Swami Vivekananda himself conceptualized the emblem of Ramakrishna Mission, beautifully depicting the synthesis of four yoga’s (holistic spirituality), the practice of which will lead to spiritual unfoldment.
“The wavy waters in the picture are symbolic of Karma, the lotus of Bhakti, and the rising-sun of Jnana. The encircling serpent is indicative of Yoga and awakened Kundalini Shakti, while the swan in the picture stands for Paramatman. Therefore, the ideal of the picture is that by the union of Karma, Jnana, Bhakti and Yoga, the vision of the Paramatman is obtained”.
-Swami Vivekananda
The Ideal
Swami Vivekananda has stated that the ideal of Ramakrishna Mission is ‘Atmano mokshartham jagad hitaya cha’ (For one’s own salvation and for the welfare of the world).
This is achieved by following the teachings of Vedanta philosophy which are simplified and made practical through the life and teachings of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda. It does not deal with the occult or the sensational and offers no easy shortcuts.
The message of Ramakrishna-Vivekananda is impersonal and rational. It is not a creed but includes all creeds and maintains that they are different expressions of one truth. Therefore all are welcome. Though the services rendered are free of charge, free will donations are accepted.