By Alex Koritz
The last few years have been a testament to the enduring human spirit as we’ve weathered the tempest of a pandemic, the turmoil of social upheaval and war, and the agonizing grip of environmental degradation. And yet, the human spirit is resilient, particularly when anchored to the divine.
Several years ago, my life became chaotic as I navigated a divorce, a major career change, and an existential crisis as I began questioning my belief in a higher power. A wise friend suggested I read Aubiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda, which he claimed was the greatest spiritual memoir ever written. I was intrigued, because this friend wasn’t someone I considered religious. Apparently it was the only book that Steve Jobs kept on his iPad and that he had copies handed out at his funeral. It was also George Harrison’s greatest inspiration, and in fact, Yogananda’s picture even appears on the album cover of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band), I was sold.
Yogananda’s masterpiece did not disappoint. Full of mystical stories, profound spiritual insights, and pure boy-ish adventure, the words ran off the page and into my soul. Within this book I discovered profound spiritual insight and practical wisdom. It opened a mystical, esoteric part of my soul that the religion of my birth did not. It taught me that personal spiritual experience is much more important than dogma or doctrine, for experience transcends the intellect. Regardless of culture or religion, Autobiography of a Yogi invites readers to explore the depths of their own consciousness and connect with the universal truths that underpin Ultimate Reality.
Yogananda’s teachings, which are needed now more than ever, are centered on self-realization and divine union with God. He illuminated a path for all seekers by imparting the transformative power of spiritual practices, love, devotion, and the boundless potential of the human soul.
Yogananda introduced the ancient spiritual science of Kriya yoga and other meditative practices to the West in the early 20th Century via his organization, the Self Realization Fellowship (SRF). After devouring Yogananada’s autobiography, I began formally studying with SRF which greatly enhanced the spiritual insights I had gleaned from his book. Through his writings and the lessons offered through SRF, this spiritual master has left a profound legacy that continues to inspire millions due to its relevance to our times, including:
The Quest for Inner Peace
In the demanding times that we live in, where work, family, and social commitments are underpinned by our digital lives, we are often left feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. Yogananda’s world offers a sanctuary of serenity by emphasizing the importance of inner peace and balance as the foundation for a fulfilling life. His techniques for meditation and self-realization provide a means to attain these states, enabling individuals to navigate the chaos of modern existence with poise, clarity, and purpose.
Spirituality Amidst Materialism
The 21st century is often characterized by materialism and consumerism, with many people chasing external possessions and success in pursuit of happiness. Yogananda’s teachings challenge this paradigm by advocating for the prioritization of spiritual growth and self-realization. His emphasis on the interconnectedness of all life and the pursuit of a higher purpose serves as a counterbalance to the relentless pursuit of material gain, encouraging individuals to seek deeper, more meaningful fulfillment beyond the superficial trappings of modern life.
Interfaith Harmony
In an age marked by religious conflicts and divisions, Yogananda’s message of universal spirituality and interfaith harmony resonates as a beacon of hope. He advocated for the unity of all religions, recognizing the common thread of truth that runs through them. Yogananda’s teachings emphasize that all religions are pathways to the same divine source – fostering a sense of interfaith unity and encouraging people to embrace the diversity of spiritual perspectives. This message is particularly pertinent today as societies grapple with the need for greater religious tolerance and understanding.
Environmental Consciousness
As the world faces environmental catastrophes and the consequences of human actions on the planet, Yogananda’s teachings take on renewed significance. He emphasized the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of living in harmony with nature. Yogananda’s teachings inspire a sense of reverence for the Earth and a commitment to sustainable living, offering a spiritual foundation for today’s growing environmental movement.
Mental Health and Well-being
The importance of mental health and well-being is increasingly recognized in society today. Yogananda’s teachings offer a holistic approach to mental and emotional well-being through meditation and spiritual practices. These practices have been shown by modern researchers to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, enhancing mental clarity and promoting overall psychological health.
Paramahansa Yogananda’s teachings were ahead of his time and are more relevant today than when he revealed them in the early 20th Century. His wisdom transcends the boundaries of time, religion, and culture. And in a time where the search for authenticity and purpose has reached its zenith, Yogananda’s call to seek self-realization is being heard and answered across the globe.
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