Sivananda

New Year Message - 2012

Sun, 01 Jan 2012 17:09:00 GMT

A Divine Life Mission By Sri Swami Sivanandaji Children of God! A New Year of new life has come. Let every day of this New Year of Divine Life be filled with the thoughts of God who is in all and everywhere. A life sacrificed on the altar of Divine Mission, a life dedicated to God is a life of success, peace and joy. On this New Year day surrender yourselves to the Lord who is all around us here, and lead a carefree life of harmony and bliss. Every day of this New Year should be spent in egoless service, all-embracing love and devotion to God. Stay your minds in Him by offering fervent and sincere prayers daily. Now is the time for you to start a spiritual life, not tomorrow. Japa, Kirtan and meditation are great healers of ills of life. Repeat the Name of the Lord. This indeed, is the way to God's Kingdom. One who does not yield to the wrong suggestions of the mind, who is untouched by the commotions of the world, who is pure in mind and heart, who aspires only for the divine good and peace, that is everywhere, enjoys all blessedness here and now. One who forgets himself in the good of others has the Divine Support. If you lead such a selfless life meditating on the Essence of God in all, you will attain Knowledge and Illumination. Again and again, I exhort you to illumine your deportment with the glow of Love. Love is the mother of all virtues. He that has a heart abounding in Love has known the Lord and scaled the heights of wisdom. Love and God are not different. The Way of Love is the Way of God. It is the way of unity, power and prosperity. Having become heroes by intense spiritual Sadhana, work with exhilarating charm and ceaseless vigour for the Divine Life Mission in order to show the Light of God to all those who are in darkness and thus end their miseries once for all. To spread the divine knowledge is the only way to cure the diseases of today's world. With faith in God, live a divine life and awaken people to the spiritual values so that they may enter into a haven of blessedness on this very earth. May the blessings of sages and saints be upon you all! May God bless you all! <hr/> This message has also been posted at: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/discourse/jan2012.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/discourse/jan2012.htm</a> Yours in the service of Gurudev, Pannirselvam

Sivananda Day-to-day (450)

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 00:20:00 GMT

Om Sri Durgayai Namah! Om Namo Bhagavate Sivanandaya! Om Namo Bhagavate Chidanandaya! Om Namo Bhagavate Krishnanandaya! Namaste! The holy nine day worship of the Divine Mother concludes today (6th Oct). This is the greatest Hindu festival in which God is adored as Mother. Sri Swami Sivanandaji has written about the significance of this festival in the book "Hindu Fasts and Festivals": <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/religions/navaratri.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/religions/navaratri.htm</a> In addition we uploaded Sri Swami Sivanandaji's Dussera Message that was delivered in 1942. This article is at: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/religions/navaratri-1942.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/religions/navaratri-1942.htm</a> You may view live broadcast and recorded videos of the celebration at Sivananda Ashram, Rishikesh at: <a href="http://sivanandaonline.org/newsupdates/?p=836">http://sivanandaonline.org/newsupdates/?p=836</a> Yours in the service of Gurudev, Pannirselvam <hr/> Book Synopsis The Devi Mahatmya By Swami Sivananda The Devi Mahatmya or the Durga Saptasati is a unique book in this world. It is the base and the root of the religion of the Saktas. It is a Kamadhenu for one and all; it gives whatever man wants. It gives Bhakti in this world and Mukti afterwards. It is a powerful reservoir of Mantras from the beginning to the end. Every verse of this text is a dynamic force which acts powerfully in overhauling the nature of man. The conception of the Infinite as Mother is not an altogether meaningless one. The Rigveda bears testimony to the fact that even in such ancient times, there was the persistent belief that the Ruler is the All-compassionate Mother. Further, Mother is the personality that appeals most to the human heart, not so much the Father who is considered a hard taskmaster. Moreover the conception of the Divinity as Devi, Durga or Sri, is not merely a theory but a practical way of life. It is a particular view which cannot be set aside. It is as important as any school of religious belief, and is one of the most important reigning branches of Hindu religion--Vaishnavism, Saivism and Saktaism. Even a subtle philosopher cannot dispense with the conception of Sakti, for he is essentially an embodiment of Power, and he has love for power. The highest Intelligence and the most speculative metaphysics is only a manifestation of Jnana-Sakti and is not outside the range of Saktaism. Let us therefore adore and worship the Glorious Mother for the purpose of attaining Wisdom or Selfrealisations. For more information, please visit: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/books/es30.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/books/es30.htm</a> <hr/> OVERCOMING HATE: A lady disciple had great love and respect for another aspirant and spoke very highly of her. When this aspirant came to the Ashram she began to listen to gossip and commenced scandalising the disciple. This upset and irritated the disciple greatly. The Master, who always knew the hearts of all, came to know the whole situation. On his way to his cottage one day, he turned to the disciple and asked her, "Will you do some service?" "Yes, Swamiji," answered the disciple. "You see, this lady (referring to the aspirant mentioned above) has backache. Take her to your room, put her on your own bed and massage her back." The disciple was shocked but could not disobey the Master's instructions. So she said, "Yes, Swamiji." She took the lady to her room and, while massaging, commenced conversing with her. She instantly found her tension and irritation subsiding. Both hearts melted and friendship sprang up once again! <hr/> "Mother's grace is boundless. Her mercy is illimitable. Her knowledge is infinite. Her power is immeasurable. Her glory is ineffable. Her splendour is indescribable. She gives you Bhukti or material prosperity and Mukti also (liberation)." - Swami Sivananda <hr/> Sivananda Day-to-day is sent out weekly. To subscribe to this mailing list please go to: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi">http://www.dlshq.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi</a> Other Sivananda related lists: 1) Sivananda Daily Readings <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sivanandadaily/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sivanandadaily/</a> 2) Sivananda's Thought for the Day <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SivanandasThoughtForTheDay/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SivanandasThoughtForTheDay/</a> 3) Sivananda Daily Readings & Thought for the Day <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dlsmalaysia/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dlsmalaysia/</a> 4) Various Selections from Sivananda's Works <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/">http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/</a> <hr/>

Birthday of Sri Swami Chidanandaji Maharaj (2011)

Sat, 24 Sep 2011 08:27:00 GMT

Om Namo Bhagavate Sivanandaya! Om Namo Bhagavate Chidanandaya! Namaste! Today (September 24th) is the 95th birthday anniversary of revered Sri Swami Chidanandaji. A new book titled "Memories of Swami Chidananda" was recently released. The book contains close to 200 accounts by devotees on their experiences with Sri Swamiji. I have included below one such account for our reflection today. Yours in the service of Gurudev, Pannirselvam <hr/> The real Chidananda is within you By Swami Jitamohananda, Orissa I was fervently praying to the Lord to send me my Guru who must be a self realized saint. My devout prayer and intense aspiration got fulfilled very soon as I was initiated by Pujya Swami Chidanandaji Maharaj in 1978 at Sunabeda. I was a beginner in the spiritual path; my devotion and faith were not so strong. I did not have the conviction that the Guru is antaryami. But one incident changed my life. In 1981, I went to Sivananda Ashram, Rishikesh, to attend Sadhana Saptaha with Sankarshan Mangaraj of Puri. One day, while returning to the ashram after visiting Geeta Bhawan and Paramartha Niketan, we found a beggar asking for a coin. As a beginner in divine life, I was religiously practising Gurudev's instruction of "GIVE". I searched my pockets for a coin. There was no coin and I found only one two rupee note. I was reluctant to part with two rupees for one beggar only as I could satisfy eight beggars with those two rupees, converting it into small coins. I was indecisive and did not give anything to that beggar. I was unhappy with myself. We reached Samadhi Mandir for attending the afternoon programme. Param Pujya Swami Chidanandaji Maharaj was addressing the sadhaks. We took our seats in the back. To my utter surprise, Pujya Swamiji Maharaj was explaining the teachings of Swami Sivananda on the topic "GIVE". Swamiji said, "Giving is a sadhana. It has to be performed with large heart and proper understanding. Suppose you have gone to the other side of the Ganges. A beggar approaches you for a coin; you search your pockets and can bring out only one two rupee note. Coins are not available to you. You are then indecisive and go on thinking that instead of satisfying eight beggars, why should I give it to one? This is not proper. Who is that beggar? He is Lord Narayana. If you are hungry, can you appease your hunger with a morsel of rice? How pitiable it is! While giving, it is proper only to fulfill one's need to the best of our capacity. See always the Lord in the receiver. Then 'GIVING' will be converted into direct worship of God who dwells in you and in him and who is both antarayami and sarvavyapak". I was stupefied and confounded as to what was happening. It was beyond my intellect to understand. How the master knew everything--tit-bit of my actions- -on the other side of the Ganges? My thought process, in no time, touched the yogic mind of Sri Gurudev. Again, I was caught. In reply to the question in my mind, the compassionate master went on telling, "I am only dummy Chidananda sitting here and talking to you. You are seeing my physical form. But the real Chidananda is within you. I dwell in you as antaryami. I see everything, whatever you think and talk and wherever you are, I look after you." This unforgettable incident was a turning point in my spiritual life. From that moment, I was determined to practise "GIVING" as instructed by Sri Gurudev. How can I express the inexpressible blissful feelings of mine! My experience is not a new experience. The world knows that Swami Chidananda is antaryami and sarvavyapak. <hr/> "Memories of Swami Chidananda" is currently being made available for Rs 250. The original price is Rs 500. For more information on this book please go to: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/books/eo20.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/books/eo20.htm</a> Kindly note that Aradhana discount for books published by The Divine Life Society comes to an end on Sep 30. Prices will revert to normal after this period. Our bookstore is at: <a href="http://www.dlsbooks.org/">http://www.dlsbooks.org/</a> <hr/> Sivananda Day-to-day is sent out weekly. To subscribe to this mailing list please go to: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi">http://www.dlshq.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi</a> Other Sivananda related lists: 1) Sivananda Daily Readings <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sivanandadaily/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sivanandadaily/</a> 2) Sivananda's Thought for the Day <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SivanandasThoughtForTheDay/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SivanandasThoughtForTheDay/</a> 3) Sivananda Daily Readings & Thought for the Day <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dlsmalaysia/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dlsmalaysia/</a> 4) Various Selections from Sivananda's Works <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/">http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/</a> <hr/>

Birthday of Sri Swami Sivanandaji Maharaj (2011)

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:27:00 GMT

Om Namo Bhagavate Sivanandaya! Namaste! Today (September 8th) is the 124th birthday anniversary of revered Sri Swami Sivanandaji. In honour of this occasion we uploaded an article titled "Divine Life" from Sri Swami Chidanandaji's book "Swami Sivananda: Saint, Sage and Godman". This article is at: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/saints/siva_divinelife.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/saints/siva_divinelife.htm</a> Excerpts from the same are attached below for our reflection. An article by Sri Swami Krishnanandaji titled "The Branches of the Divine Life Society" has been posted at: <a href="http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/disc/disc_194.html">http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/disc/disc_194.html</a> Yours in the service of Gurudev, Pannirselvam <hr/> Holy Master Gurudev Swami Sivanandaji regarded the living of your daily life as important, if not more important than the practice of your spiritual Sadhana. He gave, not without any reason, a very significantly true message of 'Divine Life'. His institution is The Divine Life Society, its magazine is The Divine Life and he gave the name Divine Life to his message. He did not call it this Yoga or that Yoga or transcendental meditation or any other name. This name that he gave has very much relevance, very much connection and relationship with your life. Gurudev regarded the living of your life equally important as the practice of your spiritual Sadhana, your Yoga, Vedanta and meditation. Perhaps he regarded the former more important than your spiritual life. Because if your life, your daily living is proper, then alone your Sadhana will proceed unhampered and be progressive and it will yield fruits, and it will go on yielding fruits. You don't have to wait till it culminates in spiritual Realisation. It would go on yielding fruits right now. It would go on giving flowers and yielding fruits step by step. So Gurudev called it Divine Life. If your life is lived rightly, your Sadhana will be fruitful, progressive and effective. If your life is not lived rightly, the fruit or result will not be commensurate with your effort-much effort but little fruit. How can you afford to do that? How much time you have in your life span to go on doing such effort? No one knows. We are here now, but what moment we will not be here God only knows. Therefore we cannot afford to make a lot of effort in spiritual Sadhana without getting the desired results. Your Sadhana must yield fruits. So Gurudev rightly laid great emphasis on our day-to-day life. <hr/> Sivananda Day-to-day is sent out weekly. To subscribe to this mailing list please go to: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi">http://www.dlshq.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi</a> Other Sivananda related lists: 1) Sivananda Daily Readings <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sivanandadaily/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sivanandadaily/</a> 2) Sivananda's Thought for the Day <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SivanandasThoughtForTheDay/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SivanandasThoughtForTheDay/</a> 3) Sivananda Daily Readings & Thought for the Day <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dlsmalaysia/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dlsmalaysia/</a> 4) Various Selections from Sivananda's Works <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/">http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/</a> <hr/>

Sivananda Day-to-day (449)

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 10:59:00 GMT

Om Namo Bhagavate Sivanandaya! Om Namo Bhagavate Chidanandaya! Om Namo Bhagavate Krishnanandaya! Blessed Divinities! Salutations and Greetings. We are pleased to inform all devotees of Worshipful Gurudev Sri Swami Sivanandaji Maharaj that for the first time we are going to stream the Guru Purnima and Sadhana Week programmes live from The Divine Life Society, Sivananda Ashram, Rishikesh, India. The live stream can be accessed at: <a href="http://sivanandaonline.org/newsupdates/">http://sivanandaonline.org/newsupdates/</a> The time (Indian Standard Time) and activities that will be broadcast are as follows: <ol> <li>Gurupurnima Paduka Puja 15-07-2011 9:00 am to 10:30 am IST </li><li>Sadhana week inauguration 16-07-2011 9:00 am to 10:30 am IST </li><li>Night Satsang 16-07-2011 8:00 pm to 09:00 pm IST </li><li>Night Satsang (Vedic Chanting) 20-07-2011 8:00 pm to 09:00 pm IST </li><li>Aradhana Paduka Puja 24-07-2011 9:00 am to 10:30 am IST </li></ol> You can determine your local time at the following link: <a href="http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/converter.html">http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/converter.html</a> Please avail yourself of this rare opportunity of observing the Paduka Puja, Satsang, talks and cultural programme. We would appreciate your feedback on the live streaming to enable us to decide on using this platform for future programmes conducted at the The Divine Life Society, Sivananda Ashram, Rishikesh. -The Divine Life Society- Yours in the service of Gurudev, Pannirselvam <hr/> Book Synopsis Guru-Bhakti Yoga By Swami Sivananda Just as Kirtan-Sadhana has been made the special KaliYuga Sadhana for quick God-vision, even so herein you have the New Yoga, a Yoga most eminently suitable for this age of doubt and scepticism, pride and egoism. It is Guru-Bhakti Yoga. This Yoga is marvellous. Its power is tremendous. Its efficacy is most unfailing. The true glory of Guru-Bhakti is indescribable. It is the Yoga par excellence for this age, which makes God appear here before you in flesh and blood and move with you in this very life. The hard Rajasic ego is the arch enemy of the Sadhaka. Guru-Bhakti Yoga is the surest and best Sadhana to destroy arrogance and to dissolve the vicious ego. Just as a particular deadly germ can be annihilated only by a certain specific chemical germicide, even so, to destroy Avidya and Ahankara, this unique Guru Bhakti-Yoga is the peerless specific. They are the gravest 'Mayacide' and 'egocide'. They become quite powerless and no longer afflict the fortunate soul who saturates himself with the spirit of Guru-Bhakti-Yoga. Blessed indeed is the man who earnestly takes to this Yoga; for he will obtain crowning success in all other Yogas. To him will accrue the choicest fruits of perfection in Karma, Bhakti, Dhyana and Jnana. The qualification for taking to this Yoga is the simple trio of sincerity, faith and obedience. Be sincere in your aspirations for Perfection. Be not vague or half-hearted. Then have perfect faith in the one you have accepted as your Guru. Do not allow even so much as a shadow of doubt to approach you. When once you have reposed absolute faith in him, then know that what he instructs you is indeed for your highest good. Therefore, obey his word implicitly. Follow his teachings to the letter. Be earnest in doing thus, and take my word: you will attain Perfection; I assure you emphatically. -Sivananda For more information, please visit: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/books/es53.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/books/es53.htm</a> From 1st July 2011 to 30th September 2011 Discount on Publications: 20% on Orders Upto Rs. 300/- 30% on Orders Upto Rs. 1,000/- 35% on Orders Above Rs. 1,000/- 40% on Orders Above Rs. 25,000/- 40% Special Discount on the following Pictorial Volumes of Worshipful Gurudev Sri Swami Sivanandaji and Worshipful Sri Swami Chidanandaji 1. ES8 Glorious Vision 2. ES4 Gurudev Sivananda 3. EC70 Ultimate Journey 4. EC71 Divine Vision Please visit our online bookstore for further details: <a href="http://www.dlsbooks.org/">http://www.dlsbooks.org/</a> <hr/> DO IT NOW! The Master once requested a disciple to send a particular parcel to a person. The address of the person could not be easily found and the disciple also forgot the task entrusted to him. The first day the Master asked him, "Is the parcel ready?" "No, Swamiji, I will get it ready tomorrow." The next day again the Master asked, "Where is the parcel?" "Swamiji, I completely forgot." In a slightly raised voice the Master gave instructions where the address was to be found. "Yes, Swamiji, I will do it tomorrow," promised the disciple. The following day, when the disciple went to look for the address at the place specified by the Master, he was not able to find it. He did not look for it again and once more forgot about the matter. On the third day the Master found that the parcel was still not ready for his inspection. When the disciple appeared the Master said to him, "Did you forget to have your breakfast today? You have forgotten to send this parcel because you do not consider it as important as your breakfast. I must have the parcel tomorrow." When the parcel was ready the next day, the Master said, "I am not sure whether you are going to post it. You must send it by registered post and bring the receipt to me. Then only you may have your lunch." While waiting in his cottage for the disciple, the Master said, "I am not getting up from here till he sends that parcel, brings the receipt and shows it to me." When the disciple finally returned after sending the parcel, he appeared frightened and shivering. "Have this dish of sambar. You must come and sit in front of me and have your food. I must see you eating it," the Master lovingly said to him. As the Master was having his food he made the disciple also sit in front of him and eat. <hr/> "The Grace of the Guru will itself in a mysterious manner enable the disciple to perceive directly the Brahmic principle within, though it is impossible for the spiritual preceptor to point to Brahman as this or that or for the disciple to understand how it is prior to his direct perception." - Swami Sivananda <hr/> Sivananda Day-to-day is sent out weekly. To subscribe to this mailing list please go to: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi">http://www.dlshq.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi</a> Other Sivananda related lists: 1) Sivananda Daily Readings <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sivanandadaily/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sivanandadaily/</a> 2) Sivananda's Thought for the Day <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SivanandasThoughtForTheDay/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SivanandasThoughtForTheDay/</a> 3) Sivananda Daily Readings & Thought for the Day <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dlsmalaysia/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dlsmalaysia/</a> 4) Various Selections from Sivananda's Works <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/">http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/</a> <hr/>

Sivananda Day-to-day (448)

Sat, 02 Jul 2011 02:47:00 GMT

Sivananda Day-to-day (447)

Mon, 09 May 2011 04:09:00 GMT

Om Namo Bhagavate Sivanandaya! Om Namo Bhagavate Chidanandaya! Om Namo Bhagavate Krishnanandaya! Namaste! Today (May 9th) is the birthday of Sri Ramanujacharya and yesterday (May 8th) was the birthday of Sri Adi Shankaracharya. There are several articles on these two great teachers of Vedanta on our site. They are: <ol> <li>Ramanuja by Swami Sivananda <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/saints/ramanuja.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/saints/ramanuja.htm</a> </li><li>Sankara by Swami Sivananda <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/saints/sankara.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/saints/sankara.htm</a> </li><li>Sankara Jayanthi by Swami Chidananda <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/religions/sankarajay.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/religions/sankarajay.htm</a> </li><li>Sankara - The Genius by Swami Krishnananda <a href="http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/fest/fest_05.html">http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/fest/fest_05.html</a></li></ol> Yours in the service of Gurudev, Pannirselvam <hr/> Book Synopsis First Lessons in Vedanta By Swami Sivananda Vedanta literally means the end, conclusion or the culmination of the Veda. It is comprised of the Upanishads. It deals with the transcendental science of the Atman, or Brahma-Jnana. It is the philosophical portion expounding the nature of the Atman, whereas the first portion of the Vedas, the Karma-kanda deals with ritualistic observances and sacrifices. Vedanta expounds the true nature of the Self, declares that Brahman, the Supreme Self alone is real, the world and the diverse phenomena are unreal, and the individual soul is identical with Brahman. The Upanishads and the Brahmasutras are the most authoritative works on the Vedanta. Upon these intricate texts numerous voluminous complicated commentaries by several great Acharyas like Sankara, Ramanuja, Madhva, Nimbarka, Vallabha have been written. They are extremely difficult and very lengthy works. And the language too is difficult Sanskrit. Therefore, to give a clear understanding of the basic principles of Vedanta philosophy in easy and simple manner these few lessons are given. They present the truths and the details of Vedanta philosophy in a way that can be read and understood by all and remembered without difficulty. This will give a good idea of the main outlines of the Vedanta philosophy, the details of which could be filled in later through a study of the bigger works. This is a groundwork for detailed Vedantic Study. It equips the student with a preliminary knowledge of the Vedanta. For more information, please visit: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/books/es92.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/books/es92.htm</a> SPECIAL CONCESSION DISCOUNT ON PUBLICATIONS: 20% ON ORDERS ABOVE Rs. 300/- 30% ON ORDERS ABOVE Rs. 3000/- <a href="http://www.dlsbooks.org/">http://www.dlsbooks.org/</a> <hr/> RIGHTS OF MONKEYS: One day some people went to the Master and suggested to him, "Swamiji, it will be good if we had a flower garden here. This nuisance of the monkeys is frightening the visitors. So shall we use something to drive them out?" "This place belongs to them," began the Master. "The forest belongs to them. You have come and occupied their place and now you wish to drive them out! It is cruel! We are at fault. They are not at fault. They were living here so peacefully and now we have come and occupied this place and wish to drive them out. No, it should not be done!" <hr/> "Ramanuja was the exponent of the Visishtadvaita philosophy or qualified non-dualism. Ramanuja's Brahman is Sa-visesha Brahman, i.e., Brahman with attributes. According to Ramanuja's teachings, Lord Narayana or Bhagavan is the Supreme Being; the individual soul is Chit; matter is Achit. Ramanuja regards the attributes as real and permanent, but subject to the control of Brahman. The attributes are called Prakaras or modes. Lord Narayana is the Ruler and Lord of the universe. The Jiva is His servant and worshipper. The Jiva should completely surrender himself to the Lord. The oneness of God is quite consistent with the existence of attributes, as the attributes or Shaktis depend upon God for their existence." - Swami Sivananda <hr/> Sivananda Day-to-day is sent out weekly. To subscribe to this mailing list please go to: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi">http://www.dlshq.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi</a> Other Sivananda related lists: 1) Sivananda Daily Readings <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sivanandadaily/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sivanandadaily/</a> 2) Sivananda's Thought for the Day <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SivanandasThoughtForTheDay/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SivanandasThoughtForTheDay/</a> 3) Sivananda Daily Readings & Thought for the Day <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dlsmalaysia/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dlsmalaysia/</a> 4) Various Selections from Sivananda's Works <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/">http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/</a> <hr/>

Birthday of Sri Swami Krishnanandaji Maharaj (2011)

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 09:30:00 GMT

Om Namo Bhagavate Sivanandaya! Om Namo Bhagavate Krishnanandaya! Namaste! "Celebration of Krishnanandaji's birthday is worship of Brahman. Many people's faculties are developed. Every man's eyes are opened. Everyone begins to think such celebrations are very necessary." - Swami Sivananda "Krishnanandaji is a wonder to me! He has excelled me. He has excelled Sankara. He has excelled Dakshinamoorthy." - Swami Sivananda "He is very quick in his work. He has vast and deep knowledge of Vedanta. It is all God's Grace. It is not merely due to study in this birth. It is all due to Purva Samskaras. His knowledge is a treasure for those aspirants, who care to learn, study and imbibe the knowledge from him." - Swami Sivananda <hr/> Today (April 25) is the holy occasion of worshipful Sri Swami Krishnanandaji Maharaj's 89th birthday anniversary. In honour of this occasion, we uploaded an article by Sri Swami Chidananda titled "Swami Krishnananda--The Ideal Saint" at: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/saints/krishna_ideal.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/saints/krishna_ideal.htm</a> In addition, several new lectures (text, audio and video) have been uploaded to Swamiji's site. They are: <ol> <li>Video: The Samvarga Vidya of Sage Raikva: The AllAbsorbent Meditation <a href="http://swami-krishnananda.org/disc/disc_188.html">http://swami-krishnananda.org/disc/disc_188.html</a> </li><li>E-book: The Philosophy and Psychology of Yoga Practice Chapter 1: The Beginning of Philosophical Enquiry <a href="http://swami-krishnananda.org/phil-psy/phil-psy_01.html">http://swami-krishnananda.org/phil-psy/phil-psy_01.html</a> </li><li>Discourse: Spiritual Meditation <a href="http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/disc/disc_190.html">http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/disc/disc_190.html</a></li></ol> Yours in the service of Gurudev, Pannirselvam <hr/> Book Synopsis A Short History of Religious and Philosophic Thought in India By Swami Krishnananda This rapid yet comprehensive survey, by the saint and sage, ranges from the Vedas and the Upanishads to the Smritis, and includes the Itihasas and Puranas, the Bhagavadgita, Yoga Vasishtha, etc. Good thumbnail sketches of subjects to which whole libraries and cultures are devoted. There are two ways of studying a subject: to approach it as a process and to appreciate it as an essence. In the former procedure of study, the subject is viewed as history; while, in the latter, it is taken in its capacity as that permanent element which moves unaffected through history, as the thread which connects its parts. This dual role of any feature is seen to be mutually related in all things,-in the individual, the society and the universe. Just as, for instance, the human being is a changing and growing process of personality and experience and is at the same time something unique in itself, incapable of comparison and timeless in essence, all manifestations, qualities and relations, forms and actions, embody this peculiarity of nature. The history of philosophy busies itself with the process of the unfoldment of reality through the vehicle of human thought; the philosophy of history unravels the pearl that is hidden beneath the waves of historical movement. The themes presented in this book reveal the manner in which different sources of knowledge in India have attempted to portray the truths of life in their ultimate references. From the richly grown valley of the Vedas, there is a rise to the towering peaks of the Upanishads. Further on, it is not another ascent, but an artistic display of the beauty of human emotion in a blend of love and dignity which is lavishly raised as a fitting superstructure on the esoteric grandeur of these sky-scraping cliffs,-a work marvellously executed in the Epics and the Bhagavadgita and proclaimed untiringly in the Puranas. The other outer reaches of this superb achievement of human genius are the laws of society, the rules of living and the cry of the soul for the Infinite, which longs for the God of the cosmos on one hand and the subliminal consciousness on the other, between which there has never been a choice. Man speaks to himself in his innermost secrecy. There is more information at: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/books/ek1.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/books/ek1.htm</a>

Sivananda Day-to-day (446)

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 10:44:00 GMT

Om Sri Ramaya Namah! Om Namo Bhagavate Sivanandaya! Om Namo Bhagavate Chidanandaya! Om Namo Bhagavate Krishnanandaya! Namaste! Today (April 12th) marks the birthday of Lord Sri Rama (Rama Navami). In honour of this occasion we uploaded a Rama Navami message titled "Glory of Ramanama" by Sri Swami Sivananda at: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/discourse/apr2011.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/discourse/apr2011.htm</a> An article by Sri Swami Krishnananda titled "The Origin of Valmiki Ramayana" has been posted at: <a href="http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/disc/disc_191.html">http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/disc/disc_191.html</a> Please also checkout the Ramanavami page at our DLS HQ site: <a href="http://sivanandaonline.org/newsupdates/?cat=17">http://sivanandaonline.org/newsupdates/?cat=17</a> We would also like to inform everyone that a discount has been made available for all the books published by the Divine Life Society. The discount is applicable for both orders within India and International orders. The discount give is as follows: 20% discount on orders between Rs 300 and Rs 2,999. 30% discount on orders above Rs 3,000. Please visit our bookstore to avail yourself of this offer: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/books">http://www.dlshq.org/books</a> Yours in the service of Gurudev, Pannirselvam <hr/> Book Synopsis Essence of Ramayana By Swami Sivananda The Ramayana of Valmiki is perhaps the most ancient and glorious epic in the world. It is known as the Adikavyam, the first poem. Ramayana is a marvellous book which contains the essence of all the Vedas and all sacred scriptures. It is a treasure for man. It is a reservoir which contains the nectar of immortality. It delineates the character of a son who renounced the throne and the pleasures of the world to fulfil the words of his father and lived in the forest for a period of fourteen years. It depicts the character of a father who sends even his most beloved son in exile in order to keep up his word. It delineates the character of an ideal, chaste wife who is devoted to her husband till the end of her life and shares the adversities of her husband and serves him untiringly in the forest, and who also regards her husband as her God. Above all, it also points the character of a brother who places brotherly affection above everything else in this world and follows his brother to the forest leaving all the pleasures of the palace, and leading the way to ward off all dangers. Ramayana exercises a great moulding power on the life of man. It contains object lessons for husbands and wives, parents and children, brothers and sisters, friends and enemies. Ramayana is highly beautiful, melodious and soulstirring. It contains genuine classical Sanskrit poetry. Rama's young sons, Kusa and Lava, were the first reciters who sang to music this reputed work. It can be easily understood even by boys. It is suitable for beginners in the study of Sanskrit. It contains the highest ideals of Hindu culture and civilisation. It is a textbook of morals for the youths to inspire them to lofty and sublime ideals of conduct and character. Ramayana is a book that is studied by all--man, woman or boy in India. The teachings of the sacred book are wrought into the very life of every Indian man, woman and boy. Mothers tell the stories to their children, teachers to their students, the old to the young. It is a non-detailed textbook for students in schools. The description of nature in the Ramayana is most sublime and beautiful. One can actually feel that the hills, the rivers, the trees and the birds are really one with human joys and sorrows. The description of battle scenes is magnificent. The chief characteristic of the Ramayana is simplicity. Pathos and tenderness run through the whole poem. Poetry and morality are charmingly united. There is loftiness of moral tone. Ramayana has historical basis. It is a book of great antiquity. It is not a mere allegoric poem. It is an inspiring and marvellous book for all times. It has loomed large for centuries over the destinies of many millions of people and will certainly continue to do so for ages to come. This "Essence of Ramayana" may be read easily by even the busiest man who finds no time to go through the voluminous original texts. Long details have been condensed nicely in this book. There is more information at: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/books/es44.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/books/es44.htm</a> <hr/> GIVING THE ORANGE ROBE: At the night Satsang the Master gave a rather fashionable lady an orange robe. Later, a disciple said to the Master that the lady was not worthy of the robe. The Master said, "No, it is not for her to wear always. I have not given her Sannyas. I gave the robe so that she may wear it over herself when she sits for meditation and prayer. Although she appears to be a very fashionable lady she has devotion to God and is very regular in her prayer and worship. She asked for the robe so that good spiritual impressions may develop in her mind. Perhaps one day she will reach a stage of renunciation to enable her to embrace the holy order of Sannyas. That is why I gave her the cloth." <hr/> "Lord Rama was Maryada Purushottama. He was a Prema Moorti. He was an ideal son, an ideal brother, an ideal husband, an ideal friend and an ideal king. He can be taken to embody all the highest ideals of man. He led an ideal life of a householder to teach humanity. He ruled his people so nicely that his rule came to be called "Rama Rajya," meaning "the rule of righteousness," the rule which bestows on all happiness and prosperity." - Swami Sivananda <hr/> Sivananda Day-to-day is sent out weekly. To subscribe to this mailing list please go to: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi">http://www.dlshq.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi</a> Other Sivananda related lists: 1) Sivananda Daily Readings <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sivanandadaily/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sivanandadaily/</a> 2) Sivananda's Thought for the Day <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SivanandasThoughtForTheDay/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SivanandasThoughtForTheDay/</a> 3) Sivananda Daily Readings & Thought for the Day <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dlsmalaysia/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dlsmalaysia/</a> 4) Various Selections from Sivananda's Works <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/">http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/</a> <hr/>

Sivananda Day-to-day (445)

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 01:08:00 GMT

Om Namah Sivaya! Om Namo Bhagavate Sivanandaya! Om Namo Bhagavate Chidanandaya! Om Namo Bhagavate Krishnanandaya! Namaste! Today, March 2nd, is the holy celebration of Mahasivaratri. There are several articles on our website on the significance of this festival. They are: <ol> <li>Shivaratri by Sri Swami Sivanandaji at: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/religions/shivaratri.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/religions/shivaratri.htm</a> </li><li>Lord Siva, the Master Yogin by Sri Swami Krishnanandaji at: <a href="http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/disc/disc_187.html">http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/disc/disc_187.html</a> </li><li>Siva: The Mystic Night by Swami Krishnanandaji at: <a href="http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/fest/fest_03.html">http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/fest/fest_03.html</a></li></ol> In addition, there is also a book by Sri Swami Sivanandaji titled "Lord Siva and His Worship" available for free download at: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/download/download.htm#lordsiva">http://www.dlshq.org/download/download.htm#lordsiva</a> Please do checkout the Shivaratri page at our DLS HQ site: <a href="http://sivanandaonline.org/newsupdates/?cat=5">http://sivanandaonline.org/newsupdates/?cat=5</a> Yours in the service of Gurudev, Pannirselvam <hr/> Book Synopsis Lord Siva and His Worship By Swami Sivananda This is a most valuable and instructive book for the aspirants, particularly for the devotees of Lord Siva. It is full of instructions on practical Sadhana for attaining Siva-Tattva or God-realisation. The secrets of Siva Tandava, Sakti Yoga, etc., are very nicely presented. The translation of the Saiva Upanishads is a beautiful addition. The lives of Siva Acharyas, the Bhaktas and the Nayanars are inspiring and soul-stirring. A study of their lives will make one's life sublime and holy. Up to this time there has been no such presentation on this subject. The philosophical portion is highly illuminating and helpful to the readers. The book contains the essence of all Saiva Puranas. The book is written in a very lucid and clear style. It must be studied by all religious-minded persons as it is of solid worth from the spiritual point of view. For more information, please visit: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/books/es95.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/books/es95.htm</a> <hr/> THE MASTER'S COMPASSION: An old lady from Madras came to the Ashram. She was very sickly and could hardly walk. Unfortunately, there was no vacant room available in the Ashram at the time and she was asked to seek accommodation elsewhere along the Ganges bank. When she went for the Master's Darshan, she said, "Swamiji, I came all the way to be with you and to attend Satsang but there is no accommodation here. I don't think I will be able to come daily and have your Darshan." The Master asked the secretary, "Is there no place?" "Swamiji, all the rooms are occupied by the visitors. There are no rooms available." The Master, to whom writing meant so much in his service of humanity, immediately replied, "Vacate the writing room and put the lady there." As he was proceeding to the Satsang he realised that the lady was not able to walk properly. He came back and instructed, "Bring a chair. Put the lady in it and bring her to the Satsang. Let her enjoy Satsang also." <hr/> "Lord Siva is the height of austerity, the master yogin portrayed as seated in a lotus pose as the king of all ascetics - not that he has a desire for selfcontrol, but he is self-control itself. He does not practice self-control; self-control itself is symbolised in the personality of Lord Siva." - Swami Krishnananda <hr/> Sivananda Day-to-day is sent out weekly. To subscribe to this mailing list please go to: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi">http://www.dlshq.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi</a> Other Sivananda related lists: 1) Sivananda Daily Readings <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sivanandadaily/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sivanandadaily/</a> 2) Sivananda's Thought for the Day <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SivanandasThoughtForTheD">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SivanandasThoughtForTheD</a> ay/ 3) Sivananda Daily Readings & Thought for the Day <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dlsmalaysia/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dlsmalaysia/</a> 4) Various Selections from Sivananda's Works <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/">http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/</a> <hr/>

Sivananda Day-to-day (444)

Sat, 05 Feb 2011 01:14:00 GMT

Om Namo Bhagavate Sivanandaya! Om Namo Bhagavate Chidanandaya! Om Namo Bhagavate Krishnanandaya! Namaste! We have uploaded an article by Sri Swami Sivanandaji titled "Aspire Fervently, Apply Tenaciously" at: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/discourse/feb2011.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/discourse/feb2011.htm</a> The following discourses and book chapters have been uploaded to Sri Swami Krishnanandaji's site: <ol> <li>The Founding of The Divine Life Society <a href="http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/disc/disc_185.html">http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/disc/disc_185.html</a> </li><li>Commentary on the Isavasya Upanishad - Part 1 <a href="http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/disc/disc_186a.html">http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/disc/disc_186a.html</a> </li><li>Book chapters from "Universality of Being": Chapter 2: Correct Perception (Replaced previous Chp 2) <a href="http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/universality/universality_02.html">http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/universality/universality_02.html</a></li></ol> Chapter 5: Contact with Reality <a href="http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/universality/universality_05.html">http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/universality/universality_05.html</a> Chapter 6: The Seven Stages of Samadhi <a href="http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/universality/universality_06.html">http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/universality/universality_06.html</a> Chapter 7: The Highest Stages of Samadhi <a href="http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/universality/universality_07.html">http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/universality/universality_07.html</a> Chapter 8: Waking into the Consciousness of the Absolute <a href="http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/universality/universality_08.html">http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/universality/universality_08.html</a> Chapter 9: The Story of Liberation <a href="http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/universality/universality_09.html">http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/universality/universality_09.html</a> 4) Book chapter from "The Process of Yoga": Chapter 7: The Spirit of Sadhana <a href="http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/process/process_7.html">http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/process/process_7.html</a> Yours in the service of Gurudev, Pannirselvam <hr/> Book Synopsis Every Man's Yoga By Swami Sivananda Perhaps no other science is more misunderstood than the simple spiritual science of Yoga. In India, Yoga is understood to be something that is out of the way. A Yogi is thought to be a queer being, living on herbs and fruits in some remote forest or in a dark cave in some distant mountain range. In the West, Yoga is quite often associated with some magical performances such as a rope-trick, or some physical acrobatics, standing on the head, for example, or some feats of endurance like prolonged retention of breath, doing the so-called Jiva Samadhi or remaining buried underground for several days, which is done by proficiency in Kevala Kumbhaka. It is also supposed that by doing some particular Yoga practices one could fly in the air without wings, or do anything that is odd. 'Every Man's Yoga' is ideally suited for the general class of readers who are interested in spiritual topics. It is not a textbook for the advanced students of Yoga. This is an ideal work in the sense that it answers to all types of temperaments that are inclined to the spiritual path. It seeks to dispel the pet notions which glamour Yoga as something queer and sensational. It presents a great science in a very simple, lucid manner, while expertly analyzing the different aspects through a comprehensive outlook. There is more information at: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/books/es68.htm">http://www.dlshq.org/books/es68.htm</a> <hr/> A CIGARETTE ADDICT: An inmate who was addicted to smoking had borrowed money to purchase cigarettes. He requested the Master for fifty rupees to pay off his debt. The Master, knowing the man's weakness, gave him twenty-five rupees and said, "Pay fifteen rupees and keep ten rupees for yourself for smoking." Everyone was shocked to see the Master encouraging the man to smoke. "Now listen!" continued the Master, "smoking is very bad for your health. It will spoil your lungs and bring about lung cancer. So I request you to try to give it up. I know you cannot do so all at once, but smoke less. Smoke five cigarettes less than you were smoking before. Will you promise to do this?" "Yes, Swamiji, I will smoke five cigarettes less." Some days later the Master asked him, "Is your money finished?" "Yes, Swamiji," the man replied unhappily. The Master gave him another ten rupees and said, "Now promise me that you will further reduce your cigarette consumption by ten." Once again the inmate agreed. Gradually, through the Master's kindness, affection and love, the inmate gave up the habit of smoking completely. <hr/> "The heart of a Yogi tries to understand the problems of others and is ever eager to be responsive in helpfulness. It is not a bundle of emotions, fancies and prejudices. It is not impulsive. It is detached, yet full of love. It adores the deity of its choice but has equal respect for all other forms of God, seeing the same deity in them all and also in all the creations of God. It does not confine itself there. It soars beyond them." - Swami Sivananda <hr/> Sivananda Day-to-day is sent out weekly. To subscribe to this mailing list please go to: <a href="http://www.dlshq.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi">http://www.dlshq.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi</a> Other Sivananda related lists: 1) Sivananda Daily Readings <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sivanandadaily/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sivanandadaily/</a> 2) Sivananda's Thought for the Day <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SivanandasThoughtForTheDay/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SivanandasThoughtForTheDay/</a> 3) Sivananda Daily Readings & Thought for the Day <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dlsmalaysia/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dlsmalaysia/</a> 4) Various Selections from Sivananda's Works <a href="http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/subscribe.html">http://www.sivananda.org/publications/mailinglists/subscribe.html</a> <hr/>