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This episode covers the next part of chapter 37 from: “The eve of my departure for the United States found me in Sri Yukteswar’s holy presence...” to “and we may ask all alike to follow and obey it.”  Paramahansa Yogananda's final blessings from Sri Yukteswar before departing for the USA in 1920 was a incredibly tender moment. We discuss this and his struggles with English during his first public talk on the ship City of Sparta, and his maiden speech at the Boston Congress on October 6, 1920. We covered Sri Yukteswar's wisdom about embracing the best qualities of both Eastern and Western cultures, Yogananda's prayer for help with his English presentation, and how he received divine guidance to deliver a successful 45-minute talk that won him lecture invitations across America. The episode also explored the correct pronunciation of Yogananda's name, the significance of his hybrid Eastern-Western attire at the Congress, and the positive reception of his speech on "The Science of Religion", which was later published by Self-Realization Fellowship.  0:00 Introduction; 0:35 Prior Episode; 1:26 Yukteswar's final blessing; 18:32 The first talk in English; 39:15 First speech in Boston; 45:15 Picture of the congress delegates; 47:09 Looking Ahead.  Links from the episode:  https://archive.org/details/scienceofreligioyoga Awake Podcast minute 14: https://youtu.be/dm8x7Yte0tc?si=dP-IYBuNjTxzGxr0 Bro. Jayananda: https://www.youtube.com/live/2ZZVhByIrac?si=glGvItQbFk5ABEhX https://bostoncentersrf.org/footsteps-tour/in-the-footsteps-of-yogananda-map/  Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 37 from: “Because of Father’s generous cheque, I was able to remain in America...” to “Whispers from Eternity, with a preface by the famous singer, Mme. Amelita Galli-Curci.”  #autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS

This episode covers the next part of chapter 37 from: “As I went about my preparations to leave Master and my native land...” to “an artist to draw, for this book, a true picture of the Yogi-Christ of modern India.”  This section of the chapter is about Swami Yogananda's initial reluctance and his intense prayer for divine assurance, which culminated in a visit from Mahavatar Babaji. We analysed the significance of Babaji's appearance, his personal instructions, and the prophecy that Kriya Yoga would spread worldwide. The conversation also touched on themes of materialism in the West versus India, the nature of divine communication, and the emotional impact of Yogananda's experiences. We also speculated about the secret prophecies Babaji shared and the meaning behind his benediction.   0:00 Introduction; 1:00 Prior Episode; 1:50 Early morning in Calcutta; 20:15 A knock at the Garpar Road Door; 26:55 Prostrate before the deathless Guru; 41:16 Rooted to the floor at the doorway.  Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 37 from: “The eve of my departure for the United States found me in Sri Yukteswar’s holy presence...” to “and we may ask all alike to follow and obey it.”  #autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS

This episode covers the start of chapter 37 to: “Surely the Lord will bring us together once more.”  Swami Yogananda makes his preparations to travel to America. We explore how he received divine assurance from his guru Swami Sri Yukteswar and material support from his father for his journey. We examined Yogananda's vision of Western faces and his announcement to the Ranchi school about his plans, noting the historical significance of his invitation to speak at the International Association for Religious Freedom congress in America. We discussed Yogananda's concerns about speaking English and his father's initial resistance to his son's plans to leave for America, highlighting the emotional challenges of parental sacrifice for spiritual calling.  0:00 Introduction; 0:30 Expectations from the chapter; 1:35 Goodbye to Ranchi School, for now; 16:24 Blessings from Sri Yukteswar; 26:00 Blessings from the human father; 44:55 Looking Ahead.  Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 37 from: “As I went about my preparations to leave Master and my native land...” to “an artist to draw, for this book, a true picture of the Yogi-Christ of modern India.”  #autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS  yogananda,podcast,autobiography of a yogi,srf,yss,meditation

This episode covers the last part of chapter 36 from:“That was oneof my last visits to Banaras to see my guru...” to the end ofthe chapter In this episode we explored the events surrounding LahiriMahasaya's Mahasamadhi, including his refusal of medical treatment for a boil,his deliberate and symbolic act of leaving the body, and the significance ofhis householder cremation rites. We examined the concept of a true guru takingon disciples' karma and the importance of inner attunement for receivingguidance. The group delved into the resurection(s) of Lahiri Mahasaya to threedisciples in different cities, drawing parallels to the resurrection of JesusChrist and the story of Kabir. We reflected on the emotional and devotionalimpact of these narratives, the unity of Eastern and Western spiritual paths,and the overarching theme of transcendence beyond physical death. 0:00 Introduction;0:43 Prior Episode;1:15 Body finds a cause to go;7:40 Mahsamadhi;22:25 Resurrection;37:27 Am I not with you Forever?;44:44 O grave, where is thy victory?;49:00 Reflections on the chapter. Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes onthe start  of chapter 37 from:to “Surely the Lord will bring us together oncemore.” #autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayoganandaAutobiography of a Yogiawake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India#SRF #YSS

This episode covers the next part of chapter 36 from: “I soon left Banaras, and set to work in Serampore on the scriptural writings requested by Babaji...”  to “... a voice like a celestial flute, Babaji disappeared into the hidden radiance.”  This section of the chapter focuses on Babaji's interest in the West and the writing of "The Holy Science" book by Sri Yukteswar. We discusses how Sri Yukteswar suddenly developed Sanskrit poetry skills after meeting Babaji, allowing him to write the book that reconciles Eastern and Western teachings. We examined the cultural significance of offering refreshments to gurus and how Sri Yukeswar's excitement caused Babaji to disappear, teaching the importance of maintaining stillness and peace in spiritual encounters. The conversation included detailed analysis of Sanatan Dharma versus Hinduism, the concept of Aryavarta, and the practical nature of vegetarianism and human biology.   0:00 Introduction; 0:42 Prior Episode; 1:30 Night work in Serampore; 19:15 A morning bath at Rai Ghat; 26:48 Sweetmeats and an empty tree; 41:50 In Lahiri Mahasaya's Parlour; 56:00 Looking Ahead.  Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the last part of chapter 36 from: “That was one of my last visits to Banaras to see my guru...”  to the end of the chapter  #autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS

This episode covers the next part of chapter 36 from: “You, Swamiji, have a part to play in the coming harmonious exchange between...”  to “...infuse greater divine faith in a wide circle of men who learn the story.”  Please note, we made a slight mistake with the order of text, I hope you will forgive us: Sri Yukteswar’s Holy Science assignment and the conversation with Lahiri Mahasaya about Sri Yukteswar’s meeting with Babaji.   The episode focusses on Babaji's interest in the West and his interactions with Sri Yukteswar regarding the same. We discuss the need of sending a disciple to the West for yoga dissemination, and the spiritual vibrations in the West during the late 19th century that attracted many seeking souls. We also analysed Babaji's message to Lahiri Mahasaya about his life's power running low, debating whether this indicated Lahiri was entering a samadhi state or simply reacting humanely to profound news about his impending death. We try to understand the intriguing elements of why Babaji prevented Sri Yukteswar from recognizing him during their first meeting, with theories suggesting it was to maintain intellectual engagement rather all consuming devotion. The conversation also covered Sri Yukteswar's assignment to write "The Holy Science" book comparing Christian and Hindu scriptures.  0:00 Introduction; 0:30 Prior Episode; 1:20 Yogananda is chosen; 11:30 Tell your guru of your paramguru; 23:22 Write a book; 39:56 Death may be at thy door; 1:01:30 Looking Ahead  Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 36 from: “I soon left Banaras, and set to work in Serampore on the scriptural writings requested by Babaji...”  to “... a voice like a celestial flute, Babaji disappeared into the hidden radiance.”  #autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS

This episode covers the start of chapter 36 to:  “...base its religious beliefs on the unshakable foundations of yogic science.”  Chapter 36 features the first and only appearance of all four gurus in the book. We explored the significance of the Kumbh Mela festival, where Sri Yukteshwar met Mahavatar Babaji under a sacred tree, though he didn't recognize Babaji at the time due to Babaji's ability to prevent specific thoughts from arising in others' minds. We also examined Babaji's teachings about finding wisdom like a wise ant that seizes only the sugar and leaves the sand untouched, discussing how this metaphor applies to discerning spiritual truth amidst life's imperfections.   0:00 Introduction;  1:34 Expectations from the chapter;  3:55 The Kumbha Mela;  23:28 The Disguised First Meeting with the Master and Swamiji;  34:48 Be like the wise ant;  42:05 The East and West;  49:29 Looking Ahead;  Links mentioned in this episode:   https://open.spotify.com/episode/58FyWOSvI9iGlDpO5enlYF  https://www.youtube.com/live/wJSbq4YRkpc    Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 36 from:  “You, Swamiji, have a part to play in the coming harmonious exchange between...”   to  “...infuse greater divine faith in a wide circle of men who learn the story.”  #autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda  Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India  #SRF #YSS

This episode covers the last part of chapter 35 from:  “Lahiri Mahasaya’s handwriting and signature, in Bengali script, are shown...”   to the end of the chapter.  As we examined the beautiful Bengali lettering and signature from Lahiri Mahasaya, we review the scientific foundation of yoga mudras like Shambhavi Mudra, which involves fixing the gaze between the eyebrows without blinking. Lahiri Mahasaya's teachings on the Bhagavad Gita and Mahabharata set the tone for the age, where modern science has confirmed ancient yoga practices dating back thousands of years. The conversation covered Paramahansa Yogananda’s approach to sharing miraculous stories, noting his discrimination in what to include in his writings, and emphasized the universal nature of Lahiri Mahasaya's teachings that transcended religious boundaries.   0:00 Introduction;  0:42 Prior Episode;  1:25 Lahiri Mahasaya’s Handwriting;  13:03 Knot-points;  21:14 Passion and bondage;  38:36 Kriya Mathematics;  45:20 New Hope;  1:00:00 Reflections on the chapter.  Links mentioned in this episode:   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nataraja  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pashupati_seal  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Carlyle?wprov=sfla1  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sartor_Resartus?wprov=sfla1    Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the first part of chapter 36 to:  “...base its religious beliefs on the unshakable foundations of yogic science.”   #autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda  Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India  #SRF #YSS

This episode covers the next part of chapter 35 from:  “If a disciple neglected any of his worldly obligations, the master would...”  to  “... Evidently the master’s blessing was a necessary ingredient”  This section of the chapter covers Lahiri Mahasaya’s intriguing secular approach to including Muslims, Christians, and people of various faiths into Kriya Yoga practice in the 1890s. We explored how Lahiri Mahasaya maintained his Brahmin caste status while breaking social barriers by accepting students from different religious backgrounds, emphasizing that preparation and readiness were more important than faith background for Kriya initiation. We also have a discussion of how Kriya Yoga fits within the broader paths of yoga (Bhakti, Karma, Jnana, and Raja Yoga).  00:00 Introduction;  1:00  Prior Episode;  2:24 The barbs that nobody fled;  17:45 Brinda Bhagat, who could not deliver the letters;  40:30 The fragrance, and the refusal;  58:26 A pension, and an oil that would not distil;  1:11:40 Looking Ahead;  1:12:15 Panchanan Bhattacharya.  Links mentioned in this episode:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Umz_yN2vY8  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6atoS1XS2GA&t=4s  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swami_Bhaskarananda_Saraswati  https://balanandaashrams.org/in/sri-sri-balananda-brahmachari-maharaj-ji/  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayurveda  Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the last part of chapter 35 from:  “Lahiri Mahasaya’s handwriting and signature, in Bengali script, are shown...”   to the end of the chapter.  #autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda  Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India  #SRF #YSS

This episode covers the next part of chapter 35 from: “A significant feature of Lahiri Mahasaya’s life was his gift of Kriya...” to “...I have already initiated you, in a dream,’ Lahiri Mahasaya replied.”  This section of the chapter covers Lahiri Mahasaya’s intriguing secular approach to including Muslims, Christians, and people of various faiths into Kriya Yoga practice in the 1890s. We explored how Lahiri Mahasaya maintained his Brahmin caste status while breaking social barriers by accepting students from different religious backgrounds, emphasizing that preparation and readiness were more important than faith background for Kriya initiation. We also have a discussion of how Kriya Yoga fits within the broader paths of yoga (Bhakti, Karma, Jnana, and Raja Yoga).  00:00 Introduction; 1:15 Prior Episode; 1:40 Universal; 15:20 Act now; 23:10 Follow your path faithfully; 39:27 Meditation has the answers; 45:55 The Master's Omnipresence; 55:10 Looking Ahead.  Links mentioned in this episode:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ninety-five_Theses https://yogananda.com.au/pyr/pyr_self-realization.html#self https://yogananda.com.au/gurus/yogananda_quotes31meditation.html#meditation https://www.kriya.org/guru/shrimat-bhupendranath-sanyal-mahashaya/en https://yogananda.com.au/lessons.html  Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 35 from: “If a disciple neglected any of his worldly obligations, the master would...” to “... Evidently the master’s blessing was a necessary ingredient..”  #autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS

This episode covers the next part of chapter 35 from: “The timeless bond of guru and disciple that existed between John and Jesus...” to “... obeisance toward the guru is an ancient Oriental custom.”  This section discusses Mahavatar Babaji and Lahiri Mahasaya’s part in the great spiritual renaissance they initiated, including the powerful story about an English superintendent who witnessed Lahiri performing a healing miracle for his critically ill wife. We explored the practical aspects of meditation and making time for spiritual practice despite busy lives. We also studied the famous photograph of Lahiri Mahashaya in lotus posture and discussed the significance of having dedicated spaces for meditation.  00:00 Introduction; 0:26 Prior Episode; 1:05 The Babaji divine love connection; 22:40 From Sickness to Health; 41:16 Be in the world, but not of it; 1:05:22 Lahiri Mahasaya Picture; 1:10:56 Looking Ahead.  Links mentioned in this episode:  https://yssofindia.org/teachings-library/educating-the-youth-in-paramahansa-yoganandas-how-to-live-principles https://www.ysei.edu.in/ https://www.bengalitolaintercollege.com/History.aspx https://www.yoganiketan.net/reader/books/srimad-bhagavad-gita.html  Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 35 from: “A significant feature of Lahiri Mahasaya’s life was his gift of Kriya...” to “...I have already initiated you, in a dream,’ Lahiri Mahasaya replied.”  #autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS

This episode covers the start of chapter 35 to: “... Let us see whether Elias will come to save him.”  Starting with sharing our initial impressions and expectations of this great chapter, we highlighted its connections between Eastern and Western spiritual traditions. We then delve into the nuanced relationship between John the Baptist and Jesus Christ, exploring Paramahansa Yogananda's intuition that they were the reincarnations of Elijah and Elisha. We discuss the concept of reincarnation in Christianity, its historical suppression, and its implications for understanding spiritual evolution, examining biblical passages and stories from the Old Testament, such as the mantle passing from Elijah to Elisha, and reflected on the significance of guru-disciple relationships.   00:00 Introduction; 1:10 Expectations from the chapter; 7:20 Jesus honours his Guru; 21:10 The prophecy of Elijah's return; 26:34 Christ reveals the truth; 35:15 The eternal bond of Guru and disciple; 39:40 Looking Ahead.  Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 35 from: “The timeless bond of guru and disciple that existed between John and Jesus...” to “... obeisance toward the guru is an ancient Oriental custom.”  #autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS

This episode covers the last part of chapter 34 from:  “Burning with the enthusiasm of truth, I spoke without due thought...”  to the end of the chapter.  Chris and Priyank discussed Mahavatar Babaji's miraculous appearance at the devotional request of Lahiri Mahasaya. We explore the themes of humility, overzealousness, and the difference between demanding God's presence when needed vs on a whim. The discussion covered how Lahiri Mahasaya's story demonstrates that spiritual advancement doesn't require complete renunciation of worldly responsibilities, and the significance of the Kumbh Mela incident where Babaji was washing the feet of a renunciate, teaching the importance of humility over outward displays of spirituality. We finish by reflecting on the chapter as a whole.   00:00 Introduction;  1:00 Prior Episode;  2:00 O ye of little faith!;  14:40 No more;  28:06 Doubters to believers;  43:25 Renunciant;  54:20 Reflections on the chapter.  Links discussed in this episode:  https://yogananda.com.au/dayamata/daya_mata_spirit_of_seeking_God.html  https://yogananda.org/blog/paramahansa-yogananda-on-the-dynamic-power-of-faith  Kumbh Mela episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/58FyWOSvI9iGlDpO5enlYF  https://yogananda.com.au/pyr/pyr_purity.html    Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the start of chapter 35 to:  “... Let us see whether Elias will come to save him.”    #autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda  Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India  #SRF #YSS

This episode covers the next part of chapter 34 frrom: “How remote seemed my family, the office, the world, as I…”  to “...This is some daydream you have recounted.”  This section of the chapter focuses on Lahiri Mahashaya's final moments in the hewavely Himalayas and with Mahavatar Babaji, with his plea to relax the rigid rules governing Kriya Yoga transmission. We explored how Babaji agreed to allow Lahiri to share Kriya with sincere seekers who couldn't commit to complete renunciation, reflecting a compassionate approach to spiritual practice in their current age. The discussion covered the threefold sufferings (physical, mental, and spiritual) that people experience, the requirements for Kriya initiation including the 6-month preliminary practice period, and the importance of proper guidance from monks and nuns during the application process. We also absorv Babaji's promise to assume life-after-life responsibility for initiated Kriyabans and discussed how even small spiritual practices can provide protection and benefit seekers on their path to liberation.  00:00 Introduction; 0:55 Prior Episode; 1:45 Opening the door of kriya; 16:40 Attention all SRF-YSS Students; 32:09 Even a little practice...; 48:26 Doubting Thomas settled in India; 57:48 Looking Ahead.  Links discussed in this episode: https://yogananda.org/request-prayers https://yogananda.org/kriya-yoga-lessons  Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the last part of chapter 34 from: “Burning with the enthusiasm of truth, I spoke without due thought...” to the end of the chapter.   #autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS

This episode covers the next part of chapter 34 from: “How remote seemed my family, the office, the world, as I…”  to “...This is some daydream you have recounted.”  This episode covers the final stages Lahiri Mahasaya's initiation into Kriya yoga, where Mahavatar Babaji demonstrated materialisation abilities by creating a palace and a bowl of plenty that could fulfill any desire. We explored the philosophical implications of these miracles, comparing them to similar abilities described in other spiritual texts, and examined Lahiri's subsequent seven-day experience in Nirbikalpa Samadhi. We also discussed the significance of Lahiri's role as an ideal yogi householder in Benares, rather than remaining in the Himalayas with Babaji, emphasising that spiritual advancement is possible for those living ordinary lives with family and work responsibilities.  00:00 Introduction; 0:45 Prior Episode; 2:27 The bowl of endless plenty; 23:00 Nirbikalpa Samadhi; 35:00 The life of a householder 56:00 Looking Ahead.  Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 34 from: “How remote seemed my family, the office, the world, as I…”  to “...This is some daydream you have recounted.”  #autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS