“Autobiography of a Yogi” by Paramahansa Yogananda: A Spiritual Classic

“Autobiography of a Yogi” by Paramahansa Yogananda is a spiritual classic that has inspired readers around the world since its publication in 1946. The book is a profound narrative that combines Yogananda’s life story with deep spiritual teachings, emphasizing the importance of Kriya Yoga and recounting numerous mystical experiences.

Background and Structure

The book is structured into 49 chapters, each detailing different aspects of Yogananda’s life, spiritual journey, and encounters with various saints and sages. The narrative is both chronological and thematic, starting from his early years and progressing through his spiritual awakening, training under his guru, and his mission to spread the teachings of Kriya Yoga in the West.

Born Mukunda Lal Ghosh in 1893 in Gorakhpur, India, Yogananda exhibited a strong inclination towards spirituality from a young age. His early years were marked by numerous mystical experiences, such as visions of divine beings and out-of-body experiences, which deepened his quest for spiritual knowledge. Reflecting on his childhood, Yogananda writes:

“The characteristic features of Indian culture have always been a search for ultimate verities and the concomitant disciple-guru relationship.”

These experiences set the stage for his lifelong pursuit of self-realization.

The Role of Sri Yukteswar

A significant turning point in Yogananda’s life was meeting his guru, Swami Sri Yukteswar, in Varanasi. Sri Yukteswar provided Yogananda with rigorous training in spiritual disciplines, particularly Kriya Yoga. Yogananda vividly describes the first meeting with his guru:

“We entered a oneness of silence; words seemed the rankest superfluities. Eloquence flowed in soundless chant from heart of master to disciple.”

Under Sri Yukteswar’s guidance, Yogananda delved deeply into meditation and ancient spiritual practices, gaining insights that would define his life’s mission.

What is Kriya Yoga?

According to Yogananda, Kriya Yoga is:

“A simple, psychophysiological method by which human blood is decarbonized and recharged with oxygen. The atoms of this extra oxygen are transmuted into life current to rejuvenate the brain and spinal centers.”

This ancient meditation technique combines specific breathing exercises with concentration practices, designed to harmonize body, mind, and soul. Yogananda emphasizes that Kriya Yoga is a universal spiritual discipline that transcends religious boundaries, offering a practical path to spiritual enlightenment. He writes:

“The ancient yogis discovered that the secret of cosmic consciousness is intimately linked with the breath mastery.”

He further explains that consistent practice of Kriya Yoga leads to accelerated spiritual growth and inner peace.

Mystical Experiences and Lessons

Throughout the book, Yogananda recounts numerous mystical experiences that highlight the extraordinary potential of spiritual practice:

• Resurrection of Sri Yukteswar: Yogananda describes how his guru appeared to him in a physical form after his death, explaining the nature of the astral and causal worlds. In this encounter, Sri Yukteswar revealed:

“Death is only an experience through which you are meant to learn a great lesson: you cannot die.”

• Healing Miracles: Instances of miraculous healings are detailed, such as curing a young boy of cholera and another person of a severe stomach ailment through prayer and laying on of hands. Yogananda writes:

“The divine realm is the sole reality; none of the miraculous healings of Jesus were performed from any other consciousness.”

• Levitation and Bi-location: Yogananda encountered saints like Nagendra Nath Bhaduri, the “Levitation Saint,” and Swami Pranabananda, who demonstrated bi-location, appearing in two places simultaneously.
• Materialization of Objects: He describes how Sri Yukteswar materialized a gold amulet and witnessed other saints producing objects from thin air, illustrating the advanced control over matter achieved through spiritual mastery.
• Telepathy and Clairvoyance: Yogananda details telepathic communications with his guru and clairvoyant visions, such as foreseeing his mother’s death. He reflects:

“Intuition is soul guidance, appearing naturally in man during those instants when his mind is calm.”

• The Perfume Saint and Control of Elements: Yogananda met Gandha Baba, the “Perfume Saint,” who could manifest fragrances, and Master Mahasaya, who had an impact on the weather through meditation.

Bringing Kriya Yoga to the West

In 1920, Yogananda traveled to America to speak at the International Congress of Religious Liberals in Boston. His teachings resonated with Western audiences, and he established the Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) in Los Angeles to disseminate the principles of Kriya Yoga and promote spiritual understanding. Reflecting on his mission, Yogananda states:

“The West has much to learn from the East, and the East has much to learn from the West. Together, they will attain the balance necessary for a harmonious civilization.”

The SRF became a center for spiritual education and practice, attracting many disciples and helping to bridge Eastern and Western spirituality.

Global Recognition

“Autobiography of a Yogi” has been widely acclaimed for its depth, authenticity, and engaging narrative. It received praise from literary critics and spiritual leaders alike. The book has been translated into numerous languages and continues to be a bestseller in the genre of spiritual literature. Notable figures such as Steve Jobs regarded it highly, reading it multiple times and gifting copies to others. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal and the profound impact of Yogananda’s teachings.

Criticism and Controversy

While widely praised, the book has also faced criticism. Some skeptics question the accuracy of Yogananda’s mystical accounts, while others argue that certain elements romanticize Indian spirituality. However, these criticisms have done little to diminish its reputation as a spiritual masterpiece.

Conclusion

“Autobiography of a Yogi” is a timeless spiritual classic that transcends cultures and religions. As Yogananda writes:

“The true basis of religion is not belief, but intuitive experience.”

Whether you are new to spirituality or a seasoned seeker, this book offers profound insights and inspiration for your journey toward self-realization.