The emblem of the Ramakrishna Order designed by Swamiji is a unique and unparalleled work of art created by one of the richest minds in contemporary history in an exalted mood of spiritual inspiration. It is a profound symbol of harmony and synthesis for reverential meditation in this present age of conflict and disharmony. This symbol is the epitome of Swamiji's message of harmony and synthesis, leading to life's fulfilment. This is indeed the most eloquent expression of what he really preached, what he wanted every man and woman to be, to realize, either in the East or in the West. The goal is to realize, even in this very life, one's real Self, the self-effulgent Atman, the Swan in the emblem and through this realization to be free of all limitations, all bondages, all littleness. This spiritual freedom is one thing to be aspired for and achieved in this very life. It releases one from one's prison-house of limited individuality and confers upon him or her, the blessing of universal existence. He then becomes one with Existence-Knowledge-Bliss Absolute. 'Be free. This is the whole of religion' said Swamiji. The meaning behind this emblem, in the language of Vivekananda himself:
"The wavy waters in the picture are symbolic of Karma, the lotus of Bhakti, and the rising-sun of Jnana. The encircling serpent is indicative of Yoga and awakened Kunadalini Shakti, while the swan in the picture stands for Paramatman. Therefore, the ideal of the picture is that by the union of Karma, Jnana, Bhakti and Yoga, the vision of the Paramatman is obtained"

All persons, institutions and organizations are hereby informed that the two distinct names RAMAKRISHNA MISSION and RAMAKRISHNA MATH and their well known distinctive EMBLEM/SEAL as reproduced above are legally and formally REGISTERED and PROTECTED under the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950, of the Government of India. This has been so notified in the Gazette of India, issue dated 18.8.1973, page 2810, to be read with issue dated 18.5.1974, page 1337.

Any individual or institution or organization using or adopting or appropriating the names "Ramakrishna Mission" and "Ramakrishna Math" and their common Emblem (or Seal) either in whole or in part or in any other manner whatsoever so as to establish or give cause to establish identity with or close resemblance to or a colourable imitation of the said Names and Emblem shall be liable to prosecution under the above-mentioned Acts and the current Law in force.

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Emblem of Holistic Spirituality (.pdf format)

 
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