Essays and reflections by Swāmi Chidānanda on Vedānta, the Bhagavad Geetā, meditation, and the practical application of ancient wisdom in everyday life.
10 articles available
One of the great statements in the Upanishads is 'Awareness is the Ultimate Truth'. Vedānta presents awareness as a principle above thought and word — studying and reflecting upon the Vedas leads us to anchor ourselves in the Witnessing Consciousness that notices everything but does not interfere.
Transformation is a profound and lasting change in our consciousness. Deep-rooted factors such as fear and attachment prevent true change, even in decades of spiritual practice. Swamiji explores how bhakti can dissolve these deep-seated psychological barriers.
At the heart of jñāna-yoga lies quite a bit of metaphysics. Advaita Vedānta says the division between the 'seen' and the 'seer' is false, and that space and time are an illusion. Swamiji examines who jñāna yoga is truly suited for — and how one prepares.
The Upanishads show the way to a peace not dependent on outer circumstances. Through the story of Brahmachāri Gatavyatha Chaitanya — 'one whose worries are gone' — Swamiji explores how ancient wisdom offers a timeless solution to the restlessness of the modern mind.
Science has long grappled with the dichotomy of energy and matter. But what about consciousness? This article examines the age-old battle between spirit and matter, and what both modern science and ancient Vedānta say about the ultimate nature of consciousness.
What remains when we attain liberation, or when the separate self ceases to exist? Advaita Vedānta says the Pure Self — non-dual, all-pervasive, ever-unchanging — remains and shines in glory. Swamiji examines this profound philosophical question with clarity and depth.
We are often unaware how much we are enslaved by likes and dislikes — rāga and dveṣa. These attachments and aversions make us do what should not be done and prevent us from doing what should be done. The Bhagavad Geetā offers a liberating way out.
Based on the Geetā verse 'svalpam api asya dharmasya trāyate mahato bhayāt' — even a little of this dharma saves one from great danger. Swamiji shows how small, consistent spiritual practices create the most profound and lasting transformation.
'Renounce and rejoice,' says Śrī Kṛṣṇa — these words are the very quintessence of the Bhagavad Geetā. We all know this truth, yet behave as though we do not. Swamiji unpacks the Geetā's deepest teaching on renunciation and the peace that follows.
By nature we are extrovert, looking for happiness in things outside. An Upanishad mantra says God created our sense organs to constantly seek happiness in the world of objects. But the 'lost jewel' — the source of lasting joy — has been within us all along.
