Bhakti Yoga, written by Swami Vivekananda, explores the concept of universal love and its connection to self-surrender. It emphasizes that to truly love the particular (Vyashti), one must first love the universal (Samashti), which is God. The text argues that Indian philosophy seeks to understand the general forms that encompass all particulars, with the ultimate goal of realizing the oneness of existence. The Jnâni (knowledge seeker) seeks wholeness, the Bhakta (devotee) aims to love the universal Person, and the Yogi desires to control the universe through this understanding. The Bhakta concludes that merely loving individual people does not lead to a broader love for the world. It is only when one recognizes that the sum total of all love is God, and that all souls aspire towards God, that universal love can be achieved. This love for God transforms all things into manifestations of the divine, making it impossible to harm or dislike any part of creation. Ultimately, loving God fosters a natural love for all beings in the universe.

by Swami Vivekananda in English Biography

Writen by Swami Vivekananda

Category Biography