Rating: Summary: India's Mystics unveiled Review: Autobiography of a Yogi opened before me the ancient mystic legacy of India's Sages. Reading this book was a spiritual journey unto itself. It is a spiritual classic of unparalled proportions. The ancient knowledge and wisdom of the mystics have never died.
Rating: Summary: Yogananda Lives! Review: I've read "Autobiography of a Yogi" many times over the last twenty years and have learned something new each time. After much self-doubt and hesitation over the years, I decided to attend Self-Realization's yearly Convocation in Los Angeles in June of 2000. I expected nothing since I felt I hadn't worked hard enough in the past "to deserve" any "blessing". On a trip to the Lake Shrine in Pacific Palisades, I was oddly drawn to the houseboat where the Master meditated for many hours during the Shrine's construction. After sitting calmly for ten minutes or so I felt a peace I've never felt before (or since). When I opened my eyes, YOGANANDA WAS STANDING THERE--not in a dream or an hallucination--but right in front of me like a living person would! He smiled and said "...just try harder!". Then he slowly dissolved into a mist of white. What can I say? He still "lives" and cares about even the "weakest" of us. Read the book and see for yourself!
Rating: Summary: Best Spiritual Book Ever- Make Sure You Buy the Original Review: This book is worth reading again and again. The inspiration, wisdom, and humor will keep you coming back for more.The first edition, in the blue cover, is guaranteed to be the true words of the author. Later editions have been modified by editors, who changed not only his words, but the spelling of his name, and even his signature. (...) buy it and take it with you on your life's journey. Remember- the original edition, guaranteed written by Yogananda, is the blue cover.
Rating: Summary: A Treasure... Review: ...of unparalleled proportions for the aspiring spiritualist. Its inspirational and uplifting-- I've bought many copies for friends/family.
Rating: Summary: I wish I could have met him Review: A friend gave me this book. I read it and was struck by the absolute intelligence and candidness of the author. But without reading any other books about spirituality and exploring on my own, I began to meditate daily as Paramahansa Yogananda describes. One day I focused and I completely lost all the worry and weight I carry with me. It was as if I detached from some heavy framework I drape my soul on. It only lasted a moment but I have never forgotten the joy and lightness of the experience. Paramahansa Yogananda says in this book that the reason Westerners do not experience the joy of being one with their spirits is because they do not discipline themselves. They do not want to take the time to meditate. At times (many times) he would meditate for 8 hours! All I know is with diligence I had a supernatural experience. His ideas for teaching children are light years away from what our kids experience in public schools in America. How I wish that people like him were in leadership positions on our planet.
Rating: Summary: HOW THIS BOOKS VALUE WAS RETAINED. Review: Here are many clear, meaningful responses to many of lifes most profound questions. If you are wondering about the most advanced methods of meditation & prayer. If you need inspiration and motivation to grow spiritually. You will find it in this book. Yogananda's most complete editions are the ones with the orange covers from Self-Realization publishers. Which also includes the 49th chapter as well as changes the author and his appointed editors in chief made to more fully represent the real Yogananda. This may also be verified by further research on the authors life and teachings from a host of other available works from the only society he founded. The master Master himself saw fit to improve this representation of his teachings by making changes to each new edition. Thus the true teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda have been retained in the latest editions intact. This is also supportd from a study of his other most recent works. And by other authors who write about their experiences with Him. Those who are seriously interested in a more accurate picture of Global Spirituality both now and in the past, will find this autobiography a treaure trove of wisdom and enlightenment. You will also get a clearer picture of what the truly essential elements are which link the worlds great religions. This 20th century classic was so far ahead of its time at first publication, that it still remains major modern reference on comparative religion and mystical approaches to spirituality. It is balanced and clear, giving us a reliable picture of the Sanatana Dharma, the essence of global religions, and the teachings and mission of Paramahansa Yogananda.
Rating: Summary: Disconnected Review: I was looking forward ot this book being the story of a lifelong journey through yoga and mediatation. Despite its promise, it seemed too disjointed for me to really enjoy reading it. The author jumps to and from various points in his life, ultimately confusing the reader rather than showing the fulfilment yoga has brought to his life. Further, the footnotes are very distracting. This said, I still think this book is very worthwhile reading for anyone with a serious interest in the meditative and spiritual aspects of yoga. Several of the chapters detailing parts of Yogananda's life, particularly his youth and his founding of the school in Ranchi, are a fascinating look into both his life and Indian society in general. The author does seem to have a very spiritual outlook. Sections comparing Hindu texts or ideas with the Christian scriptures are also very interesting.
Rating: Summary: Paramahansa Yogananda is my new Hero ! SRF Founder Review: Since discovering Yoga and it's benefits, I have begun the practice of Ashtanga Yoga, and I am also studying about Kriya and the "Self-Realization Foundation," founded by Paramahansa Yogananda ("Mejda"). I devoured the book, "Mejda," written by his brother & I am now devouring this book--his Autobiography. I am so excited about this book that I could not even wait to finish it, before trying to get the word out! If you are a person who is always striving to find Knowledge, or you are a Mystical person who is struggling to understand the World, the Mysteries or Spirituality, this book is calling your name. I have always been fascinated by Deepak Chopra and men like him. Paramahansa Yogananda's story helps me to understand these Great Men and their Message. I cannot begin to explain how much I have enjoyed the story of Mejda's Journey and Spiritual Growth. I am very seriously considering the idea of joining SRF, because of this book & his brother's book, "Mejda." I see, from searching, that Paramahansa Yogananda has written MANY books. This makes me very happy. I know the story will not end for a long time!
Rating: Summary: A whole lot of BRAIN WASHING Review: this is book contains a whole lot of Brain washing , making up a lot of wishy washy stories based on hindu mythology . Keep away , i would advise people to rather read Vivekananda and J. Krishnamurti - that's more sensible stuff
Rating: Summary: A mixed bag Review: This book was recommended to me by a friend who I enjoy talking with about spiritual matters. As a Christian who tries to be open toward other faiths, it challenged me to see God at work outside the boundaries I tend to place around Him. Yogananda's account is personal, readable, and (for the most part) credible. However, I found myself struggling at times with the fanciful tone of the book. Touching first-hand accounts were tossed in with legends of 300 lb. yogas who never eat. What are we to make of that? Still, definitely worth a read, especially if you want to investigate experiences of spirituality that are outside the usual Western models.
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