TEACHINGS OF SWAMI VIVEKANANDA

19th century in India is regarded to have a remarkable transformation in social, political and
economic conditions. This revolutionary phase is mainly brought by the notable social
reformers who have established and distributed their intellectual insights in the society. One
such social reformer is Swami Vivekananda who is known as the “Intellectual Monk of
India”. His thoughts and ideas have established many milestones in the cultural and social
pavement of India. Inspired by his guru Ramakrishna, he reinterprets various branches of
Hindu Thought which notably include classical yoga and Advaita Vedanta, and esotericism
and universalism.
“We live in deed, not in years.” Swami Vivekananda proves this to be true. Although he
passes away at a very young age, he has left an indelible imprint on us through his profound
teachings. His teachings mainly emphasize on Vedanta and Upanishads, potentiality of man,
religion and ethics, nationalism, mankind, and most importantly education and youth.
Vedanta’s manifestation is found in a set of books called the Upanishads. As a spiritual
leader, Vivekananda believes that all religion is contained in Vedanta philosophy. Vedanta
teaches us how to transcend, not to give up. Impersonality, universality, rationality,
catholicity and optimism are some of Vedantic discourses which inspire him. Vedanta does
not formulate “universal brotherhood” but “universal oneness”. It is the Vedanta which can
bring the harmony of soul, wisdom and strength to us.
Swamiji portraits every man as a potential and divine soul. Man is the maker of his destiny.
All the wonders that are created so far are the divine work of the spiritual forces of man. All
he needs is to have faith in himself. This brings forward the importance of power of youth in
a society.
Swamiji believes in the harmony of all religions. Every religion has the same moral teaching,
only the expressions are different. Religion should not be bound with dogmas and
superstitions, rather it should be rational. He is against the hideous act of sati system and
child marriage.
Swamiji’s love for his nation and people makes him a great inspiration for the youth to fight
for the country. He says, “What our country now wants are muscles of iron and nerves of
steel and granite wills that nothing can resist.” He spreads message to strengthen the young
minds to keep fighting for the nation.
Swamiji says that education is the manifestation of perfection. It makes man self-reliant and
competent enough to stand on his own feet. Every aspect of our life is moulded by education.
Education can liberate us from western influence. We are unique and potential enough to
compete the west. This can be made possible when our youngsters have access to quality
education.
Swamiji is the one who have bridged the gap between the contemporary world and Vedantic
teachings in a rational and profound manner. He creates Ramakrishna Mission which works
to help the poor, uplift the status of women, fight against superstitions and untouchability and
overhaul the education system. His work and teachings have left behind a lasting impact on
the world. Sister Christine, a disciple of Swamiji remarks: “Blessed is the country in which
he was born, blessed are they who lived on this earth at the same time and blessed, thrice
blessed, are the few who sat at his feet.”

By Thongam Chanu Shimran

B A Hons. Philosophy (3rd Year)