Books on Spiritual Education

This section contains a sampling of good books emphasizing moral and all-around education based on sound, time-tested spiritual principles—not new educational fads or New Age sentimental ideas. Many of these books are manuals used for teaching within a particular religious context—yet people of all religions can benefit from reading them not simply to broaden their religious outlook, but also to learn and use their specific teaching techniques: a harmonious blend of wisdom stories from all religions, spiritual poems, sacred chants, exercises and practices aimed at developing a strong sense of personal values and integrity, whatever the subject taught.
Advice to Students. by Jyotirmayananda, Swami. Miami, FL: Yoga Research Foundation. 1991.	In this book, Swami Jyotirmayananda reaches out to you with the inspiring wisdom that Sages have handed down over the ages to deserving young people who are destined to become the light of the future. This unique guidance will give you profound insight into the important challenges that you face in today's complex world in order to grown into a happy, successful and fulfilled human being who is a blessing to all of humanity. Let this book become your constant companion. Through the depth of understanding, warmth, and humor that shine through its every word, Swamiji will guide you to be all that you wish to be--and more than you ever dreamed possible!
Art of Living. by Ramsukhdas, Swami. Gorakhpur, India: Gobind Bhavan-Karyalaya. 1985.	Revered Swami Shri Ramsukhdasji Maharaj emphasizes that the object of life is God-Realization and this can be attained easily and in no time if the seeker accepts from the core of his heart that he belongs only to God; or he firmly follows the path of detachment from the worldly pleasures. The art of living is described in this book so that a person is able to lead his life peacefully.
*Balavihar Series* by Nanavaty, Darshana. Mumbai, India: Central Chinmaya Mission Trust.	A set of 10 books. These handbooks contain material useful for teaching children values of living based on the Sanatana Dharma. The titles in this series are: The Alphabet, Balavihar, Balavihar Teacher’s Handbook, Dashavatara, Hanumanaji, I Love You Letters, Key To Success, P.O. Box Mr. God, Symbolism In Hinduism, Values.
Bringing up Spiritual Darlings. Compilation. Rishikesh, India: Divine Life Society. 1999.	We hope that this booklet will prove to be a helpful guide to parents. It should be used as such, and not viewed as a set of rigid rules to be applied absolutely. Spiritual Darlings can be easily molded and, with the correct balance of love and discipline, together with deep spirituality, parents can help shape the character and destiny of the child. The simple guidelines presented to parents in this booklet should help them to be living examples and good role models to their Spiritual Darlings, while exerting a decisive influence upon them.
Chinmaya Vidyalaya: Tarangini 1-11.by Chinmayananda, Swami, and Sharada Priyananda, Swamini. Bombay, India: Central Chinmaya Mission Trust. 1989.
Discovering the Art of Teaching: The Teaching Techniques for the Sathya Sai Education in Human Values Programme. by Burrows, Lorraine. Bangkok, Thailand: International Institute of Sathya Sai Education. 1997.	This book is meant as a stepping stone to enable teachers to continue the journey of discovery to the very heart of teaching. Its purpose is to inspire them to create their own material and to experience the joy of seeing their students blossoming to their full potential.
Divine Life for Children. by Sivananda, Rishikesh, Swami. India: The Divine Life Society. 1995.
*Educación en Valores Humanos Sathya Sai: Manual para el maestro, 5^o año de Primaria.* Compilation. Chihuahua, Mexico: Voluntariado de EVHSS. 2000.	In Spanish.
Education in Human Values Sathy Sai: Manual for Teachers, Indian Edition. Compilation. Bharahapur, India: Dr. Vishwanath P. Singh. 1989.	The basic human values classified in these lessons are: truth, right action, peace, love, and non-violence. All other values fall under these basic values. This book attempts to suggest lesson plans for teaching these facts of values through combination of direct, curricular, and co-curricular teaching devices. The basic methods which the E.HV. course utilizes are: silent sitting (tuning in), quotations or songs, storytelling, discussion, and activity.
*Effortless Mastery: Liberating the Master Musician Within.* by Werner, Kenny. New Albany, IN: Jamey Aebersold Jazz, Inc. 1996.	Kenny Werner is an accomplished pianist who began performing at age 4 and, by age 11, had appeared on television. While at the Manhattan School of Music he became restless with his musical direction and began to explore Jazz as new means of creativity and expression. Along his journey, he was inspired by masters of the craft to rethink not only the technical aspects of creativity, but also the spiritual aspects. This book is not only an account of that journey, but also an insightful guide for all those wishing to remove their own barriers to creativity in life and the arts.
*Emerson on Transcendentalism.* by Emerson, Ralph Waldo. Ericson, Edward L. ed. New York, NY: Continuum Publishing Co. 1999.	Ralph Waldo Emerson was the most celebrated American writer of his time. His transcendentalist philosophy was a religion of the spiritually emancipated mind and heart, unbounded by church or party. The full texts of four seminal works are presented in this volume: Nature, "The American Scholar," "The Divinity School Address," and "The Transcendentalist." Each in its own time had a profound impact. Edward Ericson assesses that impact in his helpful introduction and evaluates anew Emerson's continuing influence on American culture in our century.
Evolution’s End: Claiming the Potential of Our Intelligence. by Pearce, Joseph Chilton. San Francisco, CA: HarperSanFrancisco. 1993.
*Five Human Values and Human Excellence, the.* by Jumsai Na Ayudhya, Art-ong. Bangkok, Thailand: International Institute of Sathya Sai Education. 1997.	The main aim of this book is to provide material for training teachers, parents and others who are interested in developing human excellence in children as well as in youth and adults. The colored pictures are printed as examples that can be used for making transparencies for presentations.
**5 planos de aula para os Graus de 1 a 6: Educação Sathya Sai em valores humanos. Volume 1: Introdução.** by Burrows, Lorraine. Guida, Salvatore, trans. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Fundação Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba do Brasil. 1997.	In Portuguese.
Gardening With Children. by Richardson, Beth. Newtown, CT: The Taunton Press. 1998.	This is the only book written for parents about involving children in the family garden. In it, Beth Richardson offers time-tested techniques for balancing parenting, work and gardening. You'll learn how to make each stage of gardening--from planting to harvest--a fun, hands-on activity, allowing children to add their energy and enthusiasm to a project that benefits the whole family.
Helping Health Workers Learn. by Werner, David and Bower, Bill. Berkeley, CA: The Hesperian Foundation. 1998.
How to Lead a Household Life. by Ramsukhdas, Swami. Gorakhpur, India: Gobind Bhavan-Karyalaya. 1999.	At present the system of social orders of the Hindu culture is breaking up. The household social order, which is the root of all the four of them, is in a very deplorable condition. Many householders visit reverend Swami Ramasukhadasaji Maharaja; they put problems of their personal life before him and seek a proper solution to them. Therefore there was long felt need of such a book which besides providing knowledge pertaining to necessary household affairs, may provide them with proper solution to their complicated problems. This book fulfils that need. Readers are requested to study this book carefully and also inspire others to study it. Every householder should have this book in his house.
Immortal Light: Divine Mother Ammachi’s Advice to Householders. by Amritanandamayi, Mata. San Ramon, CA: Mata Amritanandamayi Center. 1994.	Ammachi's words show modern man, who is drowning in the ocean of birth, death and rebirth, how to taste the nectar of Eternal Bliss. They are the unfailing lights that guide us, who are groping in the darkness of materialistic illusion, back to the abode of the Self in us. Someone who arranges his life according to Mother's advice will not have to wander far looking for happiness. Happiness will come looking for him. She has given Her children the simple rules for a life that blends spiritual practice, service to others and surrender to God.
*Integration of Human Values in Sciences and Mathematics.* by Jumsai Na Ayudhya, Art-ong. Bangkok, Thailand: International Institute of Sathya Sai Education. 1997.	This book has been written for the purpose of guiding teachers and parents by giving some examples of ways in which we can use mathematics and sciences to teach children. It is by no means a textbook for teachers to use in teaching children. The job of preparing lessons and planning the path towards Human Excellence remains with the teacher themselves. When teachers perform their duty with love and they receive love in return from the children, this alone will give them inspiration.
Integration of Human Values in The Arts and Extra-Curricular Activities. by Burrows, Lorraine. Bangkok, Thailand: International Institute of Sathya Sai Education.	The ultimate goal of Sathya Sai Education in Human Values is the Blossoming of Human Excellence through the all-round development of the child. Its aim is to help children to grow into exemplary citizens who will work together to usher in an age of peace and prosperity. Young men and women who have unity of thought, word and deed will lead their lives according to human vales. The purpose of this book is to give ideas and examples to inspire teachers to go on and discover their own methods to integrate values into curricular and extracurricular subjects.
Learn Sanskrit Though Stories. by Ware, Dr. L. A. Madras, India: Sri Ramakrishna Math.
*Life and Values*. by Prajñanananda Giri, Swami. Cuttack, India: Prajñanana Mission. 2001.
*Meditating with Children: A Workbook on New Age Educational Methods Using Meditation.* by Rozman, Deborah. Boulder Creek, CO: University of the Trees Press. 1975.	There are so many correspondences to be found between the world outside of our bodies and in the world inside our bodies, that we study these facts of life and allow their truth to be revealed to us. Hidden in their Truth are the keys to the mysteries of Life, and most importantly for man, the keys to understanding the nature of his own Self. The information and materials found herein were developed by the author from inspiration, research and practical experience with a series of meditation classes for children.
*Positive Discipline.* by Nelsen, Jane and Glenn, Stephen H. New York, NY: Ballantine Books. 1996.	The classic guide for parents and teachers to help children develop self-discipline, responsibility, cooperation, and problem-solving skills.
*Positive Discipline A-Z, Revised and Expanded 2nd Edition: From Toddlers to Teens, 1001 Solutions to Everyday Parenting Problems.*by Nelsen, Jane et al.	As a parent, you face one of the most challenging--and rewarding--roles of your life. No matter how much you love your child, there will still be moments filled with anger, frustration, and, at times, desperation. What do you do? Over the years, millions of parents just like you have come to trust the classic Positive Discipline series for its consistent, commonsense approach to child rearing. In this completely updated edition, you will learn how to use kind but firm support to raise a child who is responsible, respectful, and resourceful.
Positive Discipline in the Classroom: Developing Mutual Respect, Cooperation, and Responsibility in Your Classroom. by Nelsen, Jane et al.	Positive Discipline transforms the way teachers view themselves and their students. The activities in this book show how learning shifts from head to heart, where positive change can really take root. Imagine, instead of controlling behavior, you can be teaching; instead of confronting apathy, you will enjoy motivated, eager students.
Psychological Chart. by Yogananda, Paramahamsa.. Dallas, TX: Amrita Foundation. Inc. 1993.	The purpose of this Chart is to help people in freeing their soul and will from ignorance, undesirable environmental influences, slavish customs, bad habits, and entanglements, by teaching them to understand and develop all the possibilities of their real nature, and by pointing out and eliminating their bad habits and tendencies. By analysis and introspection the student learns to know himself through this Chart, and the knowledge of how to improve will follow naturally. In order to know what he ought to be, he must first be acquainted with what he is. This little Chart will be your searchlight in the dark pathways of life. Use it to help you on to freedom.
*Raising Self-Reliant Children in a Self-Indulgent World: Seven Building Blocks for Developing Capable Young People.* by Nelsen, Jane and Glenn, Stephen H.	On its tenth anniversary, this parenting classic returns with fresh, up-to-date information to offer you inspiring and workable ideas for developing a trusting relationship with children, as well as the skills to implement the necessary discipline to help your child become a responsible adult.
*Richest Man in Babylon, the.* by Clason, George S. London, Great Britain: Penguin Books. 1926.
Sadhana. by Sivananda, Swami. New York, NY: Samuel Weiser. Inc. 1978.
Sathya Sai Education in Human Value. by Burrows, Loraine. Bangkok: International Institute of Sathya Sai Education. 1997.
Teaching Your Children Values. by Eyre, Linda and Richard. New York: Fireside - Simon and Schuster. 1993.	Helping your children develop values such as honesty, self-reliance, and dependability is as important a part of their education as teaching them to read or how to cross the street safely. The values you teach your children are their best protection from the influences of peer pressure and the temptations of consumer culture. With their own values clearly defined, your children can make their own decisions--rather than imitate their friends or the latest fashions. Linda and Richard Eyre present a practical, proven, month-by-month program of games, family activities, and value-building exercises for kids of all ages.
*Teenage Liberation Handbook: How to Quit School and Get a Real Life and Education, the.* by Llewellyn, Grace. Eugene, OR: Lowry House. 1991.
21 Lesson Plans for Grades 1 – 6: Sathya Sai Education in Human Values. by Burrows, Lorraine. Bangkok, Thailand: International Institute of Sathya Sai Education. 1997.	The lesson plans in this book are examples of the Direct Teaching Method in Sathya Sai Education in human values. It is intended as a guide for teachers. Teachers may adapt the lessons to suit the local conditions, traditions and cultures. There are 5 teaching techniques: Prayers or quotations or positive affirmations; meditation or silent sitting; story telling; group singing; group activities. These lesson may be used instead of morality classes or classes in ethics.
*Unschooled Mind: How Children Think and How Schools Should Teach, the.* by Gardner, Howard. New York: Basic Books - Harper Collins. 1991.	A provocative book that sets out persuasively the complexity of learning, teaching, and schooling. It provides practical, well-grounded advice to school reformers who seek not rote learning but deep understanding. Extraordinarily useful and insightful in untangling the mysteries of learning and the current state of cognitive research.
*Valvikas*. India.	A series of textbooks for spiritual and material education.
Vedic Heritage Teaching Programme: Volumes 1-3. by Ramaswamy, Sunita and Dr. Sundar, Rishikesh, India: Sri Gangadhareswar Trust. 1993.	Growing up in modern India can be very confusing. The native forms of culture and religion are challenged by other forms reaching the children through the global media. They have to now choose. Without knowledge of the meaning of those forms, choosing is impossible. The Verdic Heritage Teaching Programme provides a resource offering an insight into the vision of the Vedas and the vast literature and religious culture of India.
Vedic Heritage Teaching Programme: Children’s Workbook (Parts 1-7). by Ramaswamy, Sunita and Dr. Sundar, Rishikesh, India: Sri Gangadhareswar Trust. 1993.	As you explore these pages, you will discover great heroes and heroines of the Indian tradition. The illustrations will help you visualize the characters and the games will help you understand their stories. You may color the illustrations of the characters and their beautiful surroundings using your favorite colors. By playing the games, you will appreciate the attitudes and values of the characters and understand why they are role-models for the Indian people.
Vedic Heritage Teaching Programme: Puja and Prayers. by Ramaswamy, Sunita and Dr. Sundar, Rishikesh, India: Sri Gangadhareswar Trust. 1993.	Water may be available underground, but one can have it only by the effort of tapping. The grace of the Lord is always for everyone, but one has to earn it. The sure way of earning it is by prayer in the form of puja (worship), recitation and also, mental japa. If you study and practice the material in this Puja and Prayers book, you will have the means of earning Bhagavan's grace all your life time. Learn to chant and recite properly. One has to pay attention to pronunciation and the mode of chanting. The meanings of the chants and verses also have to be learned carefully.
*We’re All Doing Time.* by Lozoff, Bo. Durham, N.C.: Human Kindness Foundation. 1996.
Where There is no Doctor: A Village Health Care Handbook. by Werner, David; Tuman, Carol and Maxwell, Jane. Berkeley, CA. The Hesperian Foundation. 1992.
Yoga: Pathway to the Divine. by Prajñanananda Giri, Swami. Two volumes. Cuttack, India: Prajñanana Mission. 1999.	In this collection of talks geared toward the modern world of East and West, Paramahamsa Prajñananandaji deals in a humorous yet compassionate style with such topics as television, health, energy conservation and relationships. Drawing on the wealth of countless scriptures such as the Bible and the Bhagavad Gita, stories about Akbar and Birbal, and incidents from the life of Mahatma Gandhi, he provides step-by-step methods for achieving Self-realization.