God Alone Is The Truth – Sri Ramakrishna Explains - Influence Of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa In Indian Freedom Movement

A question that is commonly asked is: ‘If God exists, why we cannot see him?’ For this, Sri Ramakrishna’s reply is simple: ‘You cannot see God during the days of your ignorance, just as you cannot see the stars in the sky during day-time, even though they do exist.’ Not only does he exist he is the only truth that exists!

Does that mean that the world in which we live, move and have our being is unreal?

It is unreal if satya or reality is defined as something which never changes, unaffected by three aspects of time past, present and future. Compared to that, this world is ephemeral, constantly changing, and hence unreal.

Good God! Then, how can we, or how should we, live?

Sri Ramakrishna says: ‘Live like the maid-servant in her master’s house. Though she apparently treats the children of her master as her own, she knows in her heart of hearts, that they are not. Her own children live in her ancestral village’.

Another example he gives is: ‘The boat can be in the water, but, water should not be in the boat!’ Live in the world in a detached manner, never allowing worldliness emotional attachment to overwhelm you.

Perform all your duties as best as you can, but leave the results to God.

Influence Of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa In Indian Freedom Movement

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa (1836 – 1886 CE), a 19th-century Indian mystic and spiritual leader, indirectly influenced the Indian freedom movement through his teachings and the organization founded by his disciple Swami Vivekananda. While Ramakrishna himself did not directly engage in political activities, his teachings had a profound impact on the minds of many individuals who later became prominent figures in the freedom struggle.

Here's how Sri Ramakrishna's influence manifested in the Indian freedom movement:

Spiritual Awakening: Sri Ramakrishna's teachings emphasized the universality of spiritual truths and the harmony of religions. His message of religious tolerance and acceptance inspired many individuals to rise above sectarian divides and work towards the greater good of society. This spiritual awakening played a significant role in fostering a sense of unity among Indians during the freedom struggle.

Education and Social Service: The Ramakrishna Mission, established by Swami Vivekananda, aimed at the holistic development of individuals and the upliftment of society through education, healthcare, and humanitarian services. The Mission's emphasis on education empowered countless Indians with knowledge and skills, enabling them to participate more effectively in the struggle for freedom.

Ethical Leadership: Sri Ramakrishna's emphasis on moral integrity and selfless service influenced many leaders of the freedom movement. Figures such as Mahatma Gandhi and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose were inspired by the ideals of truth, non-violence, and sacrifice, which were integral to Ramakrishna's teachings.

Cultural Revival: Sri Ramakrishna's teachings played a role in the revival of India's cultural and spiritual heritage, which became a rallying point for the freedom movement. The rediscovery of India's rich cultural heritage instilled a sense of pride and self-confidence among Indians, motivating them to assert their identity and demand independence from colonial rule.

Inspiration for Reform Movements: Sri Ramakrishna's inclusive approach to spirituality and his message of social reform inspired various reform movements within Indian society. These movements, aimed at addressing social injustices and inequalities, contributed to the broader social awakening that fueled the struggle for independence.

While Sri Ramakrishna himself did not actively participate in the political sphere, his teachings and the institutions inspired by him played a significant role in shaping the intellectual, moral, and spiritual climate of the time, which in turn influenced the course of the Indian freedom movement.