanta dynamism Ramakrishna Mission. ‘Work request the Ramakrishna Math philosophy, and charisma. without any selfish motive,’ said authorities to plan projects for and roused Subsequently Swami Vivekananda. Only where involving the youngsters in the Indian he traveled there is no selfishness, selfless service and to serve with nation to around the renunciation can be there which dedication and to execute them stand up and United States enables one to serve others. with determination. I feel much be proud of giving Service means to work for the happy to announce S$ 453,000/- its heritage. lectures, and welfare of others without any as Tamil Nadu Government’s founded selfish motive. There are various contribution for the construction of Born into an Vedanta kinds of service: service to nation, ‘Vivekananda Cultural Centre’ for aristocratic societies to service to poor, service to God. which the foundation stone was Kolkata perpetuate his laid today. My greetings to family, message in Generally, all philanthropic everyone.” Vivekananda became a disciple New York and San Francisco. “I institutions do only one of the of the Hindu mystic Ramakrishna, have a message for the West,” he types of service. It would not be The entire programme was who taught that the goal of declared, “as Buddha had a an exaggeration to mention that telecast live by local television human life is to realize God. After message for the East.” He also Sri Ramakrishna Math carries out channels and was widely reported Ramakrishna’s death, visited England and Europe, all these three services. This in print media in Tamil Nadu. Vivekananda started a monastic returning to India to establish the Mission not only carries out social order dedicated to his memory Ramakrishna Order on a firmer works such as hospitals, schools, and wandered all over India for footing. colleges, hostels, rural two years as an itinerant monk. Finally, in 1893, aided by some What is Vedanta? disciples, he sailed for the United States to attend the World’s Vivekananda’s teachings fill nine
17 volumes, and are based on How can we overcome them? Vedanta, one of the six orthodox Through intense and constant Soccer Tournament systems of Hindu philosophy. religious practice, which purifies Vedanta can be summarized in a the mind and allows Brahman to Ramakrishna Mission Old Boys’ magnificent health he could mahavakya, or “great saying”: shine through. Such practice Association and Ang Mo Kio endure many difficulties and “All this is actually Brahman.” includes worship, prayer, police division jointly organised a hardships in his life. During his meditation, control of the mind, soccer tournament on 31st March. wandering days in India he slept “Brahman” is the name the moral behavior, and selfless Nearly 42 Singapore teams under the trees, spent days in Hindus give to ultimate reality, action. participated in the tournament. It caves and went without food for which they conceive as an ocean started at 8am and ended with days. Heavy downpour or of pure consciousness that What Vivekananda aimed at was the prize and awards presentation scorching heat of the desert or sustains within it the bubble of our the divinization of the human at 6pm. Soccer is a popular game the biting cold of the Himalayas universe. Both immanent and race. He believed that the in Singapore and it attracts young could not bend his indomitable transcendent, Brahman is an highest worship is to serve God in and old like. This tournament was spirit. He was an expert swimmer, omnipresent, all-encompassing, man. Buddhists will recognize in organized on the occasion of a boxer, a horse-rider, a wrestler all-pervading, all-constituting this a variation on the bodhisattva 150th birth anniversary of Swami and proficient in many other Spirit—the matrix of all ideal. Vivekananda. It was a fitting games. phenomena, an absolute that tribute to a great Swami. Swamiji includes all relativities. Science He also taught the harmony of possessed a strong physique, a He strongly derided physical and says, “Break down the atoms, religions, believing that all robust body full of energy and mental weakness in young and we find subatomic particles.” religions, despite their doctrinal vitality. Because of such people. He was aware without a Vedanta says, “Break down the differences, lead to the same subatomic particles, and we find goal. “That Being is One,” the Brahman.” Vedas sing. “Sages call it by various names.” Vedanta personalizes this concept with a second There is a unity of purpose mahavakya: “You are That.” among religions that is often That is, the essence of each living obscured by peripheral concerns. being is one with Brahman. They all seek to draw us closer to Vivekananda drew a logical whatever they regard as ultimate conclusion from this idea: “Each reality, and they all try to make us soul is potentially divine. The better people. Recognition of this goal is to manifest this divinity.” fact can calm the fractiousness we see among religions today. In All of this sounds very grand. But that sense, Vivekananda’s we are all beset by human flaws, teachings offer a healing balm to which obscure any latent divinity our contentious and divided we may conceivably possess. world.
18 volumes, and are based on How can we overcome them? Vedanta, one of the six orthodox Through intense and constant Soccer Tournament systems of Hindu philosophy. religious practice, which purifies Vedanta can be summarized in a the mind and allows Brahman to Ramakrishna Mission Old Boys’ magnificent health he could mahavakya, or “great saying”: shine through. Such practice Association and Ang Mo Kio endure many difficulties and “All this is actually Brahman.” includes worship, prayer, police division jointly organised a hardships in his life. During his meditation, control of the mind, soccer tournament on 31st March. wandering days in India he slept “Brahman” is the name the moral behavior, and selfless Nearly 42 Singapore teams under the trees, spent days in Hindus give to ultimate reality, action. participated in the tournament. It caves and went without food for which they conceive as an ocean started at 8am and ended with days. Heavy downpour or of pure consciousness that What Vivekananda aimed at was the prize and awards presentation scorching heat of the desert or sustains within it the bubble of our the divinization of the human at 6pm. Soccer is a popular game the biting cold of the Himalayas universe. Both immanent and race. He believed that the in Singapore and it attracts young could not bend his indomitable transcendent, Brahman is an highest worship is to serve God in and old like. This tournament was spirit. He was an expert swimmer, omnipresent, all-encompassing, man. Buddhists will recognize in organized on the occasion of a boxer, a horse-rider, a wrestler all-pervading, all-constituting this a variation on the bodhisattva 150th birth anniversary of Swami and proficient in many other Spirit—the matrix of all ideal. Vivekananda. It was a fitting games. phenomena, an absolute that tribute to a great Swami. Swamiji includes all relativities. Science He also taught the harmony of possessed a strong physique, a He strongly derided physical and says, “Break down the atoms, religions, believing that all robust body full of energy and mental weakness in young and we find subatomic particles.” religions, despite their doctrinal vitality. Because of such people. He was aware without a Vedanta says, “Break down the differences, lead to the same subatomic particles, and we find goal. “That Being is One,” the Brahman.” Vedas sing. “Sages call it by various names.” Vedanta personalizes this concept with a second There is a unity of purpose mahavakya: “You are That.” among religions that is often That is, the essence of each living obscured by peripheral concerns. being is one with Brahman. They all seek to draw us closer to Vivekananda drew a logical whatever they regard as ultimate conclusion from this idea: “Each reality, and they all try to make us soul is potentially divine. The better people. Recognition of this goal is to manifest this divinity.” fact can calm the fractiousness we see among religions today. In All of this sounds very grand. But that sense, Vivekananda’s we are all beset by human flaws, teachings offer a healing balm to which obscure any latent divinity our contentious and divided we may conceivably possess. world.
19 strong body and mind progress than through the study of the either in material or spiritual field Gita. These are bold words; but I was not possible. In one of his have to say them, for I love you. I lectures delivered in Chennai know where the shoe pinches. I (1897) in a thundering voice he have gained a little experience. said, “We speak of many things You will understand the Gita parrot-like, but never do them; better with your biceps, your speaking and not doing has muscles a little stronger. You will become a habit with us. What is understand the mighty genius and the cause of that? Physical the mighty strength of Krishna weakness. This sort of weak brain better with a little of strong blood is not able to do anything; we in you. You will understand the must strengthen it. First of all our Upanishads better and the glory young men must be strong. of the Atman when your body Religion will come afterwards. Be stands firm upon your feet, and strong, my young friends; that is you feel yourselves as men”. my advice to you. You will be (C.W.S.V. III p 342) nearer to heaven through football
20 strong body and mind progress than through the study of the either in material or spiritual field Gita. These are bold words; but I was not possible. In one of his have to say them, for I love you. I lectures delivered in Chennai know where the shoe pinches. I (1897) in a thundering voice he have gained a little experience. said, “We speak of many things You will understand the Gita parrot-like, but never do them; better with your biceps, your speaking and not doing has muscles a little stronger. You will become a habit with us. What is understand the mighty genius and the cause of that? Physical the mighty strength of Krishna weakness. This sort of weak brain better with a little of strong blood is not able to do anything; we in you. You will understand the must strengthen it. First of all our Upanishads better and the glory young men must be strong. of the Atman when your body Religion will come afterwards. Be stands firm upon your feet, and strong, my young friends; that is you feel yourselves as men”. my advice to you. You will be (C.W.S.V. III p 342) nearer to heaven through football
21
Stressing on the strong health he from the attempt to control the said, “Everything is infectious in organs. …. When the miserably the world, good or bad. If your weak attempt any of the Yogas, body be in a certain state of they are likely to get some tension, it will have the tendency incurable malady, or they weaken to produce the same tension in their minds”. (C.W.S.V. III p 69) others. If you are strong and healthy, those that live near you Once a young man came to will also have the tendency to Swamiji and expressed his desire become strong and healthy, but if to learn yoga and meditation. you are sick and weak, those Seeing his frail body Swamiji around you will have the advised him to become physically tendency to become the same. strong before taking up the (C.W.S.V. I p153) practice of yoga.
Physical strength, therefore, is absolutely necessary. It is the strong body alone that can bear the shock of reaction resulting
22
Stressing on the strong health he from the attempt to control the said, “Everything is infectious in organs. …. When the miserably the world, good or bad. If your weak attempt any of the Yogas, body be in a certain state of they are likely to get some tension, it will have the tendency incurable malady, or they weaken to produce the same tension in their minds”. (C.W.S.V. III p 69) others. If you are strong and healthy, those that live near you Once a young man came to will also have the tendency to Swamiji and expressed his desire become strong and healthy, but if to learn yoga and meditation. you are sick and weak, those Seeing his frail body Swamiji around you will have the advised him to become physically tendency to become the same. strong before taking up the (C.W.S.V. I p153) practice of yoga.
Physical strength, therefore, is absolutely necessary. It is the strong body alone that can bear the shock of reaction resulting
23 New Ramakrishna Temple Consecrated
The newly built temple, with a devotees and prasada for all. marble statue of Sri Ramakrishna, at Vedanta Centre of Greater On this occasion a monastic Washington, DC (USA), was conference was held at the centre consecrated on 20 April, the on 19 April in which 29 monks, sacred Ramanavami Day. About nuns and novices from various 450 devotees attended the Vedanta Centres in America programme which included puja, participated. This conference had homa, Vedic chanting, Bhajans, two sessions, the morning Ramnam Sankirtan and Indian session focussed on monastic classical music concerts. There spiritual life (atmano was also an interfaith meet and a moksartham), while the afternoon number of talks on the message session dealt with various public of Swami Vivekananda and aspects of the work of the Vedanta. The temple Vedanta centers in the West consecration included a (jagaddhitaya). THE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA ISSUED COMMEMORATIVE procession of monks and STAMPS IN HONOUR OF THE 150TH BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF SWAMI VIVEKANANDA.
24 New Ramakrishna Temple Consecrated
The newly built temple, with a devotees and prasada for all. marble statue of Sri Ramakrishna, at Vedanta Centre of Greater On this occasion a monastic Washington, DC (USA), was conference was held at the centre consecrated on 20 April, the on 19 April in which 29 monks, sacred Ramanavami Day. About nuns and novices from various 450 devotees attended the Vedanta Centres in America programme which included puja, participated. This conference had homa, Vedic chanting, Bhajans, two sessions, the morning Ramnam Sankirtan and Indian session focussed on monastic classical music concerts. There spiritual life (atmano was also an interfaith meet and a moksartham), while the afternoon number of talks on the message session dealt with various public of Swami Vivekananda and aspects of the work of the Vedanta. The temple Vedanta centers in the West consecration included a (jagaddhitaya). THE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA ISSUED COMMEMORATIVE procession of monks and STAMPS IN HONOUR OF THE 150TH BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF SWAMI VIVEKANANDA.
25
ach religion brings out its own doctrines and E insists upon them as being the only true ones. And not only does it do that, but it thinks that he who does not believe in them must go to some horrible place. Some will even draw the sword to compel others to believe as they do. This is not through wickedness, but through a particular disease of the human brain called fanaticism. They are very sincere, these fanatics, the most sincere of human beings; but they are quite as irresonsible as other lunatics in the world. This disease of fanaticism is one of the most dangerous of all diseases. All the wickedness of human nature is roused by it. Anger is stirred up, nerves are strung high, and human beings become like tigers.
re all the religions of the world really A contradictory? I do not mean the external forms in which great thoughts are clad. I do not mean the different buildings, languages, rituals, books, etc., employed in various religions, but I mean the internal soul of every religion. I believe that they are not contradictory; they are supplementary. Each religion, as it were, takes up one part of the great universal truth, and spends its whole force in embodying and typifying that part of the great truth. Swami Vivekananda.