summary of autobiography of yogi

Autobiography of a Yogi, by Paramahansa Yogananda (A Summary with 3 Addenda)

Christos Sophia

Autobiography of a Yogi is a spiritual classic written by Paramahansa Yogananda, first published in 1946. It chronicles the life and spiritual journey of Yogananda himself, offering profound insights into the nature of reality, the pursuit of self-realization, and the potential of human consciousness. Key elements of the book include . . .

Early Life and Spiritual Quest: Yogananda begins his autobiography by narrating his childhood experiences in India and his early spiritual inclinations. From a young age, he displays a deep longing for God and a thirst for spiritual knowledge and wisdom.

Encounters with Spiritual Masters: Throughout his life, Yogananda encounters numerous spiritual masters, saints, and yogis who profoundly influence and guide his spiritual path. Notable figures include his guru, Sri Yukteswar Giri, who imparts to him the teachings of Kriya Yoga, and the renowned yogi Lahiri Mahasaya.

Journey to the West: The book documents Yogananda’s journey to the West in 1920, where he introduces the teachings of yoga and meditation to Western audiences. He establishes the Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) to disseminate his teachings and establish centers for spiritual practice.

Yoga and Meditation: Yogananda explains the principles and practices of yoga and meditation, emphasizing their power to attain self-realization and inner peace. He shares personal anecdotes and experiences that illustrate the effects of these practices on his own life and spiritual evolution.

Universal Teachings: The book emphasizes the universality of spiritual truths and the unity of all religions. Yogananda advocates for an approach to spirituality that transcends sectarian boundaries, one that embraces the essential teachings of love, truth, and wisdom found in all faith traditions.

Miracles and Divine Interventions: Autobiography of a Yogi recounts numerous miraculous events and mystical experiences witnessed by Yogananda and other spiritual seekers. These events and experiences illustrate the power of divine grace and the many subtle connections that exist between the material and spiritual worlds.

Quest for Self-Realization: At its core, the book is a testament to the human quest for self-realization and the eternal search for union with the divine. Yogananda shares insights into the nature of consciousness, the purpose of life, and the ultimate goal of attaining oneness with God.

In sum, Autobiography of a Yogi is cherished by readers around the world for its inspirational storytelling, profound wisdom, and timeless spiritual truths. It continues to serve as a guiding light for seekers on the spiritual path, offering practical guidance, profound insights, and a glimpse into the infinite possibilities of the human soul.

Addendum 1 : Key Points

Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda has had a profound influence on millions of readers worldwide.

Here are some key points about the book and its author:

Paramahansa Yogananda: Born Mukunda Lal Ghosh in 1893 in India, Yogananda was a spiritual teacher and yogi who introduced millions of Westerners to the teachings of yoga and meditation. He founded the Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) in 1920, dedicated to disseminating his teachings on the ancient science of Kriya Yoga.

Autobiography of a Yogi: The book is Yogananda’s memoir, detailing his life experiences, spiritual journey, and encounters with spiritual figures in India and the West. It offers profound insights into the nature of reality, the path of self-realization, and the potential of human consciousness.

Spiritual Encounters: One of the most remarkable aspects of the book is its accounts of Yogananda’s encounters with saints, yogis, and spiritual masters, both in India and in the West. These encounters range from meetings with his guru, Sri Yukteswar Giri, to experiences with the renowned yogi Lahiri Mahasaya and the saintly Therese Neumann.

Teachings: Throughout the book, Yogananda shares teachings on many spiritual topics, including the science of Kriya Yoga, the nature of the mind, the power of meditation, and the quest for self-realization. His teachings emphasize the unity of all religions and the universality of spiritual truths.

Impact: Autobiography of a Yogi has had a big impact on readers from diverse backgrounds and spiritual traditions. Its compelling narrative, profound wisdom, and spiritual depth have inspired, and continue to inspire, countless individuals to undertake their own spiritual journeys and explore the depths of their inner being.

Legacy: Yogananda’s teachings continue to be disseminated through the Self-Realization Fellowship, which he established to carry on his work after his passing in 1952. The SRF has branches worldwide and offers classes, retreats, and publications based on Yogananda’s teachings.

Overall, Autobiography of a Yogi stands as a timeless testament to the power of spiritual inquiry, the depth of human potential, and the universal quest for self-discovery. It remains a cherished resource for seekers of truth and wisdom around the globe.

Addendum 2 : What is Kriya Yoga?

Kriya Yoga is a spiritual practice that aims to accelerate spiritual growth and achieve self-realization through a systematic approach to meditation, pranayama (breath control), and inner exploration. The term “Kriya” means action or movement, indicating the dynamic nature of this yogic practice. Here are some key aspects of Kriya Yoga:

Origin: Kriya Yoga is believed to have originated in ancient India and was reintroduced to the modern world by the renowned yogi and spiritual teacher, Lahiri Mahasaya, in the 19th century. Lahiri Mahasaya passed on the teachings of Kriya Yoga to his disciple, Swami Sri Yukteswar Giri, who in turn initiated Paramahansa Yogananda into the practice.

Techniques: Kriya Yoga involves a set of specific techniques designed to harmonize body, mind, and spirit. These techniques typically include various pranayama practices, meditation, visualization, and concentration exercises. The central practice of Kriya Yoga involves a specific sequence of breathing exercises aimed at directing prana (life force energy) to awaken the dormant spiritual potentials within the practitioner.

Purpose: The primary purpose of Kriya Yoga is to facilitate spiritual evolution and self-realization. Through regular practice, practitioners aim to purify consciousness, expand awareness, and experience higher states of consciousness. Kriya Yoga is believed to purify energy channels (Nadis) and awaken the latent spiritual centers (Chakras) within the subtle body.

Benefits: Practitioners of Kriya Yoga often report various physical, mental, and spiritual benefits, including increased vitality, enhanced mental clarity, emotional stability, and a deeper sense of inner peace and fulfillment. The practice is also said to facilitate the development of intuition, insight, and spiritual wisdom.

Initiation: Kriya Yoga is traditionally transmitted from teacher to student through a process of initiation or diksha. The initiation ceremony involves imparting sacred mantras, techniques, and teachings to the sincere aspirant under the guidance of an authorized teacher or guru. The practice of Kriya Yoga is considered sacred and is typically kept confidential within the lineage of teachers and disciples.

Integration: While Kriya Yoga is rooted in the ancient yogic traditions of India, its principles and techniques can be integrated into various spiritual paths and traditions. Many practitioners of different religious and spiritual backgrounds have found value in the practice of Kriya Yoga as a means of deepening their spiritual connection and inner transformation.

Overall, Kriya Yoga is considered a potent spiritual tool for those seeking to awaken higher consciousness, attain self-mastery, and realize the divine essence within themselves. It is regarded as a path of disciplined practice, inner exploration, and direct experience of the divine presence.

Addendum 3 : Initiation into Kriya Yoga

Initiation into Kriya Yoga is a sacred and traditional process through which an aspirant receives the techniques, practices, and spiritual blessings associated with Kriya Yoga from an authorized teacher or guru. The initiation ceremony is considered a deeply significant and transformative event in the spiritual journey of the aspirant.

Here are some key aspects of initiation into Kriya Yoga:

Authorized Teacher or Guru: Initiation into Kriya Yoga is typically conducted by a qualified and authorized teacher or guru who has received proper training and authorization to transmit the teachings of Kriya Yoga. The teacher serves as a spiritual guide and mentor, offering guidance, support, and instruction to the aspirant on the path of Kriya Yoga.

Transmission of Sacred Teachings: During the initiation ceremony, the teacher imparts sacred mantras, techniques, and teachings associated with Kriya Yoga to the aspirant. These teachings have been passed down through an unbroken lineage of spiritual masters and are considered highly sacred and potent.

Preparation and Readiness: Prior to initiation, the aspirant undergoes a period of preparation and readiness, which may include studying the principles and philosophy of Kriya Yoga, developing a regular meditation practice, and cultivating the qualities of sincerity, devotion, and humility.

Confidentiality and Respect: The teachings and practices of Kriya Yoga are considered sacred and confidential, and the initiation ceremony is conducted with utmost reverence and respect for the tradition. Initiates are often instructed to maintain confidentiality regarding the specifics of the practices and teachings they receive.

Spiritual Transmission: Initiation into Kriya Yoga involves a transmission of spiritual energy, blessings, and grace from teacher to aspirant. This transmission awakens latent spiritual potentials within the aspirant, purifies consciousness, and facilitates spiritual growth and realization.

Commitment and Dedication: Initiation into Kriya Yoga represents a commitment to the spiritual path and a dedication to regular practice and discipline. Initiates are encouraged to integrate the teachings and practices of Kriya Yoga into their daily lives and to cultivate a sincere and earnest commitment to spiritual evolution.

Ongoing Guidance and Support: Following initiation, teachers continue to provide guidance, support, and encouragement to initiates. The best guru-disciple relationships are infused with trust, respect, and understanding, as the aspirant continues to progress along the path of Kriya Yoga.

In sum, initiation into Kriya Yoga is a sacred and transformative rite of passage, marking the beginning of a profound spiritual journey toward self-realization, inner awakening, and union with the divine. It is a deeply personal and transformative experience that holds the potential to bring about profound shifts in consciousness and awareness.

Written by Christos Sophia

I write about many topics, including personal growth and spiritual wisdom. I am fascinated by all things cosmic when I explore myself and this world in depth.

Text to speech

• TN Navbharat
• Times Drive
• Health and Me
• ET Now Swadesh

10 Key Takeaways from the Book 'Autobiography of a Yogi'

Updated Jan 31, 2024, 11:00 IST

Police Presence At Northtown Mall In Blaine After Reports Of Shooting Near Sky Zone

NTR Lands In Mumbai For Devara Trailer Launch; Poses For The Paps

10 Tips To Positively Discipline Your Teenagers

Important Questions Men Should Ask Women Before Getting Married

Dulquer Salmaan And Rana Daggubati’s Bilingual Film Kaantha Launched!

Tyreek Hill Arrest: Miami Officer Involved Placed On Administrative Leave

Mielle Beauty CEO Monique Rodriguez Responds To 'Hair Loss' Backlash And Lawsuit Claims

10 Books Recommended by Pulitzer Prize-Winning Authors

Professionals & enthusiasts who write about lifestyle and health in all their vibrancy. View More

Ganesh Chaturthi 2024- Chef Hina Gujral Shares Exclusive Vegan Modak Recipe For The Festival

How To Be A Calmer Parent

Why Some Women Cheat On Their 'Near Perfect' Husbands

Book Summary: Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda

Autobiography of a Yogi is an autobiographical book written by Paramahansa Yogananda, an Indian yogi and guru. The book was first published in 1946 and has since become a classic in the field of yoga and spirituality. In this book, Yogananda shares his personal experiences and practices of yoga, meditation, and spirituality. He also shares his encounters with many famous spiritual figures of his time, including Swami Vivekananda, Ramakrishna, and Mahatma Gandhi.

Chapter Summaries

Chapter 1: Early Years

In this chapter, Yogananda shares his early years growing up in India. He was born into a devout Hindu family and was introduced to the teachings of yoga and meditation at a young age. He was drawn to the spiritual life and began to seek out spiritual teachers and gurus.

Chapter 2: Meeting My Guru

In this chapter, Yogananda shares how he met his guru, Sri Yukteswar. He was searching for a guru who could teach him the highest truths of yoga and spirituality. He found Sri Yukteswar and became his disciple. Under his guidance, Yogananda learned the highest teachings of yoga and meditation.

Chapter 3: Kriya Yoga

In this chapter, Yogananda shares the teachings of Kriya Yoga, a form of yoga that emphasizes the importance of breath control and meditation. He explains how this practice can lead to spiritual enlightenment and inner peace.

Chapter 4: Encounters with Spiritual Figures

In this chapter, Yogananda shares his encounters with many famous spiritual figures of his time, including Swami Vivekananda, Ramakrishna, and Mahatma Gandhi. He shares how these encounters shaped his understanding of spirituality and his own spiritual journey.

Chapter 5: Journey to America

In this chapter, Yogananda shares his journey to America and his experiences spreading the teachings of yoga and meditation. He founded the Self-Realization Fellowship and began to teach thousands of people the practices of yoga and meditation.

Chapter 6: Final Years

In this chapter, Yogananda shares his final years and his continued dedication to spreading the teachings of yoga and meditation. He continued to teach and write until his death in 1952.

Autobiography of a Yogi is a classic book that shares the personal experiences and practices of yoga and meditation of Paramahansa Yogananda. Through his encounters with spiritual figures and his own spiritual journey, Yogananda shares the importance of yoga and meditation in achieving inner peace and spiritual enlightenment. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the teachings of yoga and spirituality.

Interested in reading the whole book?

Buy the book “Autobiography of a Yogi” on Amazon

More Book Summaries:

• Book Summary: The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday &… The Daily Stoic is a book written by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman that provides a daily dose of wisdom and inspiration from the ancient philosophy of Stoicism. The book…
• Book Summary: How To Win Friends And Influence… ‘How to Win Friends and Influence People’ is a timeless self-help book authored by Dale Carnegie. First published in 1936, it continues to remain relevant to this day, providing practical…
• Book Summary: East of Eden by John Steinbeck East of Eden is a novel written by John Steinbeck, published in 1952. The novel explores the themes of individual freedom, the power of love, and the struggle for survival.…
• Book Summary: India After Gandhi by Ramachandra Guha India After Gandhi is a comprehensive history of modern India, written by renowned historian Ramachandra Guha. The book covers the period from the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi in 1948 to…
• Book Summary: Why I Am a Hindu by Shashi Tharoor Why I Am a Hindu is a book written by Shashi Tharoor, an Indian politician and author. In this book, Tharoor explores the history, culture, and beliefs of Hinduism, and…
• Book Summary: M. K. Gandhi – An Autobiography by M.… M. K. Gandhi – An Autobiography is a book written by M. K. Gandhi, also known as Mahatma Gandhi. The book is an autobiography that covers the life of Gandhi…

Check out my youtube channel to listen to new book summaries everyday.

• Computer Science
• Health and Wellness
• Investing and Finance
• Language and Writing
• Personal Development
• Productivity
• Relationships
• Science and Engineering

Please consider donating if my site has helped you

Categories:

Autobiography of a Yogi

Paramahansa yogananda.

503 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1946

About the author

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think? Rate this book Write a Review

Friends & Following

Community reviews.

Join the discussion

Can't find what you're looking for.

• Our Content

Book Summary Autobiography of a Yogi , by Paramahansa Yogananda

Autobiography of a Yogi is the memoir of Paramahansa Yogananda, one of the world’s most famous yoga practitioners and teachers. It provides practical lessons about yoga, spirituality, and how to live a good life, interspersed with highlights and anecdotes from the author’s life. Yogananda is best known for bringing kriya yoga to the US, thereby creating a spiritual connection between the West and his homeland of India. He also founded the Self-Realization Fellowship, a spiritual organization that now has over 500 locations globally. Between the schools he founded and the books he wrote, Yogananda ensured that his teachings reached millions of people all over the world.

This guide will begin with foundational information about Hinduism and yoga. Then, we’ll tell Yogananda’s life story. Our commentary will go into greater detail about yoga’s central beliefs and practices. We’ll also compare some of Yogananda’s teachings to those found in other belief systems. Finally, we’ll examine some of Yogananda’s teachings about yoga’s benefits through a scientific lens.

Autobiography of a Yogi

Paramahansa Yogananda

1-Page Summary 1-Page Book Summary of Autobiography of a Yogi

Autobiography of a Yogi is the memoir of Paramahansa Yogananda, one of the world’s most famous yoga practitioners and teachers. It provides practical lessons about yoga, spirituality, and how to live a good life, interspersed with highlights and anecdotes from the author’s life. It was reportedly Steve Jobs’s favorite book : He found such great value in Autobiography of a Yogi that he read it once a year and had 500 copies distributed at his funeral.

Yogananda (1893-1952) is best known for bringing kriya yoga to the US—he taught thousands of American students and thereby...

Want to learn the rest of Autobiography of a Yogi in 21 minutes?

Unlock the full book summary of Autobiography of a Yogi by signing up for Shortform .

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

• Being 100% comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
• Cutting out the fluff: you don't spend your time wondering what the author's point is.
• Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.

READ FULL SUMMARY OF AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF A YOGI

Here's a preview of the rest of Shortform's Autobiography of a Yogi summary:

Autobiography of a Yogi Summary What Is Yoga?

To better understand Yogananda’s life and his accomplishments, we’ll start by exploring some of yoga’s key beliefs and practices. Then, we’ll explain what distinguishes kriya from other forms of yoga.

Yogananda explains that yoga is a religious practice that originated in Hinduism. It’s linked to Hindu teachings surrounding illusion and reality. The Vedas (the oldest Hindu scriptures) describe God as the only reality in the universe—thus, Hinduism teaches that all physical things, including you as an individual being, are illusions. These illusions are collectively called maya .

What’s Real and What’s an Illusion? The nature of reality is a frequently discussed topic in Hinduism. For instance, in the Bhagavad Gita (one of Hinduism’s holy scriptures), the god Vishnu takes a human form named Krishna and discusses various religious and spiritual topics with the warrior prince Arjuna. One of Krishna’s key lessons for Arjuna is: Only things that are eternal and unchangeable are real. Therefore, the only things...

Try Shortform for free

Read full summary of Autobiography of a Yogi

Autobiography of a Yogi Summary Yogananda’s Birth and Early Childhood

Now that we’ve explored the basics of Hinduism and yoga, let’s discuss Yogananda’s life story.

Yogananda notes that his birth was prophesied by a Bengali guru named Lahiri Mahasaya. The prophecy said that Yogananda would become a great yogi and undertake an important spiritual mission, though it didn’t specify what that mission would be.

(Shortform note: Much of what we know about Mahasaya today comes directly from Autobiography of a Yogi . However, some quotes attributed to the guru provide some more insight into his personality and beliefs. Mahasaya said that seeking God is the only worthwhile pursuit in life—but that the trappings and ceremonies of organized religion are unnecessary. He believed that meditation is all you need to worship God and that meditating on any problem will reveal the solution to it through that connection with God.)

The man who would become Paramahansa Yogananda was originally named Mukunda Lal Ghosh. He was born on January 5, 1893, in the city of Gorakhpur, India. (Shortform note: Although the author was known as...

What Our Readers Say

This is the best summary of How to Win Friends and Influence People I've ever read. I learned all the main points in just 20 minutes.

Autobiography of a Yogi Summary Yogananda’s Education

To fulfill his destiny, Yogananda needed to learn a great deal about both the spiritual and the physical world. In this section, we’ll discuss his studies of kriya yoga with Sri Yukteswar, as well as the education he received at Calcutta University.

Sri Yukteswar: The Prophesied Teacher

Yogananda—still called Mukunda at the time—says that he and Yukteswar felt a spiritual connection before they even spoke to each other. Both of them knew immediately that they were destined to become student and teacher.

Yogananda says he lived and studied at Yukteswar’s ashram (religious community) from 1910 to 1920. Despite being his teacher, Yukteswar rarely told Yogananda what to do or directly answered his questions—instead, he offered gentle guidance and helped Yogananda find the answers himself.

(Shortform note: By guiding his pupils rather than simply telling them the answers, Sri Yukteswar was engaging them in active learning . As the name suggests, active learning involves students taking active roles in their education—for example, by practicing skills, discussing...

Autobiography of a Yogi Summary Yogananda Passes On His Knowledge

Yogananda had become an accomplished yogi, but his mission in life was far from over—he’s remembered as a great teacher, not just a great practitioner of yoga. In this section, we’ll discuss the schools Yogananda founded and his legacy.

Yogananda says that, throughout his life, he’d received visions of three different buildings. While studying with Yukteswar, he came to understand that these were three schools he would found.

The first third of his vision came true when he founded the Yogoda Satsanga Society of India in 1917, near the city of Ranchi. However, it would be many years before the other two schools from his visions became reality.

Yogananda says that his schools combined spiritual and practical education, much like his own training with Yukteswar did. The school in Ranchi, for example, taught students academic subjects like math and literature, along with offering classes in agriculture, industrial job training, and business.

(Shortform note: The Yogoda Satsanga Society (YSS) still exists today , and it teaches kriya yoga to people of all backgrounds and religions. The YSS now has four separate ashrams and hundreds of smaller...

Why people love using Shortform

"I LOVE Shortform as these are the BEST summaries I’ve ever seen...and I’ve looked at lots of similar sites. The 1-page summary and then the longer, complete version are so useful. I read Shortform nearly every day."

Shortform Exercise: Apply Yogananda’s Insights to Your Life

Yogananda’s mission was to bring people of all heritages and faiths together through kriya yoga. Now that you’ve read about his life and some of his most important teachings, reflect on how you might apply those lessons to your life.

What similarities do you see between your beliefs (religious or otherwise) and what Yogananda taught? (Remember: Alongside his beliefs about God and spirituality, Yogananda had great respect for worldly pursuits like art and industry, and he placed great value on community.)

Table of Contents

Biography Online

Book Review: Autobiography of a Yogi

Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda

Since its first publication in 1944 “Autobiography of a Yogi” has become widely regarded as a spiritual classic, inspiring countless seekers around the world and giving a unique insight into the life of a Yogi.

‘An Autobiography of a Yogi’ begins in Calcutta, India during Yogananda’s childhood. Even from an early age, the young Mukunda was fascinated with meeting other yogis and yearned to experience the presence of God for himself. In the opening chapters, we are introduced to a variety of fascinating Saints such as; Master Mahasaya (author of the Gospel of Ramakrishna), the levitating Saint and the “Tiger Swami”. These spiritual encounters offer a unique insight into the spiritual heart of India, there seemed to be no shortage of saints to inspire the young Yogananda.

After an aborted flight to the Himalayas, Yogananda eventually meets his Guru, Sri Yukteswar near to his hometown. The mutual love and concern between disciple and master are clearly expressed as Yogananda portrays the trials and tribulations of being a spiritual seeker with a strict but loving Master.

“My guru was standing motionless before me; I started to drop at his holy feet in gratitude for the experience in cosmic consciousness which I had long passionately sought. He held me upright, and spoke calmly, unpretentiously.

“You must not get overdrunk with ecstasy. Much work yet remains for you in the world. Come; let us sweep the balcony floor; then we shall walk by the Ganges.” (1)

Throughout the book, Yogananda seeks to explain the science behind the mysterious world of Yoga. He frequently makes reference to both the Bible and the Bhagavad Gita, showing the underlying unity of the 2 great religions. A notable feature of the book is the universal approach that Yogananda takes to religion and spirituality. He expresses the deepest admiration and gratitude to the saints and sages of different religious traditions. These great saints and sages include: Therese Neumann, the Hindu saint Sri Anandamoyi Ma, Mohandas Gandhi, and Rabindranath Tagore. Yogananda is a shining example of the Saint who sees not outer differences but sees the underlying unity of the universe. Whilst explaining the science of yoga one never gets the impression Yogananda is preaching or trying to convert. Instead, we feel a sincere attempt to share the life of a Yogi.

The most remarkable thing about Autobiography of a Yogi is the consciousness which the book expresses. We can tangibly feel the spiritual inspiration and spiritual experiences which Yogananda expresses. It is no easy feat to write about Spiritual Masters and states of Samadhi, but Yogananda manages to express these lofty spiritual experiences with an effortless ease. For example, in chapter 14 Yogananda attempts to put into words his experience of the Cosmic Consciousness.

“An oceanic joy broke upon calm endless shores of my soul. The Spirit of God, I realized, is exhaustless Bliss; His body is countless tissues of light.”

It is hard to read these passages without being moved by the spiritual revelation Yogananda manages to convey. A timeless book, rightly treasured by all God lovers and truth seekers.

Citation: Pettinger, Tejvan . “Review of Autobiography of a Yogi”, Oxford, UK. www.biographyonline.net , Published 1st Feb 2009. Last updated 30th January 2017.

(1) (2) Chapter 14 – An experience in Cosmic Consciousness

Autobiography of a Yogi – Read Online

The book that sparked a spiritual revolution.

Autobiography of a Yogi : a first-hand account of the life experiences of Paramhansa Yogananda, a spiritual master, this book has sold millions of copies and is beloved around the world by those interested in yoga and spirituality.

Available in 19 Languages

Kindle Edition , only $14.99 Online edition , free

About This Edition

This is the original edition of Autobiography of a Yogi , just as Yogananda wrote it, without the hundreds of changes made to editions published after Yogananda’s passing in 1952.

Utmost care has been taken to make this the most accurate reprint ever published.

Table of Contents

• My Parents and Early Life
• My Mother’s Death and the Mystic Amulet
• The Saint With Two Bodies
• My Interrupted Flight Toward the Himalayas
• A “Perfume Saint” Displays His Wonders
• The Tiger Swami
• The Levitating Saint
• India’s Great Scientist, J. C. Bose
• The Blissful Devotee and His Cosmic Romance

I Meet My Master, Sri Yukteswar

Two penniless boys in brindaban.

• Years in My Master’s Hermitage
• The Sleepless Saint
• An Experience in Cosmic Consciousness
• The Cauliflower Robbery
• Outwitting the Stars
• Sasi and the Three Sapphires
• A Mohammedan Wonder-Worker
• My Master, in Calcutta, Appears in Serampore
• We Do Not Visit Kashmir
• We Visit Kashmir
• The Heart of a Stone Image
• I Receive My University Degree
• I Become a Monk of the Swami Order
• Brother Ananta and Sister Nalini
• The Science of Kriya Yoga
• Founding a Yoga School in Ranchi
• Kashi, Reborn and Rediscovered

Rabindranath Tagore and I Compare Schools

• The Law of Miracles
• An Interview with the Sacred Mother
• Rama is Raised from the Dead
• Babaji, the Yogi-Christ of Modern India
• Materializing a Palace in the Himalaya
• The Christlike Life of Lahiri Mahasaya
• Babaji’s Interest in the West
• I Go to America
• Luther Burbank — A Saint Amidst the Roses
• Therese Neumann, the Catholic Stigmatist
• I Return to India
• An Idyl in South India
• Last Days with My Guru

The Resurrection of Sri Yukteswar

• With Mahatma Gandhi at Wardha
• The Bengali “Joy-Permeated Mother”
• The Woman Yogi Who Never Eats
• I Return to the West
• At Encinitas in California

About two years after founding the Ranchi school, I received...

For the first time in my life I did not...

Trailanga Swami

Lahiri Mahasaya had a very famous friend, Swami Trailanga, who...

“Merciful Mother of the Universe, teach me Thyself through visions,...

My Transformational Fast

Whether famishment gleamed in my eye, I knew not. That...

My Sister Nalini

Soon after Ananta’s passing, my younger sister Nalini was brought...

My Saintly Parents

Both were blessed with saintly nature. Their mutual love, tranquil...

Lahiri Mahasaya’s Enigmatic Photograph

One of my most precious possessions is that same photograph....

What Is Behind the Darkness of Closed Eyes?

“What is behind the darkness of closed eyes?” This probing...

I Am Healed by Lahiri Mahasaya

Lahiri Mahasaya left this world shortly after I had entered...

Explore Autobiography of a Yogi

Stories and Insights from a Spiritual Classic

A Vision of America

The Bengali "Joy-Permeated Mother"

Babaji's Divine Permission

Christmas and the Silver Cup

A Poem by Mirabai

What is Behind the Darkness of Closed Eyes?

Sri Yukteswar Expounds on the Bible

What makes autobiography of a yogi so great.

Adapted from an answer on Quora by Nabha Cosley • January 9, 2016

Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramhansa Yogananda talks about miracles, the yogic teachings, and the teachings of Jesus Christ in a modern way — a way that is easy to understand and even entertaining. For someone interested in spirituality, or even just alternate ways of looking at life, it’s incredibly illuminating.

The world is a different place than it would have been without this book. The New Age movement in the West, the impact the book has had on leaders in many fields, and the rise in the practice of yoga and meditation are due in large part to Yogananda’s influence and the influence of his autobiography.

Philip Goldberg wrote in American Veda that “Among the people I interviewed about their key spiritual influences, a high percentage named a book, and by far the book most often mentioned was Yogananda’s unique memoir. A distant second was Be Here Now by Ram Dass, and he mentioned the Autobiography .”

Sometimes people read it and have their life turned around entirely. It’s a book that, like other scripture, inspires life-long devotion.

Anyone who is interested should read it. It is a great book in every sense of the word.

“As a bright light shining in the midst of darkness, so was Yogananda’s presence in this world. Such a great soul comes on earth only rarely, when there is a real need among men.”

The Shankaracharya of Kanchipuram

“The greatest book I ever read.”

Swami Kriyananda

Ananda Meditation App

A free app with guided meditations and techniques, based on the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda. Go deeper in the joy of your own Self.

Start a New Meditation Practice or Inspire Your Current One

The 10-week  Ananda Course in Meditation online course is designed to provide in-depth instruction in scientific meditation techniques that bring more peace, deeper relaxation, and focused concentration to every area of your life, regardless of outer conditions.

These techniques are based on the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda, author of  Autobiography of a Yogi.

Ananda Course in Meditation

Take the First Step on the Path of Kriya Yoga

This 10-week course in meditation has everything you need to develop a strong, daily meditation practice.

Enrolling now through September 9

• Your cart is empty! Return to shop

Please wait while you are redirected to the right page...

The Autobiography of a Yogi: Why You Should Read It

• By Shivangi Chatterji
• July 16, 2024

The timeless bestseller by Paramahansa Yogananda is a favourite among celebrities & seekers of enlightenment  

  If we were to ask you to identify one common thread that runs between Mahatma Gandhi and Thaliaiva Rajnikanth, Pandit Ravi Shankar and Virat Kohli we’re sure you would be stumped. We were too when we found out that all of these people along with Steve Jobs, Elvis Presley,  George Harrison, Deepak Chopra and many more celebrities have publicly acknowledged reading Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda, an Indian yogi and spiritual leader.  

This timeless memoir is a treasury of spiritual wisdom that chronicles the life of this yogi and explores the transformative power of yoga.  

Who is Paramahansa Yogananda?

Born Mukunda Lal Ghosh in 1893 in Gorakhpur, India, Yogananda’s spiritual journey began right from childhood. His devout Hindu family laid the groundwork for an early introduction to yogic teachings and meditation. He went on to encounter several spiritual mentors throughout his formative years who enriched his experiences.  

  In 1920, Yogi Paramahansa Yogananda embarked on a journey that would significantly impact the spiritual landscape of the Western world. At the behest of his guru, he traveled to America to spread the word about yoga and meditation. Despite initial challenges, Yogananda’s magnetic presence and profound teachings captivated his audiences. He founded the Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) in Los Angeles, a spiritual organisation that disseminates his teachings worldwide.  

What Makes “Autobiography of a Yogi” Famous?

Yogananda’s quest for truth led him towards the enlightened soul of his guru, Swami Sri Yukteswar Giri. His teacher helped him deepen his practice and the profound philosophical underpinnings of Eastern spirituality. In this autobiography, Yogananda shares his path to mastery and his journey to seeking truth and enlightenment.  

  Coupled with his personal explorations, what makes Autobiography of a Yogi a very special book is that he has captured all his insights in a form that is highly accessible to everyone, from all walks of life.   

  In this book, he has also written about his remarkable encounters with spiritual luminaries from all over the world and his mystical experiences. His anecdotes are awe-inspiring and serve as an aspiration to his readers who see this book as a tool to appreciate the absoluteness of spiritual principles across cultures and traditions. This is why so many people and even celebrities have credited the book with transforming their lives and shaping their spiritual outlook.  

Why Should You Read "Autobiography of a Yogi"?

• “Since you alone are responsible for your thoughts, only you can change them.” Conscious, purposeful living is a way to keep your thoughts flowing and positive. The kind of thoughts you entertain shape your experience of the world. Always focus on the thoughts that bring you health and happiness.
• “The power of unfulfilled desires is the root of all man’s slavery” Learning to let go of want and desire is not easy but ultimately knowing that they will trap you in a vicious cycle. The best way to live is to be in the present moment instead of wondering about what might have been.
• “Straightforwardness without civility is like a surgeon’s knife, effective but unpleasant. Candor with courtesy is helpful and admirable.” While the truth can be harsh, it is often about how it is delivered. While we must be honest and firm with our boundaries, we must be careful not to be harsh in our criticism and always be constructive in our feedback.

A Book and Beacon of Light

Autobiography of a Yogi is more than a narrative of a man’s spiritual journey; it is a timeless testament to the universality of spiritual wisdom and the boundless potential of the human spirit. Readers are invited to embark on their own journey of self-discovery, guided by the light of Yogananda’s teachings and the benefits of yoga.   

  As we reflect on his life and teachings, we are reminded that the path to enlightenment is within each of us, waiting to be discovered through meditation, mindfulness and the pursuit of divine realization.  

  As Yogananda eloquently put it, “The true basis of religion is not belief, but intuitive experience. Intuition is the soul’s power of knowing God. To know what religion is really all about, one must know God.”  

You May Also Like

Master Your Money With These Personal Finance Bestsellers

Kickstart Your Stoic Journey: 5 Best Books For Beginners

Inside the Mind of Infamy: Indrani Mukerjea Tells Her Story in a Riveting New Memoir

• study guides
• lesson plans
• homework help

Autobiography of a Yogi - Chapter 1 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 1 Summary and Analysis

Mukunda Lal Ghosh, later known as Paramahansa Yogananda, was born in northeastern India in 1893. His parents, although affluent, were "saintly" and quite spiritual. Due to a recurring memory of an earlier life, young Mukunda, the fourth child, longed to live in the Himalayas. His parents were initiated into Kriya Yoga by Lahiri Mahasaya, a revered master, whose teachings had a profound influence on Mukunda's entire life, as well as on the life of his own teacher, Yukteswar. Lahiri Mahasaya was pure spirit who could become invisible before a camera unless he chose not to. Mukunda claims that praying to his photo as a child healed him from cholera.

Mukunda was visited in meditation by Himalayan yogis, and learns the power of the spoken word by experimenting with deep concentration. He tests his psychic abilities with childhood games, such as willing two...

(read more from the Chapter 1 Summary)

FOLLOW BOOKRAGS:

Autobiography of a Yogi

by Paramahansa Yogananda

Editor's Choice

What is the summary of Paramahansa Yogananda's Autobiography of a Yogi ?

Expert answers.

Who are the experts? Our certified Educators are real professors, teachers, and scholars who use their academic expertise to tackle your toughest questions. Educators go through a rigorous application process, and every answer they submit is reviewed by our in-house editorial team.

Educator since 2018

Paramahansa Yogananda was born Mukunda Lai Ghosh in 1893 in Gorakhpur, India. As a child he was quite precocious, especially when it came to matters of spiritual development. Although his parents were devotees of Lahiri Mahasaya, a master yogi who studied under Mahavatar Babaji, they were unprepared for life with a son whose one-pointed focus unerringly drove him towards his pre-ordained guru, Sri Yukteswar.

Although written in 1946, when Yogananda had attained middle-age, his memories of childhood events are keen, especially of those events leading him further down the spiritual path. As a young teen, he engineered a train trip to reach the Himalayas for the purpose of furthering his meditation practice and meeting his guru. His plan was, of course, foiled by his own inexperience in the world at large, which made it easy for the adults in his life to find him. However, nothing, not even the death of his mother, stopped the young Mukunda from pursuing his vocation. His first meeting with his guru was, he writes, by means of a supernatural apparition. This meeting was only one of many other seemingly paranormal events that occurred during his lifetime.

In 1920, Yogananda made his first trip to the United States, where he was a leading figure in uniting the spiritual teachings of the East with those of the West. He established the Self-Realization Fellowship in Mount Washington, Los Angeles, California, paving the way for many Americans to find God within themselves under his tutelage. His teachings emphasized Kriya yoga meditation and the underlying unity of all world religions, as well as the importance of physical health.

Among Yogananda’s American friends was Luther Burbank, whose personal spiritual path included many similarities to Yogananda’s teachings, even though the two men developed their points of view worlds apart. In fact, Yogananda referred to Burbank as a true American saint. In 1935, an extended visit to Europe and India gave Yogananda opportunities to meet with many other saints and political leaders, such as the Catholic Teresa Neumann; Anandamayi Ma, the flower of India; and Mahatma Gandhi, India’s non-violent leader during the struggle for independence. These meetings furthered Yogananda’s own spiritual development, and by the time of his death in 1952, the Self-Realization Fellowship was disseminating his teachings world-wide.

Cite this page as follows:

Lupinetti, Jude. "What is the summary of Paramahansa Yogananda's Autobiography of a Yogi ?" edited by eNotes Editorial, 27 Apr. 2018, https://www.enotes.com/topics/autobiography-of-a-yogi/questions/what-summary-autobiography-yogi-486734.

Educator since 2010

3,612 answers

I currently teach English grammar, literature, and essay writing to students in elementary school all the way up to the college level, including graduate students.

In Autobiography of a Yogi , author Paramahansa Yogananda details his life (1893–1952) as he journeys through his spiritual growth , eventually becoming a prominent yogi , or person who practices yoga. Yogananda tells us early on in the book that he knew from childhood he was searching "for the face of [his] destined guru" (Ch. 5). His autobiography takes us from his childhood to his influential adulthood. Yogananda was born on January 5th, 1893, to a Bengali family in Gorakhpur, India, and named Mukunda Lal Gosh. Even as a young child, Mukunda longed to study religion in the Himalayas and seemed to be born already having a devoted love for God. Once in high school, he ran away from home to the Himalayas with his friend Amar. Two years upon arriving in the Himalayas, he met his destined guru Sri Yukteswar . Under the tutelage of Yuketeswa, Munkunda learned more and more about Kriya Yoga, all the while experiencing supernatural events that marked his spiritual growth. As his spirituality continued to develop, he was made a swami and given the new name Yogananda . The honorary title Paramahansa was given to him later on. As Yogananda, he accomplished many great achievements , including founding a yoga school for boys in Ranchi, India, traveling to America to teach Kriya Yoga spiritual precepts, becoming dubbed a prophet and a saint, and even founding the worldwide Self-Realization Fellowship, an organization aimed at fulfilling spiritual and humanitarian works. The Self-Realization Fellowship is still active today and located in all major cities around the world.

Amazon Prime includes:

Fast, FREE Delivery is available to Prime members. To join, select "Try Amazon Prime and start saving today with Fast, FREE Delivery" below the Add to Cart button.

• Cardmembers earn 5% Back at Amazon.com with a Prime Credit Card.
• Unlimited Free Two-Day Delivery
• Streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with limited ads on Prime Video.
• A Kindle book to borrow for free each month - with no due dates
• Listen to over 2 million songs and hundreds of playlists
• Unlimited photo storage with anywhere access

Important:  Your credit card will NOT be charged when you start your free trial or if you cancel during the trial period. If you're happy with Amazon Prime, do nothing. At the end of the free trial, your membership will automatically upgrade to a monthly membership.

Return this item for free

We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.

• Go to your orders and start the return
• Select your preferred free shipping option
• Drop off and leave!

Sorry, there was a problem.

0.69 mi | SANTA CLARASanta Clara 95050

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required .

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Follow the author

Autobiography of a Yogi (Self-Realization Fellowship) Mass Market Paperback – January 5, 1998

Purchase options and add-ons

With engaging candor, eloquence, and wit, Paramahansa Yogananda tells the inspiring chronicle of his life: the experiences of his remarkable childhood, encounters with many saints and sages during his youthful search throughout India for an illumined teacher, ten years of training in the hermitage of a revered yoga master, and the thirty years that he lived and taught in America. Also recorded here are his meetings with Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, Luther Burbank, the Catholic stigmatist Therese Neumann, and other celebrated spiritual personalities of East and West. The author clearly explains the subtle but definite laws behind both the ordinary events of everyday life and the extraordinary events commonly termed miracles. His absorbing life story becomes the background for a penetrating and unforgettable look at the ultimate mysteries of human existence.

• Print length 596 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Self-Realization Fellowship
• Publication date January 5, 1998
• Dimensions 4.49 x 0.94 x 7.48 inches
• ISBN-10 9780876120798
• ISBN-13 978-0876120798
• See all details

Frequently bought together

Similar items that ship from close to you

Editorial Reviews

About the author, product details.

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ 0876120796
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Self-Realization Fellowship; Reprint edition (January 5, 1998)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Mass Market Paperback ‏ : ‎ 596 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9780876120798
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0876120798
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 4.49 x 0.94 x 7.48 inches
• #2 in Indian Eastern Philosophy
• #4 in Other Eastern Religions & Sacred Texts (Books)
• #13 in Religious Leader Biographies

Videos for this product

Click to play video

Chalk full of wonderful stories and wisdom filled lessons.

Cary Decker

Powerful Read. Full of Insights.

Customer Review: The Magic of Everyday Life

One of the best books ever.

Real Life Reviews

About the author

Paramahansa yogananda.

1893 – 1952 Hailed as the “father of Yoga in the West,” Paramahansa Yogananda is regarded as one of the great spiritual figures of our time. Born in northern India, he came to the United States in 1920, where he founded Self-Realization Fellowship, to disseminate his writings and teachings worldwide. Through his best-selling classic, Autobiography of a Yogi, and his numerous other books, he has introduced millions throughout the world to the spiritual principles of yoga meditation and the universal truths underlying all world religions.

Customer reviews

• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 85% 9% 3% 1% 2% 85%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 85% 9% 3% 1% 2% 9%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 85% 9% 3% 1% 2% 3%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 85% 9% 3% 1% 2% 1%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 85% 9% 3% 1% 2% 2%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers find the book profoundly inspiring and conversational in its approach. They also describe it as a great autobiography with a message of hope, courage, and humor. Readers praise the writing style as beautifully written and answering the most basic yet difficult questions ever known to mankind. Opinions are mixed on the reading pace and realism, with some finding it exhilarating and slow paced, while others say it's hard to grasp and skippable.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the book profoundly inspiring, informative, and thought-provoking. They say it communicates the essence of the Vedas simply by sharing the story of a man. Readers also mention that the book is gems of wisdom that speak truth.

"I read this book in 1975. It is a powerfully spiritual true story about the very first yogi that came to the US...." Read more

" Poetic , amazing and timeless - I am surprised I didn’t read this book at a younger age or know about it...." Read more

"I loved reading this book. It is very inspiring and motivating . It creates positive effect. Very affordable." Read more

"...It is quite conversational in its approach , following the young yogi's early life and experiences - each chapter a step on his journey...." Read more

Customers find the writing style beautiful, clear, and soul stirring. They also say the author seems to have an excellent understanding of translingual pronunciations and provides a fascinating and informative description of how a self-realized individual relates to the world.

"...Profound. I recommend listening to the book as well as it helps with pronunciations and the absorption of the content...." Read more

"...saints who dedicated their lives to God, it is an introduction to the scientific techniques to having a direct experience of the Soul, the spark of..." Read more

"...I think the book does a good job at explaining the purpose and different practises / variants of Yoga...." Read more

"...This autobiography is not easy to read , but the information is valuable. Some of the names and words in the book are hard to pronounce...." Read more

Customers find the book fascinating, excellent, and a pioneering read. They say it covers important history and provides a message of hope, courage, and humor.

"...Not only is this a fascinating account of modern day saints who dedicated their lives to God, it is an introduction to the scientific techniques to..." Read more

"I found this autobiography to be intriguing ...." Read more

"...Very informative indeed. The author has so much credibility , that I am inclined to believing him...." Read more

"...Filled with great truths, insights, and fascinating accounts of the life of a yogi...." Read more

Customers find the book quite humorous and straightforward.

"...One feature of this work that I especially appreciate is its humor ...." Read more

"...It is deep and philosophical and REAL, no miracles, and it is also funny and entertaining." Read more

"...He has such an outrageous sense of humor ...he will take me from a bad mood into out loud laughter...." Read more

"...He is also quite humorous and straightforward writing about a most fascinating life...so this book can be a real page-turner as well...." Read more

Customers find the book very easy to read and enlightening. They also mention that the learning and introduction is simple and illuminating through books like mindfulness in plain English.

"I love the simplicity of every chapter also allows for reflection on one's own life experiences and journey." Read more

"...received this book quickly and in great condition and the transaction was simple and easy ...." Read more

"...Love, simplicity , sweetness, and spiritual force come out of each page as it becomes a compulsive reading...." Read more

"...I'm very happy that it came out in CD form because it is so convenient ." Read more

Customers are mixed about the realism of the book. Some mention that Yogananda is awe inspiring, yet real, thoughtful, and detailed. They also provide many real life evidences that support the fact often expressed by Dr. Yoganananda. However, some customers say that the book is not quite believable, has outlandish claims, and hard to believe miracles. They say the book was interesting, but not as profound as they hoped before reading it.

"...Yet Yogananda's words ring with absolute truth and certainty . Be prepared to open your mind to unlimited possibilities as you read...." Read more

"...to me seem a bit unconvincing because there are very simplistic explanations of some stories which are of supernatural nature, and there is mention "..." Read more

"...It also provides many real life evidences that support the fact often expressed by Dr. Napoleon Hill that “Anything the mind of man/woman can..." Read more

"...For me, the book was interesting, but not as profound as I hoped before I read it." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the reading pace of the book. Some find it exhilarating and enjoyable, making long drives go by quickly, while others say it's difficult to read and skipable.

"...there are some topics in the book that are quite exceptional and hard to grasp ...." Read more

"...I found it very enlightening. It starts off a little slow but then quickly goes into a hyperdrive after his childhood years...." Read more

"...read by Ben Kingsley has been very enjoyable, and makes like long drives go by quickly .Highly recommended." Read more

"... Too time consuming and I cannot build a story in my mind while I am consistently referring to dictionary.com...." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the pictures in the book. Some find the pictures nicely displayed with the text, while others say they're different and the page layout is different.

"...The photos and printing are high quality - I have a First Edition copy that is too fragile for regular use and they're pretty close content-..." Read more

"...Although it fails to give a complete picture on what is needed to attain enlightenment, this is a book which brings out the optimistic nature in..." Read more

"...Wherever my iphone goes, the AY goes! The color photos , footnotes, and final chapter make this a must-have addition to any digital library...." Read more

"...Well, it is very different. The pictures are different ...." Read more

Reviews with images

Infinite beauty 💖

• Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

Top reviews from other countries

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Registry & Gift List

• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

Autobiography of a Yogi

72 pages • 2 hours read

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-4

Chapters 5-8

Chapters 9-12

Chapters 13-16

Chapters 17-20

Chapters 21-24

Chapters 25-28

Chapters 29-32

Chapters 33-36

Chapters 37-40

Chapters 41-44

Chapters 45-49

Key Figures

Index of Terms

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Discussion Questions

Born Mukunda Lal Ghosh in Uttar Pradesh, India, in 1893, Yogananda took on his new name when he became a member of the Swami Order. Yogananda worked to foster spiritual engagement between East and West in the 20th century, particularly by founding the Self-Realization Fellowship in Los Angeles, California, in 1920.

In his autobiography, Yogananda combines his interpretations of Hindu scripture with stories from his life and the lives of other Indian gurus and mystics. He uses a humorous, self-deprecating tone in describing his youthful deficiencies as a student, and this humor advances a larger point about the primacy of direct experience over knowledge gleaned from books.

Despite the modesty with which he describes his youth, Yogananda speaks in an authoritative tone about spiritual matters. In parts of the book, including “The Law of Miracles” and “India’s Great Scientist J.C. Bose,” he combines spiritual and scientific rhetoric , attempting to use scientific concepts to explain spiritual phenomena. This epistemic synthesis is akin to the one Bose himself undertakes in describing the power of the crescograph, which measures not only the growth but also the emotional lives of plants.

Featured Collections

Asian History

View Collection

Indian Literature

Philosophy, Logic, & Ethics

Religion & Spirituality

Ask the publishers to restore access to 500,000+ books.

Can You Chip In? (USD)

Internet Archive Audio

• This Just In
• Grateful Dead
• Old Time Radio
• 78 RPMs and Cylinder Recordings
• Audio Books & Poetry
• Computers, Technology and Science
• Music, Arts & Culture
• News & Public Affairs
• Spirituality & Religion
• Radio News Archive

• Flickr Commons
• Occupy Wall Street Flickr
• NASA Images
• Solar System Collection
• Ames Research Center

• All Software
• Old School Emulation
• MS-DOS Games
• Historical Software
• Classic PC Games
• Software Library
• Kodi Archive and Support File
• Vintage Software
• CD-ROM Software
• CD-ROM Software Library
• Software Sites
• Tucows Software Library
• Shareware CD-ROMs
• Software Capsules Compilation
• CD-ROM Images
• ZX Spectrum
• DOOM Level CD

• Smithsonian Libraries
• FEDLINK (US)
• Lincoln Collection
• American Libraries
• Canadian Libraries
• Universal Library
• Project Gutenberg
• Children's Library
• Biodiversity Heritage Library
• Books by Language
• Additional Collections

• Prelinger Archives
• Democracy Now!
• Occupy Wall Street
• TV NSA Clip Library
• Animation & Cartoons
• Arts & Music
• Computers & Technology
• Cultural & Academic Films
• Ephemeral Films
• Sports Videos
• Videogame Videos
• Youth Media

Search the history of over 866 billion web pages on the Internet.

Mobile Apps

• Wayback Machine (iOS)
• Wayback Machine (Android)

Browser Extensions

Archive-it subscription.

• Explore the Collections
• Build Collections

Save Page Now

Capture a web page as it appears now for use as a trusted citation in the future.

Please enter a valid web address

• Donate Donate icon An illustration of a heart shape

Autobiography Of A Yogi By Paramahansa Yogananda

Bookreader item preview, share or embed this item, flag this item for.

• Graphic Violence
• Explicit Sexual Content
• Hate Speech
• Misinformation/Disinformation
• Marketing/Phishing/Advertising
• Misleading/Inaccurate/Missing Metadata

Autobiography of a Yogi  is an  autobiography  of  Paramahansa Yogananda  (5 January 1893–7 March 1952) first published in 1946. Paramahansa Yogananda was born as Mukunda Lal Ghosh in  Gorakhpur, India , into a  Bengali   Hindu  family.

Autobiography of a Yogi  introduces the reader to the life of Paramahansa Yogananda and his encounters with spiritual figures of both the Eastern and the Western world. The book begins with his childhood family life, to finding his guru, to becoming a monk and establishing his teachings of  Kriya Yoga  meditation. The book continues in 1920 when  Yogananda  accepts an invitation to speak in a religious congress in  Boston, Massachusetts ,  USA . He then travels across America lecturing and establishing his teachings in  Los Angeles, California . In 1935, he returns to India for a yearlong visit. When he returns to America, he continues to establish his teachings, including writing this book.

The book is an introduction to the methods of attaining God-realization and to the spiritual wisdom of the  East , which had only been available to a few in 1946. The author claims that the writing of the book was prophesied long ago by the nineteenth-century master  Lahiri Mahasaya  (Paramguru of Yogananda) also known as the  Yogiraj  and  Kashi baba . Before becoming a yogi, Lahiri Mahasaya's actual name was  Shyama Charan Lahiri .

It has been in print for seventy years and translated into over fifty languages by  Self-Realization Fellowship . [2]  It has been highly acclaimed as a spiritual classic including being designated by  Philip Zaleski , while he was under the auspices of HarperCollins Publishers, as one of the "100 Most Important Spiritual Books of the 20th Century." [3] [4] [5]  It is included in the book  50 Spiritual Classics: Timeless Wisdom from 50 Great Books of Inner Discovery, Enlightenment and Purpose  by  Tom Butler-Bowdon . [6]  According to Project Gutenberg, the first edition is in public domain and at least five publishers are reprinting it and four post it free for online reading.

plus-circle Add Review comment Reviews

5,851 Views

58 Favorites

DOWNLOAD OPTIONS

For users with print-disabilities

IN COLLECTIONS

Uploaded by 013_THW on February 23, 2021

SIMILAR ITEMS (based on metadata)

• Project Gutenberg
• 74,232 free eBooks

Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda

Read now or download (free!)

Similar Books

About this ebook.

• Privacy policy
• About Project Gutenberg
• Terms of Use
• Contact Information

Allen Cheng

Autobiography of a yogi book summary, by paramahansa yogananda.

Want to learn the ideas in Autobiography Of A Yogi better than ever? Read the world’s #1 book summary of Autobiography Of A Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda here.

Read a brief 1-Page Summary or watch video summaries curated by our expert team. Note: this book guide is not affiliated with or endorsed by the publisher or author, and we always encourage you to purchase and read the full book.

Video Summaries of Autobiography Of A Yogi

We’ve scoured the Internet for the very best videos on Autobiography Of A Yogi, from high-quality videos summaries to interviews or commentary by Paramahansa Yogananda.

1-Page Summary of Autobiography Of A Yogi

If a guru clad in orange robes told you to leave your family and study yoga, would you do it? In Autobiography of a Yogi (1946), Indian monk Paramahansa Yogananda describes his spiritual journey. He left India for the United States to spread the practice of kriya yoga. Kriya yoga focuses on meditation with the goal of using one’s breath to achieve unity between mind, body, and spirit.

Yogananda knew from a young age that he wanted to follow a spiritual path. He believed he was destined to spread the teachings of Hinduism in Western countries, where Eastern philosophy had not yet been embraced. His autobiography gives us an idea of how his beliefs were shaped early on and provides first-hand accounts of the miracles he saw or performed throughout his quest for becoming a swami (Hindu religious leader).

Born in 1893, Yogananda was originally known as Mukunda Lal Ghosh. From an early age, he showed a profound proclivity for spiritual pursuits and claimed to remember a previous life as a yogi living in the Himalayas. He also gravitated instantly to a picture of his guru that his devout Hindu parents kept after he died shortly before Yogananda was born. When Yogananda turned eight years old, he unexpectedly came down with Asiatic cholera; however, when his mother implored him to mentally bow towards the picture of Mahasaya that they owned because he was too weak to do so physically, it caused him to be surrounded by blinding light and healed from his sickness.

Three years later, Yogananda’s mother appeared to him and his father in their bedroom. She was supposed to be at a wedding, but she told them that she was dying. Then the Divine Mother (a Hindu goddess) appeared and assured Yogananda that he would be provided for.

Yogananda was drawn to the Himalayas and he tried to run away. His brother found him and gave him a letter from his mother. The letter explained that Yogananda’s mother had been given an amulet by a divine being, who instructed her to give it only when Yogananda was ready for God.

As Yogananda continued to grow in his faith, he started seeking out more and more spiritual gurus who could provide him with wisdom and insight. He also started seeing visions of a particular yogi’s face; he knew this yogi would one day turn out to be his guru. At 17, he finally met this guru, Yukteswar Giri, and found out that Giri lived in a town not far from his own hometown. Giri told Yogananda that he should return home to his family, and that he would see his new protégé in 28 days. While Yogananda did not want to return home at first, eventually, after fulfilling the prophecy of meeting with Giri again 28 days later, went back home.

Despite his lack of consistent studying, Yogananda managed to graduate from Serampore College. He credited this largely to divine intervention and also convinced his guru to name him a swami. Once he gained the title, he stopped using his birth name and called himself Yogananda, which means bliss through divine union. A few years later, Yogananda started yoga schools for boys in Ranchi, India. In addition to teaching yoga at those schools, students were taught outdoors so that they could be more connected with nature

Finally, Yogananda was able to share his ideas on the benefits of yoga in America. He was invited to serve as a representative from India for an International Congress of Religious Liberals in America. The event gave him the opportunity to come to the United States and stay there for decades. While there, he started several monastic communities dedicated to kriya yoga. His efforts eventually netted him the title Paramahansa, indicating that he had achieved full spiritual enlightenment by spreading yoga around the world and helping countless people find better harmony between their physical needs and mental/spiritual ones.

• ← Attached Book Summary, by Amir Levine and Rachel Heller
• Becoming Book Summary, by Michelle Obama →

You May Also Like

What’s a Concierge MVP? How Do You Build One?

Takeaways from Mark Zuckerberg: How to Build the Future (YC’s The Macro)

The Best Things I Learned from Ashton Kutcher, Tech Investor

Best Summary + PDF: The Power of Habit, by Charles Duhigg

The Best Things I Learned from Sara Blakely, Spanx Founder

Best Summary + PDF: How Not to Die, by Michael Greger