Philosophy  Swami Vivekananda’s Neo-Vedanta FAQs  FAQ
What were some of the key influences on Swami Vivekananda's philosophy of Neo-Vedanta?

Swami Vivekananda's philosophy of Neo-Vedanta was heavily influenced by his upbringing, education, and exposure to various spiritual and philosophical traditions. Some of the key influences on his philosophy include the Advaita Vedanta school of Hinduism, the teachings of his guru Sri Ramakrishna, Western philosophy and science, and his own personal experiences.

One of the major influences on Swami Vivekananda's philosophy was the Advaita Vedanta school of Hinduism. This school of thought, which is based on the Upanishads and the Brahma Sutras, emphasizes the concept of non-dualism, or the idea that the individual self (Atman) is identical to the universal self (Brahman). Swami Vivekananda was deeply inspired by this idea and saw it as the foundation of all spiritual and philosophical inquiry.

Another important influence on Swami Vivekananda's philosophy was his guru Sri Ramakrishna. Sri Ramakrishna was a highly realized saint who practiced and taught various spiritual traditions, including Vedanta, Tantra, and Bhakti. Swami Vivekananda was deeply influenced by his guru's teachings and saw him as the embodiment of the highest spiritual ideals.

In addition to his Indian influences, Swami Vivekananda was also greatly influenced by Western philosophy and science. He was well-versed in the works of Western thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, Kant, and Hegel, and was able to integrate their ideas into his own philosophy. He also studied science and was fascinated by the discoveries and advancements of the modern world.

However, Swami Vivekananda did not blindly adopt Western ideas. He believed in the importance of critical thinking and encouraged his followers to question and analyze all philosophies, including his own. He saw the integration of Eastern and Western thought as essential for the progress of humanity.

Finally, Swami Vivekananda's own personal experiences, including his spiritual practices and interactions with people from different backgrounds, played a significant role in shaping his philosophy. He traveled extensively, both in India and abroad, and was exposed to different cultures and religions. These experiences helped him to develop a universal and inclusive approach to spirituality, which is evident in his teachings.

In conclusion, Swami Vivekananda's philosophy of Neo-Vedanta was a result of a combination of various influences. His deep understanding of Advaita Vedanta, his guru's teachings, his knowledge of Western philosophy and science, and his personal experiences all contributed to the development of his unique and modern interpretation of Vedanta. His philosophy continues to inspire people all over the world and remains relevant in today's society.