Swami Vivekananda Speech In Chicago
Swami Vivekananda's speech in Chicago was nothing short of extraordinary, leaving an indelible mark on the world stage.
As the first Indian monk to address the Parliament of the World's Religions in 1893, his powerful words resonated with an unparalleled essence of spirituality and enlightenment. With a mesmerizing presence and a captivating discourse, he introduced the world to the profound wisdom of Hinduism, showcasing a harmonious blend of inclusivity and universal brotherhood.
Join me as we delve into the remarkable significance and timeless relevance of Swami Vivekananda's historic speech in Chicago, a testament to the enduring power of his visionary ideals.
Swami Vivekananda speech in Chicago
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Swami Vivekananda speech in Chicago
It fills my heart with joy unspeakable to rise in response to the warm and cordial welcome which you have given us. I thank you in the name of the most ancient order of monks in the world; I thank you in the name of the mother of religions; My thanks, also, to some of the speakers on this platform who referring to the delegates from the Orient, have told you that these men from far-off nations may well claim the honor of bearing to different lands the idea of toleration.
I thank you in the name of millions and millions of Hindu people of all classes and sects. My thanks, also, to some of the speakers on this platform who, referring to the delegates from the Orient, have told you that these men from far-off nations may well claim the honor of bearing to different lands the idea of toleration.
I am proud to belong to a religion which has taught the world both tolerance and universal acceptance. We believe not only in universal toleration, but we accept all religions as true. I am proud to belong to a nation which has sheltered the persecuted and the refugees of all religions and all nations of the earth. I am proud to tell you that we have gathered in our bosom the purest remnant of the Israelites, who came to Southern India and took refuge with us in the very year. In which their holy temple was shattered to pieces by Roman tyranny. I am proud to belong to the religion which has sheltered and is still fostering remnant Zoroastrian nation.
I will quote to you, brethren, a few lines from hymn which I remember to have repeated from my earliest boyhood, which is every day repeated by millions of human beings, "As the different streams having their sources indifferent places all mingle their water in the sea, so, O Lord, the different paths which men take through different tendencies, various though they appear, crooked or straight, all lead to Thee.”
The present convention, which is one of the most august assemblies ever held, is in itself vindication, a declaration to the world of the wonderful doctrine preached in the Gita, “Whosoever comes to me, through whatsoever form, I reach him; all men are struggling through paths which in the end lead to me."
Sectarianism, bigotry, and it’s horrible descendant, fanaticism, have long possessed this beautiful earth. They have filled the earth with violence, drenched it often and often with human blood, destroyed civilization and sent whole nations to despair. Had it not been for these horrible demons, human society would bear more advanced than it is now. But their time is come; and I fervently hope that the bell that tolled this morning in honor of this convention may be the death-knell of all fanaticism, of all persecutions with the sword or with the pen, and of all uncharitable feelings between persons wending their way to the same goal.
Final Thoughts
Swami Vivekananda's landmark speech in Chicago was a momentous occasion in history where he effectively illuminated the principles of Hinduism and spiritual unity amidst a diverse and global audience.
Vivekananda's groundbreaking speech not only left an indelible mark on the Parliament of World Religions but also paved the way for interfaith dialogue, understanding, and respect, highlighting the importance of embracing diversity and fostering unity in our increasingly interconnected global community.
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