Swami Vivekananda's Techniques for Reading and Memorizing Books
Commemorating the legacy of Swami Vivekananda, one of the greatest virtues that distinguished him was his remarkable ability to read and memorize vast volumes of text effortlessly. This article delves into the techniques he employed, specifically focusing on how his practice of Brahmacharya and meditation contributed to his remarkable memory powers.
Introduction to Swami Vivekananda's Memory Prowess
Swami Vivekananda was renowned for his photographic memory. He could memorize entire books and texts with ease, a quality often attributed to his lifelong practice of celibacy, a principle known as Brahmacharya. According to several scholarly accounts, the practice of celibacy, whether in thought, deed, or words, significantly enhances memory and concentration. This article explores the role of Brahmacharya and meditation in Swami Vivekananda's memorable techniques.
The Role of Brahmacharya
Many experts associate the power of Swami Vivekananda's memory to his practice of Brahmacharya. Celibacy, as Brahmacarya, is believed to prevent the loss of seminal fluid, which is thought to reduce memory and willpower. Over time, this practice affects the cognitive and sensory functions, and even the physical structure of the body. A conversation recorded by his disciple, Sharat Chandra Chakravarty, in 1898, provides insight into this practice:
"Throughout his life, Swamiji practiced Brahmacharya i.e. he abstained from sex in his thoughts, deeds, and words. Therefore, he developed tremendous mental prowess and was able to memorize volumes of text in one reading."
Swami Vivekananda was known to have said, “Do you see simply by the observance of strict Brahmacharya – a vow of celibacy in thought, word, and deed – all learning can be mastered in a very short time – one has an unfailing memory of what one hears or knows but once. It is owing to this want of continence that everything is on the brink of ruin in our country.”
Additional Techniques: Kaleidoscopic Reading
Swami Vivekananda also shared specific reading techniques that contributed to his extensive knowledge. He explained, 'I read one volume a day, and I read it paragraph by paragraph, not word by word. This is like kaleidoscopic reading.'
Swami Vivekananda emphasized the efficiency of sentence-by-sentence reading, which allows quick comprehension and memorization.
He also likened this method to how a convex lens focuses sunlight to burn paper, suggesting that when the mind's scattered power is concentrated, it can achieve surprising results.
Meditation for Enhanced Concentration
Meditation played a crucial role in Swami Vivekananda's ability to harness his mental powers. He believed that concentration of the mind was the key to achieving such extraordinary feats. Swami Vivekananda often engaged in long hours of meditation, which strengthened his mind and enhanced his memory and learning abilities.
He once said, 'Our mind has unlimited power, but it is unfocused. To achieve such remarkable results, the power of the mind should be gathered and focused on the subject. This is precisely what meditation accomplishes.'
In his teachings, Swami Vivekananda encouraged everyone to improve their memory and concentration through meditation. He believed that anyone could achieve similar feats with the right focus and practice.
Conclusion: A Call to Enhance Mental Powers
By emulating Swami Vivekananda's practices of Brahmacharya and meditation, individuals can enhance their cognitive abilities. His legacy serves as a reminder that the human mind is capable of achieving extraordinary feats when focused and disciplined.
References
1.() - A detailed account of Swami Vivekananda's life and achievements. 2. () - Official source material from Swami Vivekananda's teachings.