Embark on a transformative journey with the timeless wisdom of Paramahansa Yogananda. These 50 handpicked quotes from the revered spiritual master offer profound insights into the nature of existence, the power of the mind, and the eternal quest for self-realization. Let his words be a beacon, guiding you towards a life of greater peace, purpose, and joy.
Paramahansa Yogananda, the author of the spiritual classic Autobiography of a Yogi, was a pivotal figure in introducing the ancient teachings of yoga and meditation to the Western world. His words, imbued with a unique blend of practicality and profound spirituality, continue to resonate with seekers from all walks of life. Whether you are a seasoned spiritual practitioner or simply curious about the deeper dimensions of life, these quotes offer a wellspring of inspiration and guidance.
On the Nature of Reality and Self-Realization
At the core of Yogananda’s teachings lies the concept of self-realization – the direct, experiential knowing of our true, divine nature. These quotes invite us to look beyond the transient illusions of the material world and connect with the eternal reality within.
- “You are not this body, which will perish. You are the immortal soul.”
- “The wave is the same as the ocean, though it is not the whole ocean. So each wave of creation is a part of the eternal Ocean of Spirit.”
- “Self-realization is the knowing in all parts of body, mind, and soul that you are now in possession of the kingdom of God.”
- “The true basis of religion is not belief, but intuitive experience. Intuition is the soul’s power of knowing God.”
- “You must not let your life run in the ordinary way; do something that nobody else has done, something that will dazzle the world. Show that God’s creative principle works in you.”
- “We are what we think we are. The chains of our own making bind us.”
- “Stillness is the altar of Spirit.”
- “Man’s eternal quest is the search for happiness. But he seeks it in the wrong place, in the world of the senses.”
- “You have the power to create your own heaven or hell.”
- “The season of failure is the best time for sowing the seeds of success.”
On the Power of the Mind and Meditation
Yogananda emphasized the immense power of the human mind and the transformative practice of meditation as the key to unlocking our full potential.
- “The mind is the architect of your destiny.”
- “Meditation is the science of God-realization.”
- “By the practice of meditation, you will find that you are carrying within your heart a portable paradise.”
- “The deeper you go within, the more you will feel the presence of God.”
- “Concentration is the magic key that opens the door to the treasure-house of the Infinite.”
- “Your thoughts are the blueprints of your life.”
- “The greatest battle is the battle of the senses.”
- “Calmness is the living breath of God’s immortality in you.”
- “Change your thoughts if you wish to change your circumstances.”
- “Through the portals of silence, the healing presence of God flows into you.”
On Love, Compassion, and Relationships
Love, in its purest, most expansive form, was a central theme in Yogananda’s teachings. He encouraged the cultivation of a love that transcends personal attachments and embraces all of creation.
- “To love those who love you is natural. To love those who do not love you is supernatural.”
- “The more you love, the more you will feel the presence of God.”
- “Friendship is the highest form of love.”
- “Kindness is the light that dissolves all walls between souls, families, and nations.”
- “In the soil of compassion, the sweetest flowers of love grow.”
- “Let my soul smile through my heart and my heart smile through my eyes, that I may scatter rich smiles in sad hearts.”
- “There is a magnet in your heart that will attract true friends. That magnet is unselfishness, thinking of others first; when you learn to live for others, they will live for you.”
- “The vibration of loving-kindness is the most powerful force in the universe.”
- “To be a channel of God’s love is the greatest of all blessings.”
- “Love is the ultimate law of life.”
On Living a Balanced and Fulfilling Life
Yogananda’s wisdom extends to the practical aspects of daily living, offering guidance on how to navigate the challenges of the world with grace and inner strength.
- “Live each present moment completely and the future will take care of itself.”
- “Be as simple as you can be; you will be astonished to see how uncomplicated and happy your life can become.”
- “The power of unfulfilled desires is the root of all man’s slavery.”
- “Work for the joy of it, not for the fruit of it.”
- “Environment is stronger than willpower.”
- “It is not your passing thoughts or brilliant ideas but your everyday habits that control your life.”
- “Possession of material riches, without inner peace, is like dying of thirst while bathing in a lake.”
- “Health is the greatest wealth. Peace of mind is the greatest happiness.”
- “Patience and perseverance are the two most important qualities for success in the spiritual life.”
- “Be ever-rejoicing. Your joy is a gift to the world.”
On Faith, Devotion, and Surrender
Ultimately, Yogananda’s teachings lead to a state of profound faith and loving surrender to the Divine.
- “The deeper the self-realization of a man, the more he influences the whole universe by his subtle spiritual vibrations, and the less he himself is affected by the phenomenal flux.”
- “God is the whisper of the breeze, the intelligence of the atom, the love that is in every heart.”
- “The secret of success is to tune in to the cosmic will.”
- “I am a spark from the flame of God. I am a wave on the ocean of Spirit. I am a child of the Infinite.”
- “The bird of paradise is not to be caught by the net of logic.”
- “Sing songs that none have sung, think thoughts that ne’er in the brain have rung, walk in paths that none have trod, weep tears as none have shed for God.”
- “Make me a channel of Thy peace.”
- “In the silence of your soul, you will find the answers you seek.”
- “Let God be the polestar of your life.”
- “Having found the Divine Beloved, you will realize that He is the only reality, and that all other things are but dreams.”
May these timeless words of Paramahansa Yogananda serve as a source of enduring inspiration on your spiritual journey. Share them with those you love and let their wisdom illuminate the path to a more conscious and fulfilling life.