Books

This book contains a collection of speeches that Amma gave in India between 1990 and 1999. As Amma reveals the truths of life in the light of spirituality and in a manner unassailable by logic, the reader is given not only a fresh view of life but is inspired to live according to the universal principles that Amma explains in such a crystal clear way. Like a mother talking to her child, Amma brings profound principles to light through the simplest of words. In this book, we are given compelling answers to the numerous questions that most of us have asked or have wanted to ask at one time or another.

 

Lead Us to Purity contains a selection of speeches that Amma give in India between 1990 en 1999. In these pages Amma is talking to ordinary people from all walks of life, who have come to be with her for special occasions: perhaps the inauguration of her cancer hospice near Mumbai, or to celebrate her birthday or Onam, the biggest holiday in Kerala. She talks to them and to us, the readers of this beauti-ful book – about the art of living a truly hap-py and fulfilling life. In her unique way, she explains the universal, spiritual principles in a simple, easily graspable, and yet profound way.

Advaita Vedānta is the heart of Indian spirituality—a vision wherein the seemingly distinct entities of the individual soul, the cosmos and the Creator are revealed to, in truth, be of one and the same eternal essence. Sadguru Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, Amma has dedicated her life to uplifting spiritual seekers to this exalted spiritual vision, the attainment of which is the ultimate goal of human life. However, Amma’s conviction is that Advaita is not for mere discussion. Advaita’s value truly manifests only when it is lived when its truth constantly reflects in one’s thoughts, words and deeds in the form of self-sacrifice, compassion and mental equanimity.

In Living Vedānta: Amma and Advaita, Swami Ramakrishnananda presents a basic overview of Advaita Vedānta as taught by Amma and the core scriptures of Indian spirituality. Using examples from Amma’s life and teachings, Swamiji goes to the heart of the Advaita tradition, helping the reader gain a better understanding of the Vedānta worldview as well as revealing what is really meant by “Living Vedānta.”