In each of the ten lectures collected in this book, the author, a master of Vedantic elucidation, speaks to the average spiritual aspirant � one who desires spiritual enlightenment, but is not yet willing to let go of worldly pleasures. He shows us a gradual way � not a way of compromise, but a way of steady and sure advancement toward the ultimate goal of illumination. In these lectures he tells us how to go about it and why it is the only natural and rational thing for human beings to do.
Discriminate within yourself between the real and the unreal. Have you not read the Vedanta? Even when you sleep, keep the sword of discrimination at the head of your bed, so that covetousness cannot approach you even in dream. Practicing such strength, renunciation will gradually come, and then you will see the portals of heaven are wide open to you.
-Swami Vivekananda