Siddhartha by Herman Hesse is a philosophical fiction that explores the story of a young boy named Siddhartha and his journey towards self-discovery. When we are on the spiritual paths we may get entangled in the process rather than giving attention to why these practices are adopted in the first place. We get attached to the means and may end up satisfying the ego in many ways rather than gaining freedom from it. Siddhartha’s spiritual journey to know the Self and finally find it in the most unlikely places will open our eyes a bit more so we can accept this journey and enjoy the now. Because life is always calling us to it and every circumstance has a key to the self.
“I have always believed, and I still believe, that whatever good or bad fortune may come our way we can always give it meaning and transform it into something of value.”
― Hermann Hesse, Siddhartha
One of my favorite spiritual teachers while talking about his childhood had mentioned that his greatest teacher was a river and he used to sit by the bank and just observe with his full being. The story of Siddartha also finally takes us to the banks of a river where the protagonist learns the secrets of life.
The one lesson I felt touched is how Siddhartha was borns again after each phase. He doesn’t carry the weight of the past, like a child with curiosity he moves through life.
Final thoughts
I am truly marveled at the wisdom that is contained in these 160 pages. If you are drawn by the Self and ready to start a spiritual Journey this book may appear as a guide and my suggestion is to give Siddartha a chance.
It amazes me that if the story is this profound and deep what could be the wisdom Hermann Hesse has gained. If you are on a spiritual Journey I can assure you this book has a profound lesson to teach. It is as strong as being with a Master or Guru who invokes the stillness in you.
Have you read Siddhartha ? If yes, how did it transform the way you look at life? Let me know in the comments below.
Thoughts of Freedom 