Brahmananda (21 January 1863 – 10 April 1922), born Rakhal Chandra Ghosh , was one of the direct disciples of Ramakrishna and the first president of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission. He was born in Sikra Kulingram near Basirhat, Kolkata. Ramakrishna recognised him as his ‘spiritual son’. He became the first president of the mission. Known as “Raja Maharaj” (chief administrator), he was largely responsible for the initial development of the mission, which was remiss due to the death of Vivekananda.
Great strength can be acquired through the prectise of continence.A true celibate can do the work of twenty-five men.Practise continence,japam,and medition,and seek the company of the holy.
To conquer lust or control the mind by studying books is a task as impossible as walking on air.
…it is diffcult,even impossible,to practise absolute purity without love and faith in God,..and without continence,realization is impossible…It is not possible to practise continence without devting yourself to the practise of japam.
When you are in the society of holy men,you may think that your passions are dead,but do not be deceived.You are free from passions only after you have attained samadhi.Therefore be always vigilant until you have transcended the mind.
When a man renounces all worldly cravings and regards God as his own,God is very near.Such a man binds God to him with the fetters of love.
