In our previous blog, we talked about the concepts of Brahman and Atman, the two co-existing, mutually dependent manifestations of energy that create the tapestry of existence.
In this blog, let’s explore another concept from the Upanishads and the broader Vedanta tradition—Sat-chit-ananda (सच्चिदानन्द).
An understanding of this Sanskrit epithet is crucial to the exploration of…
Most people think of spiritual discipline as a destination we have to reach during this lifetime. But, in reality, spirituality is a path, a journey to embark on. It’s an experience that goes beyond intellectual boundaries that most humans are confined to. This is an eternal truth that Adi Shankara, the propagator of Advaita Vedanta,…
Vasudaiva Kutumbakam is a Sanskrit phrase which translates to “the world is one family.” It is an ancient Vedantic aphorism that highlights a social philosophy founded on a deeply spiritual understanding. The three words constituting this phrase are:
Vasudha, meaning ‘The Earth or the world.’
Iva, meaning ‘similar to or like.’
Kutumbakam, meaning ‘family.’
In…
Kartik Purnima is a festival celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains on the full moon day of the lunar month of Kartik Maas. The Hindus, celeberate it as the day when Lord Shiva killed the demon Tripurasura, a collective name given to Vidyunmali, Tarakaksha, and Viryavana who controlled the whole world after defeating the gods…
Ma Kali’s physical appearance was depicted in Puranas in the manner it has been — the intent was not to appease some misguided modern-day not feminists; neither was the intent to open up opportunity for ignoramuses of today.
(But then, times being what they are, the two situations are playing out today)
The absurdities prevail…
According to Advaita Vedanta or non-duality, spiritual sadhana consists of 3 steps, namely:
Shravanam - meaning, listen to the words of wisdom from the experts who have been there. Mananam - meaning, contemplate on what has been heard and make it part of the memory bank or psyche. This is wisdom. Nidhidhyasanam - meaning, put…
Gadai (Shri Ramakrishna Paramhans) was such an avid devotee of mother Kali, he use to regard Maa Kali as his own mother, and use to talk to her daily, people thought he was mad but he wasn't, he being the head priest of the Dakshineshwar Kali Temple, he use to taste the offerings and bhogs…
The key to enlightenment is attention.
If you want to abandon illusion, know reality and attend to it instead.
If you’re interested in enlightenment, start with a good definition.
To discern and abide in the ever-present Reality is the true attainment. All other attainments are like powers enjoyed in a dream.
According to Sri Ramana…