The Vedanta Philosophy

An Address Before the Graduate Philosophical Society of Harvard University March 25, 1896

By: Swami Vivekananda

Narrated by: Russell Stamets

The Swami Vivekananda was sent by his friends and co-religionists to present their belief at the Congress of Religions that was held in connection with the World’s Fair in Chicago. This he did in a way to win general interest and admiration. Since then he has lectured on the same theme in different parts of our country. He has been in fact a missionary from India to America. Everywhere he has made warm personal friends; and his expositions of Hindu philosophy have been listened to with delight. It is very pleasant to observe the eager interest with which his own people in India follow his course, and the joy that they take in his success. I have seen a pamphlet filled with speeches made at a large and influential meeting in Calcutta, which was called together to express enthusiastic approval of the manner in which he has fulfilled his mission and satisfaction at this invasion of the West by oriental thought.

Public Domain (P)2022 Russell Stamets

Great talk on general Vedanta

A great input on the general view of Vedanta and other Vedic studies, and the nature of our own existence.

Bad Narration of a Great Book

The book itself is absolutely remarkable, a true treasure of insight and wisdom. The content is deeply enriching, with a wealth of knowledge that makes it a must-read (or in this case, a must-listen) for anyone interested in understanding the depths of this epic.

However, the narration was nothing short of a disaster. It’s clear that no research was done on the correct pronunciations, especially with the Sanskrit terms, which are central to the work. The narrator’s mispronunciations make many sentences almost incomprehensible, detracting significantly from the experience. Instead of enhancing the journey through this profound text, the narration disrupts it, showing a lack of respect for the language and its intricacies. It’s unfortunate that such a powerful work was diminished by a careless approach to narration.

Despite this, I would still recommend reading the book itself. It’s a masterpiece, filled with amazing insights, but in this case, I’d strongly advise against the audiobook.

Technically astute and stimulating.

Vivakanada brings points and perspectives that help aid the mind to a higher state of awareness. Still poignant 100 years later.