top of page
  • Writer's pictureNovel Nest
    • 9 min read

21 Best Philosophy & Spirituality Books of All Time According to Naval Ravikant 



When it comes to exploring the realms of philosophy and spirituality, few individuals carry as much weight and wisdom as Naval Ravikant.


Naval Ravikant is a renowned figure in philosophy and spirituality, celebrated for his profound insights.


In this post, we'll explore his top 21 book recommendations, each offering a profound journey into the depths of the human spirit and the mysteries of existence.


Affiliate Disclaimer: This post features Amazon affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links.




Jed McKenna's "Theory of Everything" is the first installment in his Dreamstate Trilogy, and it's a literary journey that challenges the very essence of reality. McKenna's writing takes readers on a relentless exploration of truth, self-discovery, and enlightenment. Ravikant's endorsement of this book underscores its power to shatter conventional thinking, encouraging readers to question their perceptions and delve into the depths of their consciousness.


“there is no such thing as a rational person. We are emotional creatures with some token capacity for reason.”― Jed McKenna, Jed McKenna's Theory of Everything: The Enlightened Perspective




Dr. Kapil Gupta's "A Master’s Secret Whispers" is a quiet yet profound revelation for those who seek truth amidst the cacophony of life. In this book, Dr. Gupta distills his years of experience into a collection of insights that challenge preconceived notions about existence. Naval Ravikant recognizes the value of Gupta's gentle wisdom, highlighting its potential to provide clarity and peace in a noisy world.


“The false game is to give legitimacy to the notion that there is a hierarchy of importance among human beings.”― Kapil Gupta, A Master's Secret Whispers: For those who abhor the noise and seek The Truth about life and living




Continuing his exploration of truth and meaning, Dr. Kapil Gupta presents "Direct Truth." This book offers unapologetic answers to life's most profound questions. Ravikant's endorsement emphasizes the book's commitment to cutting through the noise of dogma and delivering uncompromising insights that can transform the way readers perceive and navigate the world.


“Why do I get angry when I am insulted? A: Because you entertain the verity of the insult.”― Kapil Gupta, Direct Truth: Uncompromising, non-prescriptive Truths to the enduring questions of life




Dr. Kapil Gupta's "Atmamun" promises readers a path to achieving the bliss and freedom sought by Himalayan swamis. Through this book, Gupta invites readers to embark on a transformative journey of self-realization. Naval Ravikant's recognition of this work underscores its potential to guide individuals toward profound states of enlightenment and liberation.


“When the mind thinks that it knows, it creates a story. And it makes the person believe the fairy tale. But when it is confused, it has no story to tell you. So you are, for a brief moment, free to learn the truth. Independent of the mind.”― Kapil Gupta, Atmamun: The Path To Achieving The Bliss Of The Himalayan Swamis. And The Freedom Of A Living God.




Jiddu Krishnamurti's "The Book of Life" is a timeless masterpiece that delves into the fundamental questions of existence, consciousness, and human relationships. Through his profound insights, Krishnamurti encourages readers to embark on an inner journey of self-discovery and personal transformation. Naval Ravikant's inclusion of this work underscores its enduring relevance in the quest for spiritual understanding and self-realization.


“You only learn when you give your whole being to something. When you give your whole being to mathematics,you learn; but when you are in a state of contradiction, when you do not want to learn but are forced to learn, then it becomes merely a process of accumulation. To learn is like reading a novel with innumerable characters; it requires your full attention, not contradictory attention.”― Jiddu Krishnamurti, The Book of Life: Daily Meditations with Krishnamurti




"Total Freedom" distills the essential teachings of Jiddu Krishnamurti into a comprehensive guide for seekers of truth and self-awareness. In this book, Krishnamurti explores the nature of freedom, the limitations of thought, and the path to true understanding. Naval Ravikant recognizes the transformative potential of this book, making it a valuable addition to any spiritual seeker's library.


“Teaching is not the mere imparting of knowledge but the cultivation of an inquiring mind.”― Jiddu Krishnamurti, Total Freedom: The Essential Krishnamurti




Herman Hesse's "Siddhartha" is a timeless novel that transports readers to ancient India, following the spiritual journey of Siddhartha, the protagonist. This tale of self-discovery and enlightenment resonates with those seeking deeper meaning in life. Naval Ravikant's inclusion of this work suggests its power to inspire readers to explore their own paths toward wisdom and illumination.


“Wisdom cannot be imparted. Wisdom that a wise man attempts to impart always sounds like foolishness to someone else ... Knowledge can be communicated, but not wisdom. One can find it, live it, do wonders through it, but one cannot communicate and teach it.”― Hermann Hesse, Siddhartha




Osho's "The Book of Secrets" is a comprehensive guide to meditation and self-discovery. Featuring 112 transformative meditations, this book aims to unlock the mysteries of existence and reveal the hidden dimensions of the self. Ravikant's recommendation highlights its potential to awaken inner wisdom and lead readers toward a more profound understanding of themselves and the universe.


“Only a blind man can easily define what light is. When you do not know, you are bold. Ignorance is always bold; knowledge hesitates. And the more you know, the more you feel that the ground underneath is dissolving. The more you know, the more you feel how ignorant you are.”― Osho, The Book of Secrets




Osho's "The Great Challenge" invites readers to embark on a profound journey into the depths of their own inner worlds. Through a series of meditations and explorations, Osho guides readers toward self-realization and personal growth. Naval Ravikant recognizes the value of this work in facilitating deep insights and inner transformation.





In "The Way to Love," Anthony DeMello shares his last meditations on the nature of love and spirituality. DeMello's profound insights offer a path to cultivating love within oneself and extending it to others. Naval Ravikant's endorsement emphasizes the book's power to illuminate the way to a more loving and fulfilling life.


“Of what use is it to be tolerant of others if you are convinced that you are right and everyone who disagrees with you is wrong? That isn’t tolerance but condescension.”― Anthony de Mello, The Way to Love: The Last Meditations of Anthony de Mello




Michael Singer's "The Untethered Soul" is a modern classic that explores the concept of self and invites readers to transcend their inner limitations. Through insightful teachings and practical exercises, Singer guides readers toward a state of inner freedom and self-realization. Naval Ravikant recognizes the book's potential to liberate individuals from the constraints of the ego and awaken their true selves.


“There is nothing more important to true growth than realizing that you are not the voice of the mind - you are the one who hears it.”― Michael A. Singer, The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself




"Meditations" by Marcus Aurelius is a timeless classic of stoic philosophy and self-improvement. Written as a series of personal reflections and meditations, this work offers wisdom and guidance on living a virtuous and meaningful life. Ravikant's inclusion of this book highlights its enduring relevance in the pursuit of wisdom and personal growth.


“You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations




Kamal Ravikant's "Love Yourself Like Your Life Depends on It" is a powerful testament to the transformative power of self-love. Through his personal journey and reflections, Ravikant shares a simple yet profound practice that can change one's life. Naval Ravikant's endorsement underscores the book's potential to catalyze personal growth, self-compassion, and inner healing.


“This day, I vow to myself to love myself, to treat myself as someone I love truly and deeply - in my thoughts, my actions, the choices I make, the experiences I have, each moment I am conscious, I make the decision I LOVE MYSELF.”― Kamal Ravikant, Love Yourself Like Your Life Depends On It




"The Tao of Seneca" compiles the wisdom of the Stoic philosopher Seneca into practical letters filled with timeless advice for daily life. This collection offers readers actionable guidance on how to navigate the challenges of existence with wisdom and resilience. Ravikant's recommendation suggests the book's value in providing philosophical tools for living a more meaningful and fulfilling life.


“It is not the man who has too little, but the man who craves more, that is poor.”― The Tao of Seneca: Practical Letters from a Stoic Master




In "How to Change your Mind," Michael Pollan explores the transformative potential of psychedelics and altered states of consciousness. Pollan's investigative journey into the world of psychedelics sheds light on their impact on mental health, spirituality, and human perception. Naval Ravikant recognizes the book's contribution to expanding our understanding of the mind, consciousness, and spirituality in a rapidly evolving world.


“Our task in life consists precisely in a form of letting go of fear and expectations, an attempt to purely give oneself to the impact of the present.”― Michael Pollan, How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence




"Striking Thoughts" by Bruce Lee offers wisdom from the legendary martial artist for daily life and personal growth. This collection of Lee's insights and philosophies encompasses not only martial arts but also life itself. Ravikant's inclusion of this work highlights its applicability to both physical and spiritual development, emphasizing the importance of balance and discipline in one's journey.


“Don't fear failure. — Not failure, but low aim, is the crime. In great attempts it is glorious even to fail.”― Bruce Lee, Striking Thoughts: Bruce Lee's Wisdom for Daily Living




Kahlil Gibran's "The Prophet" is a poetic masterpiece that imparts profound insights on love, freedom, and spirituality. Written in the form of a poetic prose narrative, this book provides readers with timeless wisdom and universal truths. Naval Ravikant's endorsement underscores the book's enduring relevance as a source of guidance and inspiration for generations of seekers.


“Let there be spaces in your togetherness, And let the winds of the heavens dance between you. Love one another but make not a bond of love: Let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls. Fill each other's cup but drink not from one cup. Give one another of your bread but eat not from the same loaf.”― Kahlil Gibran, The Prophet




Alan Watts' "The Tao of Philosophy" explores the essence of Taoism and its philosophical implications for modern life. Watts delves into the wisdom of ancient Chinese philosophy, demonstrating its relevance to contemporary thought and self-discovery. Ravikant's inclusion of this work suggests its value in understanding the profound principles of Eastern philosophy and their practical applications in daily life.


“However, until there is silence of the mind, it is almost impossible to understand eternal life, that is to say, eternal now.”― Alan W. Watts, The Tao of Philosophy




"Jed McKenna’s Notebook" offers further insights from the author of the "Dreamstate Trilogy." In this collection, McKenna expands on his teachings, providing readers with deeper understandings of reality, enlightenment, and the human experience. Naval Ravikant recognizes the depth of McKenna's wisdom and its value in the pursuit of self-realization and personal growth.





"Jed Talks #1" by Jed McKenna provides readers with a series of thought-provoking discussions on spirituality and existence. These talks delve into profound topics, offering new perspectives and insights for those seeking truth and self-discovery. Ravikant's endorsement highlights the transformative potential of McKenna's teachings, inviting readers to expand their horizons.





"Jed Talks #2" continues Jed McKenna's exploration of profound spiritual topics, offering additional wisdom and perspectives. These talks delve deeper into the nature of reality and enlightenment, encouraging readers to question their assumptions and embark on their own journeys of self-discovery. Naval Ravikant's inclusion of this work suggests that it offers further insights into the nature of reality and the path to enlightenment.




 


If you enjoyed these book recommendations, check out more similar list on my on my blog — https://www.honbasicbooks.com/nonfiction


In conclusion, Naval Ravikant's list of the 21 best philosophy and spirituality books of all time is a rich tapestry of wisdom and insight.

Kommentare

bottom of page