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Yogananda Podcast

Chris, Lauren, Mike & Priyank

A podcast focussed on the teachings of our guru Paramahansa Yogananda, in a way that is intended for the general populace, following a structured but informal format and presented by devotees: Chris, Lauren, Mike & Priyank. NB: we are not experts & not everything mentioned is fact checked, but if you enjoyed the book/film, this unofficial podcast for you!

Series 2: Autobiography of a Yogi — Line by Line
Series 1: Awake: The Life of Yogananda Minute by Minute

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  • 26 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 56 min
  • English

Episodes 26

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  • Sunday · 56 min

    Autobiography Chapter 36, Part 3: Babaji’s teleportation tree

    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

  • September 13 · 1 hr 2 min

    Autobiography Chapter 36, Part 2: Lahiri Mahasaya learns that the end is near...

    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

  • S3 · E100
    September 6 · 49 min

    Autobiography Chapter 36, Part 1: Babaji’s tree

    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

  • August 30 · 1 hr 6 min

    Autobiography Chapter 35, Part 5: Lahiri Mahasaya’ grandson Ananda Mohan Lahiri

    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

  • August 23 · 1 hr 13 min

    Autobiography Chapter 35, Part 4: The fine line between eagerness and arrogance

    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

  • August 16 · 56 min

    Autobiography Chapter 35, Part 3: Solve all your problems through meditation

    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

  • August 9 · 1 hr 12 min

    Autobiography Chapter 35, Part 2: Be thou a (householder) yogi

    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

  • August 2 · 40 min

    Autobiography Chapter 35, Part 1: John the Baptist and Jesus the Christ

    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

  • July 31 · 59 min

    Autobiography Chapter 34, Part 7: Ask, and it shall be given you

    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

  • July 23 · 58 min

    Autobiography Chapter 34, Part 6: Applying for Kriya with 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

  • July 15 · 56 min

    Autobiography Chapter 34, Part 5: Be in the world, but not of it

    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

  • July 8 · 57 min

    Autobiography Chapter 34, Part 4: Lahiri Mahasaya’s Kriya Initiation Ceremony

    This episode covers the next part of chapter 34 from: “As I remained silent in awe, my guide made a sweeping gesture…” to “...Put your hand there and receive whatever food you desire.” This episode continues Lahiri Mahasaya's experience with Babaji's materialised palace. We examine how Babaji manifested a jewelled palace from cosmic rays to fulfil Lahiri's past life desire for a golden palace, with detailed discussions about the philosophical implications of what constitutes matter and reality. We explored Paramahansa Yogananda’s commentary on karma, particularly the four definitions of karma from Bhagavad Gita, and how Lahiri's experience fit into these categories. The conversation covered the palace's purpose as a testing ground for Lahiri's initiation into Kriya Yoga, the mystical nature of the initiation ceremony, and the eventual dematerialisation of the palace when Lahiri's desire was fulfilled. 00:00 Introduction; 0:40 Prior Episode; 1:15 Transitoriness; 16:20 Desire extinguished; 26:50 Kriya Initiation; 46:15 Dematerialised; 56:55 Looking Ahead. Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 34 from: “I touched the broad, empty bowl; hot buttered luchis, curry…” to “... liberation is dependent on inner, rather than outer, renunciations.” #autobiographyofayogi #autobiographylinebyline #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS

  • June 30 · 54 min

    Autobiography Chapter 34, Part 3: A palace fit for the King

    This episode covers the next part of chapter 34 to: “Yonder light is the glow of a golden palace...” to “...When this structure has served its purpose, Babaji will dematerialise it.’” Lahiri Mahasaya shows that even liberated masters must temporarily engage with cosmic delusion to maintain a physical form, with Babaji fulfilling Lahiri Mahasai's latent desire for a palace as part of his (self-imposed) karmic completion. We take a deep dive into the spiritual significance of the materialised golden palace, including its devotional features like incense, roses, and lamps, and discussed how the story relates to the concept that all creation is mind-born and sustained by God's will. We also examined the importance of proper spiritual initiation through authorised channels and discussed how the story reflects the principle that every human wish must eventually be fulfilled, whether in this lifetime or future ones. 00:00 Introduction; 1:25 Prior Episode; 2:11 Beginning of the end; 23:23 Beauty in man-made creation; 38:51 A Babaji production; 52:04 Looking Ahead. Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 34 to: “As I remained silent in awe, my guide made a sweeping gesture…” to “...Put your hand there and receive whatever food you desire.” #autobiographyofayogi #autobiographylinebyline #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS

  • June 25 · 39 min

    Autobiography Chapter 34, Part 2: Mahavatar Babaji is waiting for us to return

    This episode covers the next part of chapter 34 to: “As I maintained a bewildered silence, the saint approached...” to “‘The hour is midnight.’ My guide laughed softly...” This section of the chapter focuses on the meeting between Lahiri Mahashaya and Mahavar Babaji in the Himalayas. The conversation centred on a profound reunion where Babaji touched Lahiri Mahasaya's forehead, triggering the recall of past lifetime memories. We explored the spiritual significance of this meeting, drawing parallels to Krishna's relationship with Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita, and discussed how Babaji had been watching over Lahiri Mahasaya across lifetimes with "deathless love". 00:00 Introduction; 1:00 Prior Episode 2:30 The touch that awakens 10:00 A love beyond death; 30:10 You need purification; 37:10 A light at midnight; 38:00 Looking Ahead Links discussed in the episode: Dunagiri to Gogash River: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NwTVrqP8RngiguGX7 Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 34 to: “Yonder light is the glow of a golden palace...” to “...When this structure has served its purpose, Babaji will dematerialise it.’ #autobiographyofayogi #autobiographylinebyline #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS

  • June 17 · 55 min

    Autobiography Chapter 34, Part 1: The office was made for you, and not you for the office

    This episode covers the start of chapter 34 to: “... Lahiri, surely this cave seems familiar to you?” Summary: The chapter focusses on the miraculous story of Lahiri Mahashaya's meeting with his guru Mahavatar Babaji in the Himalayas, one of the most significant spiritual initiations in the book. We examine how Lahiri Mahasaya's journey from his accounting job to meeting Babaji involved multiple coincidental elements, including the location near Ranikhet Nanda Devi peak and the timing of his encounter with the voice calling his name. The group analyse Babaji's explanation of how unity consciousness allows gurus to work through all minds as transmitting stations. 0:00 Introduction; 1:48 Expectations from the Chapter; 5:20 Setting of the scene; 20:00 While out roaming your hear your name; 34:45 The meeting of meetings; 46:00 I remember; 55:00 Looking Ahead. Links discussed in the episode: Dunagiri: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qrdvxeh8G4qTtJHHA https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nanda_Devi https://yogananda.com.au/gurus/yoganandaquotes06.html https://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/56341262 Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 34 to: “As I maintained a bewildered silence, the saint approached...” to “‘The hour is midnight.’ My guide laughed softly...” #autobiographyofayogi #autobiographylinebyline #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS

  • June 11 · 1 hr 17 min

    Autobiography Chapter 33, Part 4: Babaji’s immortal promise

    This episode covers the last part of chapter 33 from: “During my visit at Ranbajpur with Ram Gopal…” to the end of the chapter. Summary: This last part of the chapter covers Ram Gopal's significant meeting with Babaji and Mataji near Dashashwamedh Ghat in Benaras (Varanasi). We examined the supernatural elements of the encounter, including the appearance of light beings and the manifestation of Babaji's physical form, as well as the philosophical implications of Babaji's promise to remain physically present on Earth. We analyse the spiritual significance of bowing and reverence in Hindu tradition, discussed cross-references to Greek philosophy and biblical texts, and explored the concept of masters maintaining physical forms for specific missions. They also considered the broader implications of the chapter's themes about immortality, maya (cosmic delusion), and the nature of spiritual existence. 0:00 Introduction; 1:15 Prior Episode; 2:20 Mataji; 9:15 Flying without wings; 26:15 Immortal promise; 42:40 Coming back down to earth; 1:01:40 Epic footnote; 1:10:40 Reflections on the chapter. Links discussed in the episode: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dashashwamedh_Ghat https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thales_of_Miletus https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chiranjivi?wprov=sfla1 Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the start of chapter 34 to: “...releasing the sweet seed-memories of my previous life.” #autobiographyofayogi #autobiographylinebyline #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS

  • June 4 · 56 min

    Autobiography Chapter 33, Part 3: “Jump then”—the most chilling words spoken. Ever.

    This episode covers the next part of chapter 33 from : “Two amazing incidents of Babaji’s life are known to me…” to “…the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me”. Summary: This section of the chapter covers two dramatic stories about Mahavatar Babaji and his group of Himalayan disciples. We examined how Babaji intervened to help his devotees overcome their karma through challenging tests. The discussion included insights about karma, the nature of an avatar's omnipresence, and how Babaji maintains a physical form to serve as a concrete example of humanity's spiritual possibilities. The episode concluded with an analysis of the famous sketch of Mahavatar Babaji used on SRF altars worldwide, discussing the powerful presence and beauty captured in the image, and setting up the next episode to cover Babaji's eternal promise to remain in physical form. 0:00 Introduction; 1:30 Fire related injury; 12:20 Dera Danda Uthau; 34:50 The nature of an avatar; 47:47 The most significant picture ever drawn; 46:30 Looking Ahead. Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the last part of chapter 33 from: “During my visit at Ranbajpur with Ram Gopal…” 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

  • May 27 · 50 min

    Autobiography Chapter 33, Part 2: Krishna, Rama and Buddha

    This episode covers the next part of chapter 33 from : “Krishna, Rama, Buddha, and Patanjali were among the ancient Indian avatars…” to “…he occasionally accepts fruits, or rice cooked in milk and clarified butter”. Summary: This episode uncovers more about Mahavatar Babaji, described as the deathless yogi of the Himalayas who has guided spiritual history throughout centuries. We discuss Babaji's role as a great avatar who works in communion with Christ, and the other avatars including Krishna, Rama, Buddha, and Patanjali, as well as Agastya. The discussion included details about Babaji's physical appearance, habits, and his mission to assist prophets in carrying out special dispensations, while emphasizing that Babaji remains in humble obscurity to avoid misinterpretation and public scrutiny. 0:00 Introduction; 0:50 Prior Episode; 2:30 Avatars; 14:00 Babaji’s mission; 27:30 Babaji's form; 46:30 Looking Ahead. Links discussed in this episode: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dashavatara https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shesha https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saptarshi https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agastya https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nattatreeswarar_Temple Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 33 from: “Two amazing incidents of Babaji’s life are known to me…” to “…the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me”. #autobiographyofayogi #autobiographylinebyline #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS

  • May 19 · 44 min

    Autobiography Chapter 33, Part 1: Mahavatar Babaji

    This episode covers the start of chapter 33 to: “…could Christ indeed be followed except in the overarching Spirit?” Summary: The meeting focused on discussing Chapter 33 of "Autobiography of a Yogi" by Paramahansa Yogananda, which introduces the character of Babaji. The participants, including Chris, Priyank, Michael, and Lauren, explored Babaji's significance as an avatar, his mysterious presence in the Himalayas, and his connections to other spiritual masters like Jesus and Omar Khayyam. They examined Yogananda's interpretation of Omar Khayyam's poetry and its spiritual meaning, discussing how Western interpretations often miss the deeper mystical content. The group also touched on the concept of avatars and different levels of spiritual liberation, including the terms Siddha, Jivan Mukta, and Paramukta as described in the text. The discussion concluded with a preview of upcoming episodes that would delve deeper into Babaji's mission and experiences. 0:00 Introduction; 3:09 Expectations from the chapter; 9:22 Mahavatar Babaji; 26:05 Rubaiyat and Omar Khayyam; 39:30 Freedom; 43:30 Looking Ahead. Links discussed in this episode: https://www.holydham.com/stories-related-to-badrinath/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dashavatara Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 33 from: “Krishna, Rama, Buddha, and Patanjali were among the ancient Indian avatars…” to “…he occasionally accepts fruits, or rice cooked in milk and clarified butter”. #autobiographyofayogi #autobiographylinebyline #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS

  • May 12 · 1 hr 17 min

    Autobiography Chapter 32, Part 4: Shyama Charan Lahiri Mahasaya

    This episode covers last part of chapter 32 from: “Very scanty information about the life of Lahiri Mahasaya and his universal doctrine…” to the end of the chapter. Summary: The last section of chapter 33 focuses on the biography of Lahiri Mahasaya. We explore the details about Lahiri Mahasaya's life, including his birth in 1828, his traditional Brahmin upbringing, and his eventual meeting with his guru Babaji in the Himalayas at age 33, which marked the revival of Kriya Yoga. The discussion included insights about Hindu traditions, spiritual practices, and the symbolic connections between the Ganges river and the flow of Kriya Yoga into the world. The episode concluded with reflections on how Guruji's storytelling conveys profound spiritual truths in an engaging way, setting the stage for the upcoming chapter about Mahavatar Babaji. 0:00 Prior Episode; 1:47 Swami Satyananda; 4:45 Yoga in the West; 12:15 Shyam Charan Lahiri; 42:10 Material wealth; 53:30 The whole picture of Lahiri Mahasaya; 1:02:05 Ganga and Bhagirath; 1:12:15 Reflections on the chapter. Links discussed in this episode: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satyananda_Giri https://www.yoganiketan.net/historical-books/scriptural-commentaries/ Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the start of chapter 33 to: “…could Christ indeed be followed except in the overarching Spirit?” #autobiographyofayogi #autobiographylinebyline #paramahansayogananda Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India #SRF #YSS

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