Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Vivekananda’s Background
- Ramakrishna’s Background
- What Attracted Vivekananda to Ramakrishna?
- The Turning Point
- Vivekananda’s Discipleship
- Conclusion
Introduction
Swami Vivekananda was a 19th-century Indian Hindu monk, spiritual leader, and Ramakrishna student. He is often regarded as the primary propagator of Vedanta philosophy in the West. Vivekananda was a well-educated and sensible man. He was a University of Calcutta graduate who had studied Western philosophy and science.
So, what led a reasonable man like Vivekananda to become a Ramakrishna disciple?
Vivekananda’s Background
In 1863, Vivekananda was born in Kolkata, India. He was born into an affluent family and grew up in a privileged environment. He was a bright youngster who succeeded in school. He was also highly devout and had a keen interest in spiritual matters.
Ramakrishna’s Background
In 1836, Ramakrishna was born in Kamarpukur, India. He was born into a poor household and grew up in a challenging environment. He was a modest and illiterate man who had a profound spiritual experience when he was young. He became a monk and dedicated his life to spiritual growth.
What Attracted Vivekananda to Ramakrishna?
For a variety of reasons, Vivekananda felt drawn to Ramakrishna. First, he was moved by Ramakrishna’s spiritual awakening. Ramakrishna had had a firsthand contact with God, something Vivekananda longed for. Second, Ramakrishna’s simplicity and humility drew him in. Ramakrishna had no desire for fame or fortune, and he led a modest existence. Third, he was taken with Ramakrishna’s compassion. Ramakrishna was always eager to assist people and had a strong love for humanity.
The Turning Point
The turning point in Vivekananda’s life came when he met Ramakrishna. Vivekananda had been searching for a guru for many years, and he felt that he had finally found one in Ramakrishna. He became Ramakrishna’s disciple in 1886 and spent the next few years studying with him.
Vivekananda’s Discipleship
During his time with Ramakrishna, Vivekananda learned about Vedanta philosophy and the path of bhakti yoga. He also learned about Ramakrishna’s own spiritual experiences. Vivekananda was deeply transformed by his time with Ramakrishna, and he emerged as a powerful spiritual leader in his own right.
Conclusion
Vivekananda’s decision to become a disciple of Ramakrishna was a turning point in his life. It led him to a deeper understanding of spirituality and to a more compassionate and loving attitude towards others. Vivekananda’s life and work have had a profound impact on the world, and he is considered one of the most important figures in modern Hinduism.
Here are some additional thoughts on the topic:
- Vivekananda’s decision to become a disciple of Ramakrishna was not an easy one. He was a highly educated and logical person, and he had to reconcile his rational mind with Ramakrishna’s more intuitive approach to spirituality.
- Vivekananda’s discipleship with Ramakrishna was a challenging but rewarding experience. He had to learn to let go of his ego and to surrender to the will of God.
- Vivekananda’s experience with Ramakrishna helped him to become a more compassionate and loving person. He realized that the goal of spirituality is not to achieve personal enlightenment, but to help others and to make the world a better place.
