MitraVita - Hinduism Simplified

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Ramakrishna

Introduction to Ramakrishna

Ramakrishna, also known as Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, was a 19th-century Indian spiritual leader, philosopher, and yogi. He is considered one of the most influential figures in modern Hinduism.

  • Born in 1836 in Kamarpukur, West Bengal, India, to a poor family of weavers.
  • Had no formal education, but was deeply influenced by the teachings of the Bhakti movement and the Vedas.
  • Experienced a profound spiritual awakening at the age of 16, which he described as a "burning fire" that consumed his entire being.
  • Spent the next 30 years in intense spiritual practice, including meditation, yoga, and devotional worship.
  • Was known for his humility, simplicity, and love for all living beings.
  • Was revered by his followers as a divine incarnation, or "Avatara", of the Supreme Being.
  • Was the founder of the Ramakrishna Mission, a global organization dedicated to spreading the teachings of Advaita Vedanta.
  • Wrote several books, including "The Song of the Dark Lord" and "The Master and His Disciple", which are considered classics of Hindu spirituality.

Ramakrishna's teachings emphasize the importance of love, devotion, and self-surrender to the Supreme Being. He believed that the ultimate goal of human life is to realize one's true nature as a spark of the divine.

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