A Saffron Spark of Spiritual Fire that Spoke from Chicago
By vpaulose, 12th Jan 2012 | Follow this author
| RSS Feed | Short URL http://nut.bz/mdarzsqs/
Posted in WikinutNewsWorld
Addressing the whole humanity as a single fraternity, the colossal philosopher Swami Vivekanada from India attracted the attention of the western world from the pulpit of Chicago. Today, 12 January, 2012 is the beginning of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Swami Vivekananda.
- A saffron monk of universal brotherhood
- A messenger of Hindu philosophy
- 150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda
A saffron monk of universal brotherhood
One hundred and fifty years ago was born the spark of spiritual fire on this earth. Born with a yogic temperament, little Narendra Nath Datta used to practise meditation even from his boyhood. Just like great philosophers of history who were in search of truth, Narendra was also searching to find the truth of spirituality.
Narendra’s thirst to see God took him to Sri Ramakrishna who could readily answer Narendra with the words, “Yes, I have seen God. I see God as clearly as I see you, only in a much intenser sense.” Under the Feet of Sri Ramakrishna, who instilled in young Narendra the spirit of renunciation and brotherly love for one another, the latter learnt the great philosophy of human life and love. With the guidance of Sri Ramakrishna, Narendra made rapid strides on the spiritual path and became Swami Vivekananda.
A messenger of Hindu philosophy
Clad in a simple saffron cloth, Swami Vivekananda introduced the message of truth and universal brotherhood to the international audience gathered for Parliament of Religions held in Chicago, in 1894. As a messenger of Hindu revival he taught the world that in essence all religions are true, and service to humanity is the most effective form of worship of God.
Swami Vivekanda’s call to the youth
Swami was an inspiration to the youth. He called the Indian youth to come forward and take the message of Truth all over the world. He advised them to work hard for the welfare of humanity. He said, “What work you do except from the men of little hearts? Nothing in the world! You must have an iron will if you would cross the ocean. You must be strong enough to pierce mountains.”
Swami Vivekananda’s message was hope, faith and strength and he wanted to instil this in every youth of India. He was quite confident that India was capable of expansion and growth and this confidence made him give the clarion call to the nation, "Awake, arise, and stop not till the goal is reached.”
150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda
The period from January 2013 to January 2014 is considered as the 150th birth anniversary year of Swami Vivekananda. The government of India has planned to celebrate his 150th birth anniversary in India and other parts of the world with programs that would inspire the world, particularly the youth, to be aware of the essential values of morality, culture, and spirituality in human life.
Swami Vivekananda inspired the youth of the country with his magnetic words, “Beware of everything that is untrue. Stick to truth and we shall succeed. Fifty centuries are looking on you, the future of India depends on you. Work on.”
Listen to the clarion call of the saffron monk
Swami Vivekananda, the great spiritual guru of India, advocated the path of non-violence. He pointed out how the earth has been defiled with bloodshed of selfishness and narrow mind. He said, “Sectarianism, bigotry, and its horrible descendant, fanaticism, have long possessed this beautiful earth. They have filled the earth with violence, drenched it often and often with human blood, destroyed civilization and sent whole nations to despair”.(Swami Vivekananda’s address at Chicago)
Let these words enlighten the selfish world and bring it together into universal brotherhood.



Comments
13th Jan 2012 (#)
I take my hat off to Swami Vivekananda, one of the great souls of India. I vow to him. Namaste, vp.
Reply to this comment
15th Jan 2012 (#)
Swami showed how this earth can unite in brotherhood. Thank you dear Buzz.
Reply to this comment
13th Jan 2012 (#)
So interesting. Ditto what Buzz said too. You tell it well, sir.
Why don't you pay me a little visit and write me a little comment too?
Reply to this comment
15th Jan 2012 (#)
I will be with you dear sister. Thank you.
Reply to this comment
14th Jan 2012 (#)
Thank you for sharing this with us! I loved it!!!
Reply to this comment
15th Jan 2012 (#)
Swami loved and appreciated Jesus much. Thank you dear sister Judy.
Reply to this comment
16th Jan 2012 (#)
Just a well written page my friend. As always, thank you for sharing.:)
Reply to this comment
20th Jan 2012 (#)
Thank you dear sister Denise.
Reply to this comment
18th Jan 2012 (#)
Beautifully said, VP. His clarion call is relevant even more today with humanity still grappling with conflict and intolerance. We just need to lead a simple path - to leave our world a better place in our own little way. I have seen just a nod, few words of compassion go a long way to spread some cheer, relief. These make greater impact when others pursue their selfish interests. And then not be led by others negatitivity - God forgive them for they know not what they do! siva
Reply to this comment
20th Jan 2012 (#)
Thank you dear Siva.
Reply to this comment
26th Jan 2012 (#)
I like it!
Reply to this comment
31st Jan 2012 (#)
Thank you dear Ittech
Reply to this comment
21st Jul 2012 (#)
Such a beautiful read vpaulose...thank you for sharing this with us. I was blessed by Muktananda many years ago in Miami and know the great spirit these holy men bring forth...
Reply to this comment
30th Jul 2012 (#)
Thank you dear CN
Reply to this comment