Author: Anita Raina Thapan
Editor(s): Anita Raina Thapan
Publisher: Penguin
Year: 2004
Language: English
Pages: 282
ISBN/UPC (if available): 0670058114
Description
One of the most influential interpreters of Vedantic philosophy in modern times, Swami Chinmayananda touched the minds and hearts of millions with his message of social and religious harmony. Several years after his death, the Chinmaya Mission, established in 1953, continues to spread his message of universal brotherhood and seeks to realize, through spiritual and secular activities, the wisdom embedded in the teachings of Vedanta.
This collection of Swami Chinmayananda's discourses, brought together by Anita Raina Thapan, disciple and active member of the Mission, represents the seminal teachings of the great spiritual master. From the relevance of religion to the significance of appropriate spiritual practice and the true meaning of faith, Swamiji discourses on a whole range of issues that are vital to the well-being of our society. Emphasizing, above all, the common essence of all religions, he speaks of the values that one needs to live by in order to become a self-reliant individual with the motivation and the means to help fashion a better society.
Lucid and engaging, profound and insightful, the discourses in this compilation take the reader on a fascinating journey into the world of Hindu religion and philosophy.
REVIEW
The highest prayer in this world is service; the greatest devotion is loving the people around us; and the noblest character trait is divine compassion for all living creatures.
-Swami Chinmayananda
Contents
FOREWORD
INTRODUCTION
THE RELEVANCE OF RELIGION
On Belief in God
Life and the Art of Living
Returning the Gift
Religion and Human Values
VEDANTA: CORE CONCEPTS
The Vedantic Explanation of Creation
The Fall of Man
Free Will Versus Destiny
Reflections of Life and Death
The Flight of the Subtle Body
Self-realization
EMBARKING ON THE SPIRITUAL PATH
The Thirst for Truth
Spiritual Unfoldment-How?
Commitment to the Ideal
Developing a Relationship with God
Prayer as Invocation
How to Retain Godhood
GURU AND SHISHYA
The Way to Freedom
Gurus, Teachers and Preceptors
The True Devotee
SOME SPIRITUAL PRACTICES
Japa Yoga
The Gayatri Mantra
Purifying the Mind
VALUES TO LIVE BY
Standards for Inspired Living
Love in Action
Right and Wrong Actions
We Must
Efficiency in Action
VEDANTA IN SECULAR LIFE
The Secret of Large Profits
Right Attitudes for Success
Our Children
Youth Alone Can
The Leader