Meaning: The quote "Always do good to others. Be selfless. Mentally remove everything and be free. This is divine life. This is the direct way to Moksha or salvation." by Swami Sivananda encapsulates the essence of selflessness, compassion, and spiritual liberation. Swami Sivananda was a prominent spiritual leader, philosopher, and proponent of the ancient Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga. His teachings emphasized the importance of selfless service, detachment, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.

The first part of the quote, "Always do good to others. Be selfless," reflects the fundamental principle of altruism and compassion that is prevalent in many spiritual and ethical traditions. It underscores the idea that individuals should strive to act for the benefit of others without expecting anything in return. This selfless attitude fosters harmony, empathy, and a sense of interconnectedness among people, contributing to a more compassionate and caring society.

The subsequent statement, "Mentally remove everything and be free," delves into the concept of detachment or renunciation. In the context of spiritual practice, detachment involves cultivating a state of mental and emotional freedom from worldly attachments and desires. This does not necessarily imply physical isolation or abandonment of responsibilities, but rather a mindset of non-attachment that allows individuals to navigate life's challenges with equanimity and inner peace.

The final assertion, "This is divine life. This is the direct way to Moksha or salvation," points to the ultimate goal of spiritual realization and liberation. In Hinduism, Moksha represents the release from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara), and the attainment of union with the divine or ultimate reality. Swami Sivananda suggests that a life dedicated to selfless service, detachment, and spiritual awakening leads directly to the realization of Moksha, or salvation.

Swami Sivananda's teachings are deeply rooted in the philosophical and spiritual traditions of India, particularly Vedanta and Yoga. Vedanta, a school of Hindu philosophy, emphasizes the non-dual nature of reality and the interconnectedness of all beings. It teaches that the ultimate goal of human life is to realize one's true nature, which is inherently divine and free from limitations.

Yoga, on the other hand, offers a practical and systematic approach to spiritual growth and self-realization. It encompasses various paths, including Karma Yoga (the yoga of selfless action), Bhakti Yoga (the yoga of devotion), Jnana Yoga (the yoga of knowledge), and Raja Yoga (the yoga of meditation and self-discipline). Swami Sivananda's teachings often integrated these different paths, highlighting the importance of selfless service, devotion to the divine, pursuit of knowledge, and inner transformation through meditation and self-discipline.

In summary, Swami Sivananda's quote encapsulates the core principles of altruism, detachment, and spiritual liberation, offering a profound insight into the path of selfless service and inner freedom as a means to attain Moksha or salvation. His teachings continue to inspire and guide countless individuals on their spiritual journey, transcending cultural and religious boundaries to convey timeless wisdom and universal truths.