SWAMI SIVANANDA - WISDOM OF A MASTER

By: Sri Swami Sivananda
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  • SRI SWAMI SIVANANDA: The Wisdom of a Master - Complete Books with FULL English Translation of all Sanskrit Words.Welcome to Sri Swami Sivananda: The Wisdom of a Yoga Master - HQ Podcast, where we dive deep into the timeless teachings and transformative wisdom of one of the greatest spiritual masters of the modern era, Sri Swami Sivananda. Through this podcast, we will explore his profound insights on various aspects of yoga, meditation, spirituality, and personal development. Drawing on his extensive works, each episode brings to light key lessons that will help you achieve inner peace, mental clarity, and a higher state of consciousness.Swami Sivananda’s teachings are vast and cover a wide range of topics, from the control of the mind and the development of virtues, to the pursuit of self-realization and liberation. This podcast will explore his essential writings, giving you practical tools and wisdom for navigating life’s challenges with a calm, balanced, and spiritual mindset.Here’s a brief description of the key books featured in the podcast, which are designed to help you overcome obstacles and discover the deeper truths of existence: 1. Conquest of Anger: Highly Practical Methods for the Control of Anger In this insightful book, Swami Sivananda addresses the destructive force of anger and offers practical, spiritual methods for overcoming it. Anger, a common human emotion, often leads to stress, conflict, and harm to both ourselves and others. Swami Sivananda outlines how anger arises, its impact on our physical and mental health, and how we can cultivate patience, self-control, and compassion to master this powerful emotion. The book provides simple yet effective tools such as self-reflection, the power of silence, and the practice of forgiveness, guiding listeners to a state of emotional balance and peace. 2. Conquest of Fear: The Causes of Fear and Its Eradication Fear is one of the greatest barriers to personal growth and spiritual development. In Conquest of Fear, Swami Sivananda delves into the root causes of fear—whether it’s fear of the unknown, fear of failure, or the fear of death—and offers practical steps to eliminate it from our lives. He teaches that fear arises from attachment to the material world and ignorance of our true nature. The path to freedom from fear lies in cultivating faith, surrendering to the Divine, and realizing the impermanence of worldly troubles. Through meditation, introspection, and self-discipline, we can conquer fear and achieve true peace of mind. 3. How to Get Vairagya (Dispassion) In this work, Swami Sivananda explores the concept of Vairagya, or dispassion, which is one of the key principles of spiritual growth. Vairagya is the ability to detach oneself from the fleeting pleasures and distractions of the material world, leading to a deeper connection with the soul. Swami Sivananda explains that true dispassion arises not from renouncing the world, but from understanding its impermanence and the futility of attachment to it. He offers practical steps to cultivate Vairagya through mindfulness, selfless action, and meditation, allowing us to focus on the eternal truths of life rather than temporary desires. 4. Karmas and Diseases In this book, Swami Sivananda draws a connection between karma—the law of cause and effect—and the onset of physical and mental diseases. He explains that many of the ailments we experience in life are the result of our past actions, whether from this life or previous ones. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding the role of karma in our health and wellbeing, and how by cultivating good karma through righteous actions, selfless service, and positive thoughts, we can improve our overall health. The work offers practical advice for those looking to heal themselves, both physically and spiritually, by aligning with the Divine will. 5. Life and Teachings of Lord Jesus Swami Sivananda’s work on the life and teachings of Lord Jesus provides a spiritual perspective on one of the most revered figures in history. In this book, he explores the core message of Jesus: love, compassion, and selfless service. Swami Sivananda delves into the spiritual lessons from the life of Christ, highlighting his teachings on humility, forgiveness, and devotion to God. The book also illustrates how the practices of meditation and prayer, as exemplified by Jesus, can lead to a deep connection with the Divine. For listeners seeking spiritual guidance, this book offers valuable insights into the universal message of love and peace. 6. Light, Power, and Wisdom Light, Power, and Wisdom is a powerful exploration of the essential elements that drive human evolution: inner light, divine power, and universal wisdom. Swami Sivananda describes how these qualities are interconnected and present in each of us. By tapping into the divine light within, cultivating spiritual power through prayer and discipline, and embracing wisdom, we ...
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Episodes
  • SELF-KNOWLEDGE - 13. JIVANMUKTA - THE LIBERATED SOUL - Sri Swami Sivananda

    SELF-KNOWLEDGE - 13. JIVANMUKTA - THE LIBERATED SOUL - Sri Swami Sivananda
    Feb 1 2025
    SELF-KNOWLEDGE - 13. JIVANMUKTA - THE LIBERATED SOUL - Sri Swami Sivananda - HQ Full Book.In Chapter 13 of Self-Knowledge by Sri Swami Sivananda, titled Jivanmukta - The Liberated Soul, the esteemed spiritual teacher delves into the profound concept of the Jivanmukta, a being who has attained liberation while still embodied. This chapter is a comprehensive guide to understanding the nature of the Jivanmukta, the qualities that define such a liberated soul, and the path leading to this state of transcendence.The Concept of JivanmuktiAt the heart of Swami Sivananda's teachings on Jivanmukti is the idea that liberation or Moksha is not something that occurs after death or in some distant future. Rather, it is the realization of one's true nature and the transcending of the ego, which can happen even while living in the body. A Jivanmukta, therefore, is a person who is completely liberated from the bondage of the mind and ego but continues to live in the physical world. The path to becoming a Jivanmukta is rooted in self-realization. This means that the individual must fully recognize their identity as the eternal, unchanging soul (Atman), which is one with the Supreme Reality (Brahman). The realization of this non-dual truth brings about the dissolution of all attachments, desires, and the illusion of separateness from the divine. Swami Sivananda emphasizes that the Jivanmukta is not a person who has simply retreated from worldly life but one who has transcended the limitations of the mind and senses. The Jivanmukta can continue to interact with the world, perform duties, and experience life, yet remains unaffected by the joys and sorrows that typically bind individuals in the cycle of samsara. Characteristics of a JivanmuktaSri Swami Sivananda outlines several key characteristics of a Jivanmukta in this chapter. These qualities are not just abstract ideas but practical guidelines for anyone on the spiritual path aspiring to liberation. Some of the defining qualities of a Jivanmukta include:Equanimity and Peace of Mind: The Jivanmukta is never disturbed by external circumstances. Whether faced with praise or criticism, success or failure, the liberated soul remains undisturbed. This equanimity arises from the deep understanding that the external world is transient and illusory. The Jivanmukta recognizes that their true nature is not affected by the fluctuations of the mind or the material world.Non-attachment: The Jivanmukta is free from attachment to the body, possessions, relationships, or any other worldly pursuits. This does not mean that the Jivanmukta rejects or renounces the world, but rather, they are not bound by it. The sense of “I” and “mine” that ties ordinary individuals to the material world is absent in the Jivanmukta.Wisdom and Knowledge of the Self: The Jivanmukta has attained complete knowledge of the Self. This knowledge transcends intellectual understanding and is a direct realization of the truth of one's nature. The Jivanmukta sees the divine presence in all things and understands that all forms are expressions of the same ultimate reality.Compassion and Selflessness: Despite their transcendence of the ego, the Jivanmukta's heart remains filled with compassion for others. The liberated soul works for the welfare of others selflessly, seeing all beings as manifestations of the divine. The Jivanmukta’s actions are not motivated by personal gain but by a desire to alleviate the suffering of others and guide them toward liberation.Detached Action: The Jivanmukta engages in actions without being attached to the fruits of those actions. This concept is closely related to the idea of Karma Yoga, the yoga of selfless action. The Jivanmukta performs duties in the world with the understanding that all actions are a form of worship and that the ultimate results are in the hands of the divine.Absence of Ego and Desire: The ego, or the sense of individual identity, is completely dissolved in the Jivanmukta. There is no longer a feeling of "I" or "mine," as the Jivanmukta has recognized their unity with the Supreme Self. Without ego, there is no desire or craving, and thus, no mental turbulence or suffering.Unwavering Devotion: The Jivanmukta maintains an unshakable devotion to the divine. However, this devotion is not born of fear or desire for personal gain but arises from the deep realization of the presence of God in all things. The Jivanmukta lives in constant remembrance of the divine, and all actions are performed as an offering to God.The Liberation While LivingOne of the most remarkable aspects of the Jivanmukta is that their liberation occurs while they are still alive. This is often referred to as Jivanmukti, or liberation in life, as opposed to Videhamukti, which is liberation after death. The Jivanmukta is said to have transcended the cycle of birth and death while still in the body. Swami Sivananda emphasizes that the liberated soul does not suffer the effects of karma or...
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    30 mins
  • SELF-KNOWLEDGE - 12. JNANA "KNOWLEDGE" YOGA - Sri Swami Sivananda

    SELF-KNOWLEDGE - 12. JNANA "KNOWLEDGE" YOGA - Sri Swami Sivananda
    Feb 1 2025
    SELF-KNOWLEDGE - 12. JNANA "KNOWLEDGE" YOGA - Sri Swami Sivananda - HQ Full Book.Sri Swami Sivananda - Self-Knowledge: Chapter 12 - Jnana Yoga Jnana Yoga, as expounded by Sri Swami Sivananda in Chapter 12 of Self-Knowledge, is the path of wisdom and knowledge, where the aspirant strives to realize the ultimate truth through intellectual understanding and direct experience. Jnana Yoga is often considered one of the most challenging yet rewarding of the four classical paths of yoga, the others being Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Raja Yoga. Jnana Yoga seeks to lead the aspirant to the knowledge of the self, dispelling the veil of ignorance that obscures the true nature of reality. The ultimate goal is to realize that the individual soul (Atman) and the supreme reality (Brahman) are one. In this chapter, Swami Sivananda explores various aspects of Jnana Yoga and provides the aspirant with the essential teachings, practices, and understanding necessary for embarking on the journey of self-realization. The chapter is divided into several subchapters that address different facets of Jnana Yoga, including the nature of Brahman, the relationship between Vedanta and other schools of philosophy, and the path to attaining self-knowledge.1. What Is Brahman?The subchapter "What Is Brahman?" delves into the concept of Brahman, which is the central idea in Vedanta philosophy and a cornerstone of Jnana Yoga. According to Swami Sivananda, Brahman is the eternal, formless, and infinite reality that is the essence of everything in the universe. It is the source and substratum of all creation, yet it remains unchanged and beyond all forms. Brahman is beyond the grasp of the senses and the intellect, and it transcends time, space, and causality. Brahman is described as Sat (Existence), Chit (Consciousness), and Ananda (Bliss), indicating that it is the ultimate reality that is both conscious and blissful. Jnana Yoga involves realizing this ultimate reality within oneself and understanding that the apparent duality between the individual soul (Atman) and Brahman is an illusion caused by ignorance (Avidya).2. Nature of BrahmanIn the subchapter "Nature of Brahman," Swami Sivananda further expounds on the qualities and nature of Brahman. Brahman is described as Nirguna (without attributes) and Nirvikalpa (without modification or differentiation), meaning it is beyond all qualities, attributes, and distinctions. It is the unchanging reality, whereas the world we perceive is changing and impermanent. Swami Sivananda explains that Brahman is unmanifested (avyakta) and manifests itself as the world of names and forms through the process of creation. Despite this manifestation, Brahman remains unchanged and undisturbed. Realizing the nature of Brahman involves transcending the limitations of the physical world and moving beyond the mind's tendencies to categorize and label.3. Vedantic LoreThe subchapter "Vedantic Lore" provides a historical and philosophical background to the Vedanta tradition, which is the foundation of Jnana Yoga. Vedanta, meaning "the end of the Vedas," refers to the teachings found in the Upanishads, which are the concluding portions of the Vedic scriptures. The Upanishads impart the highest knowledge regarding the nature of the self, the universe, and God. Swami Sivananda highlights key teachings from the Upanishads, including the famous Mahavakyas (great sayings) such as "Tat Tvam Asi" (That Thou Art) and "Aham Brahmasmi" (I am Brahman), which point to the essential unity of the individual self with Brahman. Through the study of Vedantic lore, the aspirant gains intellectual clarity about the nature of reality and prepares the mind for the experiential realization of Brahman.4. Vedanta and Other SchoolsIn "Vedanta and Other Schools," Swami Sivananda compares Vedanta with other philosophical schools of thought, such as Sankhya, Yoga, and Mimamsa. While these schools also aim at understanding the nature of reality, they differ in their methods and interpretations. Sankhya, for instance, posits a dualistic reality where Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter) are separate, whereas Vedanta teaches non-duality (Advaita), asserting that the ultimate reality is a singular, unified whole. Swami Sivananda stresses that, although these schools of thought may appear different, they all seek to explain the nature of the self and the universe. However, Vedanta, as presented by Sri Adi Shankaracharya, is the most comprehensive system, offering a direct path to self-realization through the realization of Brahman as the sole reality.5. TattvasThe subchapter "Tattvas" introduces the concept of the "principles" or "elements" that make up the universe in Vedantic philosophy. Tattvas refer to the various categories that constitute both the material and the spiritual realms. There are twenty-four primary tattvas in the Sankhya system, which are divided into Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter). Swami Sivananda ...
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    52 mins
  • SELF-KNOWLEDGE - 11. VEDANTA: Journey to Self-Realization - Sri Swami Sivananda

    SELF-KNOWLEDGE - 11. VEDANTA: Journey to Self-Realization - Sri Swami Sivananda
    Jan 29 2025
    SELF-KNOWLEDGE - 11. VEDANTA: A Journey to Self-Realization - Sri Swami Sivananda - HQ Full Book.Sri Swami Sivananda – Self-Knowledge (Chapter 11): VedantaIntroduction to VedantaIn Chapter 11 of Self-Knowledge, Sri Swami Sivananda delves into the profound teachings of Vedanta, one of the most significant schools of philosophy in Hinduism. Vedanta, which translates to "the end of the Vedas," embodies the culmination of ancient wisdom found in the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Brahma Sutras. This chapter serves as an exploration of the essence of Vedantic philosophy, the nature of ultimate reality, and how its practices lead to self-realization and liberation.Vedanta PhilosophyVedanta is built on the core understanding that Brahman (the ultimate reality) is the foundation of all existence. According to Vedanta, everything in the universe, from matter to consciousness, is an expression of this singular divine essence. The philosophy emphasizes the realization of one's true nature, which is non-different from Brahman. In Sri Swami Sivananda’s teachings, Vedanta is not just an intellectual pursuit but an experiential understanding that leads to spiritual liberation, or Moksha. The key tenets of Vedanta philosophy include:Non-duality (Advaita): The idea that Atman (the individual soul) and Brahman (the universal soul) are one, without any distinction.Brahman: The absolute reality, infinite, formless, and beyond all human comprehension.Maya: The illusion or the apparent reality that veils the true nature of the universe, making us perceive it as separate and distinct.Vedanta teaches that through self-inquiry, contemplation, and meditation, one can experience this oneness with the divine and dissolve the illusion of duality. Teachings of Vedanta The teachings of Vedanta are primarily derived from the sacred texts of Hinduism. These texts include the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Brahma Sutras, which present knowledge concerning the nature of the soul and the ultimate truth.The Upanishads: These are the philosophical treatises that discuss the nature of Brahman and Atman, the relation between the individual and the divine, and the path to spiritual enlightenment.The Bhagavad Gita: A dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna, the Gita expounds on concepts like Karma Yoga (the path of action), Bhakti Yoga (the path of devotion), and Jnana Yoga (the path of knowledge), providing a practical guide for spiritual development.The Brahma Sutras: A systematic exposition of the teachings of the Upanishads, the Brahma Sutras address the questions and doubts that arise in the process of self-inquiry.In Sri Swami Sivananda’s interpretation, these texts are not just theoretical but actionable. He emphasizes that the teachings of Vedanta are meant to be practiced and internalized for true transformation. Realization of the self is not achieved through intellectual understanding alone, but through spiritual discipline, inner purity, and direct experience of the divine.Unity in DiversityOne of the central teachings of Vedanta is the concept of Unity in Diversity. On the surface, the world may appear to be full of diversity, with countless forms, beings, and phenomena. However, Vedanta teaches that all of this diversity ultimately arises from the one underlying reality, Brahman. Sri Swami Sivananda explains that, just as waves arise from the ocean, individual forms and experiences arise from Brahman, and in their essence, all are one. The apparent separation between people, objects, and experiences is merely a result of Maya—the illusion of duality. When we perceive the world through the lens of ignorance, we see diversity. But in spiritual awakening, we come to realize that the diversity we see is simply an expression of the singular, unchanging reality. Through the practice of self-inquiry and meditation, we come to see that, at a deeper level, there is no separation between the individual and the universe. In essence, we are all expressions of the same divine essence. The unity underlying this diversity is the key to understanding the true nature of reality and experiencing peace and harmony.Glory of VedantaThe glory of Vedanta lies in its power to reveal the truth of who we are and the nature of the universe. Swami Sivananda often emphasizes that Vedanta does not merely provide knowledge but offers a direct path to spiritual liberation. The beauty of Vedanta is that it addresses the highest truths while remaining grounded in practical, accessible methods of realization. Vedanta does not ask one to renounce the world or retreat from it. Instead, it teaches that the world, when seen with the right understanding, is a manifestation of the divine. By recognizing the divine essence in all things, one can live in harmony and peace, transcending the duality of good and evil, pleasure and pain, and birth and death. Swami Sivananda's interpretation emphasizes that Vedanta is universal. It transcends religious ...
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    1 hr and 39 mins

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