Soul of man is part of the cosmic energy that exists, which is God – Swami Vivekananda

This Self, being beyond the little universe of matter and force and thought, is a simple; and as a simple It cannot die.

That which does not die cannot live. For life and death are the obverse and reverse of the same coin. Life is another name for death, and death for life. One particular mode of manifestation is what we call life; another particular mode of manifestation of the same thing is what we call death.

When the wave rises on the top it is life; and when it falls into the hollow it is death. If anything is beyond death, we naturally see it must also be beyond life.

I must remind you of the first conclusion that the soul of man is part of the cosmic energy that exists, which is God. We now find that it is beyond life and death. You were never born, and you will never die.

Have faith in yourselves. Know that though one may be a little bubble and another may be a mountain-high wave, yet behind both the bubble and the wave there is the infinite ocean.
Swami Vivekananda

Explanation

Swami Vivekananda, a prominent Hindu monk and a key figure in the introduction of Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world, often spoke about the nature of the soul and its connection to the divine. His teachings on this subject are deeply rooted in Vedantic philosophy, which emphasizes the oneness of the individual soul (Atman) with the universal soul (Brahman).

Here's a breakdown of the statement "The soul of man is part of the cosmic energy that exists, which is God" according to Vivekananda's teachings:

Atman and Brahman: In Vedanta, Atman refers to the individual soul or self, while Brahman refers to the supreme, universal spirit or cosmic energy. Swami Vivekananda taught that these two are not separate; rather, they are one and the same. The Atman, or the individual soul, is essentially Brahman in a different form. This non-dualistic approach is a cornerstone of Advaita Vedanta.

Cosmic Energy: Vivekananda often used the term "cosmic energy" to describe the all-pervading, omnipresent force that constitutes the universe. This energy is not just physical or material; it is also spiritual. Everything in existence, including the soul of man, is a manifestation of this cosmic energy.

Divine Nature: According to Vivekananda, God is not an external, anthropomorphic entity but the very essence of existence itself. This cosmic energy, which is God, permeates all aspects of the universe, including human beings. Thus, the soul of man is intrinsically divine because it is a part of this cosmic energy.

Unity and Oneness: Vivekananda emphasized the idea of unity and oneness. He believed that realizing the true nature of the soul as part of the divine cosmic energy leads to spiritual awakening. This realization helps individuals transcend the illusion of separateness and experience the fundamental unity of all existence.

Practical Implications: Understanding that the soul is part of the cosmic energy, or God, can transform how individuals perceive themselves and the world. It encourages a sense of interconnectedness, compassion, and a deeper spiritual connection with the universe.

In summary, Swami Vivekananda's statement encapsulates the essence of Advaita Vedanta. It conveys that the soul of man is not a separate entity but a part of the all-encompassing cosmic energy, which is synonymous with God. Recognizing this unity leads to spiritual enlightenment and a profound understanding of the interconnected nature of all existence.