Teachings of Ramakrishna and Vivekananda
To truly grasp the depth of the Bhagavad Gita, one must look through the lens of those who lived its truths in the modern era. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and his chief disciple, Swami Vivekananda, provide the essential keys to unlocking the Gita’s spiritual science.
Spanish expert Pedro Nonell—a dedicated translator and scholar—explores how Ramakrishna’s message of religious harmony and Vivekananda’s practical Vedanta transform the Gita from an ancient text into a living guide for the realization of God.
By integrating the paths of Bhakti (devotion), Jnana (knowledge), and Karma (action), these masters bridge the gap between ancient Eastern wisdom and the contemporary Western mind.
How to study the Bhagavad Gita
The teachings of Ramakrishna and Vivekananda, will allow you to understand the Bhagavad Gita
The teachings of these two spiritual teachers, Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda, will allow you to better understand the profound message of the Bhagavad Gita, Vedanta and delve even deeper into their teachings on the philosophy of Yoga.
Sri Ramakrishna
(Calcutta, 1836-1886) is perhaps one of the most important spiritual teachers of humanity in recent centuries. His message of peace and, above all, that all religions are valid (principle of harmony between religions: religions are different paths to God, but they are not God), are laying the foundations for a new global ethic.
Ramakrishna mainly followed Bhakti Yoga: The Yoga of Devotion, although inside he was all Jnana (Knowledge)
Course: Realization of the Bhagavad Gita
was greatly influenced by Vedanta and therefore by the Bhagavad Gita. Sri Ramakrishna laid the foundation for Indian spiritual renaissance and notably influenced many Swamis. Gandhi considered him an incarnation of God.
Swami Vivekananda
Swami Vivekananda (1863-1902), Swamiji, was a Hindu monk and chief disciple of Sri Ramakrishna. He was a key figure in the introduction of Vedanta and yoga to the West, the renewal of Hinduism, as well as the development of the idea of nationalism in colonial India.
At the first Parliament of the World's Religions (Chicago 1893), Swami Vivekananda gave a speech that is still remembered and considered fundamental in the dialogue between religions.
He created the Ramakrishna Math and the Ramakrishna Mission with the aim of maintaining the eternal principles of Vedanta, lived and experienced by Sri Ramakrishna and expounded by Swami Vivekananda. Today they manage around 1,200 educational institutions (universities, faculties, polytechnic schools) and medical services (14 hospitals, 116 dispensaries...).
His ideology has three characteristics:
- It is modern, in the sense that the ancient principles of Vedanta have been expressed in modern language
- It is universal, that is, it is intended for all humanity
- It is practical, in the sense that its principles can be applied in everyday life to solve life's problems
Swami Vivekananda gave a new philosophy of work for the modern World based on the principles of the Bhagavad Gita.
India's National Youth Day, also known as Vivekananda Jayanti, has been celebrated since 1984 on January 12 in all Indian universities and colleges, the birthday of Swami Vivekananda.
Additionally, we have included teachings from Swami Sarvapriyananda, a Sannyasin director of the New York Vedanta Society of the Ramakrishna Order. He is one of the most renowned experts on the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do Ramakrishna’s teachings help in understanding the Gita?
Sri Ramakrishna emphasized that "all religions are different paths to the same God." This mirrors the Gita's message of universal truth. He taught that the essence of the Gita is "Renunciation" (Tyaga), helping seekers focus on spiritual realization over material attachment.
What was Swami Vivekananda’s contribution to the Bhagavad Gita's global reach?
Swami Vivekananda was the first to bring Yoga and Vedanta to the West at the 1893 Parliament of Religions. He interpreted the Gita as a call to "strength" and "fearlessness," presenting a practical philosophy of work (Karma Yoga) that empowers individuals to manifest their inner divinity.
Can these teachings be applied by people of all religions?
Yes. As Pedro Nonell highlights, the ideology of the Ramakrishna Mission is universal and non-dogmatic. It focuses on the common spiritual heritage of humanity, making the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita accessible to anyone seeking peace and self-knowledge, regardless of their background.
Conclusion
The spiritual renaissance of India, led by Ramakrishna and Vivekananda, has left an indelible mark on how the world perceives the Bhagavad Gita. Their teachings remind us that spirituality is not about dogma, but about the practical realization of the Self.
Through the courses and insights provided by Pedro Nonell, students can explore this "Spiritual Science" to find harmony in a chaotic world. By following the "Four Paths of Yoga" as lived by these masters, we move closer to the ultimate goal: the manifest divinity within ourselves and the service of God in all beings.
Enseñanzas
de Ramakrishna y Vivekananda 
Ensinamentos
de Ramakrishna e Vivekananda.
Listen to the video of Pedro Nonell with English subtitles
Versions, Para-Vidya, Self-Knowledge, General overview, modalities, Study guide, chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, Online Training, reading, one to one
Exercises, Teachers, transmission of the Bhagavad Gita, Should we believe in something?, dogmas
(c) Gita Institute & Pedro Nonell
