The quote “Arise! Awake! Approach the great and learn” is a verse from the Katha Upanishad (1.3.14), a Hindu scripture.
The full verse is:
“Arise, awake, and learn by approaching the exalted ones, for that path is sharp as a razor’s edge, impassable, and hard to go by, say the wise.”
Swami Vivekananda was deeply influenced by these texts and incorporated their teachings into his philosophy and speeches. He said, “Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached”. The messages of awakening one’s potential, seeking out wisdom, and pursuing knowledge with determination and vigor are at the core of his teachings.
This phrase emphasizes not just the importance of self-determination and hard work but also the value of seeking out and learning from those who are wiser or more experienced.
It is a call to action, urging us to wake up from our spiritual slumber and to seek knowledge from those who are wise and experienced. The path to enlightenment is not easy, but it is worth it.
The verse can be interpreted in many ways. On one level, it is a literal call to get up and move. We should not waste our lives sleeping through our potential. We should get out there and live our lives to the fullest, learning and growing as we go.
On a deeper level, the verse is a call to spiritual awakening. We should wake up from our ignorance and see the world as it truly is. We should approach the great teachers of the world and learn from them. We should not be afraid to ask questions and seek knowledge.
The path to enlightenment is not easy. It is a path of self-discipline, self-sacrifice, and spiritual practice. But it is a path that is worth taking. When we reach the end of the path, we will find true happiness and fulfillment.
Here are some ways to apply the message of the verse to your own life:
- Wake up from your spiritual slumber. Are you going through the motions of life but not really living? Are you afraid to ask questions or to seek out knowledge? If so, it’s time to wake up. Start by asking yourself some tough questions about your life. What are you really passionate about? What do you really want to achieve? Once you know what you want, start taking steps to make it happen.
- Approach the great and learn. There are many wise and experienced people in the world who can teach you a lot. Don’t be afraid to reach out to them and ask for their guidance. You may be surprised at how much they can help you.
- Don’t give up. The path to enlightenment is not easy. There will be times when you want to give up. But don’t give up. Keep going, even when it’s hard. The rewards are worth it.
