Yogaswami of Jaffna (1872–1964,) known as Jñānaguru by his followers, was a spiritual leader of Sri Lanka’s Tamiḻ Hindus and a proponent of the non-dualist Śaiva Siddhānta branch of Hindu philosophy.
Born Sadasivan in Maviddapuram, a village near Jaffna, in northern Sri Lanka, Yogaswami was initiated to Kundalini yoga and Hindu spiritual practice by Satguru Chellappaswami at Jaffna’s Nallur Kandaswamy temple at age 35. Then, for nearly six decades, he attracted droves of devoted followers, including many Singhalese Buddhists and Christians.
Yogaswami expressed his teachings in more than 3,000 poems and songs called Natchintanai (“good thoughts.”) He counseled his disciples to pursue dharma, serve selflessly, and realize God within.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Yogaswami of Jaffna
If the chimney is full of smoke, how can the light be seen? If the mind is full of dirt, how can the soul shine?
—Yogaswami of Jaffna
You are your own friend; you are your own enemy.
—Yogaswami of Jaffna
As a dog, let loose after being tied up for some time, is energetic and active, so one, who learns to remain summa, or still, gets increased energy which can be put to good use.
—Yogaswami of Jaffna
All great ones have undergone suffering. None can escape what is ordained.
—Yogaswami of Jaffna
There is one thing God cannot do. He cannot separate Himself from the soul.
—Yogaswami of Jaffna
Just as a man will use a staff to climb a mountain, so should virtue be used in life.
—Yogaswami of Jaffna
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