Who is the author of 'Be Here Now'?

The author of 'Be Here Now' is Ram Dass.

What are the main themes in 'Be Here Now'?

The main themes in 'Be Here Now' include Meditation and Mindfulness, Mindfulness, Spiritual Growth, Spirituality and Religion.

What genre is 'Be Here Now'?

'Be Here Now' is categorized as Spirituality and Religion, Mindfulness.

What is the main purpose of the book 'Be Here Now'?

The main purpose of 'Be Here Now' by Ram Dass is to encourage readers to live in the present moment and to explore spiritual awakening. The book serves as a guide to mindfulness, self-realization, and the importance of being fully engaged in the now, while also sharing Ram Dass's journey of transformation from a Harvard psychologist to a spiritual teacher after his experiences with Eastern spirituality.

Who is the author of 'Be Here Now'?

The author of 'Be Here Now' is Ram Dass.

What are some key themes discussed in the book?

Some key themes discussed in 'Be Here Now' by Ram Dass include: Mindfulness and Presence: The importance of living in the present moment and being fully aware of one's experiences. Spirituality and Inner Exploration: The journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth, encouraging readers to explore their inner selves. Interconnectedness: The theme of oneness and the interconnected nature of all beings, emphasizing love and compassion. Transcendence of Ego: The necessity of transcending the ego to achieve a higher state of consciousness and understanding. Eastern Philosophy and Western Psychology: Integrating principles from Eastern spiritual traditions with Western therapeutic practices. Love and Compassion: The significance of love as a transformative force and a guiding principle in life. Surrender and Letting Go: The idea of surrendering to a greater force and embracing change and uncertainty.

How does 'Be Here Now' encourage mindfulness and presence in daily life?

'Be Here Now' by Ram Dass encourages mindfulness and presence in daily life through its emphasis on living in the present moment. The book combines spiritual teachings with practical guidance, illustrating how to let go of distractions from the past and future, and to focus fully on the current experience. It uses a variety of formats, including text, illustrations, and meditation techniques, to engage readers and encourage them to cultivate awareness in their daily activities. By promoting practices such as meditation, breathing exercises, and self-reflection, 'Be Here Now' serves as a guide for individuals seeking to find peace and contentment through mindfulness in every aspect of their lives.

What significant experiences did Ram Dass share that influenced his teachings in the book?

In 'Be Here Now', Ram Dass shares several significant experiences that influenced his teachings. One of the pivotal moments was his trip to India, where he encountered his guru, Neem Karoli Baba, who taught him about the importance of living in the present moment and practicing unconditional love. Additionally, Ram Dass reflects on his experiences with psychedelics, especially LSD, which opened his mind to new spiritual insights and the nature of consciousness. His transition from being Richard Alpert, a Harvard psychologist, to Ram Dass, a spiritual teacher, was also key, as it marked his commitment to exploring and sharing spiritual wisdom. These experiences shaped his understanding of mindfulness, spirituality, and the journey of self-discovery, which are central themes in the book.

Be Here Now Book Summary

In 'Be Here Now', Ram Dass takes readers on a transformative journey of self-discovery through spirituality and mindfulness. The book blends Eastern philosophy with Western thought, inviting readers to embrace the present moment. Through vivid illustrations and poignant anecdotes, Dass shares the wisdom he gained from his experiences with Hindu gurus and psychedelic exploration. Each page urges you to shed your past and future worries, unveiling the beauty of now. This compelling guide challenges you to awaken to your true self and live life fully.

By Ram Dass

Published: 1971

""The mind is a wonderful servant, but a terrible master.""

Beloved guru Ram Dass tells the story of his spiritual awakening and gives you the tools to take control of your life in this “counterculture bible” (The New York Times) featuring powerful guidance on yoga, meditation, and finding your true self. When Be Here Now was first published in 1971, it filled a deep spiritual emptiness, launched the ongoing mindfulness revolution, and established Ram Dass as perhaps the preeminent seeker of the twentieth century. Just ten years earlier, he was known as Professor Richard Alpert. He held appointments in four departments at Harvard University. He published books, drove a Mercedes and regularly vacationed in the Caribbean. By most societal standards, he had achieved great success. . . . And yet he couldn’t escape the feeling that something was missing. Psilocybin and LSD changed that. During a period of experimentation, Alpert peeled away each layer of his identity, disassociating from himself as a professor, a social cosmopolite, and lastly, as a physical being. Fear turned into exaltation upon the realization that at his truest, he was just his inner-self: a luminous being that he could trust indefinitely and love infinitely. And thus, a spiritual journey commenced. Alpert headed to India where his guru renamed him Baba Ram Dass—“servant of God.” He was introduced to mindful breathing exercises, hatha yoga, and Eastern philosophy. If he found himself reminiscing or planning, he was reminded to “Be Here Now.” He started upon the path of enlightenment, and has been journeying along it ever since. Be Here Now is a vehicle for sharing the true message, and a guide to self-determination.

Ram Dass, born Richard Alpert in 1931, was an influential spiritual teacher and author best known for his work in the field of consciousness and spirituality. His landmark book, "Be Here Now," published in 1971, became a classic of both the countercultural and spiritual movements, blending Western psychology with Eastern spirituality. A disciple of the Indian guru Neem Karoli Baba, Ram Dass's writing is characterized by its heartfelt warmth, humor, and deep insight into the human experience. In addition to "Be Here Now," he authored several other notable works including "The Only Dance There Is" and "Miracle of Love," which explore themes of self-awareness, compassion, and the transformative power of love. With a unique mix of personal anecdotes and practical spiritual guidance, Ram Dass inspired countless individuals to embark on their own spiritual journeys.

Similar books you might like →