Early Life and Renunciation Mahavira, born as Vardhamana, was the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism. He was born into a royal family in present-day Bihar, India, around 599 BCE. From a young age, Vardhamana showed a deep inclination towards spirituality and detachment from worldly pleasures. At the age of 30, Mahavira renounced his princely … Read more
Advaita, which means “non-duality,” is a profound philosophy that teaches us about the oneness of existence. At its core, Advaita emphasizes that what you experience as “you” is fundamentally the same essence experienced by everything that exists around you. This realization leads to a deep understanding that there is no separation between the self and … Read more
Prayer is an important part of any religious or spiritual practice so also in Advaita, the Indian non-dual philosophy of oneness. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers. . 1. Question: What is the purpose of prayer in Advaita? Answer: The purpose of prayer in Advaita is to connect with the divine and … Read more
Early Life and Spiritual Calling Swami Abhayananda, born and raised in the United States, always had an inquisitive mind, searching for deeper truths about existence. However, it was not until 1966, at the age of 28, that his spiritual journey truly began to take shape. During this time, he became fascinated with the symbology of … Read more
To meditate on light as Vallalar Ramalinga Swamigal taught: . . This practice purifies the mind, awakens higher consciousness, and aligns one with the universal light of creation.
An Advaitic prayer practice is a way of connecting with the divine that emphasizes the non-dual nature of existence. In this practice, you recognize that you and the divine are one—there is no separation. . Oneness Prayers – Everything is Interconnected When you engage in prayer from an Advaitic perspective, you bring awareness to the … Read more
Vallalar Ramalinga Swamigal, a 19th-century Tamil saint and poet, stands as a beacon of spiritual enlightenment. His transformation into a being of pure light and his teachings on the power of divine radiance continue to inspire seekers worldwide. . The Light Body: A Divine TransformationVallalar attained what is known as the ‘light body’ or ‘jyoti … Read more
Enlightened beings are the living embodiments of divine consciousness, radiating peace, love, and wisdom effortlessly. Their presence on Earth is a beacon of hope and transformation for humanity, guiding us towards inner and outer peace. The significance of enlightened beings in our lives cannot be overstated, as they play a crucial role in elevating individual … Read more
A Humble Beginning Toppi Amma, whose birth name was Soundaram, was born in a small village near Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. From a young age, she displayed an extraordinary connection with the divine, often falling into spontaneous states of samadhi. . The Transformation As a young woman, Soundaram underwent a profound spiritual transformation. She began to … Read more
Peace Pilgrim, an extraordinary American peace activist, embarked on a remarkable journey that has inspired countless individuals around the world. Her life and mission serve as a testament to the transformative power of inner peace and the profound impact one individual can have on global consciousness. Preparation for a Life of Service Born Mildred Lisette … Read more