In the Upanishads we find, in places the highest abstract truths placed before us through stories and dialogues. These stories are not mere legends. They form part of the book of life. They embody the teachings of the rishis, the ancient sages of India, as imparted on various occasions and under varying circumstances. A selection of these spirituality enlightening stories is given here so that we may understand clearly the deep significance of the Vedas. Life transforming in character, these ancient stories have perennial relevance.
I hate this world, this dream, this horrible nightmare, with its churches and chicaneries, its books and blackguardisms, its fair faces and false hearts, its howling righteousness on the surface and utter hollowness beneath and, above all, its sanctified shopkeeping!
-Swami Vivekananda