Swami Vivekananda was a revered Hindu monk, philosopher and spiritual leader, known for his teachings on self-discovery, spiritual awakening and youth empowerment. I was celebrated for his insight.
Swami Vivekananda Jayanti is celebrated on 12th January. (Photo: Shutterstock)
Swami Vivekananda Jayanti 2025: Swami Vivekananda was a prominent Hindu monk, philosopher and spiritual leader, known for his teachings on self-realization, spiritual enlightenment and the transformative potential of youth. Swami Vivekananda JayantiCelebrated on January 12, in honor of his birthday. He was instrumental in spreading the spiritual teachings of Hinduism to the West, especially through them In 1893, a brilliant speech at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicagowhere he presented the ideals of universal brotherhood and tolerance to a global audience.
Quotes and Teachings of Swami Vivekananda
- “Arise, awake and do not stop until the goal is achieved.”
Swami Vivekananda encouraged people to achieve their goals with unwavering determination and perseverance. He believed that success comes when you persevere through obstacles and keep going, no matter how difficult the journey.
- “You can’t believe in God until you believe in yourself.”
This teaching emphasizes the importance of self-esteem as the foundation of spiritual growth. Vivekananda emphasized that true belief in a higher power can only be achieved when one recognizes one’s own strength, worth and potential.
- “In a conflict between heart and mind, follow your heart.”
Vivekananda believed that intuition and passion often lead to more fulfilling results than purely rational decisions. By following your heart, you align yourself with your true desires and purpose, leading to deeper fulfillment and authenticity.
- “The greatest sin is to think oneself weak.”
This education encourages individuals to recognize their inherent strengths and abilities. Weakness is a mindset and self-doubt is a barrier to personal growth, while recognizing one’s strengths leads to self-empowerment and growth.
- “Take risks in your life. If you win, you can lead; if you lose, you can lead.”
Swami Vivekananda advocates accepting challenges and dangers as opportunities for growth. There is wisdom to be found in failure and those who fail can provide valuable guidance to others on their journey.
- “We are what our thoughts make us. So be careful what you think.”
Our thoughts shape our actions, behaviors and ultimately our lives. Vivekananda emphasized that maintaining positive and constructive thoughts is essential to achieving success, happiness and peace in life.
- “The world is a great gymnasium where we come to strengthen ourselves.”
Life presents constant challenges that serve as opportunities to build resilience and strength. Vivekananda saw these challenges as training grounds where we grow mentally, emotionally and spiritually, just like physical exercise in the gym.
- “Be the change you want to see in the world.”
Swami Vivekananda believed that change begins with the individual. Instead of waiting for others to change, he urged people to embody the values and qualities they wanted to see in the world, thereby leading by example.
- “Strength is life, weakness is death.”
This education focuses on the importance of mental, emotional and physical strength. Vivekananda believed that true strength brings enthusiasm and vigor, while weakness, both mental and physical, leads to stagnation and missed opportunities.
- “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
Swami Vivekananda emphasized that self-realization comes through selflessness. Serving others without expectation of reward helps transcend the ego, fosters a sense of unity with the world and leads to true personal growth.