click here to view it on the web.
December 21, 2012
Hinduism Today's January-February-March 2013 issue
honors Swami Vivekananda, or:
The speech that changed the world
A 16-page article in our new issue celebrates the accomplishments of that giant of a figure, Swami Vivekananda , and shows the great extent to which he continues to impact our world today.
The speech. Everybody knows that Swami gave a fantastic speech in Chicago in 1893. But few realize what a momentous event it was. In the brief three minutes that he spoke, he brilliantly articulated ideas hitherto unfamiliar to the West: that Hinduism was an ancient, honorable and wise tradition which, along with other Eastern faiths, had much to teach the world.
He offered the Hindu view that all religions are good, India having always welcomed newcomers of all faiths. And he proclaimed the time had come for the demons of bigotry and fanaticism to disappear from the face of the earth.
The impact. The press across the USA and around the world responded with praise, admiration and new-found respect for the East. The applause reverberated into India and electrified the people there. "It gave back to Swami's countrymen their long-lost self-esteem and self-confidence (page 44)." He quickly became the beacon and guru of India's nascent sense of nationhood, pride and desire for independence.
Listen to an excellent simulated recording of the speech. You'll be amazed how powerful and relevant it still is today.
Read the article to learn of the other works and institutions Swami initiated that have been great forces for good ever since, and continue to prosper and grow today. It will warm your heart.
• Download a copy or copies of the Vivekananda issue.
• Purchase a copy, or copies of the Vivekananda issue.
• Subscribe to Hinduism Today magazine.
Meet Washington DC's
inspired
Silver Vel Satsang group
Spiritual people can accomplish great things when they get together.
A band of friends in Washington, DC proved that for themselves over the past few years. They have been getting together once a month to muse on, linger over, and chat about what they love best: spirituality. When we asked them to tell us about it, each one bubbled over with enthusiasm.
They take turns meeting at each other's homes. First, refreshments must be served, that is the one strict rule. There is no need for further agenda, as conversations, testimonials, outpourings and sharing of all kinds take off spontaneously. Sometimes, someone reads from a holy text, usually Hinduism Today or another Himalayan Academy publication. Then comments, questions and discussion follow.
"The best part," explains one member, "is that we all feel at ease. We share our enthusiasm, our realization—or questions, doubts or even personal problems, sometimes. In fact, difficulties have led us to really nice discoveries. One day, someone shared his pain at being out of work. We discussed it, offered suggestions, nothing earthshaking. But soon thereafter, he did find a job, and a good one. We all felt overjoyed, feeling our focus had helped open the door."
"And if we don't find an answer, we make a note and bring it to the satguru next opportunity, then we get our answer soon, a good one. This is great. It means that anyone who cares to can start such a group. No need to be an expert or even know much at all. Just have someone you trust that you can feed your questions to."
If you'd like to know more of this rewarding idea, or about the Silver Vel Satsang, or perhaps how to start a similar group yourself, contact.
Bodhinatha will be offering darshan, satsang and lots of practical wisdom at the following:
- December 21-25: Southern California
- January 20-24: Vancouver, Canada
- April 3-22, Texas
- May: Singapore & Malaysia
- Click for details and ongoing updates
- About Bodhinatha
- Invite him to visit your area.
and your family
a very happy
Pancha Ganapati 2012!
December 21-25:
Hindu holiday time!
Celebrate, rejoice with your family and friends, decorate the house, fawn over the children, exchange gifts and have a wonderful time. Just let Ganesha be the center of it all. You will love this holiday, the children will love you. And Ganesha will smile on all of you.
Hinduism Today founder, Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, said of this holiday, "Winter solstice has always been a festive time among Hindus, and a traditional season for the worship of Lord Ganesha. Pancha Ganapati is the Hindu expression of this season of worship, gift-giving and celebration."
Worship Ganesha now through January 12! Did you know that Ganesha is traditionally worshiped and celebrated through the lunar month of Dhanus, or Markali? Yes, and this year, it lasts until January 12. This means you can stretch your Pancha Ganapati celebrations right up until that time.
Gifts for the kids!
This is a good time to visit the For Kids Section on our minimela website where you'll find all kinds of books, stories, pamphlets, games, puzzles and more to delight and educate your young ones. The Devatrek Cards is one example:
Previous Himalayan Academy newsletters
Visit Himalayan Academy's Minimela for Hindu teachings in modern, clear language, making them easy to understand and pass on to young people. See our new games for children ( Devatrek or Iraivan Temple Squares ) and a special section of books for children—all great gifts for this holiday season.
Give your young ones the opportunity to learn the Eternal Truths that never fail. Help them discover the meaning in our culture, philosophy and religion. These should be clear in their minds. Then the Sanatana Dharma will belong to them , never to be lost. —Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami
Don't hesitate. If you don't do it today, when will you do it? Do this for them now. Now is the perfect time. Om.
1-877-255-1510 • books@hindu.orgHimalayan Academy
Kauai’s Hindu Monastery | 107 Kaholalele Rd
Kapaa, Hawaii 96746-9304 USA