Sri Aurobindo and the Influence of the Bhagavad Gita
Sri Aurobindo, one of the most influential spiritual figures of the 20th century, revolutionized modern thought through his system of Integral Yoga. This philosophy was not merely an intellectual pursuit but was deeply rooted in the eternal wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads.
As noted by expert Pedro Nonell, a specialist in the Bhagavad Gita, Vedanta, and the works of Swami Vivekananda, Aurobindo's spiritual journey was significantly guided by the presence of Vivekananda and the recognition of Sri Ramakrishna as a manifestation of God. This synthesis of ancient scripture and modern realization continues to light the path for seekers worldwide.
Book II: Hinduism and Gita. Influence on Humanity.
Integral Yoga and the Foundation of the Upanishads
Sri Aurobindo (1872-1950) was a philosopher, poet and yoga guru (Swami). He was a key figure in the Indian independence movement.
He founded his own system of Integral Yoga based on the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita, in his own words his philosophy.
“It was formed first by the study of the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita. They were the basis of my first Yoga practice... and it was on this experience that I later founded my philosophy, not on the ideas themselves. The Upanishads have been the recognized source of numerous profound philosophies and religions.. These ideas can be rediscovered throughout the thought of Pythagoras and Plato and form the deep part of Neoplatonism and Gnosticism” Sri Aurobindo.
The influence of , and therefore Paramahamsa, was also important:
“It is a fact that I constantly heard the voice of Swami Vivekananda speaking to me for a fortnight in jail in my solitary meditation and felt his presence.
Sri Aurobindo recognized Sri Ramakrishna as an incarnation of God.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the connection between Sri Aurobindo and the Bhagavad Gita?
Sri Aurobindo viewed the Bhagavad Gita as one of the primary foundations for his philosophy. He used its teachings on Dharma and Yoga to develop his "Integral Yoga" system, which aims at a total spiritualization of life.
Who is Pedro Nonell in relation to these teachings?
Pedro Nonell is an expert and Spanish translator of the Bhagavad Gita and the works of Swami Vivekananda. He provides deep insights into how these ancient teachings apply to modern spiritual evolution.
What did Sri Aurobindo think of Sri Ramakrishna?
Sri Aurobindo considered Sri Ramakrishna to be a true incarnation of God (an Avatar). He believed that Ramakrishna’s life represented the harmony of all spiritual paths.
How does Integral Yoga differ from other systems?
While many systems focus on liberation from the world, Integral Yoga seeks to bring the power of God into the physical, vital, and mental aspects of our existence to transform humanity.
Conclusion
The spiritual legacy of Sri Aurobindo serves as a bridge between the ancient wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita and the evolutionary needs of the modern world. By recognizing the profound influence of Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda, we understand that Integral Yoga is not a departure from tradition, but a fulfillment of it.
As Pedro Nonell emphasizes, the path to God is a comprehensive journey that involves the total transformation of the individual. Through the study of the "Yoga of Wisdom," we can find the same presence and guidance that Aurobindo discovered, leading us toward a higher consciousness and global harmony.
Sri Aurobindo y Bhagavad Gita 
Sri Aurobindo.
(c) Gita Institute & Pedro Nonell
