Fascinating Fact:
After the Parliament, he spent several years lecturing across the United States, attracting students interested in philosophy, meditation, and social service.
In Specialist Religions Hinduism, this topic looks at how Swami Vivekananda presented Hindu ideas to new audiences. Learners explore how his speeches, writings, and teaching centres shaped attitudes to meditation, ethics, and interfaith understanding.
Key Terms
- Swami: A Hindu religious teacher or monk who has taken vows and often teaches spiritual ideas to others.
- Vedanta: A school of Hindu philosophy that explores the nature of the self, ultimate reality, and liberation.
- Parliament of the World’s Religions: A major interfaith gathering first held in Chicago in 1893, where religious leaders shared their traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (Click to see answers)
Who was Swami Vivekananda in Hindu religious history?
Swami Vivekananda was a Hindu monk and teacher who helped organise modern Hindu movements and became widely known for presenting Hindu ideas about God, the self, and service to global audiences.
Why is Swami Vivekananda linked with the United States?
He first became well known in the United States at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago, then continued to speak and teach there, helping people encounter Hindu philosophy and meditation practices.
How did Vivekananda’s teaching influence modern views of Hinduism?
His teaching emphasised universal spiritual values, social responsibility, and respect between religions. This helped many people see Hinduism as a living, thoughtful tradition rather than simply a set of rituals.
Try These Related Quizzes
