Why does today’s spirituality seem to espouse more the feminine traits rather than masculine? More “love, compassion,” less “assertiveness, vigor” is noted. Men like Sri Yukteswar, Yoganandaji, “Tiger Swami” Vivekananda were kind, yet bold/energized, speaking with bluntness and certainty. Yet today, nearly every spiritual man I see speaks with a conscious modesty/passivity. Sadly I’ve not recently seen a “man’s man” amongst devotees. Perhaps because people assign masculinity with ego?
—Rush, USA
One way of understanding this question is from the perspective that this period of time we are living in has a very real need to have more general feminine energy to balance things out. This has, as a result, an effect certainly on many devotees and truthseekers. Swami Kriyananda said a number of years ago that it is important to tune into Divine Mother even more so at this time.
But in looking at Ananda devotees I see that there is simply more of a balance that is manifesting at this time. As a whole I don’t see any general lack of masculinity (in either men or women) although there are certainly individuals that need more of a balance.
Swami Kriyananda was a very good example of manifesting both the masculine and feminine. He was a very clear and strong example of being “bold and energized”, but was also very loving and giving.
And, certainly, Paramhansa Yogananda had both masculine and feminine traits and was expressive of both.
The key is looking behind the expression of either masculinity or femininity, and tuning into the divine presence, and allowing that to manifest in a deeper and more fulfilling manner in our own lives.
Blessings on your spiritual journey,
Nayaswami Pranaba
