Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami was a widely respected spiritual leader and teacher. Born Robert Hansen in 1927 in Oakland, California, he went on to become a spiritual leader and was recognized as a saint in his lifetime by both Hindu and Western religious authorities. His writings, which are characterized by a blend of practical guidance and spiritual insight, have inspired thousands of people around the world to deepen their spiritual practice. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the life and teachings of this remarkable spiritual figure.
Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, also known as Gurudeva, was deeply influenced by the Hindu tradition and spent over two decades living in India. During his time there, he received spiritual training from some of India’s most respected gurus and swamis. He was especially drawn to the Saivite tradition, which emphasizes the worship of Lord Shiva. He eventually returned to the United States and founded the Himalayan Academy, a spiritual organization that sought to bridge the gap between Eastern and Western spiritual traditions.
One of Gurudeva’s most well-known books is “Dancing with Siva”, which offers a comprehensive introduction to Hinduism and provides practical guidance for those who wish to incorporate Hindu practices into their daily lives. The book covers a wide range of topics, including meditation, yoga, karma, and reincarnation. Despite its depth and breadth, it is written in an accessible and engaging style that makes it a valuable resource for anyone interested in Hinduism.
Another important aspect of Gurudeva’s teachings was his emphasis on the importance of spiritual leadership. He believed that there was a great need for spiritual leaders who were both knowledgeable and compassionate. In his book “Merging with Siva”, he outlines a set of principles that he believed were essential for those who wished to become spiritual leaders. These principles include honesty, humility, and a commitment to service.
Gurudeva’s teachings also emphasized the importance of community. He believed that spiritual growth was best achieved in the context of a supportive community. He founded several communities around the world, including the Kauai Aadheenam in Hawaii, which serves as the headquarters of the Himalayan Academy. These communities provide a place for people to come together to learn and practice the teachings of Gurudeva.
Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami was a spiritual giant whose teachings continue to inspire people around the world. His emphasis on the practical application of spiritual principles, as well as his commitment to community and spiritual leadership, make his teachings relevant and valuable for people of all faiths. By studying his teachings and incorporating them into our own lives, we can deepen our spiritual practice and become better equipped to serve others.
