Devotee Essay Archive

Ramakrishna Paramahamsa is one the most remarkable and inspiring spiritual figures in the history of mankind. In the introduction to The Life of Sri Ramakrishna, written by the monks of the Ramakrishna Order in

Guru is a concept unique to Hindu philosophy. The word literally means one who dispels the darkness of ignorance. As Swami explains it, “gu” stands for gunaatheethaya—one who is beyond attributes, or gunas. Ru”

In the last year or two, I have had the great fortune of being in the physical presence of Swami—our most beloved Lord—for several months at a stretch. As I reflect back on that

Teresa de Ahumada y Cepada was born into a very wealthy Avila family in 1515—a time when Spain was at the height of its glory. One of eight children, Teresa became deeply attracted to

“If you want to find God, serve man”                                                    

India—a land blessed with the virtuous and divine minds of many great souls—was once bestowed with the enchanting presence of Surdas. Born to a poor Brahmin couple in 1473, Surdas spent his early years

Easter is the most sacred holy day in the Christian calendar. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus—His victory over life and death. In the biblical account, Jesus celebrated the Jewish feast of Passover shortly

Nachiketa was the son of King Vaajashravas. He was a boy endowed with super-intelligence, good virtues and a keen sense of discrimination. When Nachiketa was seven years old, his father decided to perform a

Adorine and Anthony Albanese are both over 65 years of age. This is a true story of Adorine’s faith related by Anthony. I came home after work and Adorine, as usual, was waiting in

One of the earliest Sufi saints, Rabi’a also has the distinction of being one of the first among women saints in Islam. Historically, Islam conferred the dignity of saintship on women as well as

The following highlights from Swami’s discourses, given during the 73rd Birthday Celebration, are taken from a talk given by Rajan Govindan at the Norwalk Center. (Swami’s words are not direct quotations but a paraphrase

A lifetime without Love is of no account Love is the Water of Life Drink it down with heart and soul! ~Rumi Jalaluddin Rumi, stands as one of the great spiritual masters and poetic