Metaphysical Meditations: Universal Prayers, Affirmations, and Visualizations

I believe that this little book of spiritual meditations is valuable no matter what your religious background happens to be. It emphasizes the interconnectiveness of all true spiritual paths; indeed, the text starts off with a prayer for a united world. It is useful for either formal meditation practice, or deep focused prayer.Meditation, as it is used here, is the science of God-realization. Its ultimate objective is to obtain conscious awareness of God. This is achieved through concentration. While the basic mechanics of meditation technique are covered, the real substance of the book is the devotional passages that are to be focused on. One doesn't merely read through the text in one sitting. These are individual passages that are intended for focused concentration and prayer one at a time. You meditate, dwell on, and feel them. Some of the language may seem a bit flowery at times, but if you focus on the meaning being expressed, then you realize that every single entry contains its measure of spiritual truth.It should be noted that Yogananda makes repeated reference to Christ in the highest cosmic sense. He even includes a section of Christmas meditations. He obviously had a deep appreciation the concept of the Godman savior who he associates with Krishna, as well as, several other avatars. This particular edition has been in print since 1925, revised in 1952 and 1964. The leatherette cover is durable and attractive. You can easily fit it into your pocket for reference when you feel the need. Few specialized terms are used, but when they are, then they are explained in footnotes. A bibliography of Yogananda's other works is included in back.

As a way to help me take a few moments to steal into God's presence, what can compare to these intimate prayer-meditations from that great lover of God, Paramahansa Yogananda. I keep the little paperback edition ever with me to remind me that I am never forgotten by my Creator - no matter how crushing the crowds and pressures of urban life.Maybe YOU can get along without such reminders, but for me the clear, intimate connection that Yogananda always expresses with Spirit brings me back to my real HOME, always within me. May these words offer you a similar blessing.

If you are of devotional bent and open-minded, here is guidance and inspiration from a yoga master and meditation teacher who honors and supports the teachings of all the great religions and all true spiritual teachers. This handly shirt-pocket-sized collection of starting points for meditation also provides a beginner with a simple way to start the practice of meditation. Yogananda speaks from the perspective of one who has total commitment to Spirit and to us, Spirit's bewildered and earthbound creations. Readers of varied religious backgrounds and different spiritual temperaments will all find something to spur them to higher practice of their own paths.If you resonate with this non-sectarian, universal approach to spiritual growth, be sure also to read Yogananda's Autobiography of a Yogi for more information on the powerfully liberating advanced meditation methods of Kriya Yoga that Yogananda teaches in his instructions through Self-Realization Fellowship (publisher of this volume). Their web site ( Yogananda-SRF dot org ) provides a beautiful introduction to these meditation methods.

Paramahansa Yogananda has distilled the essence of devotion to God in this pocket-sized companion for anyone in need of spiritual uplifting. I have given several copies to people of different faiths(from Hindus to Catholics), and it's appeal is universal and all-encompassing.For those of us who seem to have so little time, this book serves as a reminder of our need to let God into our lives. Don't leave home without it!