Guest guest Posted November 24, 2003 Report Share Posted November 24, 2003 Earlier postings can be seen at http://www.vivekananda.btinternet.co.uk/veda.htm SWAMI VIVEKANANDA ON THE VEDAS AND UPANISHADS By Sister Gayatriprana part 180 5. Rouse India with the Lion-Roar of Non-Dualism Going round the whole world, I find that the people of [india] are immersed in great tamas (inactivity) compared with the people of other countries. On the outside there is a simulation of the sattvika (calm and balanced); but inside, downright inertness like that of stocks and stones. What work will be done in the world by such people? How long can such an inactive, lazy and sensual people live in the world? First travel in Western countries, then contradict my words. How much enterprise and devotion to work, how much enthusiasm and manifestation of rajas there are in the lives of Western people! While, in our country it is as if the blood has congealed in the heart so that it cannot circulate in the veins - it is as if paralysis has overtaken the body and it has become languid. So my idea is first to make the people active by developing their rajas, and thus make them fit for the struggle for existence…. First make the people of the country stand on their feet by rousing their inner power, first let them learn to have good food and clothes and plenty of enjoyment - then tell them how to be free from this bondage of enjoyment.(29) Why do you not set about propagating Vedanta in your part of the country? [There, in East Bengal], Tantricism prevails to a fearful extent. Rouse and agitate the country with the lion-roar of Advaitavada [non-dualism]. First open a Sanskrit school there and teach the Upanishads and the Brahma-Sutras. Teach the boys the system of brahmacharya. I have heard that in your country there is much logic-chopping of the Nyaya school. What is there? Only vyapti (pervasiveness) and anumana (inference) - these subjects the pandits of the Nyaya school discuss for months! What does it help towards the knowledge of the Atman?… Open a chatushpathi (indigenous school) in which the scriptures will be studied and also the life and teachings of Sri Ramakrishna. In this way you will advance your own good as well as the good of the people, and your fame will endure.(30) Cross Reference to: Ka. Up., 1.3.14 Swe. Up., 2.5 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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