Vivekananda—America's Swami

Martin Wolff said Unique look at Vivekananda's views concerning USA. The cover of this book itself is brilliant and the brilliance of the Master is then shown repeatedly throughout this small but fairly comprehensive treatment of a subject not generally discussed: Swami Vivekananda's experience and statements about the USA. From it we learn that the Swami was enamored of this country and not shy abo. Very concise introduction to one of the greatest spiritual figures ever to set foot in the U Very concise introduction to one of the greatest spiritual figures ever to set foot in the U.S. The book is well organized topically. I like the interleaving of the commentary with Swamiji's original words.

Vivekananda came to the United States, like many immigrants before him, penniless and adrift. He was well versed in Western thought from his university studies, but at the age of twenty one he met his Guru, Ramakrishna and became a wandering Hindu monk. His speech, “Sisters and Brothers of America” is the stuff of legend.I have assembled a collection of quotations from his writings that capture my own love of his words. He had roamed India as a mendicant monk for 5 years prior to his arrival in America.Such was the force of his personality that he contacted Harvard, which would later offer him a Chair of Eastern Studies. They are ancient words, but so often have an American ring. Vivekananda acquired the necessary credentials and wowed the convention. America was a land he admired and felt had great spiritual potential.Remember that any of his words came forth to h