Key Concepts
Karma, Bhakti, Maya, Atman — explained clearly
One chapter per concept. Each introduces a core idea in Indian philosophy through Vivekananda's own words, without requiring prior knowledge.
Karma in its Effect on Character
The word Karma is derived from the Sanskrit Kri, to do; all action is Karma. Technically, this word also means the effects of actions. In connection with metaphysics, it sometimes means the effects, o...
Unity, the Goal of Religion
UNITY, THE GOAL OF RELIGION (Delivered in New York, 1896) This universe of ours, the universe of the senses, the rational, the intellectual, is bounded on both sides by the illimitable, the unknowab...
Hints on Practical Spirituality
HINTS ON PRACTICAL SPIRITUALITY ( Delivered at the Home of Truth, Los Angeles, California ) This morning I shall try to present to you some ideas about breathing and other exercises. We have been di...
The Necessity of Religion
CHAPTER I THE NECESSITY OF RELIGION ( Delivered in London ) Of all the forces that have worked and are still working to mould the destinies of the human race, none, certainly, is more potent than t...
The Ideal of Karma-Yoga
CHAPTER VIII THE IDEAL OF KARMA-YOGA The grandest idea in the religion of the Vedanta is that we may reach the same goal by different paths; and these paths I have generalised into four, viz those o...
Practical Vedanta: Part I
PRACTICAL VEDANTA PART I (Delivered in London, 10th November 1896) I have been asked to say something about the practical position of the Vedanta philosophy. As I have told you, theory is very good...