Bøger af Stephen Knapp

The Vedic texts of India provide some of the highest levels of spiritual knowledge known to man. But it is not just one book, it is a complete library that offers explanations of many aspects of spiritual development, and of the Absolute Truth, or God. These also describe the processes by which a person can directly perceive and attain the Supreme and enter the spiritual realm. This book shows how these many texts fit together, their divisions, the supplements, what information they contain, and their philosophical conclusions. The contents of this book include: Understanding the Spiritual Truths in Vedic Literature; If You are New to the Study of Vedic Culture; The Four Primary Vedas; The Brahmanas and Aranyakas; The Upanishads; The Upa-Vedas and Vedangas; The Sutras and Supplements; The Smritis; The Vedanta and Vedanta-Sutras; The Itihasas; A Review of the Puranas; The Srimad-Bhagavatam; The Preeminent Nature of the Srimad-Bhagavatam; Different Paths in the Vedic literature; The Ultimate Path to the Absolute.

The Power of the Dharma: An Introduction to Hinduism and Vedic Culture offers a concise and easy-to-understand overview of the essential principles and customs of the Hindu tradition. It also provides many insights into the depth and value of the timeless wisdom of Vedic spirituality and reveals why the Dharmic path has survived for thousands of years. This edition is expanded with new material and improved in functionality. Author Stephen Knapp reveals why the Dharma is presently enjoying a renaissance among an increasing number of people who want to explore its teachings and see what its many techniques of self-discovery have to offer. In The Power of the Dharma, you will find: Quotes by noteworthy people on the unique qualities of Hinduism; Essential principles of the Vedic spiritual path; Particular traits, customs, and explanations of Hindu worship and daily practice; Descriptions of the main yoga systems; Significance and legends of the colorful Hindu festivals; Benefits of Ayurveda, Vastu, Vedic astrology, and gemology; Important insights of Dharmic life and how to begin. The Dharmic path can provide you the means for attaining your own spiritual realizations and experiences. This is the power of Vedic Dharma's universal teachings which have something to offer everyone! This was expanded and republished in July, 2020. Stephen Knapp has studied the major Vedic Texts of India and practiced yoga and the Eastern teachings for over 40 years. He has traveled throughout India many times and has authored nearly 50 well-received books on Vedic culture and its philosophy, and still gives lectures on the topics. Stephen has also been the past president of the Vedic Friends Association and is Chairman of the Detroit Krishna temple. You can find out more about Stephen, his many books and articles at: www.stephen-knapp.com.

This book shows how the planet's earliest civilization lead the world in both material and spiritual progress. From the Vedic culture of ancient India thousands of years ago, we find the origins of such things as mathematics, especially algebra and geometry, as well as early astronomy and planetary observations, many instances of which can be read in the historical Vedic texts. Medicine in Ayurveda was also the first to prescribe herbs for the remedy of disease, surgical instruments for operations, and more. Other developments that were far superior and ahead of the rest of the world include: -Writing and language, especially the development of sophisticated Sanskrit; -Metallurgy and making the best known steel at the time; -Ship building and global maritime trade; -Textiles and the dying of fabric for which India was known all over the world; -Agricultural and botanical achievements; -Precise Vedic arts in painting, dance and music; -The educational systems and the most famous of the early universities, like Nalanda and Takshashila; -The source of individual freedom and fair government, and the character and actions of rulers; -Military and the earliest of martial arts; -Along with some of the most intricate, deep and profound of all philosophies and spiritual paths, which became the basis of many religions that followed later around the world. These and more are the developments that came from India, much of which has been forgotten, but should again be recognized as the heritage of the ancient Indian Vedic tradition that continues to inspire humanity.

THE SECRET TEACHINGS OF THE VEDAS provides one of the best reviews of ancient Eastern philosophy and summarizes some of the most elevated and important of all spiritual knowledge. This timeless and enlightening information is explained in a clear and concise way and is essential for all who want to increase their spiritual understanding and awareness. This is a book that can give you a new perspective of who you are and where you fit into the scheme of things by presenting the dwaita or personalistic school of Vedic thought.Is This Book For You?Yes, if you want to understand: the science of the soul and the eternal characteristics of your real spiritual identity; the scientific evidence that indicates consciousness is separate from, but interacts with, the body; how to attain the highest happiness and freedom from the cause of suffering; the real unity between us all which is beyond bodily identification; reincarnation and how to determine what your next life will be by the actions you perform and the consciousness you develop; reincarnation found in Christianity; life after death--heaven, hell, or beyond; the law of karma and how you accumulate good or bad karma that will affect your future; how residents of a country collectively create national karma; what is the spiritual realm as described in the Vedic texts; the nature of the Absolute Truth--personal God or impersonal force; how to recognize the existence of the Supreme; why we exist at all; and much more. There is also an explanation of what the Vedas are, how they were compiled, and how they have influenced Western culture for many years. This book supplies the straightforward answers to questions that are not resolved in other religions or philosophies, and condenses information from a wide variety of sources that would take a person years to assemble. It also uses many quotations from numerous Vedic texts that will show you the lofty insight and wisdom they have held for thousands of years. Take a look inside the book for a listing of the chapter topics.

The Bhagavad-gita is a classic of Indian spiritual literature, and has remained an important book for thousands of years. Many western poets and philosophers have been influenced by its deep insights and its timeless wisdom. Many of the great spiritual teachers of India have also written commentaries on it. It is considered the core of some of the deepest levels of spiritual knowledge known to humanity. So, this is a very powerful book. This introduction, using numerous verses, shows many of the reasons why it has kept its popularity, and how many of its topics and the guidance that we find within it can easily be applied today, not only for our spiritual development, but for solving common everyday problems as well. Everyone can benefit from it. Some of the topics within this present volume include: The Bhagavad-gita and Principles for Good Management and Leadership; Good Work Ethics; Dealing with Stress; How to Attain Peace of Mind; Heightening Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem; Dealing with Sorrow and Death; Attaining Fearlessness; As a Psychological Guide; Meditation According to Bhagavad-gita; The Supreme Yoga; Bhagavad-gita as a Key to Spiritual Enlightenment; Bhagavad-gita and Establishing World Peace; Thirty-one Days to Liberation on the Vedic Path based on Bhagavad-gita; The Gita's Ultimate Purpose; What should be your next step; and much more. This book is a key to opening the possibilities in the ways the Bhagavad-gita can be of assistance to us and lead us to a higher understanding of who we are and the purpose of life.

This book provides evidence which makes it clear that most religious history is not what we think it is. It lets you see the true heritage that has been suppressed for centuries. It shows that there was once a greatly advanced and ancient culture that was a global society. This was the Vedic civilization. Even today we can see its influence in any part of the world, which makes it obvious that before the world became full of distinct and separate cultures, religions, and countries, it was once united in a common brotherhood of Vedic culture, with common standards, ideals, language, and representations of God.No matter what we may be in regard to our present religion, society, or country, we are all descendants of that ancient, global civilization. The Vedic tradition of India is the parent of humanity and the original ancestor of all religions.

This book provides answers and details about the process of creation that are not available in any other traditions, religions, or areas of science. It offers the oldest rendition of the creation and presents insights into the spiritual purpose of it and what we are really meant to do here. Every culture in the world and most religions have their own descriptions of the creation, and ideas about from where we came and what we should do. Unfortunately, these are often short and generalized versions that lack details. Thus, they are often given no better regard than myths. However, there are descriptions that give more elaborate explanations of how the cosmic creation fully manifested which are found in the ancient Vedic Puranas of India, some of the oldest spiritual writings on the planet. These descriptions provide the details and answers that other versions leave out. Furthermore, these Vedic descriptions often agree, and sometimes disagree, with the modern scientific theories of creation, and offer some factors that science has yet to consider. Now, with this book, we can get a clearer understanding of how this universe appears, what is its real purpose, from where we really came, how we fit into the plan for the universe, and if there is a way out of here. Some of the many topics included are: Comparisons between other creation legends. Detailed descriptions of the dawn of creation and how the material energy developed and caused the formation of the cosmos. What is the primary source of the material and spiritual elements. Insights into the primal questions of, "Who am I? Why am I here? Where have I come from? What is the purpose of this universe and my life?" An alternative description of the evolutionary development of the various forms of life. Seeing beyond the temporary nature of the material worlds, and more. This book will provide some of the most profound insights into these questions and topics. It will also give any theist more information and understanding about how the universe is indeed a creation of God.

In Destined for Infinity, a curious Westerner and seeker leaves his humdrum life and embarks on a mystical adventure to the Himalayan Mountains and is transported to a new and enlightening spiritual dimension. Hidden deep within the religious practices of India exists doors that lead to various levels of reality. Few people outside these mystical circles have been able to access these layers. Adventurous Roman West probes the deep secrets of East Indian mysticism under the guidance of a spiritual master he meets in the Himalayas. Roman witnesses the amazing powers that mystics can achieve and undergoes some of the most unusual experiences of his life. Under the training of his spiritual guide, he gradually develops mystical abilities of his own and attains the sacred vision of the enlightened sages, ultimately entering the unfathomable realm of "infinity." Roman's peaceful life in the hills, however, comes to an abrupt end when he is thrust into battle with powerful, sinister beings from the subtle realm unleashed to kill both him and his master. His only chance for survival depends on his ability to arouse the spiritual strengths he has worked to perfect over many months of study. This takes the turns he least expects, until he is able to move forward into his future with more confidence than ever. Stephen Knapp has studied the major Vedic texts of India and practiced yoga and the Eastern teachings for over forty years. He has traveled extensively throughout India and has taken over 15,000 photos of the numerous holy places he has visited. He has authored over a dozen well-received books on Vedic culture and its spiritual philosophy. He continues to write books, articles, and give lectures at various venues. More information about him and his projects can be found at: www.stephen-knapp.com, or at http: //stephenknapp.wordpress.com.

This is a great book to introduce the many methods and applications of the Vedic tradition of India, which is rooted in Sanatana Dharma, the eternal and universal truths that are beneficial for everyone. It includes many avenues of self-development that an increasing number of people from the West and all over the world are starting to investigate and use to reach their higher potential. These include: Yoga, Meditation and spiritual practices, Vedic astrology, Ayurveda, Vedic gemology, Vastu or home arrangement, Environmental awareness, Vedic science, Vegetarianism, Global peace, and much more.This book shows the advantages of the Vedic paths of improvement and self-discovery that you can use in your own life to attain personal higher awareness, happiness, and fulfillment. It also provides a new view of what these avenues have to offer from some of the most prominent writers on Vedic culture in the West, who discovered how it has affected and benefitted their own lives. These include David Frawley, Stephen Knapp, Jeffrey Armstrong, Pratichi Mathur, Subhash Kak, Michael Cremo, Howard Beckman, Arun Naik, Dhan Rousse, and others. For the benefit of individuals and for social progress, the Vedic system is as relevant today as it was in ancient times. Discover why there is a growing renaissance in what the Vedic tradition has to offer in Vedic Culture: The Difference it can Make in Your Life.Stephen Knapp has studied and practiced yoga, the spiritual teachings of the East, and the major Vedic texts of India for many years. He has authored nearly 50 books on Eastern philosophy and the Vedic spiritual path and history of India. And is the past president of the Vedic Friends of India, and Chairman of the Board of the Krishna temple in Detroit, Michigan. He continues to write books, articles, and give lectures at various venues.

This book is a guide to one of the prime purposes of life. Naturally everyone wants to be happy. Why else do we keep living and working? Now you can find greater levels of happiness and fulfillment. Using this knowledge from the East, you can get clear advice on the path for reaching an independent and uninterrupted feeling of well-being. This information is sure to open your eyes to higher possibilities. It can awaken you to the natural joy that always exists within your higher Self. Many people consider happiness as something found with the increase of sensual pleasure and comforts. Others look for position, or ease of living, thrills, or more money and what it can buy. However, by using this wisdom and advice from the East and taking an alternative look at what is provided herein, we get guidance on our true position and the means necessary for reaching the happiness for which we always hanker. Some of the topics include: ∙What keeps us from being truly happy. ∙Your spiritual Self is beyond all material limitations. ∙How all suffering exists only within the illusion. ∙How to uplift your consciousness. ∙How your thoughts and consciousness create your future and determines your state of happiness and outlook on life. ∙How to defend yourself from negativity. ∙How real independent and self-sufficient happiness is already within you, and how to unveil it. ∙How to enjoy that ever-existing pleasure within. This book and its easy to understand information will show you how to experience real happiness and joy, and reach the spiritual level, the platform of the soul, beyond the temporary nature of the mind and body.

Using mantras or prayers can help us do many things, depending on our intention. First of all, it is an ancient method that has been used successfully to raise our consciousness, our attitude, aim of life, and outlook, and prepare ourselves for perceiving higher states of being. The Sanskrit mantras within this volume offer such things as the knowledge and insights for spiritual progress, including higher perceptions and understandings of the Absolute or God, as well as the sound vibrations for awakening our higher awareness, invoking the positive energies to help us overcome obstacles and oppositions, or to assist in healing our minds and bodies from disease or negativity. They can provide the means for requesting protection on our spiritual path, or from enemies, ghosts, demons, or for receiving many other benefits. In this way, they offer a process for acquiring blessings of all kinds, both material and spiritual. There is something for every need. Some of what you will find includes: The most highly recommended mantras for spiritual realization in this age. A variety of prayers and gayatris to Krishna, Vishnu and other avatars, Goddess Lakshmi for financial well-being, Shiva, Durga, Ganesh, Devi, Indra, Sarasvati, etc., and Surya the Sun-god, the planets, and for all the days of the week. Powerful prayers of spiritual insight in Shiva's Song, along with the Bhajan Govindam by Sri Adi Shankaracharya, the Purusha Sukta, Brahma-samhita, Isha Upanishad, Narayana Suktam, and Hanuman Chalisa. Prayers and mantras to Sri Chaitanya and Nityananda. Strong prayers for protection from Lord Narasimha. The protective shield from Lord Narayana. Lists of the 108 names of Lord Krishna, Radhika, Goddess Devi, Shiva, and Sri Rama. The Vishnu-Sahasranama or thousand names of Vishnu, Balarama, Gopala, Radharani, and additional lists of the sacred names of the Vedic Divinities; And many other prayers, mantras and stotras for an assortment of blessings and benefits.

Lord Krishna and His Essential Teachings If God were to tell you the truth about life, this is it, or as close to it as you are going to find. Often times we go through life and occasionally find ourselves confused about why are we here, or what we are supposed to do. That is normal when we do not have proper knowledge or guidance. But such insight is available if we know where to look for it. Some of the most plentiful, prominent and clearly defined spiritual teachings of all are found in the Vedic tradition, especially those that have been given to us by Lord Sri Krishna Himself. He has provided some of the most elaborate, detailed and direct of all spiritual knowledge that can be acquired by anyone. Therefore, this book uses numerous verses of Lord Krishna's directions as found in the various Vedic texts, all divided according to topic. So here is the heart or essential spiritual message of what Lord Krishna has given for the benefit of all mankind so we can progress onward and upward from whatever position we may find ourselves in this material world. Some of the topics include: * Who is Krishna, evidence from the ancient texts * The most secret of all knowledge about life * The rarity of human birth * The real purpose of this creation * How to perceive our spiritual identity * How to practice mystic yoga * Description of the Supersoul * The way to meditate * How to be a spiritual person in this material world * The highest levels of spiritual enlightenment * How to follow the process of bhakti or devotional yoga * How bhakti frees us from past karma * The importance of Bhagavad-gita in this day and age, and much more. The instructions of Lord Krishna are like the comforting nectar that can warm the heart and soothe the soul.

India is a most resilient country and is presently becoming a great economic power in the world. It also has one of the oldest and dynamic cultures the world has ever known, but few people seem to understand the many trials and difficulties that the country has faced, or the present problems India is still forced to deal with in preserving the culture of the majority Hindus who live in the country. This is described in the real history of the country, which a decreasing number of people seem to recall. Therefore, this book is to honor the efforts that have been shown by those in the past who fought and worked to protect India and its culture, and to help preserve India as the homeland of a living and dynamic Vedic tradition of Sanatana-dharma (the eternal path of duty and wisdom). There are also many people who do not know of the many angles and ways in which this profound heritage is being attacked and threatened today, and what we can do about it. There is much to do to protect this culture, and until we are aware of how it has been assaulted in the past, and how it is threatened in the present, we will not have the motivation to take a stand and defend it for its future. Therefore, some of the topics included are: - How there is a war against Hinduism and its yoga culture.- The weaknesses of India that allowed invaders to conquer her.- Lessons from India's real history that should not be forgotten. - The atrocities committed by the Muslim invaders, and how they tried to destroy Vedic culture and its many temples, and slaughtered thousands of Indian Hindus. - How the British viciously exploited India and its people for its resources.- How the cruelest of all Christian Inquisitions in Goa tortured and killed thousands of Hindus. - Action plans for preserving and strengthening Vedic India.- How all Hindus must stand up and be strong for Sanatana-dharma, and promote the cooperation and unity for a Global Vedic Community. In the darkest of eras that this world has seen and will see in the future, the Vedic tradition, the culture of yoga, will remain India's gift to the people who inhabit this planet. It is this spiritual culture of Sanatana-dharma that remains the spiritual guide of humanity. This is the reason why India is here, and for the contribution that she makes, and the reason why we must work to protect it.

Krishna Deities and Their Miracles This book helps reveal how the Deities of Krishna in the temple are but another channel through which the Divine can be better understood and perceived. In fact, the Deities Themselves can exhibit what some would call miracles in the way They reveal how the Divine accepts the Deity form. These miracles between the Deities of Krishna and His devotees happen in many different ways, and all the time. This is one process through which Krishna, or the Supreme Being, reveals Himself and the reality of His existence. Stories of such miracles or occurrences extend through the ages up to modern times, and all around the world. This book relates an assortment of these events to show how the images in the temples have manifested Their personality and character in various ways in Their pastimes with Their devotees, whether it be for developing their devotion, instructing them, or simply giving them His kindness, mercy or inspiration. This book helps show that the Supreme Reality is a person who plays and exhibits His pastimes in any manner He likes. This is also why worship of the Deity in the temple has been and remains a primary means of increasing one's devotion and connection with the Supreme Being. Besides presenting stories of the reciprocation that can exist between Krishna in His Deity form and the ordinary living beings, other topics include: The antiquity of devotion to the Deity in the Vedic tradition. Historical sites of ancient Deity worship. Scriptural instructions and references to Deity veneration. The difference between idols and Deities. What is darshan and the significance of Deities. Why God would even take the initiative to reveal Himself to His devotees and accept the position of being a Deity. This book will give deeper insight into the unlimited personality and causeless benevolence of the Supreme, especially to those who become devoted to Him.

The Vedic culture is accepted by numerous scholars as one of the most sophisticated civilizations to appear after the last glacial period of 12,000 years ago. It developed in ancient India, and as the people populated the region, they also expanded and spread into other parts of the planet, taking much of their culture with them. This book takes us on a journey through history and across many countries as we point out similarities and remnants of the Vedic tradition that remain there to this day. These include forms of art, philosophy, religion, architecture, temples, ways of living, and so on. Such countries include: Nepal, Burma, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Africa, the Middle East, Iraq, Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Central Asia, Greece, Italy, Germany, Russia, Ireland, Scandinavia, the Americas, and more. This book also explains: * How many religions in the world have features that clearly descended from the oldest form of spiritual knowledge and truth as found in Vedic Dharma. * How Vedic Dharma is still relevant today and can help establish peace through its timeless spiritual wisdom. * It also helps unravel and reveal the true nature of the Vedic civilization, and how and why it infiltrated and contributed to so many areas and cultures of the world. * It also shows a mysterious side of history that few others have recognized. This book will help anyone understand how the advanced nature of the Vedic civilization and its universal spiritual principles fit into the development of so many other cultures and still contributes to the upliftment of society today. This book is the follow-up of a previous volume called "Proof of Vedic Culture's Global Existence," but with completely different information and resources, as well as updates, written in a more academic style, using hundreds of references, quotes and notes to verify all the information that is used.

Casteism in India has gotten a lot of criticism, and rightly so. Many look at it as a means for the upper castes to live a privileged life while keeping all lower castes oppressed without the means for upgrading themselves. Present day casteism is based on the idea that whatever caste your father was, that will also be the caste of the sons and daughters, without any means to change it. But this is not what is actually prescribed in the Vedic or Hindu texts of old. This is what must be understood and corrected. So this book is a short study of what the Vedic texts actually say about what the Vedic social arrangement is really supposed to be and the purpose of it. The real Vedic process of social organization is what is called varna and ashrama. It was meant to help everyone progress throughout life, to live happily in a career that suites the talents, interests, and intellectual level of the person, and to guide them toward attaining higher levels of consciousness, awareness and understanding. That is why any confusion about the difference between today's caste system and the real Vedic varnashrama system must be cleared up. This book goes into detail about, * What is the real varnashrama system of social organization and how it works. * How the present-day caste system got started. * How we can correct this misunderstanding and be rid of the present-day caste system. * Where the Vedic literature explains how the caste by birth system is unjust. * The benefits of following the varnashrama system. * How the Vedic varnashrama system of social arrangement was to help propel everyone to the spiritual domain. * How an analysis of the modes of nature with which we associate can help determine what is our most natural varna or occupational class. * How the varna system is a natural process of selecting one's occupation and career by recognizing a person's natural interests, talents, tendencies, proclivities, and intellectual capacity. This is a process that is used by many schools and colleges today, but was started many years ago in the Vedic tradition. This book will help show the difference between what has become the present caste system, and why it is unnecessary and even harmful to Hinduism and Indian society, and explain the value of the Vedic system of varna and ashrama.

This book provides a summarization of the most essential spiritual knowledge that will give you the key to spiritual awakening. The descriptions will give you greater insights and a new look at who and what you really are as a spiritual being. The idea that we are more than merely these material bodies is pervasive. It is established in every religion and spiritual path in this world. However, many religions only hint at the details of this knowledge, but if we look around we will find that practically the deepest and clearest descriptions of the soul and its characteristics are found in the ancient Vedic texts of India. Herein you will find some of the most insightful spiritual knowledge and wisdom known to mankind. Some of the topics include: How you are more than your body The purpose of life Spiritual ignorance of the soul is the basis of illusion and suffering The path of spiritual realization How the soul is eternal The unbounded nature of the soul What is the Supersoul Attaining direct spiritual perception and experience of our real identity This book will give you a deeper look into the ancient wisdom of India's Vedic, spiritual culture, and the means to recognize your real identity.

This book brings together the easy and joyful principles and practices that are common to all of the major religions of the world. These are what can be used by all people from any culture or tradition for the highest spiritual progress, and to bring about a united, one world religion in a happy process of spiritual success for everyone. This is much easier to recognize than most people think, and is a way to bring down the differences, barriers and separations that seem to exist between religions. This also presents: - a most interesting and revealing survey of the major spiritual paths of the world, describing their histories, goals, and how they developed, which is not always what we would expect. - the philosophical basis of Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Zoroastrianism, Jainism, Sikhism, etc., and the types of spiritual knowledge they contain. -how Christianity and Judaism were greatly influenced by the early pre-Christian or "pagan" religions and adopted many of their legends, holidays, and rituals that are still accepted and practiced today. -the essential teachings of Jesus. -benefits of spiritual advancement that affect all aspects of a person's life, and the world in which we live. -how spiritual enlightenment is the real cure for social ills. --and, most importantly, how to attain the real purpose of a spiritual process to be truly successful, and how to practice the path that is especially recommended as the easiest and most effective for people of this age.

Understanding the assorted Divinities or gods and goddesses of the Vedic or Hindu pantheon is not so difficult as some people may think when it is presented simply and effectively. And that is what you will find in this book. This will open you to many of the possibilities and potentials of the Vedic tradition, and show how it has been able to cater to and fulfill the spiritual needs and development of so many people since time immemorial. Here you will find there is something for everyone. This takes you into the heart of the deep, Vedic spiritual knowledge of how to perceive the Absolute Truth, the Supreme and the various powers and agents of the universal creation. This explains the characteristics and nature of the Vedic Divinities and their purposes, powers, and the ways they influence and affect the natural energies of the universe. It also shows how they can assist us and that blessings from them can help our own spiritual and material development and potentialities, depending on what we need. Some of the Vedic Divinities that will be explained include Lord Krishna, Vishnu, Their main avatars and expansions, along with Brahma, Shiva, Ganesh, Murugan, Surya, Hanuman, as well as the goddesses of Sri Radha, Durga, Sarasvati, Lakshmi, and others. This also presents explanations of their names, attributes, dress, weapons, instruments, the meaning of the Shiva lingam, and some of the legends and stories that are connected with them. This will certainly give you a new insight into the expansive nature of the Vedic tradition.

This book points out the essential reasons why peace in the world and cooperation among people, communities, and nations have been so difficult to establish. It also advises the only way real peace and harmony can be achieved. In order for peace and unity to exist, we must first realize what barriers and divisions keep us apart. Only then can we break down those barriers to see the unity that naturally exists between us all. Then, rather than focusing on our differences, it is easier to recognize our similarities and common goals. With a common objective, all of humanity can work together to help each other reach that destiny. This book is short and to the point. It is a thought provoking book and will provide inspiration for anyone. It can be especially useful for those working in politics, religion, interfaith, race relations, the media, the United Nations, teaching, or who have a position in leadership in any capacity. It is also for those of us who simply want to spread the insights needed for bringing greater levels of peace, unity, and equality between friends, neighbors, and communities. Such insights include: The factors that keep us apart. Breaking down cultural distinctions and religious differences. Seeing through bodily designations. Our real identity: The basis for common ground. Seeing the Divinity within each of us. How we are all working to attain the same things. What we can do now to bring unity and peace into the world and between everyone we meet. It is time to create a prejudice-free world by seeing the natural common ground and unity that exists between us all.

Yoga is a nonsectarian spiritual science that has been practiced and developed over thousands of years. The benefits of yoga are numerous. On the mental level it strengthens concentration, determination, and builds a stronger character that can more easily sustain various tensions in our lives for peace of mind. The assortment of asanas or postures also provide stronger health and keeps various diseases in check. They improve physical strength, endurance and flexibility. That is one of the goals of yoga. Its ultimate purpose is to raise our consciousness to directly perceive the spiritual dimension. Then we can have our own spiritual experiences. The point is that the more spiritual we become, the more we can perceive that which is spiritual. As we develop and grow in this way through yoga, the questions about spiritual life are no longer a mystery to solve, but become a reality to experience. It becomes a practical part of our lives. This book will show you how to do that. Some of the topics include: * Benefits of yoga * The real purpose of yoga * The types of yoga, such as Hatha yoga, Karma yoga, Raja and Astanga yogas, Kundalini yoga, Bhakti yoga, Mudra yoga, Mantra yoga, and others. * The Chakras and Koshas * Asanas and postures, and the Surya Namaskar * Pranayama and breathing techniques for inner changes * Deep meditation and how to proceed * The methods for using mantras * Attaining spiritual enlightenment, and much more

Spreading Vedic Traditions Through Temples After forty years of managing Vedic temples or Mandirs in many different ways, as well as traveling all over India and seeing how others utilize successful plans, Stephen Knapp has put together a book that explains the most important programs that any temple can use for more effectively protecting and perpetuating the Vedic traditions. In a non-sectarian way, he lists and describes how the Dharmic temples of all kinds can increase their congregations as well as engage their members in service to help in maintaining the temples and traditions, and expanding their influence. Some of what is included are: *The primary mission of the temple. *Services the guests can easily offer in seva to the temple or deity. *Giving Vedic culture to the next generation. *Temple classes, the Sunday program and children's schools and youth camps. *Vedic temples as centers of sacred knowledge. *The power of adult study groups, cultural and outreach programs, and festivals. *Utilizing temple restaurants, gift shops, exhibits, and support groups. *Ways of reaching more people, both in India and the USA. *The need and ways for promotion, and radio, television, and newspapers. *An action plan on how to cultivate Vedic culture in America. *Attracting and welcoming non-Indians and Western seekers for more support. *Starting a spiritual revolution in India and elsewhere. *Working with priests, rituals, and teaching the culture and traditions. *Unifying and organizing the Vedic community. This book covers many more methods that are not merely ideas, but are already being used in practical and successful ways to help preserve, promote and spread what is the last bastion of deep spiritual truth. Using these techniques as the basis of your ideas, your temple cannot help but be successful.

This book is one of the most complete reviews of the major holy places and temples of India, and the traditions connected with them. It describes where they are located and what you will see. This 2020 Update includes more and newer information and additional sites to see. This travel guide is not only a great reference work, but is written especially for anyone who wants to know of the many holy sites that you can visit while traveling within India, how to reach them, and what is the history and significance of these most spiritual of sacred sites, temples and festivals. It also provides a deeper understanding of the mysteries and spiritual traditions of India. It is for both those who are new to India and those who are experienced. India has one of the most ancient cultures on the planet that is still a living and dynamic tradition today. Many of the customs and rituals that we can see have existed for thousands of years. This is what makes this country so interesting and draws so many people to it. It is the culture of yoga, meditation, gurus, spiritual philosophy, ancient festivals, holy men and women, sacred mountains and rivers, traditional music, and offers the potential for becoming more aware of who we are and the purpose of life. This is what continues to attract people from all walks of life, and who may try to look beyond the veil of its mysteries. This book will certainly help you find your way around India's mysterious traditions, and the historical and spiritual significance of the major holy places, temples and festivals that this country has. - This book divides the country into East, South, North, West, the Far Northeast, and Nepal, and describes the best itineraries to take to see the most of each area. - It provides descriptions of the important temples and their architecture, and what you will find at each place. - It describes the significance and traditions connected with the sites, the historical legends, and the spiritual merits a person acquires by visiting various locations. - It helps you decide which places are the most interesting for you, where you want to go, and problems to avoid.-It describes the holy places of Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, and Muslims. - It gives insights into how to return from India with the greatest of spiritual wealth. - Where you can go to most effectively perceive your own spiritual identity. - How the spiritual side of India can open you to your own divine nature. - Along with how to get the best experience you can from your visit to India, and packing list suggestions and how to prepare for your trip. This book goes beyond the usual descriptions of the typical tourist attractions and opens up the spiritual venue waiting to be revealed for a far deeper experience on every level. The author, Stephen Knapp, has visited practically 85% of all the places that he describes after making well over 20 trips to India, traveling across almost every state of the country, some several times. So, most of this information comes from personal experience, which you can apply for yourself.

There are certain channels through which the higher spiritual frequencies become approachable by humanity, and by which the Infinite descends into this world. One channel is through transcendental sound. The Hare Krishna Maha-mantra is one such channel of pure spiritual vibration. The mantra is therefore a point of meditation for the mind, but also a formula or transcendental sound vibration that releases its energy into one's consciousness. Thus it can prepare a person for perceiving higher states of reality. With continued practice with this mantra, and with the proper devotional mood, the mantra can uplift our mind in many ways, help us rise above bad habits and thought patterns, and can even reveal the Absolute Truth to the practitioner. It can also show one's own spiritual identity and relationship that you have with the Supreme Being. Additional topics in this book include: How Mantra-Yoga is a necessity for this age. How to chant Om properly. How the Maha-mantra works and what makes it so effective. The meaning and significance of the Maha-mantra. How spiritual realization can be attained through chanting the Maha-mantra. The great good fortune of those who chant the Maha-mantra, and the bliss found in chanting it. How to attain the spiritual world through the Maha-mantra. How to practice the chanting of the Maha-mantra to release its fullest potential. This book will help open the spiritual possibilities as well as bliss that you can attain through the simple process of chanting the Hare Krishna Maha-mantra.

This is a definitive and easy to understand guide to the essential as well as devotional heart of the Vedic/Hindu philosophy. Using numerous references, it gives you access to the most important knowledge presented in the Vedic texts regarding your real potential and spiritual identity. Thus, it is especially good for anyone who lacks the time to research the many topics that are contained within the library of Vedic manuscripts and to see their insights and wisdom. Some of the topics you will find include: A complete review of all the Vedic texts and the wide range of topics they contain, and their philosophical conclusion. The uniqueness and freedom in the Vedic system of self-discovery. A description of the main yoga processes and their effectiveness, and the real purpose of yoga. A review of the main Vedic Divinities, such as Krishna, Radharani, Vishnu, Lakshmi, Shiva, Durga, Ganesh, and others. All the essential spiritual teachings of Lord Krishna. The most effective spiritual process for this modern age and what it can do for you, with practical instructions for deep realizations, and much more. This book provides you with a complete course and process for advancing on the spiritual path, making way for individual empowerment, freedom, and spiritual illumination.

The Bhakti-yoga Handbook A Guide for Beginning the Essentials of Devotional Yoga This book is a guide for anyone who wants to begin the practice of bhakti-yoga in a practical and effective way. This supplies the information, the principles, the regular activities or sadhana, and how to have the right attitude in applying ourselves to attain success on the path of bhakti-yoga, which is uniting with God through love and devotion. This outlines a general schedule for our daily spiritual activities and a typical morning program as found in most Krishna temples that are centered around devotional yoga. In this way, you will find the explanations on how to begin our day and set our mind, what meditations to do, which spiritual texts are best to study, and how we can make most everything we do as part of bhakti-yoga. All of these can be adjusted in a way that can be practiced and applied by anyone by anyone regardless of whether you are in a temple ashrama or in your own home or apartment. Such topics include: The secret of bhakti-yoga and its potency in this day and age, The essential morning practice, the best time for meditation, The standard songs and mantras that we can use, as applied in most Krishna temples, Understanding the basics of the Vedic spiritual philosophy, such as karma, reincarnation, the Vedic description of the soul, etc., How Vedic culture is still as relevant today as ever, Who is Sri Krishna, How to chant the Hare Krishna mantra, Standards for temple etiquette, The nine processes of bhakti-yoga, a variety of activities from which anyone can utilize, How to make our career a part of the yoga process, How to turn our cooking into bhakti-yoga, How to set up a home altar or temple room, depending on what standard you wish to establish, How to take care of deities in our home, if we have Them, How to perform the basic ceremonies like arati, How to take care of the Tulasi plant if you have one, And the spiritual results you can expect to attain through this yoga. All of the basics and effective applications to get started and continue with your practice of bhakti-yoga is supplied so you can progress in a steady way, from beginner to advanced.

Defending Vedic Dharma: Tackling the Issues to Make a Difference The Vedic culture and its philosophy is one of the most deeply spiritual and all encompassing traditions in the world, and has been a major contributor to philosophical thought and the development of civilization. It does not take that long to understand, but it can take some serious consideration. Until then, there can be some aspects of it that are misunderstood or misinterpreted. Therefore, this book takes some of the issues of the day and describes what they are and the remedies for dealing with them in order to make a difference in how we participate in Vedic culture, how we can make it more effective in our lives, and how it can be perceived in a more positive way. All of this makes a difference in the objectives of preserving, protecting, promoting, and perpetuating the Vedic spiritual path. So this book shows some of the many uplifting and insightful qualities we can find in the Vedic tradition, of which everyone should be aware and can appreciate. Some of the stronger and important issues discussed within include: Why it is important to use the proper vocabulary to express Vedic concepts. Why all religions really are not the same, though many Hindus and gurus like to think they are. Time to wake up to reality. The power of a united Vedic community, and how it could rapidly change things if Hindus actually became more united and worked together. The importance of becoming a Dharmic leader and to do your part, and the danger of Hindu teachers who really do not lead in a way they should. The long-term but realistic cure for the corruption in India. The importance of Vedic temples as centers of sacred knowledge, and why temples should be open to everyone. How and why the Vedic texts say that the knowledge within them must be shared with everyone. The real purpose of the natural Vedic way of social arrangement, but why the present caste system in India should be changed or thrown out completely. An eight point action plan for how Hindus in America can best use the freedoms they have, which often exceed the decreasing freedoms in India, to cultivate their tradition to its fullest extent while they have the means to do so. The clarity with which these and other issues are addressed make this an important book for consideration.

This is a systematic description of how bhakti-yoga works, the practice and philosophy of it, and how to become successful on this spiritual path. Bhakti-yoga is the process that can take a person beyond mere faith and give direct experience of the spiritual strata and one's real spiritual identity, beyond the body, and to the joy that is on that plane of consciousness. It is the spiritual process that is especially recommended for these difficult times. Herein is a revelation that such a realization and experience is not only possible, but leads us to taste the greatest happiness when the soul finally reconnects to its natural condition and joyful disposition. It is like finding the home you have been looking for all your life. And now, at long last, you can reach the ultimate platform of realization, peace, comfort, bliss, and connection with Divine Love. The hankering for this has motivated all of us to seek out our real spiritual nature for many lifetimes, and now upon attaining this knowledge we have found our real destiny. Some of the additional topics within include: *What is so special about bhakti-yoga, the universal path. *Mantra-yoga, the importance of it in this day and age. *How to make sure you have a genuine guru. *Feeling ecstatic reciprocation from the Lord. *Beginning to understand and perceive God. *How the Lord reveals Himself to His devotee. *Having your own realizations of the highest levels of spiritual truth. *Manifesting your spiritual identity. *And ultimately attaining freedom from material existence and entering the spiritual world. This book is based on and includes numerous quotes and references from the Vedic literature to authorize the knowledge that is presented within.

Ancient History of India's Vedic Culture Vedic culture has its own history, the tradition of which takes it back to the beginning of time. This book is not a typical review of the history of India, but explains what the pre-historic traditional Vedic background is, its basis, and how it developed and expanded through time. We also look at a number of artifacts that prove the ancient existence of some of the most important aspects of the Vedic customs, and how the tradition itself describes its developments. This book also helps show that the spiritual philosophy of Vedic culture seeded many of the other civilizations in their beliefs that evolved in various regions of the world. Some of the topics we view include: * Descriptions in the Vedic texts on the way the world was created. * The prehistoric date of Vedic beginnings. * How the Vedic knowledge was given to humanity. * The way the Vedic texts came from an ancient oral tradition and then was compiled by the sage Vyasadeva, and then disseminated to society. * The antiquity of Vedic culture and the Indus Valley civilization. * The times of Lord Rama and Lord Krishna, and proof of Krishna's existence. * The real time line of Lord Buddha. * The first recorded migrations out of ancient India of tribes that formed other civilizations. * Astronomical dating of the Vedas and events recorded in the Mahabharata, and more.

The Ramayana is one of the world's oldest and most highly regarded classics of Indian literature. It tells the spiritual adventures of Lord Rama and His wife Sita and brother Lakshmana as They battle the mighty demon Ravana. But it is not only an emotional thriller, but it is also a book filled with ancient wisdom that is as valid today as in olden times. And this introduction to the Ramayana uses numerous verses from it to give direct examples of what it has to offer.Some of what you will find includes: A summary of the Ramayana, which shows why it has kept its popularity for thousands of years. The Ramayana on the need for a proper ruler, and how to recognize such a person, and the results of when a country has no qualified leader. How Lord Rama is described as the same as Lord Vishnu, which enlivens all Rama devotees.How the Ramayana can uplift anyone from the troubles of human existence.Lord Rama: fact or fiction, and the evidence that shows Him as an historical person and when He actually existed.Descriptions of the sites associated with the Ramayana found in India and in Sri Lanka, and how you can see them. This introduction is a key to understanding the many levels of knowledge and wisdom the Ramayana provides and how to experience it, and gives evidence that shows the reality of its history and spiritual power. This book is a short read, written in a way anyone can understand.