Bhakta Course-Part 1Table Of Contents ISKCON EDUCATION……………………….……6 DEVOTIONAL SERVICE THE MEANING OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE…………………….……11 DEFINITION OF PURE BHAKTI………………………………………….12 6 CHARACTERISTICS OF PURE BHAKTI……………...………………12 DEVOTIONAL SERVICE IN GENERAL…………………………………13 DEVOTIONAL SERVICE AND SURRENDER…………………………...25 DEVOTIONAL SERVICE AND ENTHUSIASAM…………………….….27 DEVOTIONAL SERVICE AND PRAYERS…………………………….....29 DEVOTIONAL SERVICE AND PREVIOUS BIRTHS…………………...29 DEVOTIONAL SERVICE AND PROTECTION………………………....32 SADHANA BHAKTI 1.What is sadhana bhakti STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT OF BHAKTI…………………………...…33 3 CATEGORIES OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE……………………….….34 MEANING OF SADHANA BHAKTI (DEVOTIONAL SERVICE IN PRACTICE)…………………………………………………………………...34 TWO PARTS OF SADHANA BHAKTI…………………………………….35 1 2.Why to practice sadhana bhakti THE NECESSITY OF SADHANA BHAKTI……………………………….36 THE RESULT OF SADHANA BHAKTI…………………………………...40 THE RESULT OF NEGLECTING SADHANA BHAKTI…………….…..42 3.How to practice sadhana bhakti HOW TO PRACTICE SADHANA BHAKTI……………………………....44 4.What to practicaly do in discharge of sadhana bhakti a)What to completely give up THE FOUR REGULATIVE PRINCIPLES………………………………...49 b)What to regulate REGULATION………………………………………………………………..52 SLEEP………………………………………………………………………54 SENSE CONTROL…………………………………………………………...55 GENERAL MEANING OF SENSE CONTROL…………………………..55 CONTROL OF THE SPEECH……………………………………………..59 CONTROL OF THE MIND………………………………………………...60 CONTROL OF THE ANGER ……………………………………………...61 CONTROL OF THE TOUNGE/EATING………………………………….62 CONTROL OF THE SEX URGE/SEX ATTRACTION…………………...64 AUSTERITY…………………………………………………………………..66 HEALTH………………………………………………………………………67 c)What to do 5 POWERFUL FORMS OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE 9 PROCESSES OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE…………………………….75 2 MAIN BRANCHES OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE…………………..…77 5 POWERFUL FORMS OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE (INTRODOCTION) ……………………………………………………………82 2 1.ASSOCIATION WITH DEVOTEES THE PURPOSE OF ASSOCIATION…………………………………………86 CO-OPERATION ,APPRECIATION AND CIMPETITION…………………88 CRITICISM AMONGST DEVOTEES…………………………………….…95 LEAVING ASSOCIATION OF DEVOTEES…………………………………98 VAISNAVA ETIQUETTE VAISNAVA DEFINITION…………………………………………………99 3 CATEGORIES OF VAISNAVAS………………………………………101 GENERAL VAISNAVA ETIQUETTE…………………………………...103 MORE ON THE BEHAVIOUR OF A VAISNAVA…………………...…104 ETIQUETTE WITHIN RELATIONSHIPS……………………………….105 WOMEN IN KRSNA CONSCIOUSNESS……………………………….108 DRESSING LIKE A VAISNAVA ………………………………………..117 SPIRITUAL MASTER AND DISCIPLE QUALIFICATIONS OF A SPIRITUAL MASTER…………………..…..119 A GURU GIVES ALL CREDIT TO HIS GURU…………………………124 THE HUMILITY OF A SPIRITUAL MASTER……………………….....128 COMPASSION OF A SPIRITUAL MASTER………………………...….129 QUALIFICATION FOR BECOMING A GURU………………………....131 ACCEPTANCE OF A SPIRITUAL MASTER…………………………...136 SIKSA GURU…………………………………………………………..…140 CONNECTION BEFORE FORMAL INITIATION…………………...…141 DIKSA INITIATION THE MEANING OF INITIATION……………………………………145 INITIATION QUALIFICATIONS……………………………………146 HOW SPIRITUAL MASTER RELATES TO DISCIPLE PATERNAL RELATIONSHIP………………………………………..148 THE DUTY OF A SPIRITUAL MASTER…………………………....150 APPRECIATION OF DISCIPLES´ SERVICE…………………….…151 CHASTISING THE DISCIPLE……………………………………….155 ABSORBING THE SINFUL REACTIONS OF THE DISCIPLE...….158 SPIRITUAL MASTER AND REBIRTH FOR DISCIPLE…………...159 THE DISCIPLE-QUALIFICIATIONS,CHARACTERICTICS AND DUTIES …………………………………….161 VANI AND VAPU……………………………………………….………..175 OUR PARAMPARA AND OTHER SAMPRADAYAS……………....….178 GENERAL ETIQUETTE……………………………………………….....179 SRILA PRABHUPADA`S GODBROTHERS (IN GENERAL)………….183 3 Bhakta Course -Part 2 Table Of Contents 2.CHANTING HARE KRSNA THE IMPORTANCE AND RESULTS OF CHANTING………………...….193 JAPA…………………………………………………………………………..212 TEMPLE KIRTANA…………………………………...……………………..217 SONGS AND BAJANS……………..……………………………………..…218 HARI-NAMA SANKIRTANA………………………………………….……220 HARINAMA AND TEMPLE WORSHIP……………………………………222 3.HEARING SRIMAD BHAGAVATAM THE CULTURE OF HEARING……………………………………………...226 THE IMPORTANCE OF HEARING……………………………………...…227 EVERYTHING IS IN SRILA PRABHUPADA`S BOOKS………………….248 BOOKS TO BE AVOIDED…………………………………………………..250 STUDYING KRSNA CONSCIOUSNESS PHILOSOPHY……………….…253 RELATIONSHIP WITH KRSNA…………………………………………....261 CONFIDENTIALITY OF DISCUSION ABOUT RADHA-KRSNA LILA…………………………………………………………………………..265 SAHAJIYISM………………………………………………………………...271 4.DEITY WORSHIP THE NECESSITY OF DEITY WORSHIP………………………………...…278 THE RESULT OF PERFORMING DEITY WORSHIP………………….….281 PRASADAM THE IMPORTANCE OF PRASADAM……………………………….….282 PURCHASING BHOGA……………………………………………….…282 COOKING AND KITCHEN RULES……………………………………..284 TULASI……………………………………………………………………….286 EKADASI……………………………………………………………………..289 COMING ON BRAMINICAL LEVEL……………………………………....290 PREACHING; CHANTING AND DEITY WORSHIP……………………...293 4 5.LIVING ON THE HOLLY PLACE STRUCTURE OF ISKCON 7 PURPOSES OF ISKCON……………………………………………….295 GOVERNING BODY COMISSION……………………………………...296 SPIRITUAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE GBC…………………...296 MANAGERIAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE GBC……………….301 GBC AND THE TEMPLE PRESIDENT…………………………..…304 AUTHORITY OF THE GBC…………………………………………308 MAYAPUR ANNUAL MEETING…………………………………..310 ISKCON HISTORY AND OBJECTIVES………………………………..312 ISKCON TEMPLE MANAGEMENT ORGANISATION HOW TO MANAGE A TEMPLE……………………….…….….316 EVERY CENTER SHOULD BE INDEPENDENT…………...….321 RULES AND POLICIES………………………………………….322 TEMPLE PROGRAMS……………………………………………328 LABOR TEMPLE PRESIDENT´S RESPONSIBILITIES AND QUALIFICATIONS…………………………………………...….333 HOW TO MANAGE AND ENGAGE DEVOTEES……………...336 HOW SHOULD DEVOTEES EXECUTE THEIR DUTIES……..344 RECRUTING DEVOTEES……………………………………….349 PREACHING PREACHING-IMPORTANCE AND GUIDELINES…………………….357 PREACHING-WITH PURITY AND CONVICTION……………………369 BOOK DISTRIBUTION THE IMPORTANCE AND RESULTS OF BOOK DISTRIBUTION…....383 BOOK DISTRIBUTION AND STREET CHANTING….………………..390 BOOK DISTRIBUTION AND TEMPLE WORSHIP………………...…..393 5 ISKCON EDUCATION To study other things as a high grade scholar is secondary for us. The first thing is to build up character and be experienced in the understanding of the conclusions of the Srimad-Bhagavatam. (P. Sik. 776) „ Gurukula, we are not going to make some big, big scholars. We don´t require scholars. We require ideal men by character, by behavior, by Krsna consciousness . Not by studying grammar, there are many grammarians. Let them study our books nicely, English, little Sanskrit, that´s all. Gurukula organize like that. There are so many scholars in the universities, drinking and woman-hunting, that´s all. In the universities, I know, to get the degree, pass the examination, the girls have to adopt prostitution with the teachers. I know that. That to pass the examination by prostitution. Whatever nonsense they may write, that´s all right.“ Looking out the car windows as we drove to Central Park, Prabhupada observed the effects of modern schooling. „This is not education, everything is killing. Therefore we are supposed to deal with all madmen. They are thinking that they are constructing such big, big buildings, they are the most exalted persons; but we take them as mad, ghostly haunted. A person ghostly haunted, as he does, acts, similarly, anyone who is under the clutches of maya, he acts like this.“ (S.P. Diary3; 272-273) „Now I have rereceived your letter stating that only educated and cultured men should be allowed to stay in our temple. So I will follow this policy.“ (S.P. Diary3; 280) „Brahmacari guru-kule vasan danto guror hitam. The beginning of life is how to become cent per cent obedient to guru. That is gurukula. That training should be given. The whole process is that our life will be successful when we strictly follow guru and Krsna. Guru means Krsna; Krsna means guru. Not Mayavada, but guru means one who follows Krsna, he is guru. Saksad-dharitvena samasta-sastrair uktas tatha bhavyata eva sadbhih.So guru is directly God. Saksad means directly. So saksad-dharitvena samasta-sastrair uktas, in every sastra it is said the guru is one, Krsna. So, it is stated in the sastra and it is accepted by authorities. Not that it is simply stated. Ukta means ‚said‘ and sadbhih, ‚by great personalities‘, and tatha means ‚accordingly‘. Bhavyata eva sadbhih, those who are actually in transcendental platform, they should accept it. So why? Kintu prabhor yah priya eva. It does not mean Mayavadi, that he has become God, but he is the most confidential servant. He’s God, servant-God; God is master-God. Kintu prabhor yah priya eva tasya. So why he has 6 become priya? That is, Krsna says personally, na ca tasman manusyesu kascin me priyakrttamah: nobody is dearer than him in the whole world. Why? Ya idam paramam guhyam mad-bhaktesu: ‚Who preaches this gospel of Bhagavad-gita among My devotees.‘ „So the guru has got two business. He has to make devotees and teach them the principles of Bhagavad-gita. Therefore he’s so dear. Because he acts very confidentially on behalf of Krsna, therefore he’s as good as God. This is bhakti. Not the Mayavadi philosophy that guru has become God. He’s servant-God, and Krsna is master-God. So the success is that both the Gods, when one is accepted by both the Gods, then his life is success. Guru-krsnakrpaya paya bhakti-lata-bija. Therefore one has to fix his faith staunchly in the bona fide guru. So if one has got bona fide guru, and if he follows that bona fide guru, then his life is success.. This is the process. So gurukula means to teach how to become very, very faithful, cent per cent faithful, to the bona fide guru. That is gurukula. So you have to teach like that. By behavior, by life, by action. This sum and substance of gurukula.“ (S.P. Diary 3; 454-455) He stressed that the most important thing is for thge children to learn how be obedient, self-controlled and act on behalf of the guru. He said he isn’t interested in producing scholars because the world is already full of them. „Put in the life, that is important. Our movement has drawn the attention of the world on account of life and the knowledge. They are finding the knowledge in the books and they are finding the practical application in the life.“ (S.P. Diary 3; 456) He said girls should learn how to be faithful to their husbands and like Radharani they should learn the sixty-four arts , such as cooking and painting. „Then She could control Krsna.“ The boys should be taught to adress all women as their mother. When they grow up they should learn the sastra. „The more they read, the more they learn, then they become preacher, teacher.“ ( S.P. Diary 3; 456-457) There are so many, in the Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu it is stated, how Radharani was qualified. So these things should be taught to the girls. If the girls are taught to give service to the husband to the greatest satisfaction, there will be no disagreement.“ (S.P. Diary 3 457) He went on to say that it was not meant for everyone, but if a small section of the population was ideal, they could guide human society. „ At the present moment, there is no ideal section. Everyone is rascal, demons, rogues, everything. There is no ideal character. All politicians, scientists, leaders, they are all drunkards and woman-hunters. So what they can lead? There is no ideal man in the society. The politicians are giving big, big speech in the United Nations. They’ll go the same hotel where another debauchee is dancing and drinking. That’s all. That is his character. Is it not? So what he will do? He can give a very big speech, that’s all. What is his character? There is no ideal character in the present human society.“ (S.P. Diary 3; 458-459) 7 They.. It is going on. rather. a little mathematics. similarly. The earth is the mother of this plant. and we have to accept the statement of a rascal drunkard! We are not so unfortunate.Prabhupada advised 8 . they can believe that.460) „We disregard the statement of Vyasadeva. he said.“ That is because you have to go from America to India. Diary 3. You were saying they should learn geography and history“ Jyotirmayi humbly reminded him. The seed. that is botanical study. this plant is coming from earth. just to give some general knowledge. Diary 3. Diary 3.“ Prabhupada laughed..P. In light of what Prabhupada had just told her.(S. ‚Just see. that has also no utilization.P.“(S.he outlined a usefull study of plants. many botanists. There are many studants. That is not the point. Similarly. Now how she has been. Diary 3. Aham bija-pradah. whether you study it or not. how the child is growing. Even if you study. It is verry easy. You must know. „But not that our men have to go to the medical college to learn medical science. „Different plants. The intestine is joined to the navel of the child and the food is supplied.“(S. vagualy they are studying. 462) Yogesvara introduced another guest. The unfortunate. 459) In response to a question from Yogesvara he added that if someone already has medical knowledge then they can be engaged to serve according to what they know. The child has come into existance without father. What you’ll gain by understanding biology?“ (S. that is being done by prakriti. and the childs come out. a rose plant comes out. when pushed into the womb of the mother and properly nourished. immediately it is in the hand of the nature. many. „just for general knowledge. and they have no understanding of Krsna.. Let us chant Hare Krsna instead of studying these. you cannot understand. He told her that biology is going on. whatever is comming out from the earth. This is their knowledge. a young African from the Ivory Coast. Prakrteh kriyamanani gunaih karmani. Is it not a fact?“ Giving the explanation of how different living beings are born from the earth. This nature`s law is going on. But this biology and this ‚logy‘. the Father. the seed-giving father is Krsna. „ You have to calculate two plus two equal to four. There is no necessity. The father injects the seed within the womb of the mother. that is not under your controll. you can not understand how things are arranged.That study will be nice. do you know everything? Can anyone do? Can anyone understand? But things are there. Bhakta Ulain. Even if you study. Where is the necessity of understanding more than this? We understand the mother is pregnant. Just like father gives the seed. But you can teach them.P.‘ These things you can convince them. So the best thing is to understand that it is being done by nature under the instruction of the Supreme Lord. She asked if they should teach biology about how the body is working..P. 459) Jyotirmayi said that since they are living in the country she is already showing the children different plants and explaining their use. Prabhupada’s response was instantly to say it was a waste of time. They`re denying. they are useless. she asked if there was any use in that. Krsna gives the seed. „No“. we cannot believe. So instead of becoming such a fool and rascal it is better not to study. how it is mechanical. He explained he was trying to start Krsna consciusness in his home country.Jyotirmayi also had some questions about the academic side of gurukula. Sometimes we see that even they do not wash hands after eating. Prabhupada:That training is given here.He had a couple of these verses read out. spiritual training. they are simply meant for God`s business. how they will be benefited.“Unless you have got this faith. Suchi means purest. If you simply remain satisfied. let Him remain at His home. silly jackals. Everyone should join the mangal arati. reading profusely. That is the duty of everyone. The whole world is full of sudras.“ that is not love. Just like we are training people. Gradually. He gave the example of how Krsna describes the immortality of the soul in verse after verse of the second chapter of the Bhagavad-gita. spiritual training. you stay here and forget the silly jackals and take to Krsna alone or His devotees. there is no question of spiritual training. cleansing at least twice daily. You must be eager to know God more and more intimately. Sarva-dharman parityajya mam ekam saranam vraja. Diary 3. he must be first trained up. You try to understand.Spiritual training means first of all youmust have little faith that „ I shall be intimately related with God. Then the next stage is to know about God unless you associate with persons who are simply busy in God`s business.521) Your idea to recruit many brahmacaris is nice.(S.We have to follow Krsna alone. then our life is successful. We should open hundreds and thousands of centers all over the world. and He`ll explain what he is. trying to discern things the way that intellect funklions. You begin immediately this process.265) Prabhupada: Understanding. we should become more regulated and stict for following the rules and regulations. attending arati. Otherwise we shall fall down.P. And I don`t have spiritual training. such as rising early. we haven`t got to follow the silly jackals. These are spiritual training. Ali: And therefore.510) Prabhupada confirmed that it is the Vedic system to repeat things for emphasis and better understanding. you have to take the training. let your personal life be successful. We have got such a nice process that even from the base sudras we can create brahmanas of highest calibre. Even after drinking water we should wash hands.May 3. we have followed the silly jackals. guhyam akhyati prcchati. Then you can start verry nicely a center anywhere.(Fortunate Souls . then try to do good to others. How people will understand about God.“(S. let me remain at my home. So here is a nice place. like that .him to first stay here for some time before attempting to go out and preach. In all respective necessities of life there is everything complete. You try to understand God.follow Krsna.Krsna can give you all guidiance. But one who is going to open. „Because everyone of us. not all these rascals. Janma sarthaka kari` kara para-upakara. Ali:But I have been trained through intellect. P. That is Caitanya Mahaprabhu` s advice : First of all. now we have to follow Krsna. That is suci. Then you can do something . We need a class of men purely brahmanas.1972). That is the main work of GBC. then there will be progress of civilization. (Letter:Rupanuga. The Krsna Consciousness movement is meant for reestablishing the system of four varnas and asramas. They have no other business. You have to understand the words which God wants to let you know about Him. Diary 3. They have no other business. „God is great. how am I to understand? Prabhupada: To understand. When you are trained up to. All the presidents of our centers should see that all the members are strictly observing the brahminical standarts. they are simply 9 . not simply scholars. The two of them gave an elaborate outline of a comprehensive course of study. beginning from first-level grammar school up to Master`s level in greduate studies.“ Then associate with persons who are busy with God`s business. You have to mix with . Then you`ll have taste.(Evening Darsana: August 9.planning in so many ways. After hearing their proposals Prabhupada indicated that he considered many of their ideas to be impractical.D. Then you act as they are acting.1976. (P. Then you`ll have attachment. 1976 Prabhupada called for the other senior men to discuss their ideas for the school`s curriculum. because then we will be required to conform to certain government standards that he dosn`t feel are necessary. In this way you`ll develop love of God.1. associate with them. „ In this life I shall understand thoroughly about God. Then your misconception of material life will be finished. Prabhupada emphasized that he wants the children to become devotees. attempting to cram in too much in too short time.328-329) 10 .. Tehran). He is also not keen on the idea of afflication with other schools. So we have to associate with such persons who are convinced about God and trying to spread His knowledge throughout the world. First of all.269) 6th February. Nitai`s scheme seemed to academic and grandiose.(Fortunate Souls. you must have faith that. 2 sarvopädhi-vinirmuktaà tat-paratvena nirmalam håñékeëa håñékeçasevanaà bhaktir ucyate sarva-upädhi-vinirmuktam—free from all kinds of material designations.’(quoted in Cc. Madhya 19. ucyate—is called.170) DEFINITION OF PURE BHAKTI 11 .1. and one’s senses are purified simply by being employed in the service of the Lord. means engaging all our senses in the service of the Lord. bhaktiù —devotional service. nirmalam—uncontaminated by the effects of speculative philosophical research or fruitive activity . tat-paratvena—by the sole purpose of serving the Supreme Personality of Godhead. the master of all the senses. One is freed from all material designations. there are two side effects. “‘Bhakti. or free from all desires except the desire to render service to the Supreme Personality of Godhead. sevanam—the service to satisfy the senses. or devotional service. håñéka-éça—of the master of the senses. When the spirit soul renders service unto the Supreme.DEVOTIONAL SERVICE THE MEANING OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE Bhakti –rasamrta-sindhu 1. the Supreme Personality of Godhead. håñékeëa —by purified senses freed from all designations. anävåtam—not covered.. (5) Those in pure devotional service deride even the conception of liberation.11 anyäbhiläñitä-çünyaà jïäna-karmädy-anävåtam änukülyena kåñëänuçélanaà bhaktir uttamä anya-abhiläñitä-çünyam—without desires other than those for the service of Lord Kåñëa.1. knowledge obtained by monistic philosophy. gambling and addiction to intoxicants).D. ädi—by artificially practicing detachment.’(quoted in Cc. (3) Pure devotional service automatically puts one in transcendental pleasure. jïäna—by the knowledge of the philosophy of the monist Mäyävädés.o. “‘When first-class devotional service develops. (4) Pure devotional service is rarely achieved.Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu 1. änukülyena—favorable. and fruitive action. and so on. illicit sex. kåñëa-anuçélanam—cultivation of service in relationship to Kåñëa.167) 6 CHARACTERISTICS OF PURE BHAKTI (1) Pure devotional service brings immediate relief from all kinds of material distress. one must be devoid of all material desires. by the mechanical practice of yoga. The devotee must constantly serve Krsna favorably. as Krsna desires.3-4) DEVOTIONAL SERVICE IN GENERAL 12 . by studying the Säìkhya philosophy. Madhia 19. or without material desires (such as those for meat-eating. (N. karma—by fruitive activities. (6) Pure devotional service is the only means to attract Krsna. (2) Pure devotional service is the beginning of all auspiciousness. bhaktiù uttamä—first-class devotional service. 40 nehäbhikrama-näço ’sti pratyaväyo na vidyate sv-alpam apy asya dharmasya träyate mahato bhayät SYNONYMS na—there is not. thinks of Me within himself. That is My opinion B. TRANSLATION In this endeavor there is no loss or diminution. bhayät—danger. yaù—one who. saù—he. iha—in this yoga. me—by Me.B. mataù—is considered. bhajate—renders transcendental loving service. çraddhä-vän—in full faith. always thinking of Me. and a little advancement on this path can protect one from the most dangerous type of fear.g. mäm—to Me (the Supreme Lord).g. api—also. asti—there is. pratyaväyaù—diminution. mat-gatena— abiding in Me. sarveñäm—all types of. na—never. and renders transcendental loving service to Me—he is the most intimately united with Me in yoga and is the highest of all. vidyate—there is. dharmasya—occupation. träyate—releases. the one with great faith who always abides in Me.g. 6. mahataù—from very great. yukta-tamaù—the greatest yogé. abhikrama—in endeavoring. B. näçaù— loss. TRANSLATION And of all yogés. asya—of this.18.47 yoginäm api sarveñäà mad-gatenäntar-ätmanä çraddhävän bhajate yo mäà sa me yuktatamo mataù SYNONYMS yoginäm—of yogés. su-alpam—a little.65 man-manä bhava mad-bhakto mad-yäjé mäà namaskuru mäm evaiñyasi satyaà te pratijäne priyo ’si me 13 . api—although. antaù-ätmanä—within himself. 2. parityajya—abandoning. satyam—truly.g. vai—certainly.18. S. mäm—unto Me. eva—certainly. become My devotee. tväm— you. Thus you will come to Me without fail. Such devotional service must be unmotivated and uninterrupted to completely satisfy the self 14 . mat-yäjé—My worshiper. asi—you are.66 sarva-dharmän parityajya mäm ekaà çaraëaà vraja ahaà tväà sarva-päpebhyo mokñayiñyämi mä çucaù SYNONYMS sarva-dharmän—all varieties of religion. mä—do not. ekam—only. bhaktiù—devotional service. Do not fear. 1. sarva—all. apratihatä—unbroken. mokñayiñyämi—will deliver. te—to you.SYNONYMS mat-manäù—thinking of Me. paraù—sublime. puàsäm—for mankind. ätmä—the self. worship Me and offer your homage unto Me. I shall deliver you from all sinful reactions. yayä—by which. I promise you this because you are My very dear friend. mat-bhaktaù—My devotee. yataù—by which. vraja—go. adhokñaje— unto the Transcendence. priyaù—dear. bhava—just become. çucaù—worry. TRANSLATION Abandon all varieties of religion and just surrender unto Me. TRANSLATION Always think of Me. dharmaù —occupation. B.B. suprasédati—completely satisfied. TRANSLATION The supreme occupation [dharma] for all humanity is that by which men can attain to loving devotional service unto the transcendent Lord. mäm—unto Me.2.6 sa vai puàsäà paro dharmo yato bhaktir adhokñaje ahaituky apratihatä yayätmä suprasédati SYNONYMS saù—that. eñyasi—you will come. ahaituké—causeless. pratijäne—I promise. aham—I. mäm— unto Me. namaskuru—offer your obeisances. çaraëam—for surrender. me—to Me. päpebhyaù—from sinful reactions. ca—and.B.13 ataù pumbhir dvija-çreñöhä varëäçrama-vibhägaçaù svanuñöhitasya dharmasya saàsiddhir hari-toñaëam SYNONYMS ataù—so.B. bhakti-yogena—by devotional service to the Lord. tévreëa —with great force. hari—the Personality of Godhead.2. one immediately acquires causeless knowledge and detachment from the world . svanuñöhitasya—of one’s own prescribed duties. udära-dhéù—with broader intelligence.S. varëa-äçrama—the institution of four castes and four orders of life. ahaitukam—causeless. vä—either. janayati—does produce.2. jïänam —knowledge. pumbhiù—by the human being. yajeta—should worship. bhakti-yogaù—contact of devotional service. puruñam—the Lord. TRANSLATION By rendering devotional service unto the Personality of Godhead. prayojitaù—being applied. sarva-kämaù— one who has the sum total of material desires.10 akämaù sarva-kämo vä mokña-käma udära-dhéù tévreëa bhakti-yogena yajeta puruñaà param SYNONYMS akämaù—one who has transcended all material desires.2. vairägyam—detachment.S. TRANSLATION O best among the twice-born. dvija-çreñöhäù—O best among the twice-born.7 väsudeve bhagavati bhakti-yogaù prayojitaù janayaty äçu vairägyaà jïänaà ca yad ahaitukam SYNONYMS väsudeve—unto Kåñëa. vibhägaçaù—by the division of. Çré Kåñëa.S. äçu—very soon. toñaëam—pleasing. param—the supreme whole. dharmasya—occupational.B. saàsiddhiù—the highest perfection. it is therefore concluded that the highest perfection one can achieve by discharging the duties prescribed for one’s own occupation according to caste divisions and orders of life is to please the Personality of Godhead . yat—that which. 15 .3.1.1. mokña-kämaù— one who desires liberation. bhagavati—unto the Personality of Godhead. nähi kona—there is not any. which are called çabda-pramäëa. must by all means worship the supreme whole. he can be freed from his envious position. Çrémad-Bhägavatam is meant for such nonenvious persons (nirmatsaräëäà satäm).” Cc. direct perception. vaiñëava—devotee. That is the sum and substance of the eternal religion. vaiñëava-çästra— devotional literature. PURPORT One must have firm faith in the process of devotional service and the scriptures that support it. If one hears the activities of Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu with this faith.TRANSLATION A person who has broader intelligence. ära—other. or desiring liberation.125 abhidheya-näma ‘bhakti’. it is said: çrutiù pratyakñam aitihyam anumänaà catuñöayam pramäëeñv anavasthänäd vikalpät sa virajyate “Vedic literature. This is the sum and substance of everything. without any material desire. One who strictly follows the Vedic literature and chants the holy name of the Supreme Personality of Godhead will actually be situated in the transcendental disciplic succession. Madya 20. Everyone should stick to these principles for the realization of the Absolute Truth. and the word vaiñëavaçästra refers to çruti. ei kahe marma—this is the purport. Madya 9. dharma—religious principle. vaiñëava-çästra. In this age a person should not envy Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu’s movement but should chant the holy names of Hari and Kåñëa. ‘prema’——prayojana puruñärtha-çiromaëi prema mahä-dhana 16 .17). In this verse the word vaiñëava refers to a pure devotee and fully realized soul.19. ei kahe marma SYNONYMS ei kali-käle—in this Age of Kali. TRANSLATION In this Age of Kali there are no genuine religious principles other than those established by Vaiñëava devotees and the Vaiñëava scriptures. or the Vedas.362 ei kali-käle ära nähi kona dharma vaiñëava. known as sanätana-dharma. the mahä-mantra. history and hypothesis are the four kinds of evidential proofs. In Çrémad-Bhägavatam (11. Those who want to attain life’s ultimate goal must follow this principle. the Personality of Godhead Cc. the evidence of transcendental sound. whether he be full of all material desire. puruña-artha-çiromaëi—the topmost interest of the living entity. but he must first abide by the spiritual master’s order to chant a certain number of rounds. prema—love of Godhead. prema—love of Godhead. Therefore one must strictly chant the Hare Kåñëa mahä-mantra twenty-four hours daily. kiìkaräù—the servants. one should always remember Kåñëa and never forget Him. or sense activity for the satisfaction of the Lord. Thus one attains the platform of transcendental loving service unto the Lord. vidhi-niñedhäù—rules and prohibitions mentioned in the revealed scripture or given by the spiritual master. mahä-dhana—the greatest wealth. TRANSLATION “Devotional service. jätucit—at any time. THE GOLDEN RULE OF BHAKTI Padma Purana(Cc. eva—certainly. satatam—always. TRANSLATION “‘Kåñëa is the origin of Lord Viñëu. This is possible when one chants the Hare Kåñëa mantra. viñëuù—Lord Viñëu.SYNONYMS abhidheya—activities to revive one’s relationship. which is the goal of life.’ PURPORT This verse is a quotation from the Padma Puräëa. sarve—all. In our Kåñëa consciousness movement. bhakti— devotional service. One may have other duties to perform under the direction of the spiritual master. vismartavyaù—to be forgotten. is called abhidheya because it can develop one’s original love of Godhead. All the rules and prohibitions mentioned in the çästras should be the servants of these two principles. There are many regulative principles in the çästras and directions given by the spiritual master. M 22. He should always be remembered and never forgotten at any time. This chanting of sixteen rounds is absolutely necessary if one wants to 17 . etayoù—of these two principles (always to remember Kåñëa or Viñëu and never to forget Him). na—not. These regulative principles should act as servants of the basic principle—that is.113) smartavyaù satataà viñëur vismartavyo na jätucit sarve vidhi-niñedhäù syur etayor eva kiìkaräù SYNONYMS smartavyaù—to be remembered. This goal is the living entity’s topmost interest and greatest wealth. prayojana—the ultimate goal of life. näma—named. we have recommended that the neophyte chant at least sixteen rounds. syuù—should be. One may sell books or enlist life members or render some other service. He has no motive to satisfy his material desires by devotional service. Materialists are always careful for maintaining his material status quo first. Therefore the Krishna Consciousness persons are greater than such materialistic worshippers. In this way. 1968) Regarding your question. and then please Visnu. (SPL to Satsvarupa. When one goes with a saìkértana party or sells books. So the process which we have adopted cannot be compared even with any other yoga system.remember Kåñëa and not forget Him. When one goes to enlist a life member. Such pure devotees are very rare. Thanking you once more for writing me. That is the sign of pure devotee. It is not necessary to remember or fully understand all these different forms. and awaiting your good news by next mail. That is a fact. 1968) Answering your puzzle.3rd July. at the present. (SPL to Janaki. Krishna Consciousness. 19 th October. and as soon as there is any hindrance in the path of material gain. they are.. they at once become demon. but simply engages himself in the service of the Lord. Hope this will meet both of you in good health. Therefore bhakti means without any material desires. neither tries to gain something by his work. Of all the regulative principles. without any material desire. But by the Grace of Krishna. 1968) Regarding Dr. practically all the devotees and disciples who have kindly joined me. that one who is constantly in Krishna Consciousness. sarvopadhi-vinirmuktam. Bagchee--we must always know that we are executing the topmost yoga system. Karma means work and get the result and enjoy life. And Tadekatmarupa is the purusa. People are generally engaged in karma. and one must refrain from doing things that make him forget Kåñëa. Although they profess to be devotees of Visnu. that will be removed very soon. Even if they have got some ulterior desire. and we do not require any inferior quality yoga system . but it is like if you simply stick to the master faithfully that is very good. he talks about Kåñëa and thereby remembers Him. the spiritual master’s order to chant at least sixteen rounds is most essential. jnana means speculating process to understand the Absolute Truth. but these duties are not ordinary duties.(SPL to Aniruddha. Sayamprakash means Balarama. he naturally remembers that he is going to sell Kåñëa’s books. but if you know that my master is so 18 . their symptoms are pure devotees. he is called a pure devotee. These duties serve as an impetus for remembering Kåñëa. October. he is remembering Kåñëa. So one who does not indulge in speculating habit. Smartavyaù satataà viñëur vismartavyo na jätucit. just like Mahavisnu. Sayamrupa means the Original Form. because they have taken to the pure process of Krishna Consciousness. he is the topmost yogi. Materialist person perform all pious activities or devotional activities for some material gain. last verse. These two principles form the basic background of Kåñëa consciousness. The conclusion is that one must act in such a way that he will always remember Kåñëa. And jnana. it may be said that a pure devotee is he who loves Krishna. You must have read in Bhagavad-gita in the 6th chap. Questio 1: That is the materialistic way of worshiping. 1970) In the Bhagavad-gita it is always stressed to Krishna by the words aham and mam. The cowherd boys and all of the residents of Vrindaban were so much absorbed in love for Krishna that naturally there was absence of the idea of God. Therefore. To know Krishna is great. 1969) Being in the disciplic succession of Prahlada Maharaja certainly we are not interested for our personal liberation as much as we want to work for the liberation of the conditioned souls because Krishna desires it. If we divert our attention to worship other demigods.(SPL to Hamsaduta.(SPL to Upendra. want steady attention for Krishna. without forgetting His exalted position. not flickering. I need not talk much. and it is not to be imitated.(SPL to Syamasundara. In our conditioned state of life. Yasoda was so much absorbed in love of Krishna that she did not care to know that He is God. That is the system. or devotees who do not know the science of Krishna and do not know the science of devotion. but still one has to learn about the greatness of Krishna. but they should not be exhibited amongst common men. That is called materialistic devotee. and that way. keep friendship with her. He checked Himself. 1969) Regarding Mataji. 16th January. We Gaudiya Vaisnavas. in our line of thoughts and action there is no scope for worshiping any other demigods. but the sense of loving God is the most important. When Lord Caitanya met Ramananda Roy. It is a beginning. Our whole philosophy is to increase our love for Krishna. Love with awe and veneration and love that is spontaneous is different. like father and son. the Supreme Truth. But as soon as Lord Caitanya saw that Ramananda Roy was in the company of some outsider brahmanas.(SPL to Ksirodakasayi. and great in this way and rich in this way.(SPL to Jadurani. The relationship with the Spiritual Master must always be continued with the greatest respect and veneration. we should worship Krishna as God with respect and veneration. She is trying to love Krishna and that is good. then our faith in Krishna will be flickering. 14th January. To come to the stage of spontaneous love for Krishna is a very high stage. 3rd June.great. and actually we do not want to create a group of prakrta sahajiya. I have noted your remarks. This is already described in our Teachings of Lord Caitanya. Anyway. but it is also not rejected. 13th November 1968) The absence of the idea of God is not very important. both of them felt this ecstasy by embracing one another. 19 . but simply worship the Deity with no depth of knowledge. 29 th January. that enhances our attachment to Krishna more rigidly . Similarly in the Srimad-Bhagavatam the same stress is give from the very beginning--Param satyam. and so rich. 1970) The transcendental ecstatic symptoms certainly become manifested in a devotee's body. and be happy in Krishna Consciousness business . how He is expanded into different forms. under the guidance of Lord Caitanya. but a preacher must be above this. So you are an intelligent girl. The relationship of the Spiritual Master and the disciple is not the same as the relationship with Krishna in Vrindaban. then your veneration for your master will increase. very glad that you have got this feeling to not waste even a single moment in the service of the body and mind but to utilize very carefully every moment of life in the loving service of the Lord.(SPL to Makhanal. and because they are His favorites. But because we have taken to Krishna Consciousness and serving Krishna. This attitude is very good. Neophyte devotees who are trained under rules and regulations is called vidhi marg. (SPL toEkayani. just like everyone appreciates if someone exhibits love for them. They should be checked. therefore it is said in the SrimadBhagavatam that one should not try to imitate the actions of the Isvaras or those who are very powerful.(SPL to Sri Shresthaji. Because Krishna's intimate associates give Him the most pleasure. Otherwise one will gradually become sahajiya or one who takes spiritual advancement as something materially manifest. very nice dresses for Krsna and Radharani although you are so much inconvenienced by your injury. This is Krsna Consciousness--not to waste even a single moment without serving the Lord in some way or other. Krishna will go hungry. Everything we do should be for the reason that it gives pleasure to Krishna. the Complete Whole. such activities of these elevated souls are not to be questioned by us. but for the devotees the suffering is 20 . When by execution of the vidhi marg one comes to spontaneous service of the Lord that is called raga marg . 30th July. 1971) As far as your questions. And yet He appreciates our love for Him. like that. So He kindly allows us to show that love by considering that if I do not feed Him. but they are not for advertising to others. Suffering must be there so long as we are conditioned in this material world.(SPL to Himavati. They have a higher purpose which we cannot determine. it pleases Him to see that these associates and close friends are also offered all respect by the devotees. He reciprocates by pretending to be dependent on me. but one should follow their instructions. 1970) There is no comparison of worshiping of Krishna as conceived by the gopis--that is only to love Krishna without any purpose. 1970) You are lying for some time in the hospital bed and still you are not wasting a moment of your time. 24th April. So you have made these very. He will be tired. June 3 rd 1970) Regarding the activities of such great sages and devotees like Parvat Muni and Parasara Muni begetting children. 17th November. 1971) Sometimes it so happens that we have to suffer for our past sinful activities. if I do not give Him rest. I am very. He is purnam. we should know that any suffering we have to bear have been far reduced by the mercy of the Lord. 25th July 1970) Vidhi marg and raga marg are already explained in the TLC.The transcendental symptoms of ecstasy certainly are auspicious. Krishna is not in need of anything. (SPL to Patty Dorgan.(SPL to Tamala Krsna. my slave. just to give us opportunity to find the real object of our loving propensity and to take pleasure by pleasing and serving Him. One should not advertise directly or indirectly that one is feeling like this.19th July. Other so-called cultivation of knowledge. 1st November. To be in such a position could only be the result of the performance of many. That kind of cultivation of knowledge is prohibited. One comes to the point of surrender when one has actually amassed the result of multi pious activities. 2nd January. This early rising. They were putting their legs on the Supreme Personality of Godhead and were forgetting who He is. going 21 . (SPL to Mohananda. or those who take things cheaply and simply imitate. One shouldn't think artificially he has come to the spontaneous platform. By fulfilling the regulative principles you come to the platform of spontaneous love for Krsna. 1973) So far we are concerned we are trying to train first class men. and somehow go on with our chanting.10. that is called Bhakti. good karma returns in that he is surrendering to Krsna.(SPL to Von Paul Reed. The regulative principles are a device how to overcome the influence of maya and come to the platform of spontaneous love of Krsna. chant the beads.11 ittham satam brahma-sukhanubhutya dasyam gatanam para-daivatena mayasritanam naradarakena sardham vijahruh krta punya-punjah This was the statement of Srila Sukdeva Goswami when he saw Krsna carrying the cowherds boys on His shoulders. holding classes.B. Regulative principles means to especially execute devotional service in terms of the revealed scriptures under the direction of the spiritual master. Generally mayavadi's mean by ``knowledge'' how to become one with the Lord. That is to be avoided. Krsna is so nice.12. live with personal character etc.minimized compared to that of the nondevotees. Spontaneous love for Krsna is there already but is covered by the influence of Maya. How much great responsibility we have to follow regulative principles. If we want to exist as first class men in society all our students must be induced to following the regulative principles. Cultivation of knowledge to understand Krishna as He is.(SPL to Rupanuga Maharaja. reading and routine work . this knowledge is to understand Krishna.(SPL to AcyutanandaMaharaja. 1974) The regulative principles are designed to take us gradually to the platform of spontaneous love of Krsna. and Krsna is taking the feet of His devotee on Himself. 28th April. many pious activities. Those who think they have already attained such perfection and give up the regulative principles are called sahajiya. We have to tolerate any difficulties which come up. which is the perfection of human life. Isn't the fact that we say that one should give up the cultivation of knowledge in conflict with the first six chapters of Gita which deal with cultivation of knowledge? The first six chapters of Bhagavad-gita. 1972) As far as the results of one's good karma is concerned. The mayavadis can never understand this exchange of devotional activities. as practiced by the Mayavadis and jnanis. 1972) Your second question. means how to become one with the Supreme. 27th Febuary. That is sahajiyaism. This is stated in the Caitanya Caritamrta as quoted from the Srimad-Bhagavatam as follows: S. but privately. It is all transcendental. Prthu Maharaja simply did deity worship--arcanam. That is not inglorious. 31th December. So far devotees being hesitant to distribute books on account of pressure. but if you have some sentiment to get the blessings of Ganesa in order to get huge sums of money for service of Krishna. but the pure devotee never minimizes the importance of other devotees. Everyone should feel proud of his particular type of devotional service. That is sravanam. 29th April. then it can be done. When Grandfather Bhisma was trying to injure the body of Krishna by sharpened arrows. 19th January 1975) To take shelter of the Spiritual Master means to follow his instructions. You are one of the advanced students . you should be very careful to not deviate even a little bit from the order of your Guru. He simply listened to Sukadeva Gosvami. Hanuman remained only engaged in carrying out the order of Lord Ramacandra--dasyam. 1974) So. 22 . And Sukadeva Gosvami simply narrated Srimad-Bhagavatam. And you should follow the four regulative principles without deviation. Whatever item is suitable. Whatever appreciation we are getting on account of our books.(SPL to Sivani devi dasi. There is no more the question of inferior or superior. in full devotion in the mellow of chivalry. he does not know the value of devotional service. Krishna takes pleasure with devotees even by fighting service. This is called transcendental competition. any devotee executing any one of the nine is transcendentally glorious. you will make steady advancement in Krishna Consciousness and there will be no fall downs. This is kirtanam. Books are the basis of our Movement. Prahlada Maharaja simply contemplated--smaranam.out regularly for sankirtana. And Bali Maharaja surrendered everything to Krishna--atma-nivedanam. If you do these simple things. 1975) Yes. 14th March. I have explained to them that ultimately it is not required. You should attend mangala arati and classes. We are not writing something whimsical. It is not stuck up with any particular type of service. Arjuna only remained as friend of Krishna--sakhyam. So. I have received some letters from persons requesting to also perform it. Krishna is the enjoyer of varieties of service. that is accepted as very elevated. You should be very careful to chant 16 rounds daily and read all of the books carefully. Just like Maharaja Pariksit. The conclusion is that everyone should be very very sincere. You should understand the importance of each and every item of devotional service. (SPL to Satsvarupa Maharaja. (SPL to Bhurijana. 1974) Regarding Ganesa Puja. Everyone should feel proud of becoming sincere servant of Krishna. One who distinguishes a particular type of service as inferior or superior. try to encourage book distribution as much as possible. Do not make any misunderstanding by devaluating any of the spiritual activities. worshiping the deity are the very substance of devotional life. they must send me at least 100. it is because we are following the path chalked out by exalted devotees. I have instructed them that if they want to do it. (SPL to Gurukrpa Svami.000 dollars monthly--not less. So. Krishna was feeling the piercing of the arrows as good as worshiping him with soft rose flowers. you are all advanced students. but that does not mean that other types of service are inferior. One devotee may be proud that his process of service is the best. 1976 When I said that it seemed it might take several generations before ISKON devotees actually became pure. We have all got experience of this. Or we may execute several or even all nine activities in devotional service.moroseness.“ he said. but if we execute one perfectly we shall be completely succesful in devotional service. According to our Indian estimate.“ everything is going on simply by Krsna`s mercy. the result will be the same..2.D. words.(SPL to Prajapati dasa.“ And of course. and this offering with remembering will gradually increase as you practice it. as you are asking me. But this takes time to actually realize and until that platform is achieved some pressure or inducement is required. Just like a child by pressure goes to school and is made to read.(SPL toTusta Krsna Maharaja. except that if hearing. 1976 Srila Prebhupada was smiling broadly and he congratulated her.(P. son good. so to hom that activity will be more important. no. But spontaneous service can only be expected from advanced devotees.“ Very good. begins whenever you remember Them and offer oll your services by remembering at the same time. So if we are able to practice even only one of these activities perfectly. 1976) May 17th.365) July 2nd. It is vaidhi bhakti--vaidhi means ``must. he replied. it is going on by his own great mercy as Krsna`s pure representative. and the daughter acquires the quality of the father. son acquires the quality of mother. 1976 23 . And materially envolved. He said it was because they are spiritually enlightened.sometimes pressure is required. especially when one is not so advanced. But in general we can not say that any of the nine processes is more important than the others. So there is no question that one activity is more important than another.“ So all in all.faced. if one is sincere he can become purified within one generation.154) June 13th. that is the most vital consideration for the general class of men in this age. 16th May. even without pressure. Prabhupada smiled and recalled a priest who had once asked why his disciples were so bright. Of course it has to be applied properly.2. Your son is also very good. Then after some time he wants to read. There is no harm.“ She said that her son looked ten years younger when he lived in the temple. but one individual may be able to perform one activity more satisfactorily than another. or that Deity worship is more important than sankritana. Mother good. chanting and remembering are there.'' Sometimes devotees are promised a plate of maha-prasadam for the biggest distributer. Actually one should try to serve Krishna to his or her full capacity without thought of reward--service is itself the reward. everything should be offerd as service to the Deities. otherwise there may be some bad taste . You chant Hare Krsna and be one of our members.“ That is the cause of brightness. Besides chanting and hearing and remembering are the six other recommended activities in devotional service. 9th January 1976) Our preaching must be based upon the subject matter from books and nothing outside of them.“(P. The actual fact is that worshiping the Deity and chanting the glories of the Lord are both within the nine processes of devotional service recommended by Rupan Gosvami. All activities. Service to the Deities..D. we are diseased.` he will do it. you`ll think of Krsna. and when given sugar-candy. Even there may be doubts and skepticism. Just like somebody works in business or factory for the wife and children.“They don`t want to worship anyone.3. if one continues the chanting process. and only if we take to this chanting process may we be cured. 1976 Another devotee asked whether a person engaged in a service that involves doing business could be considered to be thinking of Krsna.3.D. In the material world nobody worships noboby. he must be thinking of Krsna. What is dictated by the senses.. That is the process. And our Movement is that we shall not hear the dictation of the senses. If the senses want`to do this. and real knowledge will be revealed by the Grace of Krishna.“ Yes.` This is the sum-substance. He is suffering from disease. death. (P. But that does not mean the sugar-candy is not very sweet and delicious.“(P. they want to worship their senses. transmigration. why shall I not see? I shall see. Prabhupada`s answer was positive. then I am involved in this material birth. That is the process. he finds it very bitter and distasteful.498) DEVOTIONAL SERVICE AND SURRENDER I am happy to hear that you continued to chant despite so many doubts and skepticism. Maya may put so many doubts and worthless arguments into our minds.122) August 3rd. and gradually we will get a taste of that sweet nectar of Krishna Nama Sankirtana. Servant of the senses. If he`s doing for Krsna. which is the cure. That is just opposite. despite the apparently bitter taste. Sense gratification. `I like it.` That`s all. and as he becomes cured. the curing process will go on. it is simply due to his diseased condition that it seems bitter. So long I am carrying out the orders of the senses. and you may explain it to all your friends. they agree to worship. he always thinks of them. the doubts will all disappear.`If it satisfies my eyes. Similarly.Srila Prabhupada didn`t think so. so they may 24 . There is a Bengali song. the real sweet taste of the candy is gradually revealed. There is the example given of the jaundice patient. but if we continue the chanting. we shall do what Krsna says. never mind the doubts.D.. That`s all. Similarly. everyone serves his own senses. In order to be cured from his disease. if you actually work for Krsna. he must take the medicine of sugar-candy. Krsna can provide anything and everything within a moment. There is no other alternative to this . by the Mercy of Krishna and Lord Caitanya. These basic Krsna Conscious duties are essential to be performed regularly. And the success of life is simply by pleasing Him. Surrendering does not mean that one should only surrender in favorable circumstances. As soon as a devotee is regularly engaged in this way. (SPL to Rudra dasa. 19th February. But do not impose something which will be difficult to execute. We cannot demand from Krishna to know about Him. don't be worried. but in this age. (SPL to Sucandra. You must work conjointly. 1969) I very much appreciate the nice sentiments you have expressed. Knowledge means to know Him. Whatever the other two boys may do. Besides that there are other special fasting days. we need not undergo very severe penances. 16th August.(SPL to Terry and associates. Krsna will provide devotees. This surrendering process is unconditional. Everyone should chant his beads sixteen rounds daily without fail and follow the regulative principles strictly. Krsna will reveal the whole spiritual science from within the heart of such sincere devotee. But as you have increased the chanting of beads to 25 rounds daily. that I shall see. Surrender means is any condition the surrendering process must continue. 1970) Regarding Sankirtana Parties in New York. There is no need of fasting once very week. that can be known through the transparent medium of His confidential servant. That is the process. 22th March. and Krishna is available only through service. and you wish to leave the place and go to London.understand the nature of their doubts and skepticism. that is sufficient for ordinary men. and success means to please Him. When you actually learn to serve Him.(SPL to Damodara. in other words.(SPL to Madan Mohan. The rules and regulations which we have already prescribed. 1969) Regarding the vows and chanting method you have adopted. He reveals Himself. and they will give you the necessary strength of spirit to keep always fixed up in devotional service. 27th June. but He waits to test a 25 . That is not surrender. that is very nice. 1968) In the first portion of your letter you have expressed you desire how to surrender. In the latter portion of your letter it appears that you have been disturbed on some trivial matters. and be benefited. and if you fight amongst yourself for some individual interests that is not surrender. Spiritual realization depends on austerities and vows. 1969) It is most important that our activities be regular or. That is the version of all Vedic literature. This is the process of understanding Krishna Consciousness. 11th November. as we are unable to do it. That is my desire. it is very nice. 5th March 1969) The secret of success in Krishna Consciousness is to render service to Krishna to the best of our capacity. And how He is pleased. on a schedule. Two days fasting per month on Ekadasi is sufficient. always engaged in Krsna Consciousness. That is not at all good.(SPL to Krsna dasa. but to you my request is that you must remain in Hamburg until I order you to leave the place. 1972) DEVOTIONAL SERVICE AND ENTHUSIASM Your unhappiness in the absence of sufficient engagement is a good sign. He gives him all opportunity for devotional service.18. I have decided to follow Your order. no free will. When a person is advanced in Krishna Consciousness he should always think that my time may not go in vain without being engaged in Krishna's service. 1970) As I have already said many times that we have to maintain two lines parallel. So we shall always keep these principles in view and maintain our centers on this standard. And when the devotee comes out successful from the test. 28th May.(SPL to Rsi Kumara. ``Have you decided to fight?'' ``Yes. Deliberate on this fully. Free will is that when the controller says do this. and then do what you wish to do. 1970) 26 .Krishna asks. But when he is trained up then automatically he gets his freedom. 2nd January.65 iti te jnanam akhyatam guhyad guhyataram maya vimrsyaited asesena yathecchasi tatha kuru ``Thus I have explained to you the most confidential of all knowledge. So this enthusiasm is very good sign. So the Temple worship is necessary for the beginners so that by following the regulative principles such devotees become more and more purified and thus gradually come on the platform to understand Srimad-Bhagavatam. You have got the power to not do: B. you can use your free will to do it or not to do it. Neophyte means no independent decisions. whether we have it or not? If one is not intelligent enough for making for making decisions.'' . ansd Pancaratra path is for the neophytes. not by his own discretion.G. and if you continue to become more and more enthusiastic to be always strictly engaged in devotional service while observing carefully the rules and regulations. then all decisions shall be sanctioned by the spiritual master. that means surrender.(SPL to Satsvarupa. This is called abertya kalatyum.(SPL to Ekayani.devotee. Krsna will surely bestow upon you full success in Krsna Consciousness and thus your life will be happy and successful. Srimad-Bhagavatam is the path for Paramahamsas. 1970) Your next question was about the free will. namely the path of Srimad-Bhagavatam and the path of Pancaratriki. So everyone of you should go on with the Sankirtana Party and gradually Krsna will send more and more devotees to join you. Just like a small child can only eat such things which are sanctioned by his parents .'' (SPL toYajnesvara.(SPL to Hamsaduta. 3rd May. 11th April. 8th June. 1969) I am so happy to note your steady enthusiasm to work harder in Krsna's service. If we strictly observe these principles. 27th January. As soon as someone is not following them regularly. but He is most pleased to see that we are very much enthusiastic to serve Him. that is to be avoided. that--no. So do not lack this enthusiasm. That much He wants. these principles of devotional service are there to safeguard us from maya's attack by keeping us always enthusiastic. I hope you will understand me rightly and do the needful. There is no cause for anxiety. try to do it to the best capacity and that will be recognized by Krishna. May Krsna help you always. like that. Krishna does not require anything from us. for mangala aratrika. my request to you is that under any and all circumstances that you yourself shall without fail stick to these principles and make certain that all of the devotees in your charge are also following them strictly. By all means we must preserve our spiritual status. that is very much appreciated. going for the street sankirtana. if we sincerely preach to such one person in a day. You should always think of yourself that you are sold to Krsna as slave and that is the only way to get relief of the slavery of Maya. reading books.(SPL to Upendra. 1972) 27 . many devotees. such as rising before 4 a. (SPL to Sudama. 31th December. These regulative principles. lifemembers. (SPL to Tamala Krsna. If only one person daily. not that we are mad after big buildings. Therefore. that is bhakti. it may be certain that his enthusiasm will gradually disappear. If you remain pure and enthusiastic. never mind big. preaching to anyone and everyone. that enthusiasm for Krishna's service. And they appear to be all responding very enthusiastically to your preaching. (SPL to Tejyas. these are only ways to engage the devotees so that they may apply the principles of devotional living to some kind of work for practical realization of these principles. big programmes. you will have the spiritual strength to enthuse others with the chanting of Hare Krsna Mahamantra and devotional service to the Lord. He is complete in Himself. 11th May. that is the point. These are the sources and the maintainers of our enthusiasm to serve Krsna. 1971) Actually. 1952 I am very much disturbed to hear from you that you have become disturbed in your mind. You are doing your best to serve Krishna. not that we must work something impossible. No. 1971) I am so pleased to see you and your good wife in every picture in different poses of preaching work. chanting 16 rounds minimum on beads daily.m. we shall remain always enthusiastic. It is not the result of the work we want. Krishna Consciousness means we should always be satisfied and happy.Do not be diminished in your enthusiasm. this. if too much endeavour is there. that is very good sign. 1st January. That is real Krsna consciousness service to preach the message of the Holy Name to all persons. so do not lose enthusiasm out of frustration. becoming overburdened. that is sufficient. offering the prasadam. Do not be disturbed. that will spoil everything. and then because we are unhappy by so much trouble we lose enthusiasm altogether and give up all hope . 1972) Therefore Rupa Gosvami has introduced this system of regulative principles which I have taught to you also.SPL to Dhanjaya.19th December. (IPL to Madhudvisa. 1970) 28 . Krsna has helped us. And maya is always trying to take away our enthusiasm to serve Krsna. 11th January. 1968) In regard to praying to Lord Nityananda Prabhu I have written to you in my last letter that such prayer is quite appropriate. Bombay was a great strain. 13th November. 1972) Yes.I am especially glad to note that everyone is feeling so much enthusiasm to work very hard in this preaching mission. That is our price for entering into Krsna's kingdom. Henceforth we should not accept too much strain. That enthusiasm must be maintained under all circumstance. We should not accept projects which will strain us.(SPL to Dhanjaya. You put me under certain circumstances so that I may be forced to accept Krishna Consciousness. 1974) DEVOTIONAL SERVICE AND PRAYERS Yes. It is Krishna's special favor and mercy that He sometimes forces a devotee to surrender fully to Him. you can pray to Krishna--Krishna may be prayed that I am unwilling to become Krishna Conscious. 14th February. so you can force me to become so. It was a very bitter experience for me in Bombay. You can pray like that. As Nair's party was determined not to let us have the land I was more determined to take it at any cost. because without enthusiasm everything else is finished. but we should not strain Krsna by such action.(SPL to Tamala Krsna Maharaja. but Krsna has now given it to us.(SPL to Upendra. 31th December. I agree the construction of a temple in Calcutta should wait until we finish our present projects which we have undertaken. Our only prayer should be in the matter of desiring further development of devotional service and such sincere prayer should be submitted not directly to the lord but through the via-media of His bona fide servitor or representative. If we can arrange such meetings in the schools and colleges it will be a very nice thing. 138th St. because whenever there was trouble Krishna felt the suffering of His devotees and stayed by them to help them. And as soon as the trouble ended. Your natural attraction for Krishna makes it show that in your previous birth you have cultured this science of Krishna Consciousness. then I lectured for another 30 minutes then there were questions and answers for 20 minutes then again. Krishna went away! So let us always pray that Krishna may put us into difficulty so that we may expect that He will also remain by us and not go away. 17th November. They appreciated the meeting.(SPL to Kirtanananda. Everyone of us had to pass through many millions of years in the chain of evolutionary process from aquatic to plant life. For the Lord's service we can ask for His grace and mercy a hundred times. there was chanting and kirtana and dancing for 15 minutes and at the end all the students danced and sang with me. She prayed to Krishna in the same way. There were about 200 students attending and the program began at 12 noon and ended at 1:30. 29th April. 18th January. (SPL to Jaya Mazo. I do not have any disciples. I think some of you like yourself. Practically. Acyutananda and all of you had already cultivated this Krishna Consciousness in your past lives. First of all we chanted and prayed for 45 minutes. now Lord Caitanya wants that this movement should be spread in the western countries. I have no objection to accepting you as my disciple. Now Lord Caitanya has placed you in the western part of the world so that you can now combine together and broadcast the holy message all over the world. 1968) Please accept my blessings and my message unto you is that this Krishna Consciousness movement in your country is the greatest boon to you all. 1967) …because you are already acquainted with Krishna. from plant to 29 .(SPL to Himavati. It is not for your sense gratification. 5th May. 1971) DEVOTIONAL SERVICE AND PREVIOUS BIRTHS You will be pleased to learn that yesterday we had a nice meeting in the City College. Satsvarupa. it is for the Lord's service. because my purpose of coming here to enthuse the younger generation and it is very pleasing to me that Krishna is sending me younger generation and sincere souls like you.You must always ask the Lord's grace to make you in the right position. Please take full advantage of this movement and be successful within this life. I select so many masters to train them in the service of the Lord. but for our sense gratification we cannot pray or ask anything--that is pure devotion. 1970) Your prayer that you may be put always in difficulty is just like Queen Kunti Devi. so most probably in your previous births you were all Indians and cultivated this Krishna Consciousness. Brahmananda and Mukunda and Gargamuni.(SPL to Pradyumna. I have instructed Terry about this. (SPL to Nathan Baruch. If by your endeavor one or two souls who come under your protection become liberated in this life. 1968) I am sure that you must appreciate like that because I am always of opinion that both you and your elder brother are the result of a good mother. Use this opportunity for making life successful and go back to Krishna. Please cooperate with him and chant Hare Krishna and open a center there. Srimad-Bhagavatam says that we should try for the highest achievement. without waiting for further incarnation. that is a great transcendental service to the Lord. and I guess that you must have been engaged in Krishna's service in your previous life. you are born of a great nation. it is said there that a person who does not reach to the final goal of Krishna Consciousness is again given the opportunity to fulfill the mission of achieving perfection. I think the boy Terry is God-sent. Please try to open a center there as soon as possible. back to Home. That means you are already recognized by Krishna. To begin eager to serve Krishna is the greatest achievement after many many duration of pious life. 1969) I am so glad to learn that Candramukhi is getting Krishna Consciousness from the very beginning of her life. 1968) I thank you very much for your letter dated August 5th. birth in the families of the rich nation.(SPL to Gargamuni.reptile life. You have high intelligence. 19 th August. and here is another chance to complete it. and I am very much pleased with your nice handwriting and the purport of it. and they will not have to come back in this miserable condition 30 . So by the Grace of Krishna you have got good intelligence. Please take care of your children and make them perfectly Krishna Conscious. In your previous life you must have cultivated Krishna Consciousness. So I entrust you to begin this work immediately. That is very great service.(SPL to Boys and Girls. This is the advantage of her previous life's advancement in Krishna Consciousness. just utilize the opportunity to finish the business of Krishna Consciousness. and good family. along with their parents. and complete it before the next death comes. beasts. So I am sure your children under the care of both you and Dayananda surely have salvation in this life. As we learn from Bhagavad-gita . I am always at your service and whenever you shall call me I shall come to your place and enjoy your good company. 1968) I'm so glad to learn that you are eager to serve Krishna in every way possible. It is a very scientific movement authorized by the Vedas and accepted by all great acaryas. 5 th May. In his past life he must have cultivated this science of Krishna Consciousness and therefore he has automatically been attracted with this movement and who knows if all the boys and girls joining me were not born by the Supreme Will of Krishna just to help me in this great task of distributing Krishna Consciousness in the Western World specifically. opulences. then to the species of birds. 7th August. So I very much appreciate both yours and your brother's activities and it appears that both of you were in your previous birth advanced in this line of Krishna Consciousness. 1969. 21st April. You have so quickly picked up the importance of the Hare Krishna Movement and are so much eager for propagating Krishna Consciousness.(SPL to Oliver. uncivilized human beings and now this is the golden opportunity with these nice American bodies. This mentality is very rare. we have to take shelter of Krsna. Yes. Our business should just to be to follow the regulative schedule. but the child who is very faithful to the orders of the father is given specific care by the father. So even in your young age you have taken to this process of Krishna Consciousness. That is the injunction of Srimad-Bhagavatam to the Krishna Consciousness parents.13th November.3]. So depend on Krishna. Krsna 31 . This is also explained in the Bhagavad gita 6th chapter regarding the yoga bhrastras those who have fallen from the process of yoga and who automatically take to the principles of God consciousness in their next life. So many people are afraid of the American CIA.1975) Naturally your daughter is chanting the transcendental Name of the Lord. Lourenco. Just like the father maintains all his children without any grudge. and offer my blessings to your good wife Jagatarini. Param vijayate srikrsna-sankirtana. Please offer my blessings to Karatieya and Silavati for their good service and also please hand over the enclosed note to Srimati Rekha.(SPL to Jayasri.1969) I am glad to learn that you are so much keenly interested in our books Bhagavad gita as it is. what to speak of supplying your necessities . chanting. and please try to understand it nicely. everything belongs to Krishna and He is giving everything. because unless one is pious in previous life. If Krsna wants to kill us that is not wrong. 1969) You write that things are in a crises in England. 1976) DEVOTIONAL SERVICE AND PROTECTION Regarding the things that Krishna is giving you. book distribution and never mind the material danger. I hope this will meet you in good health. even to the animals who have no consciousness of Krishna. 17th August. one cannot take birth in a Vaisnava family. and what to speak of His devotees. chant regularly Hare Krishna and you will find that He is talking with you face to face.(SPL to Bhurijana. And param vijayate American boys.(SPL to Tamala Krsna Goswami. Now America is going to be glorified. But now they will welcome Americans as American Vaisnavas.(SPL to Mr. you are doing very nicely. It must be so. This is a great science. Krishna being the Father of all living entities. Therefore. Similarly. deity worship. even to the nondevotees. if it is His desire. 1974) I am very pleased that already you have held 50 festivals in the colleges. but for His devotees He has got special attention. Give her good chance to become Krishna Conscious more and more. It is stated in the Bhagavad gita that out of many thousands of men only one is searching for perfection. 30th September. with oil shortage and IRA bombing. Manusyanam sahasresu kascid yatati sidhaye [Bg. distributing prasadam. 31st January.of material life. (SPL to Nandarani. This means that in your previous life you were advanced in yoga but somehow or other you were not able to complete but now you have taken to it as if automatically. So many Vaisnavas have taken birth in America. he is supplying the bare necessities of their life. 13th November. 7. (SPL to Malati. Every sloka in Bhagavadgita and Srimad-Bhagavatam is informing us of this.1974) SADHANA BHAKTI 1.Consciousness means to be on the platform of deathlessness. If you read these books carefully you will understand this platform of deathlessness as opposed to the material condition in which no one wants to die but no one can check death.14-15 ädau çraddhä tataù sädhusaìgo ’tha bhajana-kriyä 32 . Madhya 23.What is sadhana bhakti STAGES OF DEVELOPEMENT OF BHAKTI Cc. 7 th January. ruciù—taste. atha—then. and finally there is an awakening of love. This is the gradual development of love of Godhead for the devotee interested in Krsna consciousness. the execution of devotional service according to the regulative principles.D.19 The three categories of devotional service which Srila Rupa Gosvami describes in Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu are listed as devotional service in practice. Then one becomes interested in associating with pure devotees. prädurbhäve—in the appearance. devotional service in ecstasy and devotional service in pure love of Godhead. ayam—this. tataù—thereafter. sädhusaìgaù—association with pure devotees. atha—then. Gradually emotions intensify. Thereafter. so that initiation takes place).tato ’nartha-nivåttiù syät tato niñöhä rucis tataù athäsaktis tato bhävas tataù premäbhyudaïcati sädhakänäm ayaà premëaù prädurbhäve bhavet kramaù SYNONYMS ädau—in the beginning. tataù—thereafter. anartha-nivåttiù—the diminishing of all unwanted habits. one develops taste and attachment. prema— love of God. tataù—thereafter. bhävaù—emotion or affection. äsaktiù—attachment.o. 33 . kramaù—the chronological order. niñöhä—firm faith. syät—there should be. TRANSLATION “‘In the beginning there must be faith. Thereafter one is initiated by the spiritual master and executes the regulative principles under his orders. abhyudaïcati—arises. sädhakänäm—of the devotees practicing Kåñëa consciousness. tataù—thereafter. Thus one is freed from all unwanted habits and becomes firmly fixed in devotional service. tataù—then. premëaù—of love of Godhead.’ 3 CATEGORIES OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE N. çraddhä—firm faith.. or disinterest in material affairs and interest in spiritual advancement. tataù—then. bhavet—is. bhajana-kriyä— performance of devotional service to Kåñëa (surrendering to the spiritual master and being encouraged by the association of devotees. This is the way of sädhana-bhakti. When he gets this attachment. Raganuga refers to the point at which. That is called vaidhi. one rises early in the morning and offers arati. There are certain prescribed methods for employing our senses and mind in such a way that our dormant consciousness for loving Krsna will be invoked. For example. So this consciousness. can be divided into two parts—namely.. this offering of loving service is spontaneous. as much as the child. When we wish to develop our innate capacity for devotional service. For example. One has to do it without argument. This practice is not for developing something artificial. he automatically tries to decorate the Deity and prepare different kinds of dresses and thinks of different plans to execute his devotional service nicely. or regulated. Actually there is no such practice. In the beginning. can begin to walk. and simply by a little practice he walks very nicely. but then he develops real attachment. And. Even uncivilized men like the aborigines offer their respectful obeisances to something wonderful exhibited by nature’s law. Similarly. sadhanabhakti. Therefore devotional service in practice means utilizing our different sensory organs in service to Krsna. or practice of devotional service. by following the regulative principles. Similarly. So the practice of devotional service. Krsna consciousness cannot be aroused simply by practice. Although it is within the category of practice. This walking is not unnatural.21-22 Now this sadhana-bhakti. The first part is called service according to regulative principles: one has to follow these different regulative principles by the order of the spiritual master or on the strength of authoritative scriptures. with a little practice.o. this is called Krsna consciousness. and there can be no question of refusal. 20 Practice means employing our senses in some particular type of work. regulative and spontaneous. devotional service to the Supreme Lord is the natural instinct of every living entity. Such practice is called sadhanabhakti. 34 . and some are meant for executing the conclusions of our thinking. The walking capacity is there originally in the child. Another part of sadhanabhakti is called raganuga. there are certain processes which. by the order of his spiritual master. One who has no basic walking capacity cannot walk by practice. one becomes a little more attached to Krsna and executes devotional service out of natural love. So practice means employing both the mind and the senses in practical devotional service. Some of the senses are meant for acquiring knowledge. which is a form of Deity worship. when purified. feeling and willing. a child learns or practices to walk.D. though lying dormant in those who are materially contaminated. may also be divided into two parts.MEANING OF SADHANA BHAKTI (DEVOTIONAL SERVICE IN PRACTICE ) N.o. by our accepting and executing them. TWO PARTS OF SADHANA BHAKTI N.. will cause that dormant capacity to be invoked.D. is found in every living entity. and they appreciate that behind some wonderful exhibition or action there is something supreme. a person engaged in devotional service may be ordered to rise early in the morning and offer arati. I thank you very much for your nice letter. The four principles of restriction. we have not a very large number of followers. 18th January.2. namely. no animal food. no illicit sex relations. nonsense followers. 1968) 35 . neither do we want any large no. and we do not care for millions of stars.(SPL to Jaya Mazo. When we meet we shall talk further on this matter.Why to practice sadhana bhakti THE NECESSITY OF SADHANA – BHAKTI I thank you very much for your appreciation of my disciples in N. And because we are a little bit strict in this matter. and at the same time advance in spiritual understanding. are acting on their character. and you will be glad to know all my disciples in different centres are being so trained. We want only one moon at night. and hope you are well. and I hope you shall be initiated. no intoxication. Character building is the groundwork for seating Krishna Consciousness and the Vedic injunction is that one can advance in spiritual life by following the rules of austerity and celibacy.Y. and no gambling. We do not bluff our students that he has liberty to do all sorts of nonsense. here in New Vindavan they are getting up by four o'clock. and work diligently and cooperatively amongst yourselves is my fervent request. 29th November. 1969) Regarding the time when the devotees arise in the morning. morning and evening.(SPL to Linda. If the standard practices are followed then the atmosphere will naturally be joyful and enthusiastic for working cooperatively for the satisfaction of Krsna. and for other help you can ask assistance from your elderly God-brothers. and Srimad-Bhagavatam in the class. 19th February. (SPL to Krsnakanti. 17th June.. then Krsna will begin to answer all questions from within how to become further advanced in His loving devotional service.(SPL to Damodara. Kindly follow this and be happy. and it will take a little time to get them used to it. and studying our literatures carefully. I hope that you will see that all the boys and girls there are following this process. I may inform you that in order to maintain our status of spiritual strength.. 1970) In this connection. and if they are made the center of our activities. 22nd February. But in your country the people are not accostumed to this. 9th March. These two duties are essential for advancement in Krsna Consciousness. and all such duties should be observed regularly by everyone. 1970) Please see that the standard of devotional practice is kept very high by strictly observing the regulative principles and executing devotional activities with determination and enthusiasm. 1968) Chanting 16 rounds without fail. This is essential for understanding our philosophy clearly and for being able to impress Krsna Consciousness in the hearts of others. 30th May. and the other standard practices for initiated devotees: Must attend evening and morning classes Should not extensively mix with non-devotees Should not eat food cooked by non-devotees Should not waste time in idle talks Should not become engaged in frivolous sports Should always chant and sing the Lord's Holy Names Chanting as enunciated by Lord Caitanya is the only means for spiritual realization in this age of dissension. But try to get them up at four o'clock as far as possible.So you follow those principles (ten offerces) as well as the four restrictive principles. 1969) I hope that you are trying to follow the regulative principles and that both you and your husband are chanting your beads regularly daily. discussion on Bhagavad-gita.(SPL to Hamsaduta. so our sincerity in this respect is most important. everyone of us must very rigidly chant daily sixteen rounds without fail and follow the regulative principles strictly. So chant at least 16 rounds daily. performing Kirtana at least twice daily.(SPL to Sacisuta. 1970) 36 .(SPL to Sivananda. 21th February. 1971) I can understand that you are all very sincere and very much qualified devotees and now by Krishna's grace you are engaged whole-heartedly in His service. 1971) You have got a very important duty to see that all the branches are kept with a full stock of all my books. and distribution of literatures and Prasadam. this will give us a bad reputation. Be blessed and happy chanting Hare Krsna. Then you will be always thinking of Krishna and in the end go back to Krishna. rising early. The four regulative principles are most important and must be observed rigidly in temple life. If you have any doubts or questions be sure to clear them by inquiry from either Rupanuga Prabhu. reading. back to home.(SPL to My dear Sons & Daughters in Denver. so you must see that these orders are all filled promptly. The more you increase your Krishna Consciousness. chant at least 16 rounds of Hare Krishna mantra daily. 1971) So far your questions are concerned: Number one engagement is that you must chant at least 16 rounds Hare Krishna Mantra daily . Follow the regulative principles strictly. 1971) Just keep yourselves to the standard by regular and attentive chanting. your other Godbrothers or if need be by writing to me. There is no difference between chanting Hare Krishna or Sankirtana and doing one's assigned work in Krishna 37 . that is my request .(SPL toCitsukhananda. will automatically decrease. So be very conscientious and hard-working and Krishna will give you the ability to do everything nicely. cleansing nicely. and then delay too long in filling the orders. avoid very carefully the ten offenses to the Holy Name. preaching. You should speak according to the sastras and be compassionate to all conditioned souls and try to convince them about the real truth. If we take the public's money. working. 29th June. like that. chanting the sixteen rounds of beads daily. read all our books. 13 th October. Sankirtana. 28th December.(SPL to Mukunda. study. Then everything will be alright. 12th Februaty. studying our literatures carefully and thoughtfully in the company of other devotees and try always to keep yourself engaged progressively in some kind of service of the Lord. 1971) Now please just remain very serious in pursuing your proper goal of life by sticking to the pure standard of routine work like chanting. going on street Sankirtana whenever possible. Then I promise you you will not fail to be really happy in this life and in the end reach the Supreme destination . And I know that we are getting many mail-orders daily.(SPL to Bill. Our process is simple. anger and greed.. I am sure that you are already well familiar with the requirements of devotional service and in any case they are fully elaborated in our various literatures like Nectar of Devotion. So you kindly become conversant with these transcendental scientific principles try to teach them to others while practicing them yourself. the more these things such as lust. back to Godhead.(SPL to Gunagrahi dasa brahmacari. go for street Sankirtana and in this way be engaged in Krishna's business 24 hours. When you chant.Please fulfill all your requirements of advancement in Krsna consciousness by rigidly following the rules and regulations. So take full advantage of this opportunity and perfect your lives. (SPL to Jagadisa. Neatness and cleanliness of all personal bodies. For example . associate with the devotees and adhere strictly to the regulative principles then Krishna will reveal Himself personally to you.2nd January.). spend your time chanting and reading and taking Krishna Prasadam and automatically your tongue will come under control.(SPL to Hamsaduta.m. A devotee should always be grave and silent which means that he only discusses topics relating to Krishna Consciousness. Then our potency will increase and we may recruit dozens of new devotees easily. 22nd December. seven o'clock. 1972) Yes. fix them beyond any doubts. they do not wash their hand after eating even. kirtana. 11th April. but Lord Caitanya promises us that because in the Kali yuga this is required for carrying on our preaching mission. Main thing is to make sure everyone is chanting minimum sixteen rounds daily of Hare Krsna mantra. When the work has to be done. most important is the hearing. so long the managers remain vigilant that 16 rounds are being chanted by everyone without fail. but how long it shall go on? It is very easy thing. chant daily 16 rounds. attending mangal arati. Chanting 16 rounds daily. pronouncing each name distinctly and gradually your speed in chanting will increase naturally. (I still see those who are initiated as Brahmins. classes. So kindly as President of Hamburg center you try to observe yourself all the regulative principles and see all the members are following. cleanliness. all the temple members. (I don't think everyone is following these principles. that is the right idea. you do your duty as president of Hamburg Temple.(SPL to Radhaballaba dasa. just as we do here in Los Angeles. (SPL to Karandhara. that they are all rising before four morning.). 22th July. 1972) So the future of this Krishna Consciousness movement is very bright. So if necessary sleep less but you have to finish your minimum number of rounds. But you must fulfill at least 16 rounds daily. attend the arati ceremony of Lord Krishna.(SPL to Kirtiraja. then chant. Concentrate fully on the sound vibration of the mantra. Otherwise they will not be able to perform the other practices of brahminical life. (2).Consciousness. He gives assurance that we will not become entangled by such work. If you sincerely engage 24 hours daily in devotional service according to the instructions of the Spiritual Master. such as early rising. Sometimes we have to do so much managerial or office work. do it first.1972) Chanting japa should be done early in the morning with full concentration preferably during the Brahma Muhurta time. there may be so many defects due to your births in non-Brahmin families. without 38 . Our spiritual way should strictly observe the following points especially: (1). 1972) Our activities are arati. of course. Everything is done in conformity to a regular standard. (3) Temple worship. Yes. which should be performed rigidly between four and ten a. 1972) In the meantime. and try to improve spiritually. 6th January. etc. to strengthen whatever devotees we have got in spiritual life. Do not worry so much about chanting fast. So in the GBC Agenda I do not find any such programs for reforming our past bad habits.) I find that the devotees are still sleeping up to six. chanting 16 rounds without fail and of course the four regulative principles . During the morning and evening times there should be no business.exception must rise by 4:AM and attend mangala arati. sankirtana.(SPL to Mukunda. Everyone living in the temple must agree to the standard by proper understanding of the philosophy of tapasya. 11th January. Without accepting these things seriously. whether they are big or they are small. 19th September. clean-up and so throughout the day this atmosphere of constant engagement will produce the truly happy result of transcendental life. Don't be a better paramahamsa than your Guru Maharaja. observing strictly the prohibitive injunctions. you must also do. 1975) THE RESULT OF SADHANA-BHAKTI I assure you that if you follow the regulative principles of chanting 16 rounds. but whoever wants to join us should understand the philosophy of regulated devotional service. So everyone is expected to follow the devotional practices. There should be a regular daily schedule of events and it should be followed closely. So. putting on tilaka. You must see that they strictly follow the regulative principles. 12th January. attending mangala arati and classes. 1974) I hope that you are being very careful to strictly observe all of our basic rules and regulations such as rising early (before 4:00 AM). That means all must sit down together and hear the Bhagavatam class just as I held it day after day when I was at the Manor. Do not be paramahamsa that now I haven't got to hear Srimad-Bhagavatam and Bhagavadgita. deity worship. simply kirtana. and attending Srimmad Bhagavatam class. (SPL to Kulasekhara. 1970) 39 . After the class and breakfast everyone should go to their respective duties. surely all your problems will be solved without any difficulty. So as I am doing. Everyone is a devotee. Here in Vrindaban I am enjoying my disciples how they are speaking. dance. chant. This is the duty of all my initiated disciples. 1974) Upon your recommendation I am initiating the following disciples.(SPL to Gopijanavallaba dasa. the four prohibitions as well as the devotional practices of arising early. Actually in our movement there is no such thing as big or small. I hope you understand the utmost necessity of these things and are remaining pure in your activities. plus taking care of the Deities in the Temple. and be purified . 3rd February. chanting japa 16 rounds. there is no question of spiritual life. Our buildings are not for our sleeping in and eating like hotels. (SPL to Jivananda dasa. We cannot expect our guests to follow all our principles. taking morning bath. So you should set the example and also see that the others are following. Please try it for at least one month and see the result. I go and sit and I enjoy the lectures and how they are performing kirtana. keep association with pure devotees. but whoever lives in the temple must follow. attending mangal arati. So two times daily everyone must attend the classes. (SPL to Revatinandana. (SPL to Kisora dasa. 1972) Simply if the standard of our routine work is maintained very highly. Simply always keep yourselves engaged in these matters of regular activity as sincerely as possible. holding classes for studying our scripture and gong on Sankirtana. These regulative functions of chanting the rounds sixteen daily. like that--if this routine work is always done nicely and never neglected. 1970) It is very good news that your Temple has attracted so many sincere. 4th February. these items must not be neglected.21st February. so follow the rules and regulations according to schedule and execute your duties in Krsna's service and everything will be alright. cleansing. 1971) I think you will have no difficulty. 1972) Simply become more concerned with increasing the spiritual content of our lives. But if this our regular KC program is allowed to slacken. reading. chanting minimum 16 rounds. that is. chanting 16 rounds. 27th August. They will quickly advance us in Krsna Consciousness and clear up all doubtful activities which have been causing mischief in our Society. worshiping the deity. and you can be very certain that very soon you will find yourselves situated on the highest platform of perfectional stage. 19th February. then everything else we try will fail. going on Sankirtana. Please see them all trained nicely in devotional service and let them continue to follow the regulative principles and work on patiently. as long as our routine work is attended to nicely and the highest standards are maintained. rising early in the morning to attend Mangala Arati. if we steadfastly perform our daily program of rising early. having kirtana. Routine work means rising early. Patience is required for the successful discharges of Krsna conscious duties. 1970) I am very glad that you are all following the regular chanting of sixteen rounds daily very strictly. like that. The politicians 40 .(SPL to Citsukhananda. reading scriptures. 12th March. deity worship. then your all other activities will come out successful. and side by side you have to act on preaching the gospel. and it will go on without any impediment. and do not neglect them for a moment. and in this way all other problems like management will be easily solved. (SPL to Citsukhananda. Krsna is pleased to award benediction upon the aspiring devotee engaged in His service with patience determination and regularity. then our all success is guaranteed in whatever we do. intelligent and enthusiastic devotees. 5th February. That is the simple formula for success. 1970) The secret of success will depend on yourself keeping on the spiritual strength by regularly chanting and following the regulative principles. not that they can be solved by making some legal formula and having big big meetings and talks. This schedule which you have made is very satisfactory.This program of chanting and following the rules and regulations will give you spiritual intelligence for understanding the Bhagavad gita and our other scriptures also.(SPL to Madhucara. (SPL to Sucandra. cleansing. holding kirtana wherever we are at least twice daily. and if we practice them nicely in a regulative manner.--should always maintained at the highest level of Krishna Conscious standard. speaking. 1972) Even mechanically following. then by chanting Hare Krsna 16 rounds daily. reading books--these activities are the backbone of our Society. cleaning. To make advancement in Krsna consciousness one must decide whether he is going to be serious or not. then his life will be perfect. etc. This spontaneous loving devotional service is not so easy matter. like rising early. such as chanting.(SPL to Nari devi dasi. chanting. reading.have been holding such meetings and talks for some time now and the world is no better place for it. then everything else we may try will fail . certainly you will make advancement. following the four regulative principles. 1971) One thing: You must be attentive that our routine work--such as rising early. (SPL to Jagadisa. he will come to the point of spontaneous enthusiasm . 2nd May. and reading my books.(SPL to Kulasekhara. rising early. as the smallest neglect or inattention to these matters of routine practices will cause all our other programs to fail. I therefore request you because you are an initiated devotee to take up Krsna consciousness seriously as you promise at the time of your initiation. keeping always clean--then his enthusiasm will grow more and more. 1972) The problems you write of indicate that your spiritual foundation is very weak. 8th December. So it is natural that in these things like chanting regularly 16 rounds and holding daily arati and kirtana are observed faithfully. and if there is also patience and determination. and they have only made things worse. cooking and offering prasadam. then our whole program will be successful. one day he will come to the platform of spontaneous devotion. These things are the backbone of spiritual life. 10th January. sankirtana. cleansing. So it is very important that you keep your standards very high in these activities. and these such problems will fall to the side. chanting 16 rounds. chanting gayatri. arati.(SPL to Patita Uddharana. and if he gets gradually understanding from the class. We should not follow their example. but if one simply sticks strictly to the rules and regulations. 22nd December. 6 th September. If one is actually serious. 1974) THE RESULT OF NEGLECTING SADHANABHAKTI This routine work. temple worship. then your preaching will be strong. and be happy in Krsna consciousness.(SPL to Karandhara. then people will be attracted and our preaching will have effect and the management of temple affairs will become very easy matter. 1972) 41 . If we become slack or neglect these things. reading. then simply learning the philosophy will have no effect. If the routine Krishna Consciousness program is neglected for other things. philosophy must be there. 1972) If you become lazy in your spiritual life. cleansing. So if the preaching work has stopped. 7th July. As soon as there is little impurity. But we must always be careful to render firstly our routine devotional practices.. 1972) Simply if the standard of our routine work is maintained very highly. And that means preaching . That was not my plan for Juhu. that is. business is secondary to our basic routine work. performing devotional service. if we steadfastly perform our daily program of rising early. We are not interested in big.29th December. I am very much encouraged that you are anxious to engage in making money for Krishna with oil business and to print my books profusely.(SPL to Yadubara. Krishna is the husband of the Goddess of Fortune. you will get as much money and as many big buildings as you need for spreading Krishna Consciousness movement. holding kirtana wherever we are at least twice daily.(SPL to Dayananda. attending mangal arati. keeping ourselves pure. cleansing. then everything else will fail . preaching. 1972) We simply have to maintain our strict principles. rising early. like that--if this routine work is always done nicely and never neglected. there are so many bogus institutions doing business in the name of God and simply cheating the people.(SPL to Pusta Krsna. that is approved by my Guru Maharaja. and print more. that's all. 20 th January. 5th February. If this can all be managed and still the regular temple practices go on nicely. 1976) 42 . then everything else we try will fail. and maintain always the highest standards of chanting. I simply want to engage everyone in the service of Krishna. But if this our regular KC program is allowed to slacken. Otherwise. distribute all the books. We have to be careful not to degenerate like these others. reading my books will help you. street sankirtana. 1972) If you yourself remain always pure. no. without any doubt. as with the question regarding whether prospectus or magazine is better. so it may be done very nicely. then our all success is guaranteed in whatever we do. etc.1972) Yes. In every case. 11th November. do the best needful. and in this way. I agree that by utilizing our knowledge of selling by selling for Krishna. going on Sankirtana. chanting 16 rounds. 9th January. Our strength depends upon regular chanting the required 16 rounds and rigidly adhering to the regulative principles. everything else will deteriorate. worshiping the deity. That is the simple formula for success. the whole thing will deteriorate and go to hell . then your preaching will have effect. but if you do not also apply the philosophy by participating in all temple affairs like rising early. that is best. temple worship.(SPL to Hamsaduta. big buildings. So try to improve your preaching work. (SPL to Kisora dasa.So far your proposals. what can I do? In that case you must expect there will be so many troubles.(SPL to Yasomatinandana. who engaged in the çravaëa-kértana process without worshiping the Deity. Sometimes neophyte devotees think that they can continue the çravaëa-kértana process without worshiping the Deity. one should not falsely imitate Haridäsa 43 . karaye—does. TRANSLATION “When a person receives the seed of devotional service. kare—does. kértana—of chanting.3. secana—sprinkling. he should take care of it by becoming a gardener and sowing the seed in his heart.How to practice sadhana bhakti Madhya 19. If he waters the seed gradually by the process of çravaëa and kértana [hearing and chanting]. but the execution of such çravaëa-kértana is meant for highly developed devotees like Haridäsa Öhäkura. sei—that.152/Purport mälé haïä kare sei béja äropaëa çravaëa-kértana-jale karaye secana SYNONYMS mälé haïä—becoming a gardener. PURPORT To live with devotees or to live in a temple means to associate with the çravaëa-kértana process. However. the seed will begin to sprout. äropaëa—sowing. béja—seed of devotional service. çravaëa—of hearing. jale—with the water. ” Everything has an original cause. It is kåñëa-prasäda. one meets the bona fide spiritual master. jïäna and yoga without the benefit of devotional service. This is not possible for neophyte devotees. program.2 atyähäraù prayäsaç ca 44 . plan or device. After receiving the spiritual master’s mercy. However. include karma-béja and jïäna-béja. or seed. For any idea. Thus the spiritual master trains his disciples to render devotional service unto the Supreme Personality of Godhead. jïäna-béja. This is called guru-kåpä. One has to water the bhakti-latä-béja after receiving instructions from the spiritual master. One who has not listened carefully to the instructions of the spiritual master is unfit for chanting or for preaching the cult of devotional service. or seed. called anyäbhiläña-béja. Kåñëa’s mercy. he instead cultivates such seeds as karma-béja.I. But one who is faithful to his spiritual master gets the bhakti-latä-béja. Other seeds. the bhakti-latä-béja is different from these other béjas. the disciple is fully trained in the devotional service of the Lord. The bhakti-latä-béja is the origin of devotional service. he gets the béja. and to bestow this benefit. or root cause. of karma.Öhäkura and abandon Deity worship just to try to engage in çravaëa-kértana. or seed of devotional service. and by the mercy of the spiritual master. The word guru-prasäda indicates that the spiritual master is very merciful in bestowing the boon of devotional service upon the disciple. N. This bhakti-latä-béja is received when one is initiated by the bona fide spiritual master. The bhakti-latä-béja can be received only through the mercy of the spiritual master. rules and regulations by which one is perfectly trained in devotional service constitute the bhaktilatä-béja. If one is not fortunate enough to receive the bhakti-latä-béja from the spiritual master. Therefore one has to satisfy the spiritual master to get the bhakti-latä-béja (yasya prasädäd bhagavat-prasädaù **). the spiritual master distributes the mercy to those who are elevated and pious.41): vyavasäyätmikä buddhir ekeha kuru-nandana.o. there is first of all the contemplation of the plan. By the mercy of Kåñëa. This bhakti-latä-béja is received from the spiritual master by the grace of Kåñëa. Those with a background of pious life are eligible to receive life’s supreme benefit. and that is called the béja. the Supreme Personality of Godhead sends His representative to impart His mercy . Bhakti-latä-béja means “the seed of devotional service. One who has not properly heard from the spiritual master or who does not follow the regulative principles is not fit for chanting (kértana). The methods. Unless one satisfies the spiritual master. social or philanthropic béjas. or political.. That is the best possible gift the spiritual master has to offer . one must repeat his instructions. Endowed with the mercy of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. This is explained in the Bhagavad-gétä (2. that He sends a bona fide spiritual master to the deserving disciple. and this is called çravaëa-kértana—hearing and chanting . 5. niyama—rules and regulations.3 utsähän niçcayäd dhairyät tat-tat-karma-pravartanät saìga-tyägät sato våtteù ñaòbhir bhaktiù prasidhyati SYNONYMS utsähät—by enthusiasm. tat-tat-karma—various activities favorable for devotional service. ñaòbhiù—by these six. bhaktiù—devotional service. ñaòbhiù—by these six. but that we shoud change the public to accommodate us.. (2) overendeavoring for mundane things that are very difficult to obtain. ca—and. ca— and. dhairyät—by patience. ca—and.prajalpo niyamägrahaù jana-saìgaç ca laulyaà ca ñaòbhir bhaktir vinaçyati SYNONYMS ati-ähäraù—overeating or too much collecting. niçcayät—by confidence. (3) being patient. prajalpaù—idle talk. våtteù—by following in the footsteps. chanting and remembering Krsna]. (4) acting according to regulative principles [such as çravaëaà kértanaà viñëoù smaraëam [SB 7. Our process is to show Krishna Consciousness as it is. 45 . or rejecting the rules and regulations of the scriptures and working independently or whimsically. (4) Practicing the scriptural rules and regulations only for the sake of following them and not for the sake of spiritual advancement. saìga-tyägät—by giving up the association of nondevotees.o. not many things. and (6) being greedy for mundane achievements. sataù—of the great previous äcäryas. you are making the thing less important. and (6) following in the footsteps of the previous acaryas. pravartanät—by performing. bhaktiù—devotional service. (2) endeavoring with confidence. jana-saìgaù—association with worldly-minded persons. vinaçyati—is destroyed. laulyam—ardent longing or greed. (3) talking unnecessarily about mundane subject matters. prayäsaù— overendeavouring. It is not that we should change to accommodate the public. TRANSLATION There are six principles favorable to the execution of pure devotional service: (1) being enthusiastic. TRANSLATION One’s devotional service is spoiled when he becomes too entangled in the following six activities: (1) eating more than necessary or collecting more funds than required. These six principles undoubtedly assure the complete success of pure devotional service. (5) abandoning the association of nondevotees. (5) associating with worldly-minded persons who are not interested in Krsna consciousness.I. Better you devote your full time to one thing only. By showing KC in this way. prasidhyati—advances or becomes successful. not as others want to see it.23]— hearing. ägrahaù—too much attachment to (or agrahaù—too much neglect of). N. D.regulative principle. if he pays something.D. and you should engage. Fanning. spontaneous service. he comes hundred times forward to Krsna consciousness. he should be given chance.“ Prabhupada went on to say that although a devotee is naturally enthusiastic to offer this process of purification to everyone.That way your enthusiasm and talents will have big effect by being concentrated . pure love of Godhead. fanning. especially in book distribution. 22nd. but not disqualified. 1976 46 . Just like there is a little fire.1.2nd. with that of some of his modern imitators.kåñëa bhajanete nähi jäti kulädi vicära. 1975 Class this morning was longer than usual. That is the instruction of all Vaisnavas. a cheap variety of cigarette .residence in the holy dhama. and therefore we should be carefull not to act whimsically. This is the idea. No. he`ll look at it – something – that `What this nonsense has written? Let me see. because it is Krsna`s book. So our process is that. Anyone can come. then raga. Thank you very much.` Then he will get some idea. That will help you.9th. 1976 Since it is so difficult to comprehend spiritual topics in this age. Vidhi.Nor should we be complacned. vidhi-bhakti. First there is vidhi.(P.79-80) April. In the beginning stage we have not awakened our natural love for Krsna. he told us that to imitate Haridasa Thakura by trying to chant in a secluded place is simply cheating. the founder of present. “So in the beginning. We pick up anyone. is essential.Prabhupada contrasted the genuine renunicationof Srila Rupa Gosvami. 1971) December. now that we have acheived what may consider to be the goal of Krsna consciousness itself. it is open. Fan it. Caitanya Mahäprbhu has given open declaration. (P.by the injunction of the sastra and the order of the spiritual master.510) April. not that because we have come to Vrndavana. if somebody purchases. Every one of you should be pure in your activities and try to preach Krsna consciousness as far as possible. they should be actively engaged.bhakti.“ he said. So preaching is very important. At the same time. it must be distributed. Such imposter renunciates simply come to beg chapatis just to sell them in the marked in order to buy bidis. He traveld all over India and took so much trouble.anyone who is desirous of becoming Krsna conscious.`So Krsna is rememberd there.. “Caitanya Mahaprabhu never sat down tighly in Vrndavana. 28th December. He explained that progress depends on proper guidiance.bhakti. neophyte stage. then your preaching will be successful and you’ll get encouragement.bhakit must be followed. For those whose minds are still disturbed.day Vrndavana village. He reminded us that by birth we may be at a disadvantage.“Suppose you are going to distribute books. he stressed that as neophyte devotees we must be actively engaged in Krsna conscious activities. One who is inquisitive to understand Brahman. immediately we have become advanced.1. we should not be disappointed if only a few take it up. and it becomes a big fire.“but what is the idea?`It is Krsna`s books. Then he described the vital role that he was playing as the representative of the Six Gosvamis.bhakti. And if he reads one line. If you remain pure.(SPL to Yogesvara. Prabhupada explained that following the rules and regulations of devotional service. Recalling his recent meetings with Sharma dasa in Mayapur. and at last prema. fanning. P.D.D. on the outside?“ Pusta asked. He said that he is showing by his own example. If you give up one side. Food is very cleanly prepared. That is real scientific.2.. The kitchen should be very neat and clean. I tried to reassure him that I am gradually learning. But that is not cleanliness. 1976. 1976 Reponsing on his asana he said that Western people have no understanding of proper cleanlyness. Then you`ll never come. daily.(SPL. then offered to the Deity. He gave a wry half. Our movement is for chanting Hare Krishna. and they are being thoroughly trained up"(P.22nd .. Krishna Consciousness does not depend on any external arrangement. Otherwise she has to do again. whereas in India brahmanas bathe not once. Everything should be neat and clean. Then you take.Nect.Prabhupada concluded the enlivening meeting by emphasizing the importance of proper training in spiritual life. changing their clothing each time. So that is real scientific knowledge.“So our institution is training. he said. immediately you`ll feel comfortable. You should not go outside of the shelter of this ISKCON.smile and shook his head.316) 47 . Just try to be happy by chanting Hare Krishna and following the regulative principles.15th February. but practical side you can not give up.“ I do not know how long you`ll learn!“ He told us that in India the utensils used for cooking must be very.. but we are not learning. “Even on the bottom. When it is no spot.23-24) Do not let your mind be disturbed by so many things. itwill immediately be cleaned. a brahmana cook will not tuch them. One can be happy under any condition.(P. not only training. If a black portion remains. very clean. What can be done?“ Prabhupada told us our mentality considers it sufficient to rub dirty things with a little soap.“ If there is a black spot in the pot.23) April. So two sides are present in our Krsna consciousness movement. “Yes. it is still dirty. then it is finished. My mother used to see every utensil. Examine.washing his hands even after taking his medicine. Samah duhkha-sukham dhiram.Then he mildliy reproached me again because of the numerous occasions he has had to correct my bad habits. practical and theoretical. full knowledgepractical and theoretical. washed twice daily. then you can give up the theoretical side.2. They`ll not touch:`Oh.` But in your (temples it is) going on. And if you see the kitchen. but three times. We do not bathe regularly. The maidservant had to surrender. Automatically your mind becomes cleaned. whether there is any spot. The two sides. opened nicely and smeared with water and gobar (cow dung). He told us about his mother`s strict standarts. but it is not possible immediately or all of a sudden. especially in the Western countries where sex life is so liberal.4. there should not be any sex life. So under the 48 . and what is spiritual family planning?'' Unless one wants to beget a child. What to practicaly do in discharge of sadhana bhakti a)What to completely give up THE FOUR REGULATIVE PRINCIPLES Regarding your question: ``What is the correct sexual etiquette for a strict Grhastha. The best thing is to forget sex. In that case. The summary is sex life should be utilized only for begetting Krishna Conscious children--that's all.circumstances. they have no use for it. that is not sense gratification . so we shall become enticed more and more. Never think that the devotee is impotent and is obliged to become free from sex life. Sex life is not sense gratification . On the whole. . That is the meaning of Goswami. That is the position of a pure devotee. Sex life for begetting Krishna Conscious children is as good as Krishna Consciousness. This is an example set for us by great devotees. He is not under the control of the senses as are the ordinary persons. and can have no children. but such sex life should be under his full control. One should not be impotent also. However. the husband and wife should chant at least fifty rounds before going to sex. But he left his wife as soon as the son was grown up. as soon as he likes he discloses his senses. The idea of marriage is to increase spiritual consciousness as far as possible. He can wind up the senses. And by advancement of Krishna Consciousness that restriction becomes automatically practical. This is confirmed in Bhagavad-gita so one has to use his own discretion in this matter and Krishna will help such discriminatory method. sex life. And a devotee is full controller. If there is no need of sex life and one uses sex life anyway. Not that even Brahma was enticed. 20th February. if there is no need for it. how much careful we should be. It is not that in every state you have to concern me but you have to concern Krishna Who is situated within. to beget children. The example is given of the tortoise. A Goswami does not mean he is to become impotent. the senses are under his control. one should try to have sex life only for children. if it is unavoidable. Kardama Muni married a wife. They are never the victim of passion. sometimes he used to say that if I could beget Krishna Conscious children I am prepared to indulge in sex life a hundred times. So he must satisfy the wife and give her some children. 1969) In answer to your questions concerning sex life: sex life restriction does not mean that husband and wife live separately. Passion makes one blind. My Guru Maharaja although he was Brahmacari. Passion is a different thing. So far Lord Brahma and his attraction for his daughter. One should have full potency. is not recommended for a Krishna Conscious person. how can a pure devotee become passionate for any amount of agitation? That is not passion. unlawful sex life is sense gratification. that is the difference. but he can use it when he likes. 1969) Your next question: In regard to Kardama Muni. If required they can take to sex life 1000 times. Sense gratification means unlawful sex life. Otherwise. and when he likes he pulls them within. 24th August. Why he shall not give her children? The wife begged that she must have some children. (SPL to Syama dasi. But when there is need of sex life. 18th January. Not that he used to live with the wife for all the days. that even a person like Brahma is sometimes victimized. 49 . then it should be utilized only for begetting Krishna Conscious children. that is sense gratification. whenever he likes and he can exhibit the senses whenever he likes. this illustration should be taken by conditioned souls. and Nandarani. The recommended period is six days after the menstruation period. 1968) You have asked me some questions about the functions of sex life in Krishna Consciousness. . (SPL to Dayananda. and the basic principle is that it should be avoided as far as possible.(SPL to Hayagriva. On the whole. that is the duty of husband. like that of ordinary materialistic men. (SPL to Himavati. Just like (another devotee) has done. So let her live in New York and you live in Paris with your wife. just see that needle. therefore if you behave like 50 . so he has left me as my personal servant. and one should behave himself rigidly. One must himself act in such a way that he is always above suspicion. 1970) Yes. But now you have no power to instruct. that`s all right. He was like the sifter. 1969) Regarding your questions about sex life. and that she is now pregnant with your child. That is most disturbing me. he cannot judge or criticise others. so if you are sexually inclined thereforw you should always be with your wife. who is also a devotee. that is the real thing. Do not eat nicely. Two things: Be himself exemplary. for begetting children sex life is religion.(SPL to Bibhavati. 22th April. lest ye be judged. how he can instruct others? If you are repentent. During the period of pregnancy sex life should be strictly avoided.Rather you should stop sex-life ailogether. 15th July. There is one saying from Bible: ´Judge not. If one has not come to that high standard. then he can preach. This is the basic principle that should be followed as far as possible by all married individuals. the basic principle is that in executing krsna consciousness sex life should be avoided as far as possible. make this your austerity. If you are leader. and he was finding fault only in others: Oh!. then he should instruct others. But never do this again. what can be done? But you should not ever see or correspond in any way with her again. One who is not following himself. Now he has made one girl pregnant and they were found out. Then he can judge. so Krsna will excuse you. 1969) I hope that you are trying to follow the regulative principles and that both you and your husband are chanting your beads regularly daily. You have got your wife. full of holes. he has got a hole! Our business is to raise ourselves to the highest status of life as preachers of Krsna`s message. he has got a hole. then teach others to be exemplary. But I know that all big leaders are falling victim to sex-life. but to control it. Oh!. You are one of the senior devotees. chant always sixteen rounds.(SPL to Linda. Only those who are above suspicion can judge others.I do not want that she shall go away from shame. (SPL to Karandhara. 19th February. how you can do these things? If someone will have her. 23th March.To become agitated is not very unusual thing. I beg to aknowledge receipt of your letter dated November 30 th . These two duties are essential for advancement in Krsna Consciousness. 1971) Please accept my blessings. and pray to Krsna to excuse you for your great offense. and if they are made the center of our activities. ´So how we can preach unless we are able to make judgements? That will not be possible. But you must have nothing more to do with her. and it may be utilized only for begetting Krsna consciousness children. That is the common practice: full of holes. yet they are accusing others. wherein I am so shocked to hear from you that you have left your good wife for some time to have sex-life with another girl. so we have to make the best of a bad bargain. she may get herself married and be happy in Krsna consciousness. That will be the worst example. After all we are in the material existence which is a bad bargain. That is stated by Krsna. then Krsna will begin to answer all questions from within how to become further advanced in His loving devotional service. You are repenting. But sex should not be for any other purpose. 1972. simply chant Hare Krishna. 17th December. In the Srimat Bhagavatam it is stated that when a woman comes to serve you. especially for sannyasis and brahmacaris. then better you give up the whole thing and do as you like outside. So you should think like this. That is the only way for checking the sex urge. then what is the use of calling yourself devotee and disciple? That is simply pretending.that then the whole Society will be a risk. And whether it is or not. By their nature. Then there is no chance for illicit sex. So if still the material nature is so much attractive to you that you are unable to sacrifice things in this way. 1972) So far your difficulty for controlling the sex urge. without any exceptions. (SPL to Rupanuga. but more than that it will become very difficult for Krsna to excuse you and there is great risk that everything will be lost despite all of your time and effort spent. Krsna may excuse. Of course once. First thing is.(SPL to Sankarsana.g. 14th February. then you must avoid these four basic principle restrictions under all circumstances. otherwise I have no business calling myself his disciple. you must be very careful. 1973) b)What to regulate REGULATION B. that I have promised my spiritual master this. 6. dress. the only cure is Hari Nama. 1972) I have the information of a few cases of illicit sex in our society but this is not an overall thing. you have made promise when you took initiation that there will be no illicit sex connection. women are lustythat is their habit. gestures. that sex urge can be checked. twice. You simply be engaged in chanting all day and serving Krishna and any time there is no service.(SPL to unnamed. now I must obey him without any exception. 31th December. that is not very difficult.16 näty-açnatas ’tu yogo ’sti na caikäntam anaçnataù na cäti-svapna-çélasya jägrato naiva cärjuna 51 . my advice in that connection is that the more you become Krsna conscious. But if you want to call yourself devotee and serve Krsna in that capacity. Without tapasya there is no question of making advancement. That will be your austerity or tapasya for forcing you to make very rapid advancement in Krsna conscious understanding. If still you are unable to fulfill that promise to your spiritual master. na—nor. Therefore. It is best that one eat only the remnants of foodstuff offered to Kåñëa. There is no need for men to eat animals. drinking. vegetables. ca—also. practice yoga. Such a person cannot perform yoga. eats only sin. sleeps too much or does not sleep enough. tu—but. asti—there is. One should not sleep more than six hours daily. and he is thus competent to perform yoga practice. fruits and milk.SYNONYMS na—never. because there is an ample supply of grains. karmasu—in discharging duties. jägrataù—or one who keeps night watch too much. na—nor. A person in Kåñëa consciousness does not eat anything which is not first offered to Kåñëa. Nor can one who artificially abstains from eating. ähära—eating. those who indulge in animal food. TRANSLATION There is no possibility of one’s becoming a yogé. 52 . or cooks for himself. ca—and. and he must consequently sleep more than is required. O Arjuna. yogaù— linking with the Supreme. One who eats more than required will dream very much while sleeping. One who sleeps more than six hours out of twenty-four is certainly influenced by the mode of ignorance. not offering his food to Kåñëa. ekäntam— overly. PURPORT Regulation of diet and sleep is recommended herein for the yogés.17 yuktähära-vihärasya yukta-ceñöasya karmasu yukta-svapnävabodhasya yogo bhavati duùkha-hä SYNONYMS yukta—regulated. vihärasya—recreation. manufacturing his own personal process of fasting. Therefore. na—not. The Kåñëa conscious person observes fasting as it is recommended in the scriptures. Bg 6. Such simple foodstuff is considered to be in the mode of goodness according to the Bhagavad-gétä. Animal food is for those in the mode of ignorance. yukta—regulated. Too much eating means eating more than is required to keep the body and soul together. if one eats too much or eats too little. eva—ever. He does not fast or eat more than is required. ati—too much. yukta—regulated. Bhuïjate te tv aghaà päpä ye pacanty ätmakäraëät. only the Kåñëa conscious person can attain perfection in yoga practice. svapna-çélasya—of one who sleeps. açnataù—of one who eats. anaçnataù—abstaining from eating. smoking and eating food which is not first offered to Kåñëa will suffer sinful reactions because of eating only polluted things. svapna-avabodhasya—sleep and wakefulness. arjuna—O Arjuna. Anyone who eats for sense pleasure. ati—too much. ceñöasya—of one who works for maintenance. ca—also. A person in the mode of ignorance is lazy and prone to sleep a great deal. One who eats sin and eats more than is allotted to him cannot execute perfect yoga. sleeping. a person in Kåñëa consciousness becomes automatically trained not to accept food not meant for human consumption. His ideal in this respect is Çréla Rüpa Gosvämé. bhavati—becomes. defending and mating— which are demands of the body—can block advancement in the practice of yoga. recreation and work can mitigate all material pains by practicing the yoga system. milk. his sleeping is kept to a minimum.(SPL to Sucandra. there is no material leisure for a person in Kåñëa consciousness. Everyone should chant his beads sixteen rounds daily without fail and follow the regulative principles strictly. a Kåñëa conscious person does not do anything which is not connected with Kåñëa’s interest. always engaged in Krsna Consciousness. grains. As far as sleeping is concerned. Avyartha-kälatvam: [Cc. Therefore. As soon as a devotee is regularly engaged in this way. in other words. vegetables. sleeping. it can be regulated only when one is practiced to take and accept prasädam. Since there is no question of sense gratification. a Kåñëa conscious person is always alert in the discharge of his duties in Kåñëa consciousness. and sometimes not even that. and therefore any unnecessary time spent sleeping is considered a great loss. 19th February.yogaù—practice pains. wakefulness and all other bodily activities. etc. on a schedule. speech. sanctified food. sleep. according to the Bhagavad-gétä (9. fruits. 1970) SLEEP 53 .18-19] a Kåñëa conscious person cannot bear to pass a minute of his life without being engaged in the service of the Lord. there is no material misery for him. These basic Krsna Conscious duties are essential to be performed regularly. and thus his work is always regulated and is untainted by sense gratification. flowers. And because he is regulated in all his work. or not in the category of goodness. Krsna will reveal the whole spiritual science from within the heart of such sincere devotee. As far as work is concerned. As far as eating is concerned. It is most important that our activities be regular or.26). In this way. Madhya 23. and they will give you the necessary strength of spirit to keep always fixed up in devotional service. PURPORT Extravagance in the matter of eating. Lord Kåñëa is offered. Öhäkura Haridäsa would not even accept prasädam nor even sleep for a moment without finishing his daily routine of chanting with his beads three hundred thousand names. who was always engaged in the service of Kåñëa and who could not sleep more than two hours a day. duùkha-hä—diminishing TRANSLATION He who is regulated in his habits of eating. of yoga. Our constitutional position being rendering service. Be blessed by Krishna. otherwise the strong maya will catch him and engage him in her service. For the present. Kirtanananda has already seen it. and gradually to the ideas of the hippies. And this sincerity of purpose is the only means to attain perfection in Krishna Consciousness. But by perseverance at rigid following of devotional service your demands for extra hours sleeping will automatically diminish. To retire from activities is not very good idea for the conditioned soul. try to realize and assimilate it more and more and distribute it to the suffering humanity. but some sort of activities must go on there. Another suggestion is that if you can attract some retired men to live there peacefully and at the same time. that this tendency of retiring from activities pushes one down to the platform of laziness. not only in our country but also in your country. take six hours sleep at night. And if there is no such opportunity then the place will be specifically meant for persons who want to retire from activities. then it is alright. there is no need of confusion on this subject. keeping a dog. and so there is always a tendency of such degradation if there is no sufficient work for service of Krishna. generally. and it will be difficult for them to give up such habits even they are invited to live with us in Vrindaban. (SPL to Rudra. One should always remain active in Krishna's service. In India actually the Vrindaban has now become a place of the unemployed. So I have become very much pleased to hear this statement from you. Just as you have already understood the benefits of this Krishna Consciousness Movement. If chanting rounds at night is not a disturbance of your daily schedule. 1968) You are such a sincere devotee that Krishna has helped you to understand the philosophy so quickly.(SPL to Hayagriva. we cannot stop activity. 9th March. that will be very nice. we should produce some grains. intoxication. So one should take rest enough to keep in good health. There is no need of forcing the matter . (SPL to Jayasri. so that the inmates may have sufficient work and facility for advancing in Krishna Consciousness. I have got very good experience. but time will come and history will give evidence that this movement saved the human society from being fallen into barbarianism. make oneself advanced in Krishna Consciousness. and beggars. I am so glad to learn that you are thinking of sleep as a waste of time. But I am afraid that retired men from this country cannot give up their old habits. that is enough. So the New Vrindaban may not be turned into a place of retirement. and fruits. smoking. 1970) SENSE CONTROL GENERAL MEANING OF SENSE CONTROL 54 . 1969) Regarding sleeping. we shall fall ill. They may not immediately appreciate it. take another hour during the day. if we do not take sufficient rest.. and keep cows. This is not an ordinary thing. If there is good prospective land. 13th November. etc. Sleeping two hours out of 24 is a later natural development. Our movement is the greatest gift to the human race. and if necessary. flours. At this stage. 14th July.' Our principal aim is to preach the importance of chanting the Holy Names of God. . yaù— whoever. the urge or demands of the mind and the demands of the body. or one who practices austerities. PURPORT In his Anuvåtti explanation of Upadeçämåta. are considered by saintly 55 .1 väco vegaà manasaù krodha-vegaà jihvä-vegam udaropastha-vegam etän vegän yo viñaheta dhéraù sarväm apémäà påthivéà sa çiñyät SYNONYMS väcaù—of speech. jihvä—of the tongue. and all this is the result of the urge to speak. etän—these. we have to divert our talking to the subject of Kåñëa. the external potency of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Many people are talking nonsensically and writing volumes of useless books. such as that of the impersonal Mäyävädé philosophers. To counteract this tendency. One who practices resisting these demands or urges is called tapasvé. the actions of anger and the urges of the tongue.5. This is explained in ÇrémadBhägavatam (1.10 na yad vacaç citra-padaà harer yaço jagat-pavitraà pragåëéta karhicit tad väyasaà tértham uçanti mänasä na yatra haàsä niramanty uçik-kñayäù “Those words which do not describe the glories of the Lord. vegam—urge. vegän—urges. saù—that personality. krodha—of anger. When we refer to the urge to speak. By such tapasya one can overcome victimization by the material energy. his life becomes inauspicious. viñaheta—can tolerate. we refer to useless talking. When a living entity falls victim to these three types of urges. who alone can sanctify the atmosphere of the whole universe.o. Çréla Bhaktisiddhänta Sarasvaté Öhäkura writes that our material identification creates three kinds of urges—the urge to speak. the mind’s demands. udara-upastha— of the belly and genitals. dhéraù—sober. api— certainly. påthivém—world. All such talks or literatures are practical exhibitions of the urge to speak. imäm—this. çiñyät—can make disciples. vegam—urge.N.5. vegam—urge. TRANSLATION A sober person who can tolerate the urge to speak. or of materialistic people who simply want to enjoy life without restriction. manasaù—of the mind. vegam—urge. belly and genitals is qualified to make disciples all over the world.10–11): SB 1. sarväm—all.I. or of persons engaged in fruitive activities (technically called karma-käëòa). 5. or unrestricted attachment. full of transcendental words directed toward bringing about a revolution in the impious lives of this world’s misdirected civilization. belief in the fruitive results of the karma-vädés. Since the allperfect persons are inhabitants of the transcendental abode. rädhä-kåñëa-guëa gäo. lobhamäyä sudurmati. the belly and the genitals. sva-prasäda-anna dila bhäi sei annämåta khäo. Adherence to the philosophy of the Mäyävädés. If one can restrain the demands of the tongue by limiting its activities to the eating of prasäda. Similarly. Frustration of material desires produces anger. tä’ke jetä kaöhina saàsäre kåñëa baòa dayämaya. anger arising from frustration. are heard.” SB 1. Jïänés. and the other is called virodha-yukta-krodha. forms. as far as the body is concerned.11 tad-väg-visargo janatägha-viplavo yasmin prati-çlokam abaddhavaty api nämäny anantasya yaço ’ìkitäni yat çåëvanti gäyanti gåëanti sädhavaù “On the other hand. they become angry.persons to be like unto a place of pilgrimage for crows. preme òäka caitanya-nitäi 56 . and belief in plans based on materialistic desires are called avirodha-préti. of the unlimited Supreme Lord is a different creation.. that literature which is full of descriptions of the transcendental glories of the name. etc. the demands of the body can be divided into three categories— the demands of the tongue. even though imperfectly composed. jéve phele viñaya-sägare tä’ra madhye jihvä ati. but when the materialists cannot fulfill their plans and when their devices are frustrated. The first is called avirodha-préti. Such transcendental literatures. We should always endeavor to use our speaking power solely for the purpose of realizing Kåñëa consciousness. they are divided into two divisions. karibäre jihvä jaya. the urges of the belly and the genitals can automatically be controlled. they do not derive any pleasure there. fame. As for the agitations of the bickering mind.” The conclusion is that only when we talk about devotional service to the Supreme Personality of Godhead can we refrain from useless nonsensical talk. and that the bodily demands begin with the tongue. In this connection Çréla Bhaktivinoda Öhäkura says: çaréra avidyä jäla. jaòendriya tähe käla. karmés and materialistic planmakers generally attract the attention of conditioned souls. One may observe that these three senses are physically situated in a straight line. pastimes. sung and accepted by purified men who are thoroughly honest. haritaké. if we observe fasting days like Ekädaçé and Janmäñöamé. fish. we can restrain the demands of the belly. tobacco. creepers. he also falls prey to trying to satisfy the demands of the tongue. we are also trying to satisfy the demands of the tongue. dear Kåñëa. crabs. and the senses are a network of paths leading to death. bhäla nä khäibe ära bhäla nä paribe: “Do not dress luxuriously and do not eat delicious foodstuffs. When we desire to eat more than necessary we automatically create many inconveniences in life.236) Those who suffer from diseases of the stomach must be unable to control the urges of the belly. marijuana. or legal and illicit sex. grains. If we accept the invitation of a rich man with the idea of receiving palatable food. That is legal and religious. he becomes controlled by the urges of the tongue. Some persons are attracted to the eating of meat. spinach or milk products. When a man is properly mature. Lord Caitanya has said. if one accepts prasäda only because of its palatable taste and thus eats too much. Such eating for sense gratification—including the use of extra quantities of spices like chili and tamarind—is to be given up by Kåñëa conscious persons. The use of pan. various spices used in panmaking. If we offer palatable dishes to the Deity with the intention of eating such nice food. betel nuts. coffee and tea is indulged in to fulfill illicit demands. as Lord Kåñëa Himself prescribes. eggs and other things produced by semina and blood and eaten in the form of dead bodies. Otherwise.” (Cc.” As stated before. 57 . LSD. You have sent this nice prasäda to help us conquer the tongue. opium. As far as the urges of the genitals are concerned. fruits. Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu taught us to avoid very palatable dishes even while eating prasäda. If we can practice accepting only remnants of food offered to Kåñëa. It is very difficult to conquer the tongue in this world. In Caitanya-caritämåta (Antya 6. belly and genitals are all situated in a straight line. Antya 6. However. we are involved in trying to satisfy the demands of the tongue. he can marry according to the rules and regulations of the çästras and use his genitals for begetting nice children. there are two—proper and improper. Somehow or other we have fallen into the ocean of material sense enjoyment. are very kind to us. the tongue. Others are attracted by eating vegetables. milk products and water are proper foods to offer to the Lord.“O Lord! This material body is a lump of ignorance. However.” There are six kinds of rasas (tastes). but all for the satisfaction of the tongue’s demands. and of all the senses the tongue is the most voracious and uncontrollable. and if one is agitated by any one of them.227) it is stated: jihvära lälase yei iti-uti dhäya çiçnodara-paräyaëa kåñëa nähi päya “That person who runs here and there seeking to gratify his palate and who is always attached to the desires of his stomach and genitals is unable to attain Kåñëa. at least according to this analysis. it is possible to get free from mäyä’s victimization. Vegetables. and they fall in the same category. therefore let us take this prasäda to our full satisfaction and glorify Your Lordships Çré Çré Rädhä and Kåñëa and in love call for the help of Lord Caitanya and Prabhu Nityänanda. but You. liquor. he automatically assumes the title of svämé. Prahläda Mahäräja has said: matir na kåñëe parataù svato vä mitho ’bhipadyeta gåha-vratänäm adänta-gobhir viçatäà tamisraà punaù punaç carvita-carvaëänäm 58 .5. or by satisfying the genitals by artificial means. Unless one is master of his senses. They have no other engagement. or senses. Following in the footsteps of the six Gosvämés of Våndävana. Prahläda Mahäräja has further described the go-däsa as adänta-go. anger. he is caught in the clutches of mäyä.he may adopt many artificial means to satisfy the demands of the genitals. These instructions apply not only to householders but also to tyägés. which refers to one whose senses are not controlled. and gosvämé means master of the go. You have accepted the renounced order of life with a vow that forbids you to associate with women. servant of the senses. In his book Prema-vivarta. all svämés and gosvämés should fully engage in the transcendental loving service of the Lord. An adänta-go cannot become a servant of Kåñëa. you must always remember the incident of Choöa Haridäsa and how he was rejected by the Lord. you are in the renounced order of life and should not listen to talk about ordinary worldly things. but always remain humble and serve Their Lordships Çré Çré Rädhä-Kåñëa in your heart of hearts. nor should you talk about worldly things when you meet with others. When one indulges in illicit sex life.” The conclusion is that one who can control these six items—speech. Chapter Seven. as defined by the çästras. As opposed to this. If you wish to associate with Caitanya Mahäprabhu. Çré Jagadänanda Paëòita says: vairägé bhäi grämya-kathä nä çunibe käne grämya-värtä nä kahibe yabe milibe äne svapane o nä kara bhäi stré-sambhäñaëa gåhe stré chäòiyä bhäi äsiyächa vana yadi cäha praëaya räkhite gauräìgera sane choöa haridäsera kathä thäke yena mane bhäla nä khäibe ära bhäla nä paribe hådayete rädhä-kåñëa sarvadä sevibe “My dear brother. In ÇrémadBhägavatam (7. tongue. or those who are in the renounced order of life. When one accepts the renounced order of life. mind. community or society. belly and genitals—is to be called a svämé or gosvämé.30). This does not mean that he is the master of his family. either by thinking. but go-däsa. he should not be called gosvämé. Svämé means master. Do not think of women even in dreams. and he may not use any restraint. Do not eat luxurious dishes or dress in fine garments. planning. the go-däsas engage in the service of the senses or in the service of the material world. he must be master of his senses. talking about or actually having sexual intercourse. 59 . however. and thus they madly engage in what is called ‘chewing the chewed. there is no chance of becoming Kåñëa conscious. Similarly. however. The preacher of kåñëa-kathä is always beyond the clutches of death.. If the sun is present. although it is inviting death. as soon as we get an opportunity we begin to speak.’ ”(N. Controlling speech.” Nevertheless. by instruction from others or by joint conferences.“For those who have decided to continue their existence in this material world for the gratification of their senses. tähäì nähi mäyära adhikära Kåñëa is just like the sun. does not mean self-imposed silence (the external process of mauna). there is no question of darkness. we speak about all sorts of nonsense. They are dragged by the unbridled senses into the darkest region of ignorance.I. form.I. The tongue can thus glorify the name. The Caitanya-caritämåta (Madhya 22. engaging the speaking process in glorifying the Supreme Lord Çré Kåñëa. A toad in a field speaks by croaking. and similarly everyone who has a tongue wants to speak. but ultimately it proves a failure. The meaning of controlled speech conveyed by Çréla Rüpa Gosvämé advocates the positive process of kåñëa-kathä.o. there is no possibility of the mind’s being agitated by mäyä’s influence. the toad goes on croaking. Silence may appear helpful for some time. This is the significance of controlling the urge to speak.. CONTROL OF THE MIND The restlessness or fickleness of the mind (mano-vega) is controlled when one can fix his mind on the lotus feet of Kåñëa. not by personal endeavor. The croaking of the toad.1 p) CONTROL OF THE SPEECH N. simply invites the snake: “Please come here and eat me. if Kåñëa is present in the mind. even if all he has to say is nonsense. and mäyä is just like darkness.31) says: kåñëa——sürya-sama.1 p First one must control his speaking power. The yogic process of negating all material thoughts will not help. The talking of materialistic men and impersonalist Mäyävädé philosophers may be compared to the croaking of frogs.o. Every one of us has the power of speech. as Mäyävädé philosophers think. They are always speaking nonsense and thus inviting death to catch them. qualities and pastimes of the Lord. mäyä haya andhakära yähäì kåñëa. If we do not speak about Kåñëa consciousness. it may change in extreme way. That is our strength in spiritual life and gradually all such problems will be resolved. From your letter. The process is to follow the regulative principles and regularly chant 16 rounds. 10 senses.1 p) Regarding your second question. if one always thinks of Kåñëa and how to serve Kåñëa best. now rid yourself of such misunderstanding of things. the mind is subject to so many impressions from past activities as well as so many past lifetimes. So simply be persevering and go on chanting attentively and all these temporary manifestations will come to pass.1972) One thing is. There is always only one personality. which is the 25th category. and that is almost spiritual . (Mahat Tattva). What is the explanation of split-personality. then there is no more extreme change in the mind from one personality to another. Vaisnava means one who is able to sit down anywhere. because you do not want this. (SPL to Bhagavan dasa. and above this is the Supersoul. so that all sorts of fluctuations of the material nature. therefore it is in the body. but this is not an automatic thing. The mind is a subtle element. all sorts of difficulties and discrepancies of life are easily withstood.(NoI. one’s mind will naturally be controlled. I can understand you are confused in your mind. It takes so much practice due to our conditioned state. like that. a little prasadam. and it can be immediately rejected at any time. 16th February. but only if it is understood by the intelligence. gladly let me do it for Krishna. And because you are sincerely desiring to serve the Deity. there are not two personalities. that is not to my liking. so when disturbing thoughts enter your mind you should simply ignore them.(SPL to Hladini devi dasi. or Supreme Personality of Godhead. tottering and precarious. or if I 60 . That is wanting .(SPL to Mohanananda. you can be sure that Krishna will help you in all respects. to the Lotus Feet of Lord Krishna. and any knowledge gathered from the mental platform is like that. Something understood by the intelligence is fixed forever and cannot waver. under any conditions. and be happy. the brain is accepted as the location of the mind. our process of Krishna Consciousness. 9th November. the mind has to be fixed up in Krishna. you might like another. and if there's a little service he can do. 1969) Yes. the three subtle elements. five sense objects. Therefore. automatically it has the effect of fixing us. the 24 elements are the five gross elements. Generally. The vacuum will not remain. if it is followed with determination and enthusiasm. if such person is devotee.To try to create a vacuum in the mind is artificial. so you are a Vaisnava. 27th February. it is just that if the mind is very disturbed. 1971) Your third question. mind and soul. He wants only a place to lay down. However. actually. that is mental platform of accept/reject. Above these there is the situation of the spirit soul. Actually the process is to always remember the Lotus Feet of the Lord. and the total material cause. That position of confusion is not very much desirable. the best remedy is to sit down very tightly and chant Hare Krishna very loudly and hear for the a long time until he feels himself oneminded and fixed on Krishna's Lotus Feet. If I only think I know something. As long as we are thinking I want this. there is only change of mind. body. Krishna Consciousness has great potency to deliver us to the highest platform of perfection. But first you have to agree to understand the process and follow it scrupulously. you do not want that. that's all. and I have already instructed you and all my students that the restless fickle mind can only be controlled by putting the mind to the lotus feet of Krsna. Arjuna serves as another example. This means that he utilized his anger in the right way. The point is that one should be ready to tolerate all insults to one’s own self. but Kåñëa incited his anger: “You must fight!” To fight without anger is not possible. but he is worshiped as the greatest devotee of Lord Rämacandra. a genuine devotee becomes angry and acts like fire against the offenders. and that can best be done by chanting Hare Krsna mantra. In His Çikñäñöaka Lord Caitanya wrote.o. tåëäd api sunécena taror api sahiñëunä: “One should be humbler than the grass and more tolerant than the tree. we control our anger in Kåñëa consciousness. By chanting without offenses. EATING / TONGUE CONTROL N. which is devotional service. The devotee’s attitude is that he will eat only when Kåñëa gives 61 . Generally we should not allow the tongue to eat according to its choice.I. but should control the tongue by supplying prasäda. He was not willing to fight. 8th July. but if we simply become angry with those who blaspheme the Lord or the devotees of the Lord.adjust things a certain way everything will be better. but it can be applied rightly. 20th July. the devotee cries to Radharani and Krsna to please lift him out of the material energy and put him into the spiritual energy. anger can be controlled.” One may then ask why the Lord exhibited His anger. We cannot stop anger altogether.(SPL to Govinda dasi. Krodha. anger.(SPL to Bhagavadananda. when utilized in the service of the Lord. these thoughts are material. Try to understand things with the light of your intelligence.1. It was in anger that Hanumän set fire to Laìkä. So stop this dreaming state. without a doubt Krishna will give you full facility to understand Him and become freed of the bondage of ignorance. 1973) CONTROL OF ANGER NoI. we all experience that the tongue wants to eat palatable dishes. and if your are sincere in this way.1 p Similarly. Lord Caitanya Mahäprabhu became angry with the miscreant brothers Jagäi and Mädhäi.. 1972) Of course we have to control the mind.p As for the urges of the tongue. Devotional service is not conditional. Anger is controlled. and there is no alternative in this age. cannot be stopped. who blasphemed and struck Nityänanda Prabhu. but when Kåñëa or His pure devotee is blasphemed. however. And this Drabyamulyena Suddhati is only in special cases like this. Any foodstuff when it is paid for. the urges of the belly and tongue can be controlled. One should not be too much greedy. if you like. Better you should prepare your own foodstuffs and offer to Krishna and then. 1968) The first thing is that in the meeting of Dr. meat is not considered an eatable--it is considered untouchable. and remembering Krishna. One should not talk unnecessarily. if you take Krishna prasadam you shall keep your body automatically fit for working. biscuit. 1968) Regarding the Christmas Day meal with your family. and then offer the same to Lord Jesus. of course. Beginning from the tongue. So for prosecuting Krishna Consciousness one should not eat more than what is needed. 6th October. boiled potato. then eat them as Krishna Prasadam . It is not to done ordinarily. That is the way to control the urge of the tongue. form is our sincere service attitude with our senses. Drabyamulyena Suddhati. like fruits. nor should one associate with persons who are not in Krishna Consciousness. then automatically the other senses become purified. The only process for perceiving Krishna and His name. One should not endeavor beyond his capacity. And we can render service to Krishna with purified senses. you may prepare and offer your own prasadam for Lord Krishna. One should not stick with some extra regulative principles. etc. As such we should try to chant and eat Krishna prasadam as much as possible. There is a verse in Vedic literature.(SPL to Brahmananda. it becomes purified.1968) Regarding other yoga exercises. you may offer these remnants to Lord Jesus. I think that Lord Jesus will also appreciate this. So meat is like that. you should eat there. This Drabya means vegetables. you can offer them to Krishna within your mind. that does not mean it is now purified. so there is no need of extra exercises which are required by persons who may eat more than what is required. enthusiasm. flowers. may be not very good.(SPL to Upendra. by changing of taste and vibration. Also what is important is to follow the four regulative 62 . but if one pays for it. vegetable diet when it is paid for. qualities. We should prepare our own foodstuff and offer as much as possible. So. Of course you may sit down with your family and take fruits and milk which they offer but rather than taking the foods which they have prepared. and eatables meaning vegetables.him prasäda.. 14 th July. you can offer it in your mind to Krishna and take it. I do not think you should partake of the food prepared by non-devotees. Just like if somebody purchases some stool. milk. One should take prasäda at scheduled times and should not eat in restaurants or sweetmeat shops simply to satisfy the whims of the tongue or belly. If we stick to the principle of taking only prasäda. As you will pay for the dinner. it becomes purified. But you simply eat vegetarian dishes. Spock. grains.26th November. fruits. for the fooding. etc. If we can change the materialistic nature of the tongue. and firm conviction on the statement of Lord Caitanya that simply by chanting the Maha Mantra one can be gradually elevated to the highest platform of spiritual perfection.(SPL to Hrisikesa. or unless in special circumstance. The source of receipt of the thing. milk. all our senses are practically led by the tongue sense. whose business is to vibrate and to taste. What one should do is chant the Holy Name of the Lord with faith. nuts. But this Drabya means eatables. 9th January. 15 th January. so let me take more and more. you should get it. and one who is capable of bringing forth Kåñëa conscious offspring is allowed to utilize his genitals. then that is sense gratification. otherwise they should not be used.(SPL to Rupanuga dasa.1p In a similar manner.I. I am sure that Rupanuga will ably guide you in these matters. That will be very nice. lazy attitude which will only end in fall down.principles of avoiding all illicit sexual connections. So Krsna Consciousness is first in all circumstances. intoxication and gambling.(SPL to Kanupriya. but on principle he was avoiding. management should be done very carefully to see that there is not easy-going. All should attend classes 2 or 3 times daily. Caitanya Mahaprabhu was taking. never mind if it is a little more or less. Just like eating. Eating is necessary to remain fit. Eating should be minimized. So. can be controlled when not used unnecessarily. One thing is that they must be fully engaged.(SPL to Vedavyasa. We can rent the unused space.. but one should not take too much. Many such Kåñëa conscious children are required. 4th August. and go out for street sankirtana. Don't make a hotel for free boarding and lodging. Don't allow anyone to simply eat and sleep. Sannyasis may take the maha-prasada but not to overeat. But. but too much eating means disease and too little eating means starving.o. As soon as the children are a little grown up. Everyone must be full-time engaged and the best engagement for them is to sell books. the sex impulse. 1970) Regarding the new building. 1969) Please do not neglect to engage yourself in the prescribed duties for maintaining your spiritual strength.(SPLto Jadurani. if you think it is something palatable. Without keeping spiritual strength there is no question of any accomplishment like painting or anything else. 1975) Regarding the attitude for taking prasada. that is the program of Krsna Consciousness. The Kåñëa consciousness movement encourages marriage not for the satisfaction of the genitals but for the begetting of Kåñëa conscious children. 1975) SEX-ATTRACTION N. if it is suitable. and the householders can live in the building as long as they have separate floors. the urges of the genitals. 63 . chant 16 rounds. Too much eating leads to too much sleeping. 16th November. meat-eating. Everything should be regulated in devotional service. The genitals should be used to beget a Kåñëa conscious child. where they are trained to become fully Kåñëa conscious devotees. and then sex desire. Prasad is transcendental. One must adjust things properly. they are sent to our Gurukula school. still it is prasadam so it will act. and how by proper use of intelligence and prevent 64 . By seeing women. Immoral sex life and spiritual advancement are incompatible proposition. 1968) Looking on women is not an impediment to spiritual progress. his position is very laudable.C. But sex should not be for any other purpose. for begetting children sex life is religion. After all we are in the material existence which is a bad bargain. or else there is offense of breaking this basic prohibition of illicit sex-life.(SPL to Jayapataka. then one should get himself married and thus check his sex disturbance. 8th November. The actual fact is that attachment for sense gratification is not at all congenial for spiritual progress. but not to try to imitate. so we have to make the best of a bad bargain. In this country intermingling with women is very easy. If you take the words of Lord Caitanya that His mind is agitated by seeing a wooden model. but looking on women with a view of sense gratification is detrimental . but one who is not advanced cannot avoid it. Lord Caitanya said that His mind becomes agitated even by seeing a wooden model. 22nd April. 1970) Yes. so even thoughts of sex connection may come. so what to speak of you. 1971) Regarding your question about thinking about sex. The real fact is therefore that we have to check ourself by advancement of Krishna Consciousness. If not one can satisfy the sex urge by legitimate marriage. We should strongly follow all the regulations and principles and chant and these thoughts will come and go away. in the further stages of feeling and willing we can easily conquer over this sex urge. & constant chanting will save you from all inconveniences. that is difficult even for saintly persons to avoid. But beyond thinking are feeling and willing. That is stated by Krsna. but because it is an old habit we are unable to check it unless we can understand the nature of feeling. But that does not disturb our regular procedure.I understand that sometimes you feel sex urges and frustration. 22nd January. still. Because thinking comes I shall give it practical shape: that is nonsense. then what to speak of us by seeing actual women. and he will forget his sex urge. So we must say that such thinking is no offense because you are accustomed to this habit. and peacefully prosecute Krishna Consciousness. willing and then action. Willing should be avoided and acting stopped. even great saintly persons like Lord Siva are not free of thoughts that come.(SPL to Hayagriva. To think of Krishna's pastimes with Gopis. 1968) The Deity worship must be continued by everyone. better one can get himself married and be peaceful. 17th April. But if it becomes too difficult for us. even thinking sex is the same as illicit sex. Therefore we have to take little precaution and the best precaution is to raise oneself in Krsna Consciousness. A determined person tolerates such sex urges as one tolerates the itching sensation of eczema. Another secret of success is that when one is very much sexually disturbed he should think of Lord Krishna's pastimes with the Gopis. In the material world sex urge is the binding force for material existence. Thinking will come. if one's mind is agitated. is that also one form of illicit sex or against our four principles? Yes. (SPL to Karandhara. But if one can avoid sex life and the attachment is overturned for Krishna Consciousness. Your full engagement in K. that is quite natural. So there is no need of becoming hypocritical. (SPL to Satsvarupa. and sometimes our mind becomes agitated. 1974) AUSTERITY 65 . If there is agitation in the mind then there is no fault. my mind becomes agitated but that does not mean that we should give it practical shape. therefore he is able to stop it at the thinking stage by not allowing it to be felt. his falldown is inevitable. So if there is simply agitation in the mind there is no fault. One must be convinced that sex-life without exception means trouble.thoughts which must come from maturing into actions--that is the practical application of Krishna Consciousness regulative principles. This is a spiritual desire. They sit separately in the temple and then outside mix again. that is intelligence. So this was not possible from the beginning.(SPL to Kirtiraja. Krsna's Name is Madan Mohan.(SPL to Govinda dasi. All material desires become zero. intermingle together and this is practically impossible to stop because you western people are accustomed to the habit. 28th December. but great Vaisnava or famous Vaisnava means that you have no sex desire. even he has no desire for jnana. or the cupid . Those who are fixed in chanting Hare Krsna Mantra and always reading the books and following the regulative principles they can be saved. But by engaging in devotional service gradually the mind will become purified and the agitation will vanish . 30th April. Vaisnava means he has no material desire. Sometimes my Godbrothers criticize me for intermingling of girls and boys. In our society the girls and boys mix. Daivi hy esa gunamayi mama maya duratyaya [Bg. without any sex desire.(SPL to Sukadeva. Actually this is only natural in this material world. like that. Therefore I get the boys and girls married. But if there is indulgence in sex fault. so it is not like any material desire and it is all right to desire for Krsna in this way. Even Lord Caitanya Himself said that sometimes when I see a wooden form of a woman. there is no question of being saved from the clutches of Maya.(SPL to Sankarsana. These things can be avoided when one is very much advanced in Krsna Consciousness. the conqueror of lusty desires. But there is no way out of it--you girls and boys will mix even if I say so they cannot avoid it. Unless one is very much attracted with Krsna one cannot give up or avoid attraction of Cupid. But nature is so strong that in spite of being married they are attracted to the opposite sex. what to speak of sex desire. much less willed and acted. karma.14]. unless the mind is fully purified in Krsna Consciousness. Otherwise. 28 th February. If one engages in illicit sex life he has broken the promise to the spiritual master and that is a great offense. 1972) You have got some desire to become a famous preacher and famous Vaisnava singer and also jagad-guru. 1972) ecomes a victim of woman. Whether you can be like that? First of all you be like that. 31th December. then there is big fault. 7. 1974) You mentioned in your previous letter about this person being sexually agitated. then you think famous Vaisnava. (SPL to Satsvarupa Maharaja. There is no need of dry vairagya. But do not impose something which will be difficult to execute . 15th March. That is the business of the demon. 1967) You have asked me how many hours you should work. 23rd May. I don't believe in medicine or doctors. Besides that there are other special fasting days. Our life is dedicated to Krishna. as we are unable to do it. but in this age.(SPL to Nandarani. 1969) Regarding the statement in Bhagavad-gita (17. We have different varieties of service. that is sufficient for ordinary men. and I am reciting from Srimad Bhagavatam. 11th November. Two days fasting per month on Ekadasi is sufficient. Krishna cannot be parched. There is no need of fasting once very week.6) that those who are demons parch the Supersoul within the body. I believe that within a fortnight I shall recoup my health sufficiently and be able to start for San Francisco and meet you all there. I am also glad to inform you that I am improving my health by the Grace of Krishna. But as you have increased the chanting of beads to 25 rounds daily. The idea is that one should not unnecessarily give trouble to the soul or Supersoul. The rules and regulations which we have already prescribed. that is very nice. 1970) Keep yourself comfortable so that you can work nicely. by the Mercy of Krishna and Lord Caitanya. 1976) HEALTH I am very glad to receive your recent letter. For you.Regarding the vows and chanting method you have adopted. it is very nice. 66 .(SPL to Rudra. J. Spiritual realization depends on austerities and vows. we need not undergo very severe penances. and you should work for Him 24 hours.(SPL to Ekayani. 9th June. but one who observes fasting irregularly gives unnecessary trouble to the soul. Today I have taken a shower bath by myself. indirectly it is parching the Supersoul. and the soul and the Supersoul sitting together or the soul being part and parcel of the Supersoul. and am enjoying the seashore here in N. but I am practically perceiving that the massaging is helping me beyond expectation. 1968) So far as possible I am taking care of my health.(SPL to Brahmananda.(SPL to Rupanuga. I hope you shall try to understand me right. I am an old man. 1968) You have got some infection. 1968) Milk and salt should never be mixed. This information is not only for you but all my noble sons.8th July. 23rd January. I do not know what is the actual position but if it is ordinary. 21st December. The service of Krsna must be executed at all risks. 1967) Be careful about your health first. (SPL to Pradyumna. but hardly he gets opportunity to serve Krsna. but Krsna’s service must be executed even at the risk of life. and I am very much anxious about your cyst pain. I am taking care of my health by the help of Gaurasundara. rock candy will be just appreciated and as soon as he regains health the original taste will be appreciated. 1968. Balance time should be spent for chanting and reading S. I am having always a buzzing sound in my brain. the miseries will be coming and going. but sometimes I feel not so good.(SPL to Aniruddha. So long we have got this material body. and as He desires it will happen.B. but still I am working because I try to be in my position of spiritual platform. regarding your illness . 1968) I am in due receipt of your letter dated March 20. Let him take complete rest in the hospital and give him rock candy as advised above. Everything depends on Krishna. 1967) So for my health is concerned. 15th September.(SPL to Yamuna and Harsarani. I am forwarding your letter to Brahmananda for taking care of your hospital charges. and do the needful.(SPL to Rayarama. but we have to stand erect on the spiritual platform. but do not worry. 1967) On arrival in Delhi I received a letter and I request you to take proper care of Gargamuni. For a diseased person suffering from jaundice. 11th July. 1967) Physically and mentally we may be disturbed sometimes. I cannot sleep soundly at night. I may live or die it does not matter. Hope you are well. it is improper. 9th April. 23rd March.you should work on painting as long as you think yourself fit. don't overwork. then I think a little painting of Sloan's Liniment may reduce the painful reaction . Hope you are well. simply we have to tolerate them and try to make advancement in Krishna Consciousness as best we can .(SPL to Jadurani. But if it is within the skin then you have 67 . I may inform you in the connection that I am at the present moment physically unfit. But you must live for long time to push on this Krishna Consciousness movement.(SPL to Brahmananda. 15th January. I do not know just what arrangements can be made. on the whole it is nice. and will cause leprosy. But salt can be mixed with yogurt. but Brahmananda will think how to take care of it. A living entity gets millions of opportunities to get a type of body. As soon as it is so the patient is understood to be cured. 6th October.to consult some physician. 19th December. and if it is too much painful. After all it is a broken house and I cannot expect all the comforts of a newly built house in an old broken residence. and massage with camphor oil. Therefore you should take care of it. The Ayurvedic medicine which I could recommend is probably not available in London. Your body is dedicated to Krishna. Study Bhagavad-gita As It Is and Srimad-Bhagavatam and continue to help your god-brothers in developing Krishna Consciousness. so there is no need of extra exercises which are required by persons who may eat more than what is required. 1968) I am very much concerned about yourself that you have been injured. 1968) Regarding other yoga exercises. Besides many of the herbs which are needed for Ayurvedic treatment would have to be sent here from India. 6th January. therefore you should not be neglectful about your body.(SPL to Upendra. 1969) I have received your letter dated January 28.(SPL to Gargamuni. 1968) You have expressed the desire to become an Ayurvedic physician but I do not think that this proposal is very good. 1968) I understand Malati is having some rheumatic condition. and she should be given liquid foods. After heating you can apply Sloan's Liniment. and before applying the liniment you can foment by heating some soft pad in hot water. I am feeling no more headaches nor any severe buzzing sound--but still some buzzing is going on. Please keep me informed. 15th January. and it is causing pain and numbness. and the recipe is 1 cup of barley and four cups of water to be boiled for at least 1/2 68 . The best thing is to take hot baths. you must be careful. This homeopathic medicine you have mentioned is not genuine and therefore is a bluff. Purchase pearl barley from the market. and this is not very practical.(SPL to Syamasundara. and this will be the most successful and appreciated endeavor. if you take Krishna prasadam you shall keep your body automatically fit for working. but it is Krishna's body. (SPL to Brahmanandn. You should always think that your body is no more your body. use Sloan's liniment . So the first medicine which you should be concerned with is to chant Hare Krishna and to become increasingly steady in Krishna Consciousness. by working . 10th October. The best thing is to chant Hare Krishna loudly. This science is not so important to us now because in your country there is ample facility for receiving medicines.(SPL to Jayapataka. but if there is any Ayurvedic shop let me know and I shall recommend some medicine. but you can try by applying Sloan's Liniment. 1969 regarding Jadurani's sick health. I do not know what sort of ugra-karma you were doing. just like barley water mixed with milk . So develop your preaching abilities in this way. 1968) Regarding my health. and apply on the spot. Best thing is to consult with some expert physician. (SPL to Kanupriya. but whatever you do. All of her work should be suspended. I hope you will be feeling better soon. She requires complete rest. 5th May. I am glad to inform you that it is in better condition than that last year when I returned from India. Actually. She should take complete rest and chant Hare Krishna. but don't you know that this body belongs to Krishna? You have already dedicated your body to Krishna so how can you decide to end it?'' So you must not neglect the upkeep of your body. you can brush your teeth with the following mixture. we may adopt the approved method of treatment. 21st February. And to render very good sound service to Krishna we should not neglect the upkeep of the body . This plan was understood by Lord Caitanya. and. and pure mustard oil. and he was therefore sometimes bleeding.(SPL to Kirtanananda. and she may take. is to consult some approved physician. But whenever Lord Caitanya met Sanatana Goswami. medicine is not the remedial measures for our bodily troubles unless we are helped by Krishna.(SPL to Rayarama.(SPL to Kirtanananda. 1969) I am very much anxious to know how is your present condition of health. 31st January. and He called Sanatana Goswami and said to him. I think that will cure your troubles. common salt. and keep always some cloves in your mouth. Try to take care of your health in the best possible way. Then mix with water and boil it to a paste. 1 part. He used to embrace him in spite of Sanatana's request for Him not to touch him. Keep this for twenty four hours. 14th February. That liquid preparation may be mixed with milk and sugar.hour. Because of this. He was sometimes very much sick on account of eczema. 6th March. Gargle in hot water. it is to be understood that so long we have got this material body there must be some trouble. just apply it on the painful part of the back three times daily. ``you have decided to end this body. 9th February. 1969) Keep your health in good condition and work very hard for Krishna. The best remedy. Then apply that paste while it is hot.(SPL to Satsvarupa. We learn from an instance of Sanatana Goswami. pray to Krishna to give us a chance to serve Him . That is our motto of life. With this paste brush your teeth. When she next wants to begin work. whenever there is bodily trouble we may adopt the prescribed methods of medical science and depend upon Krishna for His Mercy. 1969) Regarding the ailments with your finger. Therefore. it is for Krishna's service only. 1969) Regarding Syama Dasi's health. Jadurani must not exert herself in any way. When it is mixed. I am describing here a treatment for it. For the time being. she must take my permission. Take turmeric powder and add the same quantity of limestone. 14th February. if required. Please let me know if you are improving or if there is some disturbance still. It doesn't require to extract any teeth.(SPL to Syama dasi. not only for Syama Dasi but for everyone. so we should chant regularly. especially the painful part. all work must be suspended. very nicely. 1969) 69 . But ultimately we have to depend on the Mercy of Krishna. I understand that Hayagriva had some backache so for him you take one part of a crushed to a powder red-pepper and add to it five parts of rubbing alcohol. This is the lesson we get from Lord Caitanya and Sanatana Goswami . Sanatana Goswami later on decided to commit suicide so Lord Caitanya would not embrace him in his bloody condition. We should always remember that our body is not for sense gratification.(SPL to Rayarama. quite sufficient to make it a suitable paste . then strain and add one part camphor. 1969) For your toothache trouble. then you must take such Prasdam instead of cooked food.(SPL to Balabhadra. Just like a man may know that he is not his car. 6th May. 1969) Regarding your letter asking me permission for taking prasadam comprising fruits. Hope you are well. 12th May. like seasonal changes. we do not become disturbed because such troubles are simply temporary manifestations. Of course disease will always be there at some time while there is this material body. sometimes we are afflicted. 1969) In the meantime try to recoup your health. sufficient sleeping. olive oil. (SPL to Tamala Krsna. I think that if you follow our regulations of diet. 1969) You may try using oil on the dry skin before taking your taking your bath each day. so we should not bother very much about it. so he does not therefore neglect his car. 20th March. He is the ultimate Master of all situations.(SPL to Dayananda. Mustard oil. The thing is you must accept such food as will keep you fit. 1969) Regarding my backache. but I am unhappy because I hear that for the last three months you are not keeping your good health. because after all. the Vaisnava who knows that he is not this body. It is advised in the Bhagavad-gita that this bodily happiness and unhappiness are temporary. I do not know why you should reduce in your health.G. We must simply go on with our activities in Krishna Consciousness. but this we must tolerate and not be very much agitated by. the 10% balance appears to be out of my body. two baths per day. But because we are long associated with this material body. but it is ultimately Krishna Who is the Master to do every thing. this body is external--we should not be very much disturbed with it. the material body can be infected at any time. If required you can take raw cereals soaked in water overnight that is also good. Not more nor less that is the injunction of Lord Krishna in the B. we have to execute our daily duties. we may not be very much disturbed with our bodily pains. or the place. milk product and green leaf vegetables. and I am both happy and unhappy on reading it . Actually. but after all. nuts. 1969) Regarding your question about maintaining your body nicely.(SPL to Yamuna.--if the __ to your health for rendering service to Krishna with more energy. (SPL ti Prabhavati. or some sort of oil will suffice. and this may help the situation. but after all.I am in due receipt of your very nice letter. but he takes very nice care so that he may utilize his body in the service of Krishna. 24th March. but when disease or other necessary inconveniences arrive. depending on Krishna. So we must take sufficient care to provide our bodies with its demands. It is not the doctor.(SPL to Rayarama. but by higher knowledge we have to tolerate the pains. but he will take care of it so it will be able to render service to him. wisely thinking that these bodily pains are not mine. so as we are not very much disturbed even in severe cold or scorching heat. or the medicine. With this viewpoint we shall go forward. 1969) 70 . 13th March. I am happy to hear from you.* then you will be able to keep yourself in proper health . 23rd March. and keep to the prescribed rules of cleanliness. he does not therefore neglect his body. 1970) If you are feeling tired. 12th February. (SPL to Govinda dasi. devotion does not depend on the body. that will cure anyone of mental disease. Best thing is to be engaged in continuously chanting and hearing Sankirtana. When I shall come there I shall see what is wrong.(SPL to Giriraja. That is your first business. 12th August. I hope her health has improved by now. place and circumstances. But live carefully. dal. 1969) Regarding the diet which the doctors are giving you. 1972) So far your other letter. 1969) If Krishna devi is continuing to feel weakness she may reduce any strenuous activity and increase the number of rounds chanting. capatis. because if you fall sick. it is India. everything will be topsy-turvy . but there is no surety. you may take rest. Hare Krishna Mantra is bhavausadhi. that will keep your health nice.(SPL to Govinda dasi. so long we have got the tongue--and even we have got no tongue we can chant in our mind. you should not mix with 71 . because the organization of sales in stores will determine our future publications. vegetable. Japanese rice is very cheap. 1969) I am anxious to know how you are eating. But it is very doubtful. it is all right if you do not take milk for some time. It is dedicated to Krishna.(SPL to Baradraja. and in spite of all difficulties we can chant. 22nd January. (SPL to Dinesh. and when there is no surety why should we break our four basic principles? I don't think there is guarantee of surety by taking this medicine with animal products. 1971) Doctors give medicine and they speak surety. 1972) Now your husband and wife develop the Vrindaban scheme. 1972) Psychiatrists are humbug. 12th February. and your second business is to organize sales in the stores. so you must take care of the body very carefully. 15th May. 21st October.(SPL to Brahmananda. all humbug. They cannot help. Your body is very valuable. On the whole. (SPL to Bali Mardan and Sudama. Vegetables will do. along with the doctor's prescription. But if there is surety. so if you take nice rice. whether you have got the facilities for cooking nice Prasadam. 3rd October. The best medicine is to rest and chant Hare Krishna Mantra. we must live according to the time. that is intelligence. the panacea for all material disease. and little milk. you can take.The first thing is that you must feel well. you know better than anyone else. 19th February. And what you require to be in good health. Long ago you wanted to go to Vrindaban. (SPL to Upendra. except with your husband. In whatever condition you should feel well. so I think you are perfectly meant to remain there and look after the things. 4th November. you can come home at night and take prasadam sumptuously. Do not misunderstand this. the body is received according to karma. but if due to some past sinful activities. let him see the Deity and ask him to offer obeisances. (SPL to Mayapurusa dasa.(SPL to Viruha dasa. and whenever you eat. 3 rd August. 1972) So you are all intelligent boys. one man can remain.( SPL to Revatinandna Swami. just like Indian ladies do.(SPL to Govinda dasa. 1975 and have noted the contents . These things will elevate him to Krsna consciousness. This material body is actually a bad bargain because it is prone to suffer. they will go away. we want to avoid it as much as possible.(SPL to Dr. What is the use of the karmi deaf school. 72 . 1974) Regarding your fasting.anyone very intimately. he can develop his hearing power. Regarding this matter with your child. Krsna is almighty and He can do whatever He likes. so. then six hours of sound sleep. But I do not mean you should neglect temple life. That means to always be engaged in the service of Krishna without fail. one man can be left behind. 6th December. while the others go out. Once eating sumptuously is enough to maintain body and soul together. to take care of the Deity. still it is not an impediment to advance in Krsna consciousness by being deaf. if you are sick. 1975) This body belongs to Krishna and therefore we must always keep it in healthy condition to the best of our ability. As a matter of fact. In the daytime you may not take. It is important to keep the body fit and healthy so that we will not meet the obstacle of ill health while serving Krishna. and so far the other devotees are concerned.(SPL to Gurudasa and Yamuna. 9. we are suffering some bodily miseries we should not become discouraged . so you should judge the desire of my guru maharaj and help me in that way. you must first offer. and at night you can take. and this will maintain their health properly. but I would have not agreed. but at least I would not have agreed that the doctors perform this operation. if you do not give them food. that will be very nice. then fasting is the best medicine. 1975) With regard to your son. 19th June. after having kirtana. Yes. For disease and unwanted guests. but I left the hospital tactfully. 1975) If you are willing to offer your medical services to my students. I cannot say. He will see and learn it. Therefore I say that you never call a doctor for me or send me to the hospital. 16th January. Regarding the temple management. but we must make the best use of this bad bargain. when it is required.Curriner. So it is up to you. In New York in 1968 when I was in the hospital they tried to operate my brain. Ill health may hinder one's service. But. a devotee may take only once in a day either in the day or night. 1975) I am in due receipt of your letter dated Oct. Later on if Krsna desires. 19th April. Just teach him to see the Deity and how to offer obeisances and he will take prasadam. they can eat once in the day or night. Devotional service must continue under all circumstances. And. Pleasure is only a misconception. 7th June. Do not be sorry if you are in an ``unfortunate'' situation. but I would prefer that you may require the money for your treatment.(SPL to Jayananda. (SPL to Gargamuni. 1976) As long as the body will be there. Also. (SPL to Rocana dasa. Mix this pulp with a little salt. “jiva va mara va. Also. A successful life is one of Krishna consciousness. Roast the green mango. black pepper. 1975) First of all produce your own food grain. 26 th February. (SPL to Kirtanananda Maharaja. 23rd March. and take out the pulp. As soon as palatable food is offered. green mango sherbet can be prepared. Take rest as much as necessary. milk and vegetables. 1976) The girl who has got health problems must learn to be tolerant. then drink it. Pleasure is a misconception. So if you like I can return it. But I hear that you have some income. As long as the material body will be there. I pray to Krishna for your more advanced Krishna conscious life. This will give protection from stroke from the heat. 9th November. Remain in Mayapur. there will only be pain. That is the disease.(SPL to Krsna Vilasini dasi.Better to sit him down before the Deity and see and offer obeisances. (SPL to Bala Krsna dasa. 1976) Regarding the Narayana Kavaca mantra. By the grace of Krishna from the very beginning you are a devotee and that is the real profit of your life. don't eat more.(SPL to Jayapataka Maharaja. 23rd October. they eat. 1975) Disease comes when there are dirty conditions. 1977) 73 . and the daytime can be used for resting. hold programs at nightime. It can also be fortunate if you take advantage by becoming serious to become Krsna consciousness. it doesn't matter.Hoping this finds you improving in your health. And chant Hare Krsna. don't eat more than necessary. Success is sure. eat as much as absolutely necessary. I think that you are working too hard. But. Trees also live for thousands of years but that does not mean a successful life . 17th December. Your illness is the result of too hard work. Follow the regulative principles. there will only be pain. 25th October. chant 16 rounds and as far as possible render service and study my books. and make a liquid by adding some water. and in this way keep your health.” sadhu may live or die. (SPL to Locanata dasa and Ramesvari dasi. And work through your assistants. 1976) This body is today or tomorrow finished. While living he is engaged in Krishna Conscious business and when dying he goes back home back to Godhead. 1976) In the hot climates. About a sadhu it is said. 4th December. sugar. the Hare Krsna mantra is everything. I thank you for your check. We should not be very much bothered about the body. Prabhupada observed him going to the toilet just after eating breakfast. man-made pond named Radha-kunda. „No.2. He shook his head and quoted a Bengali proverb.D. On the other hand. but if you eat simply.7. We went with Kuladri.(P.1. 1976 Although Prabhupada affirmed that good health was necessary. he didn`t agree that it required some special regimen or arrangement. we are walking.297) 10th June.. ten hours.D. „He who cannot sleep immediately upon resting and he who passes stool immediately after eating will very soon be called by Yamaraja.332) 27th June.77) c)What to do 5 POWERFUL FORMS OF DEVOITONAL SERVICE 9 PROCESSES OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE S..“ I was told that Prabhupada has approved wrestling for youths because it helps strengthen their metabolism and keeps the semen intact for going to the brain. They are pure and innocent and seemed content and happy. 1976 In thr afternoon Pusta Krsna and myself went to swim in a large. then you require more exercise to digest unnecessary loading.2 çré-prahräda uväca çravaëaà kértanaà viñëoù smaraëaà päda-sevanam arcanaà vandanaà däsyaà 74 . „ demons versus devotees . yuo don`t require exercise. five hours. Narada Muni dasa and a few other prabhus.3. He looks weak and emaciated and has no strength. We had an hour long battle. It is all he can do just to cook Srila Prsbhupada`s lunch..5. most of whom are under five years old. 1976 Harikesa is becoming increasingly ill. the physician cannot make a living from!“(P. But not this severe type of exercise as surfers and fighting with the sea waves for four hours. just to keep your body and soul together. he who passes stool before eating and urine after.24th January.We had water sports and raft fights.D.B. if you eat more.“(P. Little movement is going on. After some time the gurukula boys arrived. abhivandane— in offering prayers. qualities. addhä— directly or completely. for he has acquired complete knowledge Cc. kértane—in reciting Çrémad-Bhägavatam. abhavat—was. paraphernalia and pastimes of Lord Visnu. sakhyam— becoming the best friend. päda-sevanam—serving the feet. bhajane—in serving. bhaktiù—devotional service. tat—that. däsye—in 75 . adhétam—learning. remembering them. viñëoù—of Lord Viñëu (not anyone else). viñëau —unto Lord Viñëu (not to anyone else). tu—but. smaraëam —remembering. çravaëam—hearing. kértanam—chanting. iti—thus.sakhyam ätma-nivedanam iti puàsärpitä viñëau bhaktiç cen nava-lakñaëä kriyeta bhagavaty addhä tan manye ’dhétam uttamam SYNONYMS çré-prahrädaù uväca—Prahläda Mahäräja said. serving Him with the body. akrüraù—Akrüra. the sixteen kinds of paraphernalia). däsyam—becoming the servant. parékñit—King Parékñit. püjane—in worshiping the Deity of the Lord. kapi-patiù—Hanumänjé. known also as Viñëuräta. prahlädaù—Mahäräja Prahläda. tat-aìghri—of Lord Viñëu’s lotus feet. serving the lotus feet of the Lord. vandanam—offering prayers. TRANSLATION Prahlada Maharaja said: Hearing and chanting about the transcendental holy name. çravaëe—in hearing. arcanam—offering worship (with ñoòaçopacära. or one who is protected by Lord Viñëu.Madya 22. mind and words)—these nine processes are accepted as pure devotional service. form. ätma-nivedanam—surrendering everything. whatever one has. becoming His servant. smaraëe—in remembering. considering the Lord one’s best friend. bhagavati—unto the Supreme Personality of Godhead. kriyeta—one should perform. cet— if. uttamam—topmost.137-139 çré-viñëoù çravaëe parékñid abhavad vaiyäsakiù kértane prahlädaù smaraëe tad-aìghri-bhajane lakñméù påthuù püjane akrüras tv abhivandane kapi-patir däsye ’tha sakhye ’rjunaù sarva-svätma-nivedane balir abhüt kåñëäptir eñäà parä SYNONYMS çré-viñëoù—of Lord Çré Viñëu. manye—I consider. and surrendering everything unto Him (in other words. offering prayers to the Lord. vaiyäsakiù—Çukadeva Gosvämé. puàsä arpitä—offered by the devotee. offering the Lord respectful worship with sixteen types of paraphernalia. or Vajräìgajé. lakñméù—the goddess of fortune. One who has dedicated his life to the service of Krsna through these nine methods should be understood to be the most learned person. nava-lakñaëä—possessing nine different processes. påthuù—Mahäräja Påthu. This suggestion was welcomed by the Lord. or the one who cannot be conquered or approached by anyone. sakhye—in friendship. TRANSLATION “‘Mahäräja Parékñit attained the highest perfection. shelter at Lord Kåñëa’s lotus feet. Çukadeva Gosvämé attained perfection simply by reciting Çrémad-Bhägavatam. Vajräìgajé [Hanumän] attained perfection by rendering service to Lord Rämacandra. The goddess of fortune attained perfection by massaging the transcendental legs of Mahä-Viñëu. and Arjuna attained perfection simply by being Kåñëa’s friend. But such ajita also becomes jita (conquered) by one method. who said that the Personality of Godhead is known as ajita. kåñëa-äptiù—the achievement of the lotus feet of Lord Kåñëa. abhüt—was. To glorify a great man is a natural instinct for living beings. Introduction The Räya then suggested sincere association of self-realized souls and hearing submissively the transcendental message of the pastimes of the Personality of Godhead. baliù—Mahäräja Bali. or the religion of glorifying the Supreme Lord and His devotees. One must be very meek and submissive and try to live peacefully by lending the ear to the speeches of the transcendentally self-realized soul who speaks on the message of Bhägavata-dharma. parä—transcendental. simply by hearing about Lord Viñëu.B. Bali Mahäräja attained perfection by dedicating everything to the lotus feet of Kåñëa.265) .servitude to Lord Rämacandra. The simple method is that one has to give up the arrogant attitude of declaring oneself to be God Himself.2. arjunaù—Arjuna.’ PURPORT This verse appears in the Padyävalé (53) and the Bhakti-rasämåta-sindhu (1. sarva-sva-ätma-nivedane—in fully dedicating oneself. 2 MAIN BRANCHES OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE S. Prahläda Mahäräja attained perfection by remembering the Lord. but they have not learned to 76 . eñäm—of all of them. atha—moreover. Mahäräja Påthu attained perfection by worshiping the Deity. and Akrüra attained perfection by offering prayers unto the Lord. which is very simple and easy. This suggestion was made following in the footsteps of Brahmäjé. 13. and they are the greatest impediment to the discharge of devotional service. is the author of the Närada-païcarätra. These offenses in Deity worship are mentioned in The Nectar of Devotion. S. Material prosperity and sense enjoyment and their advancement are all activities of ignorance in human society. Päïcarätrika-vidhi is the method of temple worship. This päïcarätrika procedure 77 . Everyone engaged in Deity worship.glorify the Lord. should always seek the mercy of Devarñi Närada in order to avoid the thirty-two offenses while worshiping the Deity. The teacher may also deliver lectures from the Vedic literatures. Therefore those who are very much influenced by lusty desires are advised to take shelter of Sanat-kumära. PURPORT There are two different ways of approaching the Supreme Lord. Peace and friendship are impossible for a society detached from the association of God and His devotees. who is the guide for arcana. the great brahmacäré devotee. Perfection of life is attained simply by glorifying the Lord in association with a self-realized devotee of the Lord.3 Vidura continued: I know that the great sage Närada is the greatest of all devotees. Çrémad-Bhägavatam is the perfect guide for this purpose.* The self-realized devotee is he who surrenders unto the Lord fully and who does not have attachment for material prosperity. Närada Muni. and bhägavata-vidhi is the system of nine processes which begin with hearing and chanting. therefore. that one sincerely seek the association of pure devotees and hear them patiently and submissively from any position of life. 6. S.8. He has compiled the päïcarätrika procedure of devotional service and has directly met the Supreme Personality of Godhead.17 Lusty desires are very strong in everyone.B. and the other is called päïcarätrika-vidhi. Lord Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu recommended this simple method of self-realization generally known as Bhägavatadharma.B. 4. which prescribes the regulative principles for worshiping the Deity. following in the footsteps of the bygone äcäryas who realized the Absolute Truth. The only thing one has to do is to hear from a self-realized soul with a routine program. or the way of Çrémad-Bhägavatam. whether at home or in the temple. It is imperative. One is called bhägavata-märga. The position of a person in the higher or lower status of life does not hamper one in the path of self-realization. The Kåñëa conscious movement accepts both processes simultaneously and thus enables one to make steady progress on the path of realization of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. In order to get quick relief from all these contaminations. Thus Närada. or the päïcarätrika-vidhi. Bhägavatavidhi includes preaching work—çravaëaà kértanaà viñëoù [SB 7. the worship of the neophyte devotees is acceptable as Lakñmé-Näräyaëa worship.45-46 Generally the worship of the Lord begins with the worship of Näräyaëa. Although there may be a RädhäKåñëa vigraha. as referred to here by Vidura. namely the Närada-païcarätra.76 All devotees are in the disciplic succession stemming from Närada Muni because they worship the Deity according to Närada Muni’s direction.c.5. in his päïcarätriké-vidhi. S. generally a devotee is addicted to many abominable material habits due to material contamination from his previous life. it is required that one engage in the worship of the Lord in the temple. The päïcarätrika-vidhi includes arcanaà vandanaà däsyaà sakhyam ätma-nivedanam PURPORT To chant the holy name of the Lord. Worship according to the päïcarätrika-vidhi is called vidhi-märga.23]—the hearing and chanting of the glories of Lord Viñëu. one need not depend upon other paraphernalia. The worship of the Deity in the temple is essential to reduce one’s restlessness due to the contaminations of conditioned life. whereas the worship of Lord Kåñëa and Rädhä is most confidential. It may therefore be questioned why there is a necessity for initiation or further spiritual activities in devotional service for one who engages in the chanting of the holy name of the Lord. neophyte devotees worship the Lord according to the päïcarätrika-vidhi. therefore temple worship according to regulative principles is offered to Lakñmé-Näräyaëa. whereas Lord Kåñëa is worshipable by the bhägavata-vidhi. the Supreme Personality of Godhead.Adi 7.B. The answer is that although it is correct that one who fully engages in chanting the holy name need not depend upon the process of initiation. C. Lord Näräyaëa is worshipable by the päïcarätrika-vidhi. or form.24. Actually.was first introduced by the great sage Närada. or Viñëu. and other great sages have sometimes stressed that since every conditioned soul has a bodily concept of life aimed at sense enjoyment. The principles of rägamärga are especially meant for devotees who are elevated to the Våndävana platform. Rädhä-Kåñëa cannot be approached by the neophyte devotees. and worship according to the bhägavata-vidhi principles is called räga-märga. for one can immediately get all the desired results of linking with the Supreme Personality of Godhead. 4. A devotee follows the principles of päïcarätrika-vidhi as well as bhägavata-vidhi. to restrict this sense enjoyment the rules and regulations for worshiping the 78 . or the regulative principles enjoined in the Närada-païcarätra. No one can worship the Lord in the bhägavata-vidhi without going through the regulations of the päïcarätrika-vidhi. or regulative principles. then next life I’ll be elevated to the heavenly planet. we have to take bath. Just like tons of ghee is wanted. then.B. we are following the principles of Deity worship because our äcäryas established temple. there is automatic purification because we have to rise early in the morning. If you simply chant.. but main principle is chanting... kalau. But when there is grossest type of people who cannot take to this.. was possible in the Satya-yuga. Kåte yad dhyäyato viñëuà tretäyäm. simple.. By the injunction of the Vedas. So trayyäà jaòi-kåta-matiù. Lecture on S. But if there are devotees who can actually keep the temple worship method in right order. but almost all the souls we have to initiate are conditioned. That is also stated in the Bhagavad-gétä. and there were means of securing the ingredients. the main principle is chanting Hare Kåñëa mantra. As such.. were so powerful that they could give the desired result by performing sacrifices. yet due to their past bad habits they violate these rules and regulations. this temple worship. This temple worship. because here is temple.. Where is ghee? It is all dalda. Therefore kalau tad dhari-kértanät. very few people will come. Trayyäà jaòi-kåta-matiù. Thus the regulative principles for worship of the Deity are also simultaneously essential. Kåte yad dhyäyato. dväpare paricaryäyäm.. But when there is temple worship.6. it can be avoided. whatever we are doing. And gorgeous temple worship according to the principle was possible perfectly in the Dväpara-yuga. simply chanting will do. if I perform this yajïa.. there is no need of establishing temple.2. Those who are simply after the formulas of the Veda. Then. Çréla Rüpa Gosvämé has described that the holy name of the Lord can be chanted by liberated souls. people are attracted. everything is complete. we are having maìgalärati. they cannot understand. but we cannot avoid chanting Hare Kåñëa mantra. tretäyäà yajato makhaiù. the brähmaëas. people are captivated. There is no qualified brähmaëa. by chanting.” Svargaloka mem. Every man is perfectly religious and peaceful. People. So this dhyäna. is helped by temple worship. Our. Svarga.24.Deity in the temple are essential... we have introduced in several centers that “Begin with Hare Kåñëa mantra. Therefore yajïa is not possible in this age. Therefore. It is advised that one chant the holy name of the Lord without offenses and according to the regulative principles. Deity worship. Therefore both things are recommended.. means this age. next stage. “Oh. we offering prasädam to the Lord. Kalau. Veda-vada-ratäù pärtha nänyad astéti vädinaù. Very few people will come. keeping the picture of Guru-Gauräìga. So madhu-puñpitäyäm. Otherwise. that cleanliness is very difficult to maintain. Their mind is so materialistic that 79 . next yuga is performance of sacrifices. This is recommended.” If it is not possible to worship the Deity according to the rules and regulation. This kind of purification help. The same example. kali. Where you can perform sacrifice? (laughter) Ghee is finished. meditation. and therefore they could concentrate their mind focusing their mind on Viñëu. Hari nämänukértanam.-25 Gorakhpur February 13th 1971 So kåte yad dhyäyato viñëum. Perfection of life was attained in the Satyayuga. You cannot secure even the ingredients. Because in the Satya-yuga there is no disturbance.. Even at the present moment.. Kalau tad. or process. Trayyäà jaòi-krta-matir madhu-puñpitäyäà vaitäni ke mahati karmäëi yujyamänäù (?). that is sufficient. seven. chanting of the Hare Kåñëa mantra without any offense is sufficient. Just like Haridäsa Öhäkura. that is Bhägavata-märga. That is the best. Çravaëam. the païcarätrika-vidhi is recommended in the Second Canto. That is sufficient. if you perform perfectly. it is very much helpful. And arcanaà vandanaà däsyaà säkhyam ätmänivedanam—that is païcarätrika. Therefore my Guru Mahäräja introduced. that is sufficient because absolute. They are. cannot be purified. and the païcarätrika process will help Bhägavata process. this worship of the Deity is there. what is called? That signia? One side. polluted mind of the devotee.. Therefore both the process should be adopted in preaching Kåñëa consciousness movement. So both the viddhis.. arcanam. païcarätriki-vidhi. You have seen the.23]. that is sufficient. Yes. people are not attracted. Simply Bhägavata-märga. you said that of the nine devotional methods.1.. Therefore our Guru Mahäräja introduced both the processes. Närada-païcarätra. And bhägavata-märga.23]—this is bhägavata-märga.. so actually. But both. So if çravaëa is perfect. That is explained here. Any one of the nine items. simply remembering. is simply çravaëaà kértanam.1]—smaraëam. they are attracted for karma-käëòéya vicära.. So out of the nine—nine. another païcarätrika-vidhi. Out of the nine processes recommended. five—whatever you do. That is. arca.. eight. of course. that is sufficient. is worshiping the gigantic form of the Lord. According to païcarätrika system. That. is simply çravaëam—paraà satyaà dhémahi.. he did not go to the temple. And.they cannot give proper respect or importance to the chanting of the holy name. even one item. if it is done perfectly. the path of Çrémad-Bhägavatam. so up to çravaëaà kértanaà smaraëam. but he got perfection. Bhägavatamärga is very strong.. that is païcarätriki-vidhi. So any questions? Tamäla Kåñëa: Prabhupäda? You said. it includes. One will help the other. Bhägavata-märga. Bhägavatamärga will help the païcarätrika-märga. This arca. janmädy asya [SB 1. çravaëaà kértanaà viñëoù smaraëaà päda-sevanam [SB 7. and he was very serious because he knew that “I am going to die within seven days. And pädasevanaà arcanaà vandanaà däsyam. I didn’t understand which ones it includes. Any item. But there are nine alternative items.5.5. Otherwise... He sat on the bank of the Ganges. Parékñit Mahäräja. six. Generally. But without païcarätrika-vidhi this polluted body. both the systems have been introduced.. There were many others.. this is païcarätriki-vidhi. That is the way. If you do not arrange for this gorgeous system. this gorgeousness. çravaëaà kértanam. combined together. I think it is now. up to what point. At the last stage of his life he simply concentrated in hearing Çrémad-Bhägavatam. you can. He did not establish any Deity. I have seen that Gauòéya Math emblem. Let me 80 . in the beginning. Just like in the Çrémad-Bhägavatam. Therefore we have to do sometimes to attract people. Just like Parékñit Mahäräja. Puspitäyäà puñpatanair artha-vädi-mano haräyäà trayyäà jaòi-kåta abhiniviñöa matir yasya ata eva mahaty eva karmäëi agni-stomädau çraddhäya yujyamäno narake pravartate. Prabhupäda: Çravaëam kértanaà viñëoù smaraëam [SB 7.. But. memorizing the Supreme Truth. one side bhägavata-viddhi.. he simply chanted. When you were speaking of bhägavata-vidhi. Both together is helpful. These things are there. It means as the spiritual master. So we shall always keep these principles in view and maintain our centers on this standard. (S. Although chanting is quite sufficient to cover all the Biddhis. (S. So as you say that you do not feel very much encouraged in Deity worship and temple life. we must observe the rules and regulations of Pancaratriki Biddhi. The Temple worship will keep us sanctified. and the Bhagavat Biddhi is to preach by chanting and distributing literature. Srimad-Bhagavatam is the path for Paramahamsas. On one side there is the bhagavata book and on the other side a picture of Laksmi Narayana for Deity worship. pure heart. This means you are keeping the same temperament you entertained before leaving our society.Letter to Satsvarupa LA 28 May 1970) You write to say that you cannot feel any taste for temple life or Deity worship. He was questioning.P. namely the path of Srimad-Bhagavatam and the path of Pancaratriki. Therefore quickly he was reciting. namely the Pancaratriki Bidhi as well as Bhagavata Bidhi. and when we shall preach in sanctified. he was immediately questioning. and Pancaratriki Bidhi is Temple worship of the Deities. So we have to follow the two parallel lines simultaneously for successful execution of Devotional service. the preaching will be immediately effective.Letter to Rayarama Bombay 22 Octobar 1971) 81 . And as soon as there was some difficulty. keeping both sides in balance. Otherwise. (S. As it is stated in Bhagavad-gita that the Lord is completely pure and we cannot approach Krishna without being purified. Just as the tracks of a railroad line. both must be there. was a great scholar in Sanskrit. ansd Pancaratra path is for the neophytes. We have to make our steady progress.P. Similarly temple worship is essential for purifying us from the material contamination and without being purified we cannot glorify the Lord. Çukadeva Gosvämé. So he was very scholar. Perhaps you might have seen the picture of the Gaudiya mission. Our process is to accept both the lines of bhagavata marga and pancaratriki marga. I see that your disease is still continuing.Letter to Hamsaduta LA 12 March 1970) We should follow two important lines. still to keep ourselves pure and sanctified. the king was also a great scholar. Simply by hearing and chanting. and Sankirtana. This is Bhägavata-märga.Letter to Gurudasa LA 15 March 1970) As I have already said many times that we have to maintain two lines parallel. as you have seen in the Çrémad-Bhägavatam. namely the Pancaratriki Biddhi and Bhagavat Biddhi. The Pancaratriki Biddhi is Arcana or Temple worship..” He was intelligent.P.. So the Temple worship is necessary for the beginners so that by following the regulative principles such devotees become more and more purified and thus gradually come on the platform to understand SrimadBhagavatam. The Bhagavata Bidhi is preaching work. You cannot make any progress in devotional service unless simultaneously you follow both the lines.finish as soon as possible simply hearing of Çrémad-Bhägavatam. (S. they became perfect simply by çravaëaà kértanam. So both the spiritual master and the disciple. and he was understanding. Not that simply he was hearing.P. 53-54 Srila Rupa Gosvami states that his elder brother ( Sanatana Gosvami) has compiled Haribhakti-vilasa for the guidance of the Vaisnavas and therein has mentioned many rules and regulations to be followed by the Vaisnavas. The purport of this statement is that Srila Rupa Gosvami proposes to mention only basic principles. (3) obeying the orders of the spiritual master with faith and devotion. (3) One should not be very enthusiastic about constructing costly temples or monasteries. (6) One should not be 82 . For example. (4) One should not try to read too many books.. and also we have to accept something which we may not like to accept). if a neophyte devotee observes the above-mentioned ten principles.D. (2) becoming initiated by the spiritual master and learning how to discharge devotional service from him. (2) One should not instruct a person who is not desirous of accepting devotional service. if one is following the instruction of his spiritual master and that instruction is different from the instructions of another spiritual master. (9) observing the fasting day on Ekadasi and (10) worshiping sacred trees like the banyan tree. These ten items are preliminary necessities for beginning the discharge of devotional service in regulative principles. For example. Some of them are very important and prominent. Srila Rupa Gosvami does not wish to enter into details here. The next set of instructions is listed as follows: (1) One should rigidly give up the company of nondevotees. but wants to place before us only the principles. Sri Krsna (this means that when we are engaged in the devotional service of Krsna. (5) inquiring from the spiritual master how to advance in Krsna consciousness. In the beginning.P. Exactly how one follows the instructions of his spiritual master is considered a detail. although the details may be different. (8) accepting only what is necessary. this is called detailed information.Book distribution is bhagavata marga and temple worship is pancaratriki viddhi. He mentions the basic principles as follows: (1) accepting the shelter of the lotus feet of a bona fide spiritual master. As far as possible both should go on in parallel lines but still bhagavata marga is more important than the other. (S. nor should one develop the idea of earning his livelihood by lecturing on or professionally reciting Srimad-Bhagavatam or Bhagavad-gita (5) One should not be neglectful in ordinary dealings. surely he will quickly make good advancement in Krsna consciousness. and Srila Rupa Gosvami will now mention these very important items for our benefit. a basic principle is that one has to accept a spiritual master. or dealing with the material world only as far as necessary. Both are important for cultivating Vaisnavism but comparatively speaking bhagavata marga is more important than pancaratriki viddhi. But the basic principle of acceptance of a spiritual master is good everywhere. (4) following in the footsteps of great acaryas (teachers) under the direction of the spiritual master.Letter to Govinda Bombay 6 December 1974) 5 POWERFUL FORMS OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE-INTRODUTION N. we must be prepared to give up something which we may not like to give up. (7) residing in a sacred place of pilgrimage like Dvaraka or Vrndavana.o. (6) being prepared to give up anything material for the satisfaction of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. not details. and all of them are very important. So all together there are sixty-four items for discharging the regulative practice of devotional service. taking initiation from him and serving him with respect and reverence—are the most important. nihitam—placed. hearing SrimadBhagavatam. Krsna. the first three—namely accepting the shelter of a bona fide spiritual master. dharmasya—of religious principles.D. gataù—acted.56-57 There are 44 more items that can be found in Nectar of Devotion Now. sankirtana. matam—opinion. Without following the above-mentioned ten principles. mind and speech. (9) One should carefully avoid the various offenses in chanting the holy name of the Lord or in worshiping the Deity in the temple. åñiù— great sage. yena—by which way. (7) One should not disrespect the demigods. Out of the twenty. (10) One should be very intolerant toward the blasphemy of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. TRANSLATION “‘Dry arguments are inconclusive. associating among the devotees. Then come the secondary ten regulative principles.. Mahabharata(Cc. çrutayaù—the Vedas. vibhinnäù—possessing different departments. Out of these sixty-four items. the total regulative principles come to an aggregate of sixty-four items. or devotional service in practice.Madya 17. Srila Rupa Gosvami mentions twenty items. A great personality whose opinion does not differ from others is not considered a great sage. Altogether. Exactly how they can be thus employed is described in the above sixty-four items. N. As stated in the beginning.186. and living in Mathura—are very important.under the spell of lamentation in loss or jubilation in gain.25. and added to these are forty-four other activities. bhinnam—separate. tattvam—truth. the regulative principle of devotional service enjoins that all of our senses must be employed in the service of the Lord. five items—namely worshiping the Deity. guhäyäm—in the heart of a realized person. one cannot properly elevate himself to the platform of sadhana-bhakti. asau—that. one cannot come to the right path by 83 . yasya—whose. na—not. As we have mentioned. saù—that. apratiñöhaù—not fixed.57) tarko ’pratiñöhaù çrutayo vibhinnä näsäv åñir yasya mataà na bhinnam dharmasya tattvaà nihitaà guhäyäà mahäjano yena gataù sa panthäù SYNONYMS tarkaù—dry argument. (8) One should not give unnecessary trouble to any living entity. or His devotees. The sixty-four items of devotional service should include all of our activities of body. Simply by studying the Vedas. panthäù— the pure. which are variegated. unadulterated path. mahä-janaù—self-realized predecessors. the first are the primary ten regulative principles.o. na—not. 128 sädhu-saìga. çreñöha— the best. self-realized person. ei païca aìga—these five limbs. Cc. TRANSLATION “These five limbs of devotional service are the best of all. as the çästras confirm. another four are added—namely marking tilaka on different parts of the body. they 84 . The solid truth of religious principles is hidden in the heart of an unadulterated. alpa saìga—slight association with or performance. Vanaparva 313. writing the names of the Lord all over the body. reside at Mathurä and worship the Deity with faith and veneration. Even a slight performance of these five awakens love for Kåñëa. Although these items are not mentioned here. kåñëa-prema—love of Kåñëa. Madya 22. chant the holy name of the Lord. ei—these.’ PURPORT This is a verse spoken by Yudhiñöhira Mahäräja in the Mahäbhärata. hear Çrémad-Bhägavatam. päìcera—of the five. mathurä-väsa— living at Mathurä. Cc. näma-kértana. TRANSLATION “One should associate with devotees.117. çré-mürtira çraddhäya sevana SYNONYMS sädhu-saìga—association with devotees. Consequently. näma-kértana—chanting the holy name. accepting the Deity’s garland and accepting caraëämåta. janmäya—awakens.(Caitanya Mahaprabhu to Sanatana Goswami) PURPORT Çréla Bhaktivinoda Öhäkura points out that there are thirty-five items up to the point of observing special vows in the month of Kärttika.129 sakala-sädhana-çreñöha ei païca aìga kåñëa-prema janmäya ei päìcera alpa saìga SYNONYMS sakala-sädhana—of all items for executing devotional service.which religious principles are understood. Madya 22. bhägavata-çravaëa—hearing Çrémad-Bhägavatam. worship of the Deity. bhägavata-çravaëa mathurä-väsa. one should accept whatever progressive path the mahäjanas advocate. To these thirty-five items. çré-mürtira çraddhäya sevana—worshiping the Deity with faith and veneration. These four items are understood to be included by Kaviräja Gosvämé within arcana. Çréla Rüpa Gosvämé states: aìgänäà païcakasyäsya pürva-vilikhitasya ca nikhila-çraiñöhya-bodhäya punar apy atra çaàsanam “The glorification of these five items [association with devotees. If we add the previous twenty items to these forty-four. 85 . The thirty-nine items plus these five come to a total of forty-four. chanting the holy name and so on] is to make known the complete superiority of these five practices of devotional service. reading Çrémad-Bhägavatam regularly. the birthplace of Kåñëa. the total number becomes sixtyfour. and worshiping the Deity with great respect and veneration. To these thirty-nine should be added five others: association with devotees.are to be added to the previous thirty-five items. Thus the total number becomes thirty-nine. The five items mentioned above repeat previously mentioned items. residing in Mathurä. mind and senses. chanting the Hare Kåñëa mahä-mantra. Thus the sixty-four items engage one in devotional service in all respects. In the Bhakti-rasämåta-sindhu.” The sixty-four items of devotional service include all the activities of the body. 28 ye me bhakta-janäù pärtha na me bhaktäç ca te janäù mad-bhaktänäà ca ye bhaktäs te me bhakta-tamä matäù SYNONYMS ye—those who.31) ärädhanänäà sarveñäà viñëor ärädhanaà param tasmät parataraà devi tadéyänäà samarcanam SYNONYMS ärädhanänäm—of varieties of worship. param—the most exalted. viñëoh—of Lord Viñëu. bhaktäù— devotees. te—such persons. me—My.Madya 11. Padma Purana(Cc. pärtha—O Pärtha. ca—certainly. However. ärädhanam—worship.1. sarveñäm—all.’ PURPORT Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu quotes this verse from the Ädi Puräëa.6) . janäù—persons. TRANSLATION “[Lord Kåñëa told Arjuna:] ‘Those who are My direct devotees are actually not My devotees. me—My. bhakta-janäù—devotees. above the worship of Lord Viñëu is the rendering of service to Vaiñëavas. ASSOCIATION WITH DEVOTEES THE PURPOSE OF ASSOCIATION Cc . TRANSLATION “[Lord Çiva told the goddess Durgä:] ‘My dear Devé. tasmät—and above such worship of Lord Viñëu. bhakta-tamäù—most advanced devotees. te—those. bhaktäù—devotees.’ 86 . The verse is also included in the Laghu-bhägavatämåta (2. parataram—of greater value. matäù—that is My opinion. me—My. na— not. tadéyänäm—of persons in relationship with Lord Viñëu. although the Vedas recommend worship of demigods. ca—and. mat-bhaktänäm—of My devotees. samarcanam—rigid and firm worship. devi—O goddess. who are related to Lord Viñëu. ye—those who.Madya 11. but those who are the devotees of My servant are factually My devotees. the worship of Lord Viñëu is topmost. But to remain alone in a solitary place for a new man is not advisable.(SPL to Sivananda. That one should be occupied in activities in the modes of goodness and associate with spiritualistic persons. 1968) Regarding your question. that will make one gradually successful. Our program is negative and positive simultaneously. living alone is a general tendency for a person who wants to get disassociated with the materialistic persons.The tendency for solitude is a kind of reaction on our past material activities. so that one can remain alone simply being engaged in chanting. but it is quickly aroused when the association of a pure devotee is there. Persons who want to take advantage of cheap reputation they imitate great personalities like Haridasa Thakura. 25th December. So please follow this principle and surely you will mark great strides in the matter of your spiritual advancement. This association with devotees of Krishna is recommended by Lord Caitanya Himself as the most important factor for developing Krishna Consciousness.000 of Holy Names daily. we gradually acquire our spiritual strength without failure. That is also recommended by the Goswamis in their instructions. a devotee should associate with fellow devotees. Therefore it is better to remain positively within the society of pure devotees. about living alone. but solitude is not very good for a neophyte. always busy in the matter of preaching work that is very nice. 1969) 87 . 9th April.26th March. It is better to remain alone than to mix with materialistic persons. That is also recommended by the Goswamis. If one can remain alone simply being engaged in chanting. and in relationship to others the devotee should try to elevate them also onto the spiritual platform. the rod soon takes on the qualities of the fire. that will make one's advancement very quick. lonely chanting he got so much spiritual power that he could convert even a harlot to become a great devotee whereas an ordinary person falls easily a victim to such allurement. Better to be engaged in preaching work.(SPL to Govardhana dasa. We want to negate the materialistic side and make positive the spiritual side. If you have no positive standing. A conditioned soul in conditioned life it is very difficult to concentrate our mind in chanting absolutely. But this is not applicable when we have the opportunity to get the association of pure devotees.(SPL to Satsvarupa. 11 th November. when we are actually engaged in with the preaching work. then it will remain simply dark and cold. however. If you are. This is because our dormant love for Krishna is covered up by the material contamination. The best thing is therefore not to seek solitude in the beginning but to remain in the midst of pure devotees so that even there is attack of Maya. But if the same rod is put amidst some ice. Besides that. and as soon as she finds some opportunity she tries to inflict her poisonous effects . it is not one sided. negating only will not make you successful. So one should not imitate such great personalities but one should try to see how much taste he has developed for chanting. In the same way.(SPL to Yadunananda. namely light and heat. that is very good. 1968) You have a very nice opportunity to quickly advance in spiritual perfection because you have the good association of the devotees in Hawaii. By such chanting. The example is given that when an iron rod is put into a blazing fire. who was alone chanting 300. Maya is always trying to attack us. but it is difficult also. their association will protect us. 1968) Yes. everyone of us should be ideal to the other so everyone can get impetus to make progress more and more. But simply for jobs sake. A bona fide spiritual master always think of himself as the servant of the Lord. 21th November. 1974) CO-OPERATION. To mix with them intimately is not good. be careful of them. similarly there are many rascals in the name of Vaisnavas.(SPL to Subala. So our desire is Krishna and we want to go back home--Back to Godhead where Krishna lives eternally. (SPL toNiranjana. 22th November. we cannot. If everyone of us would conduct our business in that spirit of 88 .(SPL to Nrhari dasa. 23th July. One should not forget himself as humble servant even though one is addressed as prabhu. If everyone of us thinks of his fellow worker as boss there is no question of misunderstanding. So you simply follow my instructions as I have given to you and surely your life will be a success. 1971) If you are serious to be an important assistant in our Society you should fully engage yourself in translation work. (SPL to Vrndavana Candra. 12th November.APPRECIATION AND COMPETTITION In Krishna Consciousness there is variety but there is no discord . Unfortunately if the spiritual master thinks that he has become the Supreme Lord then he is doomed. We may fight with one another on the point of serving but that is not a discord. We should always remember that we are on the path of perfection. That is the purpose of our Society. So we associate with one-another so that we can assist each other in hearing and chanting about Krishna. He was preaching himself. One should never forget __ be humble in dealings. these things are not very important. I have asked you all to address your Godbrothers as prabhu. The spiritual master is offered respects as they are offered to the Supreme Lord. we can do it. Lord Caitanya never said stop mixing with nondevotees. That is all right. If Subala das or anyone thinks that he has attained perfection he will be wrongly directed. and do not mix yourself with my so-called god-brothers . This you will not find in the materialistic society where all hearing and chanting is simply concerned with sense gratification. This is His instruction in the Bhagavad-gita.So far as mixing with society. How a preacher can stop? The whole world is nondevotees. What is important is that we should simply fix our mind on Krishna's Lotus Feet. As there are in Vrindaban some residents like monkeys and hogs. We must stick to the service of the Lord very seriously & that will help us make progress. 1972) Although there may be some difficulties within our Society. So that should be avoided. The mistake is that being addressed as boss or prabhu one thinks himself as exactly Prabhu or the boss. 1967) I am very sorry that Subala das has assumed such air of importance. This prabhu means boss. but we are not perfect. He is a good soul and he must be satisfied. can only remain on two parallel lines of Krishna and Spiritual Master. and I can understand that in some points you disagree with Gargamuni but you have not clearly mentioned what is this point of disagreement. 1968) 89 . do not take at any time an attitude of noncooperation because you may have not agreed with another's point of view. but these various services are all accepted equally by Krishna. but his aim is to help the society financially. I know that my presence is very urgently required. Gargamuni's activities are approved by the president Jayananda. 11th January. Simply we can engage our time and energy. some by good business ability. 1968) I am glad to learn that your co-operation for this society is appreciated by the authorities. but don't be disturbed by any sort of disagreement with your God-brothers and sisters. please let me know. There is no question of higher or lower. We should always remember that K. and He is pleased. If you have any specific grievance. and that is all Krishna sees. and so we cannot really do very much. 3rd March. undated. So far I know. he has a business tactfulness. there is always some misunderstanding. Please call Satyavrata and give him serious engagement as he likes to take. (SPL to Gargamuni. Whatever he does is not for his personal interest but for the interest of the society. We should always remember that K.C. Krishna says that those who are engaged in My service.prabhu and servant then there is very little chance of being misunderstood. combinedly. then everything will be favorable settled. He sees this boy or girl is spending his time in My Service. But we have to adjust things on the basis of Krishna Consciousness. is a challenge to the modern misguided human society. one service is as good as another. Sometimes misunderstanding may take place but it should be adjusted in a spirit of service attitude to the prabhu. and do not feel any feeling of uselessness. 15th January. I give intelligence for his progressive march. But of we are sincere to Krishna and the Spiritual Master.(SPL to Yamuna and Harsarani. everyone of us should think as servant of Krishna. We should learn to forget and forgive minor incidents because whenever there are two men in a place. It is true that Krishna has given some the opportunity to serve Him by nice writing. 1968) Please continue your very good service.(SPL to Nandarani. Chant Hare Krishna sincerely and all good intelligence consultation shall come from within. some by nice cooking. Such misunderstanding happens even between husband and wife--what to speak of others. and so on. and so far I know Gargamuni. We are very tiny. and we have to meet many unfavorable incidents. Each and every living entity is an individual soul and as such disagreement is quite possible in our dealings with one another but we have to consider the central point of interest . 1968) I am in due receipt of your letter. In the service of Krishna there may be sometimes transcendental competition but there cannot be any disruption . C.(SPL to Rayarama. 28th November.(SPL to Hamsaduta and Himavati. You are both very intelligent sober girls and I have got good estimation of you. On the transcendental plane. 11th January. 1967) The thing is. 1969) I have received report from Mr.(SPL to Janaki. We are pushing our movement on the background of a peaceful atmosphere in the world. Parikh and others that they are enamored by your behavior. everyone should be forebearing. 21th January.(SPL to Mr. according to one's capacity. when it is sincerely offered to Krishna. That He accepts a little bit of flower. 1968) Please do your duty combinedly without any disruption of peaceful attitudes amongst yourselves. but when you are there. tolerant and cooperative. I do now know what is the basis of this disagreement. Because everyone is engaged in the service of the Lord. This is actually a devotee's business that everyone should appreciate the value of other devotees. I request you to see to the matter and try to mitigate their illusory disagreement. what can we give Him? This position of our subordination should always be maintained and we should always give respect to our pure devotees who are engaged. Krishna wants to see how much one is sincere in rendering Him service. Perhaps you know that there are many political parties in a country. in devotional service. 1968) Your appreciation for the service of your God-brothers is very much laudable . Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu taught us this lesson--one who appreciates a sincere devotee is eligible to approach the Supreme Personality of Godhead. that is our material vision. and if we show a little disturbance in our own camp that will not be a very good example. Please keep up this standard of behavior. Materially we may think that his service is greater than his. Even there is disagreement. he is the Proprietor of everything. To have some little disagreements amongst yourselves is not very unnatural because we are all individual beings. Therefore. Actually on the spiritual platform. otherwise. the platform should be Krishna Consciousness. they become combined. Do not make any artificial discrepancies amongst yourselves because you are acting on a very responsible business. and water. In other words. 30th May. 1969) Your writing in the second paragraph is so much encouraging for me and your appreciation of devotees like Upendra and Ananda is super excellent.In the meantime. He accepts. that will make us able to make a progressive march in the devotional line. 19th August. and the thing is. 1969) 90 . and your devotion. In the newspaper cuttings also they gave such hints. there is no difference. Nobody should criticize anyone. This is the statement in the Bhagavad-gita. to Krishna.(SPL to Gurudasa and Yamuna. But as we are all working on behalf of Krishna we should always forget our personal interests and see to the prime cause . He wants our love and devotion. 21th March. offered to Him in devotion and love. I have received another letter from Aniruddha that he is in disagreement with Umapati. Windisch. your character.(SPL to Tamala Krsna. everyone is appreciating your presentation. That is my special request to you all. 18th January. (SPL to Mukunda. and in that platform if there is disagreement there is no inebriety. fruit. but when the country's total responsibility has to be executed. the service rendered by a calf to Krishna and service rendered by Radharani and Her Associates. Krishna is so kind and liberal that everyone's service. In the neophyte stage the position is that the neophyte devotee worships the Deity in the temple with great awe and reverence. Sometimes there are misgivings. Similarly. This attitude should be maintained amongst your Godbrothers. A preacher's position is like this: He should have firm faith and love for Krishna. who is non-devotee and who is neophyte. We are trained to address Godbrothers as Prabhu. of course. Otherwise. what is devotee. but that we should try to overlook. 1969) Regarding your questions how to offer respects to Sannyasis. 28th September. The competition is that one devotee thinks of other devotees how nicely they are serving the Lord. This means we shall try to find out always the serving side of our Godbrothers. the future of our institution will not be very hopeful. In the material world the attitude is that everyone likes to think that I am doing better than others . Any devotee wanting to see you should be welcome. either a brahmacari or sannyasi or grhastha. but he cannot discriminate who is devotee.I do not know what you mean by cooperation with Kirtanananda Maharaja. Similarly. that a devotee who is not in the neophyte stage can discriminate what is Krishna. This program suggests.(SPL to Jayapataka. Even if one is Vaisnava. He should make friendship with devotees. who has dedicated his life and soul for this movement. 30th August. This is material conception. At the present moment everyone is working under my authority. what is neophyte and what is non-devotee. 26th April 1970) 91 . This is called Vaikuntha attitude. That will elevate us more and more to the top of devotional service. they are all on the same level of sannyasi. But we should always take instruction from devotees who are considered to be elevated. 1969) Relationship between Godbrothers must be very genuine and pleasing. Kirtanananda also should work under my authority. I do not know why Kirtanananda Maharaja says that his authority overrides yours. In our society everyone. Everyone should treat his Godbrothers as Prabhu. faith must be there. but not of good character. In the Spiritual Sky it is just the opposite: Everyone thinks that my contemporary devotees are doing better than me. we can give him the Vaisnava respect. but there is no need of always associating with each of them. For the present moment. but your treatment should be according to his position. 1st October. nobody can claim an extra honor from his Godbrothers . 1969) Regarding your question about faith in devotees. but there is another type of competition. he is to be considered to be in the neophyte stage. (SPL to Brahmananda. So the condition imposed by Kirtanananda as stated by you does not look well.(SPL to Tamala Krsna. In the Vaikuntha factually there is no fault in anyone.(SPL to Brahmananda. After all. As you have observed we shall follow Lord Caitanya's instruction that we give all due respects to others regarding their position. which means Master. offer him your respects--there will be no harm. even if you see a Mayavadi Sannyasi.(SPL to Hamsaduta. but we cannot associate with him. 1969) It is very nice to learn that both you and Satsvarupa have highly praised Tamala Krishna. 15th November. Every Sannyasi. But nobody should try to claim any extra honor on account of an official position. Tamala Krishna has also highly praised you and Satsvarupa. very soon you have to manage. He should be very much charitable and kind to the neophytes and he should avoid the company of nondevotees. I think you must be in the second stage and should try to discriminate as above. Unless one is able to discriminate. I have told Los Angeles tape-making operation that they should distribute to our devotees at cost price--to nondevotee that is another thing. 27th July. therefore there will always be some lacking--but the difference is that their lacking.(SPL to Satsvarupa and Uddhava. no. which are vital for our preaching work and for the devotees' personal advancement in Krishna Consciousness. But it is not the same as material fault or material envy. (SPL to Karandhara. 1970) Please continue to work with determination and great faith in Krsna and Guru and full cooperation of your God-brothers and fellow members of the Governing Body. without malice. Some of my beloved students on whom I counted very. If you all keep to the standard practices of pure spiritual life as I have humbly instructed you. We must give up the fighting spirit and use our intelligence to push ahead. Even in the Spiritual World there is some fault and envy--sometimes the Gopis will quarrel over Krishna's favor. 20th January. and once Krishna was so much attracted to Radharani that by mistake he tried to milk the bull instead of the cow. or because there may be some mismanagement or lack of cooperation. Sometimes when one Gopi would serve Krishna very nicely. 1972) It is not so much that because there may be some faults in our godbrothers and godsisters.At the present moment in our ISKCON campus politics and diplomacy has entered. etc. tapes. but it is transcendental. There are so many examples. they would be too much hasty and smear kumkum and mascara in the wrong places and their ornaments and dresses would appear as if small children had been trying to dress themselves and they were not very expert. jobs. that is impersonalism. because they have given up everything to serve Krishna--money. Rather. So I have decided to retire and divert attention to book writing and nothing more. now let me do better for pleasing Krishna. everything--their lackings have become transcendental 92 . Our Society is like one big family and our relationships should be based on love and trust. big educations. it is transcendental because it is all based on Krishna. she has done so nicely. the others would say. As such there has been some activity which I consider as disrespectful. like that.(SPL to Upendra. 1st January. and sometimes when the Gopis used to put on their dress and make-up for seeing Krishna. It is the nature of the living condition to always have some fault. 1970) Now all my disciples must work combinedly and with cooperation to spread this Sankirtana Movement. Because devotees are persons. there is no doubt that this Sankirtana Movement of Lord Caitanya will overtake all the earth and all opposing parties will be cracked down to nothing. 1971) So far making tapes of Ajamila series. You should accept help from your Godbrothers. If you cannot work together then my work is stopped up. wealth. That is envy. very much have been involved in this matter influenced by Maya.(SPL to Hamsaduta. We should not make exorbitant profit by exploiting each other in the matter of vital Krishna Consciousness paraphernalia such as books. Oh. People should not expect that even in the Krishna Consciousness Society there will be Utopia. that this is due to being impersonalists. So we shall not expect that anywhere there is any Utopia. reputation. 6th August. you should consider that anyone engaged in Krishna's service is always the best person. I have already given him permission to go to Ahmedabad and other places in Gujarat State. always look for the nectar or the best qualities of a person. we can never expect to find any kind of utopia. and please obey by the direction of Giriraja Brahmacari. Kindly therefore do not make any fracture during this period at least. nothing--they think that is utopia. The devotee is always pessimistic about the material world. If there is lack of obedience then there cannot be discipline. so I request you simply to tolerate the faults of others and always think that I am myself the most faulty. In this way your humble attitude will qualify you to advance very quickly in Krishna Consciousness. I have heard the building work is not going on satisfactorily. I may inform you in this connection that what I am doing to push on this great movement in the world is all with your cooperation. merge. therefore. (SPL to Atreya Rsi. despite the most abominable action. abide by the direction of the man in charge of the center. Even sometimes amongst the gopis there is envy. it is not due to impersonalism. who are like the flies who always go to the open sores or find the faults in a person. Where ever there are persons there are bound to be differences. So far Gargamuni is concerned. and very soon their puffed-up attitude will disappear and they will come to you and seek your advice in matters. and when I return if you all don't like the man in charge surely I shall replace him out of you. even in the spiritual world. according to Giriraja. 25th May. you shall set the example of Vaisnava so that all may learn from you. But for the time being. especially here in the material world. so in this way. so Cyavana may transfer his building supervision work to somebody else. so please give him all facility so he can make a good garden on all the vacant land on our property. and that will please me very much. 1972) One thing. to be servants of the servants of the servants. 1972) My dear boys. or because they cannot find anyone without faults. And by your quiet and humble attitude. 4th Frbruary. Anyway one quality of a devotee is that he is always very much tolerant of other people. but that enviousness is transcendental and should not be accepted in the mundane sense. their topmost intention is to serve Krishna. please do not make any rupture. He is a sannyasi and his main business is to travel and preach as I am doing in this old age. better than kings. I am very pleased that you are assisting your godbrothers so nicely. kindly accept my blessings. and without discipline we cannot manage a huge world organization.'' The devotees of Krishna are the most exalted persons on this planet. all of them. like the bumblebee. and because they cannot find any utopia. but it is because they are persons. So if there is sometimes slight disagreements between devotees. despite everything they may do. Kindly. to become void of personality. so we should not expect any kind of perfect arrangement. so we should always remember that and. they want to become void. so if it is not being done nicely. 93 . he is engaged in gardening work. So far Nara Narayana is concerned. Not like the utopians. the proper experienced man must be put in charge of the construction work. who is in charge of Bombay center.(SPL to Jairge and Lindom Lomese. and Giriraja. Mahamsa and Cyavana may act by the decisions of Giriraja.because. It is not possible for me alone to execute this great responsibility . and such disagreements should not be taken very seriously. this is our real position. and I hope by Krishna's Grace you are doing all well. ``One who is engaged in devotional service. but he is very optimistic about the spiritual life. is to be considered saintly because he is rightly situated. Yes. but that is our main business there. I shall be returning by September next. This morning I received one telephone message that there is some misunderstanding between yourselves. 29th August. 19th June.(SPL to Gargamuni. This is the spiritual conception. If we can manage successfully. I hope Krishna will bless you to understand my heart and oblige.(SPL to Krsnavesa dasi. attend class and mangala arati and then everything will be alright. So never mind there is some discouragement. and the father Hiranyakasipu became so envious that he attempted to kill his 5 year old son in so many ways. 1st May. chant and read our books. continue with your work in full enthusiastic Krishna Consciousness attitude of service. and I want it shall become the first-class preaching center in the world. All along my godbrothers gave me only depression. so if we do not co-operate. Krishna consciousness is just the opposite. repression. he was only 5 years old. But if you yourselves are suffering from the very ills we are trying to remove. Please help me in this ambition. Mahamsa. Use the intelligence and do some service for Krsna. (SPL to Jayatirtha dasa. If one is doing well. Our task is very heavy. he was preaching Krishna consciousness to his school friends. then the materialistic persons become envious and try to check his progress. compression--but I continued strong in my duty.--co-operated nicely with them.(SPL to Gurudasa. This is very nice. Naranaryana.(SPL to Trivikrama Maharaja. My request to you is to not fight anymore. the temple president.(SPL to Bhumata dasi. 1975) You always have my blessings. 1975) I am very glad to see that you have out-collected the Sri Sri Radha-Damodara party. we will be attractive for the whole of India. the father always wishes that the son may be more successful than himself. how can the people be influenced favorably? Stop this fighting. chant 16 rounds. it is my request even you do not agree on some points. because they are all working for the same end--Krsna's service. Our movement is based on love and trust. But the devotees' disagreement does not last long because they patch it up for Krsna's sake. This is good competition.So in conclusion. When non-devotees quarrel they cannot stop and end up killing each other. We are introducing Krsna Consciousness movement for the harmony and good will of humanity. So now is Tamala Krsna defeated by you? So one month you defeat him and another he can defeat you and in this way Radha-Damodara service will be increased by transcendental competition. then how is that love and trust? Follow all of the rules and regulations very strictly without deviation. etc. if someone is doing 94 . 16th January. tolerate. Giriraja is in charge so please follow his direction and that will please me. I am very much anxious to see the progress at Bombay center. 1973) You have dedicated your life for Krsna and therefore you should be ideal. the GBC. do not neglect by paltry disagreement. 1972) Do not be depressed. 1974) My request to you is that you try to follow the authorities there. and Giriraja. 1972) Because we are all individuals sometimes there is disagreement between devotees. 20th November. This was actually so with Prahlada Maharaja. 10th March. (SPL to Yogescandra dasa. If Jayatirtha Prabhu defeats Tamala Krishna Maharaja. If the members of our movement are unable to co-operate it will be very difficult to spread the mission of Lord Caitanya. 1976) In the material world competition one thinks my competitor can do so much. häté—an elephant. so you are pleasing him by this bombastic flood of books all over the world. vaiñëava-aparädha—an offense at the feet of a Vaiñëava. ``Our'' and ``your's'' are material conceptions and have no place in our Krishna Consciousness movement.(SPL to Satsvarupa Maharaja. 1976) CRITICISM AMONGST DEVOTEES Cc. 5th January. Thank you. uöhe— arises. My Guru Maharaja was very much anxious about selling books and preaching. I could not do so well. then Tamala will have heart failure.well then the attitude of the devotee is to give him all facility to go on and improve more and more. tära çukhi’ yäya pätä SYNONYMS yadi—if. çukhi’—shriveling up. yäya—goes. mätä—mad. (SPL to Ramesvara dasa. his offense is compared to a mad elephant that uproots the creeper and breaks it. 1976) Everything should be done co-operatively.(SPL to Ramesvara. vä—or. upäòe—uproots. Go on selling books. how can I bring him down? In the spiritual world there is appreciation: he has done so nicely. ei abhiläña 95 . In this way the leaves of the creeper are dried up. PURPORT One’s devotional attitude increases in the association of a Vaiñëava: täìdera caraëa sevi bhakta-sane väsa janame janame haya. tära—of the creeper.157 yadi vaiñëava-aparädha uöhe häté mätä upäòe vä chiëòe. 18th January. 7th December. chiëòe— breaks. TRANSLATION “If the devotee commits an offense at the feet of a Vaiñëava while cultivating the creeper of devotional service in the material world. pätä—the leaf. Madya 19. 3rd January. 1975) The transcendental competition is nice. not theirs. One cannot be an äcärya (spiritual master) without following strictly in the disciplic succession of the äcäryas. However. 1972) 96 . As soon as one is deviated from the instructions of the spiritual master. Without your good help I could not have done anything. one should live in the society of Vaiñëavas [Cc. This is called guru-avajïä. and gradually all the leaves dry up. that is the business of inferior men. Chapter Eight. One who is actually serious about advancing in devotional service should desire only to satisfy the previous äcäryas. We should not find fault with others and criticize and go away. if one thinks that he has become very mature and can live separate from the association of Vaiñëavas and thus gives up all the regulative principles due to offending a Vaiñëava. Better we should always be willing to offer all respects to others and consider them as our superiors always. Ei chaya gosäïi yära. Our ISKCON Society married couples means that both parties fully are engaged in Krishna's service. The devotee must therefore be very careful not to commit offenses against the spiritual master by disobeying his instructions. increasing more and more. go on with your work. the uprooting of the bhakti-latä begins. One should always think of oneself as a servant of the servant of the äcäryas. Such an offense is especially created when one disobeys the instructions of the spiritual master.By his personal example. In this way the bhakti-latä shrivels up. which by force uproots the bhakti-latä and breaks it to pieces. The Vaisnava devotee must think like this. are helping me do this. one’s position becomes very dangerous. Never mind the jackals howl. We should always remember that we recruit members from people in general.(SPL to Gaurasundara. Giving up the regulative principles and living according to one’s whims is compared to a mad elephant. verse 24. Offenses against the holy name are explained in Ädi-lélä.(SPL to Nityananda. and thinking this. So do not be disturbed by them. 1972) Simply criticizing and no work. It is not expected that every one of our members should be immediately to the standard qualification. The Gosvämés are represented by one’s spiritual master. If sometimes there are any disagreements.80]. Narottama däsa Öhäkura stresses that a devotee must always remember to please his predecessor äcärya. that is not the Vaisnava way. that is my defect.(SPL to Vrndadevi. 1971) Where have you got this idea to retire and simply translate books? That is not in our line. we should try to forget such incidences and be always in friendship with each other. mui tära däsa. So I hope you will immediately return to your husband and forget all these disagreements and fully cooperate for developing our Berlin center. My Spiritual Master has given me the instruction to spread this movement all over the world and you are my good disciples. The best thing for you is to set the example by your personal behavior and try to reform the others. not by criticizing but by friendly behavior. 25th November. 26th August. 14th October. Madhya 13. I have noted your several complaints against the devotees but it would be better to set the example rather than to criticize the defects of the devotees. so practically you can take all the credit for spreading this Krsna Consciousness movement and fulfilling the prophecy of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu. If there is some incident and I claim that no one is cooperating with me or no one will work with me. Even if it is very difficult and there may be many problems or disagreements still simply by remaining in the association of devotees and follow our regulative principles. birth. young or inexperienced devotees will adopt an attitude against those things or persons possibly harmfull and threatening to their tender devotional creeper. chanting 16 rounds. One can be happy under any condition. rising early etc.So sometimes in the neophyte stage of devotional service. But actual fact is that this material world is a miserable.Your complaint is that you have met two of my young disciples in California and they appeared to you as having `a very negative outlook towards the people they meet`. that is not a very common thing. I suggest that you become serious about spiritual life and try to overlook the minor offenses of others.(SPL to Krsnanga devi dasi.. as being negative or pessimistic. Krishna Consciousness does not depend on any external arrangement. and thus they will appear to some non-devotees. Just try to be happy by chanting Hare Krishna and following the regulative principles. one should not criticize him for some faults that he may still have. To come to that platform of understanding of things as they are. Samah duhkha-sukham dhiram. home of suffering and pain only. duhkhalayam asasvatam. 1975) Do not let your mind be disturbed by so many things. temporary abode of death.(SPL to Parvati. The fact that you have left our movement just on account of some minor disagreements shows that you are not actually serious about going back to home. After all. Just because some body has made some mistakes does that mean that you should give up your whole career in Krishna Consciousness? What will that accomplish? Simply more rebirth and death. They may even over-indulge in such feelings just to protect themselves. in order to withstand the attack of maya and remain strong under all conditions of temptation. 27 th November. You should not go outside of the shelter of this ISKCON. If you leave the association of devotees to follow these regulative principles will be very difficult. 27th December. 14th March. 15th February. who are perhaps themselves still very enamoured by the material energy of maya. what are the circumstances. chant at least 16 rounds. Let one 97 . but since he is on the right path for purification. or the illusory material energy. you will become purified. they are described as `great souls`. 1976) My advise is always chant 16 rounds minimum and follow the four regulative principles. full of danger at every step. Our movement is for chanting Hare Krishna.(SPL to Lynne Ludwig. 1973) Under all circumstances you must remain in the association of devotees. And maya. One may not be purified immediately. Therefore stay in the association of devotees and continue making nice milk preparations for the Deities. but cindly forgive my beloved disciples and any unkindness or indiscretions on their part. I do not know the case. Of course. read my books and follow all of the rules and regulations very strictly.(SPL to Bhanutanya dasi. negative place. back to Godhead. Do not let yourself fall out of this association. 1974) You should understand that Krishna Consciousness is a purificatory process. You should keep yourself in the association of devotees. All of my disciples must agree on this point otherwise they are not my disciples. and therefore such persons who attain to it. she tries especially hard to try to get back and entrap those who have left her service to become devotees. to give up one`s life completely for serving the Lord is not so easy thing. disease and old-age. but stick to the principles. I suggest that you become serious about spiritual life and try to overlook the minor offenses of others. one should not criticize him for some faults that he may still have. 1974) You should understand that Krishna Consciousness is a purificatory process. back to Godhead. My disciples must follow these principles living either in heaven or hell. All of my disciples must agree on this point otherwise they are not my disciples. Let one live anywhere. read my books and follow all of the rules and regulations very strictly. Disagreements will continue in this material world. This ordinary material consciousness is so disturbing. The fact that you have left our movement just on account of some minor disagreements shows that you are not actually serious about going back to home.‘ This is called praksepatmikasakti. Let me become Krsna conscious. Krishna Consciousness does not depend on any external arrangement.live anywhere. Do not let yourself fall out of this association. Therefore stay in the association of devotees and continue making nice milk preparations for the Deities. but stick to the principles. Our movement is for chanting Hare Krishna. Therefore sometimes some man comes in our Society. Samah duhkha-sukham dhiram. chant at least 16 rounds.(SPL to Bhanutanya dasi. 1976) LEAVING ASSOCIATION OF DEVOTEES Under all circumstances you must remain in the association of devotees.(SPL to Krsnanga devi dasi. So one may live in a suitable place. he 98 . Just because some body has made some mistakes does that mean that you should give up your whole career in Krishna Consciousness? What will that accomplish? Simply more rebirth and death. One can be happy under any condition. After staying for a few days.(SPL to Raja Laksmi dasi. 17th February.‘ So maya will say. 14th March. Even if it is very difficult and there may be many problems or disagreements still simply by remaining in the association of devotees and follow our regulative principles. chanting 16 rounds. 1976 Suppose one thinks. Just try to be happy by chanting Hare Krishna and following the regulative principles.(SPL to Parvati. rising early etc. (SPL to Raja Laksmi dasi. You should keep yourself in the association of devotees. 1976) My advise is always chant 16 rounds minimum and follow the four regulative principles. but one must follow these five principles. One may not be purified immediately. you will become purified. Disagreements will continue in this material world. but one must follow these five principles. If you leave the association of devotees to follow these regulative principles will be very difficult. 27th December. but since he is on the right path for purification. 17th February. ‚What you will do with this? Better remain in material consciousness.. So one may live in a suitable place. ‚Now I shall become Krsna conscious. 15th February. My disciples must follow these principles living either in heaven or hell. 1976) 24th February. 1975) Do not let your mind be disturbed by so many things. You should not go outside of the shelter of this ISKCON. sarvadehinäm—to all living entities. He always thinks about others. that's all. ajäta-çatravaù—inimical to none. He is not satisfied with his own liberation.(SPL to Bhagavatananda. from door to door. PURPORT A sädhu.goes away. A devotee travels all over the country. human life is spoiled. he has to meet with so many opposing elements.1972) S. suhådaù—friendly. gladly let me do it for Krishna. or Kåñëa consciousness. he is peaceful. preaching. thrown away. This is praksepata. He has no enemies.1. TRANSLATION The symptoms of a sädhu are that he is tolerant. great mercy to the fallen souls. he cannot stay with us. as described above. käruëikäù—merciful.” These are the preachings of a sädhu. He wants only a place to lay down.25.21 titikñavaù käruëikäù suhådaù sarva-dehinäm ajäta-çatravaù çäntäù sädhavaù sädhu-bhüñaëäù SYNONYMS titikñavaù—tolerant.D. Unless he`s very sincere. His concern. or devotee of the Lord. merciful and friendly to all living entities. under any conditions. 8th July. He knows that without devotional service to the Lord. Someone may ill-treat him because the 99 . That is his mercy. therefore.3.“ (P. While engaged in preaching work.378) VAISNAVA ETIQUETTE VAISNAVA DEFINITION Vaisnava means one who is able to sit down anywhere. is a devotee of the Lord. a little prasadam. sädhavaù—abiding by scriptures. and all his characteristics are sublime. He is the most compassionate personality towards all the fallen souls. Human life is meant for self-realization. therefore. “Be Kåñëa conscious. is käruëika. çäntäù— peaceful. he abides by the scriptures.. and be happy. Be a devotee of Lord Kåñëa. he`ll be thrown away.B. sädhu-bhüñaëäù—adorned with sublime characteristics. One of his qualifications. is to enlighten people in devotional service to the Lord. and if there's a little service he can do. Don’t spoil your life in simply fulfilling your animal propensities. has to be very tolerant. and therefore the sädhu. The devotee of the Lord is merciful to everyone—the cats. What is the difference between an enemy and a friend? It is a difference in behavior.Madya 22. It is said here. All these characteristics are prominent in a devotee. satya-sära sama nidoña. A sädhu is calm. Sädhu. vadänya. apramatta. Therefore. Haridäsa Öhäkura was caned in twenty-two marketplaces. They do not like it. anéha. Lord Jesus Christ was crucified. which indicates all living entities who have accepted material bodies. karuëa. A sädhu behaves with all conditioned souls for their ultimate relief from material entanglement. One of the qualifications of a sädhu is that he is very tolerant and is merciful to all fallen souls. Cc. even though academically qualified. vijita-ñaò-guëa mita-bhuk. whereas a nondevotee. and Lord Caitanya’s principal assistant. sthira. was violently attacked by Jagäi and Mädhäi. But still they were tolerant because their mission was to deliver the fallen souls.conditioned souls are not prepared to receive the transcendental knowledge of devotional service. mauné 100 . He is merciful because he is the well-wisher of all living entities. Sometimes devotees are personally attacked with violence. means a follower of the scriptural injunctions and a devotee of the Lord. akiïcana sarvopakäraka. trees. mänada. and he quietly and peacefully follows the principles of scripture. maitra. therefore. but a well-wisher of animal society as well. such as cats and dogs. He is not only a well-wisher of human society. also have material bodies. etc. dogs. kavi. çuci. Not only does the human being have a material body.78-80 kåpälu. gave liberation to a dog by treating the dog transcendentally. çänta. The sädhu has the thankless task of impressing upon them the importance of devotional service. A devotee develops all the good qualities of the demigods. has no actual good qualifications or good characteristics according to the standard of transcendental realization. amäné gambhéra. Yet although a sädhu is not inimical towards anyone. There are many instances where a dog got salvation by association with a sädhu. kåñëaika-çaraëa akäma. but other living entities. dakña. the world is so ungrateful that even a sädhu has many enemies. one of the disciples of Lord Caitanya. no one can be more friendly than a sädhu in relieving a conditioned soul. akåta-droha. because a sädhu engages in the highest philanthropic activities for the benediction of all living entities. mådu. Nityänanda. He treats all living entities in such a way that they can ultimately get salvation from this material entanglement. sarva-dehinäm. that is their disease. A sädhu means one who follows the principles of scripture and at the same time is a devotee of the Lord. One who actually follows the principles of scripture must be a devotee of God because all the çästras instruct us to obey the orders of the Personality of Godhead. Çivänanda Sena. They are friendly. çuci—clean. magnanimous. compassionate and without false prestige. poetic. kåñëa-eka-çaraëa— exclusively surrendered to Kåñëa. They are indifferent to material acquisitions and are fixed in devotional service. satya-sära—thoroughly true. TRANSLATION 101 . greed. amäné—without false prestige. mild and clean. paçyet— sees. kavi—a poet. and combinations of matter and spirit). mådu—mild. bhütäni—all beings. faultless.2. mauné— silent. Madhya. surrendered to Kåñëa and desireless. dakña—expert. vijita-ñaö-guëa—completely controlling the six bad qualities (lust. eñaù—this. akäma—desireless. humble. karuëa— compassionate. or the transcendence beyond the material concept of life. They are without material possessions. anéha—indifferent to material acquisitions. ätmanaù—of the supreme spirit soul. nidoña—faultless. mäna-da —respectful. and they are not inebriated.78-80) 3 CATEGORIES OF VAISNAVAS S. etc.(C.SYNONYMS kåpälu—merciful. sthira—fixed. spirit. bhagavata-uttamaù—a person advanced in devotional service. TRANSLATION “Devotees are always merciful. çänta—peaceful.22. ätmani—the basic principle of all existence. sarva-bhüteñu—in all objects (in matter. sarva-upakäraka— working for the welfare of everyone. mita-bhuk— eating only as much as required. expert and silent. truthful. anger. akåta-droha—not defiant.B. apramatta—without inebriation. anger. bhagavat-bhävam—the ability to be engaged in the service of the Lord.11. yaù—anyone who. grave. akiïcana—without material possessions. equal to all. They are respectful. greed and so forth. maitra—a friend. They are peaceful. gambhéra—grave. and they perform welfare work for everyone. vadänya—magnanimous. bhagavati—in the Supreme Personality of Godhead. sama—equal.45 çré-havir uväca sarva-bhüteñu yaù paçyed bhagavad-bhävam ätmanaù bhütäni bhagavaty ätmany eña bhägavatottamaù SYNONYMS çré-haviù uväca—Çré Havir said.). They completely control the six bad qualities— lust. They eat only as much as required.c. S.B. the Supreme Personality of Godhead. dviñatsu—to persons envious of Kåñëa and Kåñëa’s devotees. çraddhayä—faithfully.47 arcäyäm eva haraye püjäà yaù çraddhayehate na tad-bhakteñu cänyeñu sa bhaktaù präkåtaù småtaù SYNONYMS arcäyäm—Deity. ca—and.B. upekñäù—negligence. karoti—does. anyeñu—toward people in general.2. bäliçeñu—unto the neophytes or the ignorant. shows mercy to ignorant people who are innocent and disregards those who are envious of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. tat-adhéneñu—to persons who have taken fully to Kåñëa consciousness. called madhyama-adhikäré. yaù—anyone who. småtaù—is called. haraye—to Lord Hari. madhyamaù—a second-class devotee. saù—he. éhate—engages.2. bhakteñu—toward the devotees. eva—certainly. 102 . kåpä— mercy. Çré Kåñëa.46 ésvare tad-adhéneñu bäliçeñu dviñatsu ca prema-maitré-kåpopekñä yaù karoti sa madhyamaù SYNONYMS éçvare—unto the Supreme Personality of Godhead. TRANSLATION A devotee who faithfully engages in the worship of the Deity in the temple but does not behave properly toward other devotees or people in general is called a präkåta-bhakta. offers his love to the Supreme Personality of Godhead.Çré Havir said: The most advanced devotee sees within everything the soul of all souls. maitré—friendship. TRANSLATION An intermediate or second-class devotee. a materialistic devotee. saù—he. püjäm—worship. is a sincere friend to all the devotees of the Lord. S. Consequently he sees everything in relation to the Supreme Lord and understands that everything that exists is eternally situated within the Lord. bhaktaù präkåtaù—materialistic devotee.11. na—not. prema—love. ca—and. tat—of Kåñëa. and is considered to be in the lowest position. yaù—who.11. (SPL to Himavati. iti—thus. çuçrüñayä—by practical service. to call one another prabhu is all right. éçam— unto the Supreme Personality of Godhead. and treat others as servants . labdhyä—by gaining. But because somebody is calling you prabhu. saìga—association. You should personally see to the comforts and conveniences so that she may feel very happy to stay with you all young boys and girls. 14th June.. manasä—by the mind.I. bhajantam—engaged in devotional service. ananyam—without deviation. one should offer humble obeisances to the devotee who has undergone spiritual initiation [dékñä] and is engaged in worshiping the Deity. So far I have studied and it is quite natural that she requires a little respectful dealing from the young boys and girls. cet—if.(SPL to Jadurani. 1969) So far Devahuti is concerned. In other words. and not to think himself prabhu because he is being called prabhu.. 1968) You can shave once in a month on the full moon day with head & beard.5 kåñëeti yasya giri taà manasädriyeta dékñästi cet praëatibhiç ca bhajantam éçam çuçrüñayä bhajana-vijïam ananyam anyanindädi-çünya-hådam épsita-saìga-labdhyä SYNONYMS kåñëa—the holy name of Lord Kåñëa. but not to become prabhu. and remain as servant is the idea. ca—also. dékñä—initiation. asti—there is. (SPL to krsna dasa. one should not become a prabhu. 14th January. This will make the relationship congenial. Because she is of the age of all of your mothers. she is elder woman but very nice and sober as well as qualified. yasya—of whom. 4th July. praëatibhiù—by obeisances. Nothing should be ordered to her but simply suggested so that she may work in her own way. 1970) 103 . ädriyeta—one must honour. etc. TRANSLATION One should mentally honor the devotee who chants the holy name of Lord Kåñëa. çünya—completely devoid. and one should associate with and faithfully serve that Pure devotee who is advanced in undeviated devotional service and whose heart is completely devoid of the propensity to criticize others. bhajana-vijïam—one who is advanced in devotional service. she should be treated very respectfully.o. everyone should feel himself as servant. To accept others as prabhu. hådam—whose heart. tam—him. giri—in the words or speech.GENERAL VAISNAVA ETIQUETTE N. épsita—desirable. Yes. anya-nindä-ädi—of blasphemy of others. Our Krishna Consciousness movement is based on complete fellow feeling and love. I eat . 29th July. It is a question of love that sometimes I cook.“ I am not a Vaisnava. Kirtanananda Maharaja took charge of the cooking and learned the art very nicely from me. so there is no objection to take from the Spiritual Master.(SPL to Sudama. I am simply trying my 104 . His position is always superior to all other inmates of the temple. TRANSLATION Offering gifts in charity. äkhyäti—explains. He gave the example of the pilgrims that come to Mayapur.(SPL to Jayapataka. at that time not less than a dozen. guhyam— confidential topics. påcchati—enquires. 1970) So long as a devotee is not initiated he should have Bhakta before his name.. another tries to tuch his feet. 17th April.o. and he educated all others how to make our present Prasadam. bhojayate—feeds. Gradually. accepting prasäda and offering prasäda are the six symptoms of love shared by one devotee and another. you eat and sometimes you cook.Whatever the Spiritual Master gives in His own hand. As one man comes along the road. 1976 Then he went on to explain that the Vaisnava attitude in dealing with one another is one of humility. ñaö-vidham—six kinds. 17th December. préti— of love. Bhaktin if she is a girl. inquiring confidentially. I am just a ordinary man. all should offer due respect to a Sannyasi. ca—also. revealing one’s mind in confidence. eva—certainly. if he is a male. accepting charitable gifts.I. it should be accepted immediately as His grace. In the beginning in New York I was cooking myself and was distributing at least one or two capatis to all my disciples.(SPL to Nityananda. So in the beginning I was cooking.4 dadäti pratigåhëäti guhyam äkhyäti påcchati bhuìkte bhojayate caiva ñaò-vidhaà préti-lakñaëam SYNONYMS dadäti—gives charity. The former shies away from being so honored because he is thinking. January 28th . He must always maintain that superior position by action & behavior. but there is a word maryada which means respect which should always be offered to the Spiritual Master and elderly members. 1972) MORE ON THE BEHAVIOR OF A VAISNAVA N. lakñaëam—symptoms. 1971) Regarding your question. bhuìkte—eats. pratigåhëäti—accepts in return. “(P. This is not Vaisnava..“ Oh.is not worse than he who is directly serving the guru.one hundred times removed. One cannot demand respect. Several devotees already are complaining that he is asserting himself as the supervisor of the entire project.“ Prabhupada told him.D. I am better than others. Prabhupada illustrated this point through another comical exchange with Gurudasa. And he who is the servant of the servant. although he knows verry little about how the Mayapur menagement operates.“ Prabhupada said. „Actually. „In other words. Mahavira has set himself up in an office. here is a person.“ He doesn`t consider that he is advanced and that therefore he is showing mercy to lower. but his mood is one of sympathy.D. then where is the question of the advanced devotee showing mercy to someone whom he sees as“ lower“? Prabhupada replied that the advanced devotee does not see anyone as lower than himself. Please order me.(P. So I asked if that is so. Prabhu means‘ You are my master. What can I do for you?‘ That should be the attitude. It does not mean he is thinking‘ I am higher‘ No.“ „Yes.1. One has to be humble and try to serve oll Vaisnavas.“That is not service.“ It is simply a question of offering assistance to help another advance. To offer respect to guru and not to his disciples.1.“ He concluded. so let me do some service.“ He is always thinking.“ You have to be servant of everyone before you can manage.not some and not others.“ Pusta Krsna Maharaja added.“ It is duty.‘Because I am a direct servant. demanding that they follow his instructions. That`s all.‘ Gurudasa Prabhu. One has to be blessed by a devotee to become a devotee. Not.‘( Prabhupada said prabhu in an exaggerated fashion. this is wrong.best to become a Vaisnava.. Vaisnava philosophy is that we serve the higher devotees and show mercy to the lower ones. But Prabhupada clarified the distinction between showing mercy and serving others. That is mercy:“ He explained that although a devotee has a mood of service.307-308) February 16th. with a bite of sarcasm in it) please come here and brush my shoes!‘“ 105 . „ this is a fact. I am lower than the worm.“ Prabhupada affirmed. Let me raise him to the standart. he can be a devotee. He said the popular mayavadi idea that one should serve everyone is wrong.“ Therefore we say prabhu.‘ then he is not a Vaisnava. 1976 Prabhupada also corrected Mahavira for telling everyone that he is now the temple president and manager of Mayapur.“ On the other hand the person who is tuching his feet is thinking that unless he gets the dust of a Vaisnava on his head he will not be able to advance. This puzzled me because it says in the sastras that the most advanced devotee sees himself as the lowest of all.353) ETIQUETTE WITHIN RELATIONSHIPS Gurudasa mentioned that since we see everyone in the world as potential devotees. „First become expert in all departments before becoming manager. we should also serve them so they can become devotees. If one thinks. but Lord Krsna wants it. Why they should dictate? First of all let them become like me. Either. first of all become higher than him. (P.D. then you suggest. Neither they are equal nor senior. Woman is compared to fire. Similarly. and who is junior. and man is compared to a butter pot. he will dictate. Equality brings friendship.‘ Gurudasa Prabhu. he will respect the superior. Subhavilasa and his wife.. he should live like friend.D. PURPORT If a butter pot and fire are kept together..B. sutäm api—even one’s daughter. ghåta-kumbha—a pot of butter.We all laughed again.1.1976 Just inside the house. and who is equal. However advanced one may be in restraining the senses. Going into the main living room they offered him a seat on a spacious threeseater Chesterfield lounge that was covered with a clean white sheet. or become equal with him. perhaps recognizing something of ourselves in the parody. You are lower. jahyät—one must not associate with. then dictate. and you want to dictate. he will dictate.9 nanv agniù pramadä näma ghåta-kumbha-samaù pumän sutäm api raho jahyäd anyadä yävad-artha-kåt SYNONYMS nanu—certainly. artha-kåt—required. Then with great care and attention they bathed his feet with flower-perfumed water and wiped them of with their hands. This is the Vaisnava rule. can I brush your shoes?‘ That is real Vaisnava. as he continued. TRANSLATION Woman is compared to fire. rahaù—in a secluded place. it is 106 .445) S. What is this nonsense?(P.12. now they can dictate? That is a mistake. and man is compared to a butter pot.279) June 19th. 1976 „ What bothers me is their dictating mood. 7. anyadä—with other women also. pumän—a man. Asalata dasi. näma—the very name.1. pramadä—the woman (one who bewilders the mind of man). offered him flower garlands and a seat. Those who are neither equal nor higher. yävat—as much as. he should also avoid association with other women. This is the rule..D. and whoever is younger. they should follow and obey. agniù—the fire. samaù—like.“ What kind of prabhu!? He should say.491-492) January 19th. the butter within the pot will certainly melt. Whoever is older. One should associate with women only for important business and not otherwise. then why should they dictate? Who is superior.2. Therefore a man should avoid associating even with his own daughter in a secluded place.(P. since all bodies are made of the same ingredients. Indeed.149-150) January 26th. And before marriage the girl should not see any boy.“ Lokanatha Maharaja asked whether grhasthas could make spiritual advancement.“ That advancement is not very soild. December 24th. man is attractive. He should see the girl when the marriage actually takes place. 1976 He revealed the psychology of arranged marriages. Prabhupada`s reply was candid. The whole material attraction means a man`s attraction for woman and a woman`s attraction for man. his mind is agitated even if one is in the renounced order of life. You are already bound up. And the material world is taking this is the best thing.“The social system in India is that a boy. and a girl. twelve to sixteen years. but that is not very solid. part and parcel of God. no matter what the external dress . God has made in such a way that both of them are attractive to one another. that man is goos. then he is also a sannyasi. Man is good. Therefore. then this bondage will become more tight. Then life is all right. Nowadays it has been practice that the boy goes to see the girl. separation. That`s all.‘Where is woman?‘ ‚Where is woman?‘ ‚ Where is woman?‘ And the woman is seeking. and when they are united they are bad!“ Prabhupada laughed. But there is advancement. therefore woman is made attractive. If a housholder is only working for Krsna. sannyasa.D. So there is no separation. 1975 Locanatha Swami asked what it is that creates the attraction between men and women. That is the purport of this verse. „Therefore. If one cannot understand the basic principle of restraining association between man and woman. The psychology is that when they require a man or girl.“ Both of them are bad. woman is good. But actually that is not. because he is part and parcel of God. (P.Because unless there cannot be any spiritual advancement. You want to be attracted. And the woman wants to be attracted. even if she is his own daughter.almost impossible for a man to keep himself controlled in the presence of a woman. Prabhupada gave an elaborate reply. still prevalent in India. they accept and remain chaste. mother or sister. and ultimately by force. the Vedic civilisation is how to slaken it. Pumsah striya mithuni-bhavam etam. they become bad. Vedic civilization carefully restricts mingling between men and women.“(P. say twenty or twenty-five years. and the boy should not see any woman. But a spiritually based society is different.“You want to be attracted.1. But when they are seeking.1. But when they unite. so whatever she or he is... he is to be considered an animal.D. not bevor that. but formerly it was not so. That is the whole process. This is nature`s arrangement so that you may be bound up by this attraction. I have written a letter. In the West this practice is considert objectionable. And when they are actually attracted or united.302) 107 . they must be married.“Together they go to hell!“ He explained that ultimately the spirit of detachment must be there. and by this attraction you will be more tighly bound up.“ „They say ‚We want to come together to serve the Lord. they come here to make this business. And woman is good.‘Is that excuse or is that-?“ Prabhupada broke into a smile. and no one understands ist true purpose. Their unity is bondage. Since women in Kail-yuga form the majority of the population. „The idea is he is already spoiled. then all the difficulties will be resolved naturally in due course of time. So you chant the Holy Name of Krishna and Krishna will keep you from being misled. he said that it is neither desirable nor possible to keep women from coming to join us. In the absolute plane there is no such gradation of higher and lower. That is our philosophy.. who are the real backbone of the movement. These men can then be invited to live with us. the man should be given first preference. Prabhupada agreed that finding suitable husbands for the single women is a problem throughout our ISKCON society. We are training boys to remain celipate brahmacaris.277) 21st January.1. He laughed.. a sincere soul should be given proper chance to 108 . that is the only qualification of a person speaking. Materially a woman may be less intelligent than a man. then. (P. much to the detriment of the welfare of the brahmacaris. Prabhupada overcome all his arguments. so it is douptful whether this idea can ever be implemented.WOMAN IN KRSNA CONSCIOUSNESS 19th January. will marry them? Prabhupada suggested that a man could have more than one wife. but our brahmacaris should be kept single. He feels their presence creates distractions for those purishing a renounced way of life. Prabhupada said that the young girls in Mayapur can be married to local men.D. But if a man can speak better than a woman. but in our asrama there are not enough young devotee man available. the essence of Lord Caitanya`s movement. Girls and women are generally very soft hearted and they take things very easily. 1976 Tamal Krsna`s idea is to arrange that no woman live in the ISKCON temples. The girls especially have become a problem because in the villages they are generally married by the time they reach puberty.286) I can understand that you have considerably advanced in Krishna Consciousness because your heart is simple. 1967) Regarding lecturing by woman devotees: I have informed you that in the service of the Lord there is no distinction of caste or creed. Although sympathetic to Tamal`s concerns. but spiritually there is no such distinction. We require a person who is in the knowledge of Krishna. In the Bhagavad-gita. 17th December.1. we should hear her carefully.D. If a woman can lecture nicely and to the point. and that we will give a dowry of five hundred rupees. who. It doesn't matter what he is. 1976 During the day Bhavananda Maharaja came in to ask for advice about how to deal with the married couples and children in the asrama. Because spiritually everyone is pure soul . (SPL to Indira and Ekayani. But even though a woman is less intelligent. so he may as well take more!“ However. He feels that many temples are not serious about sustaining the standards of vairagya and are becoming mere extensions of household affairs.(P. but then there is also chance of being misled. or sex. the Lord especially mentions that even a woman who has taken seriously is also destined to reach Him. nor would it be practical to house them separately. he feels that public reaction would not be good. color. His conclusion is that if we simply preach. Therefore. 14th June. If it is possible to divert the whole attention for Krishna's service it is quite possible to remain single even for the whole life. There is no need of separation. In my opinion. both the girls and boys can live separately. But. and whatever Krishna Consciousness they are trying to develop might have been checked. And I think that our Jadurani or similar other girl students of a little bit advanced. there is nothing to be said--simply to live together as husband and wife. Anyway. because we want so many preachers. but if some of them agree to go out and sell our books and literature. But those who are not married certainly such Brahmacaris and Brahmacarinis should not live together. that is still better. Especially in your country. I did not give too much stricture on this point because by such stricture they might be annoyed. but it is not possible. and it will be a great help to the society. it is nice. The Brahmacarinis cannot go. austerity. you have no desire for sense gratification. not artificial separation. that is very good. It is not good for the Brahmacarinis to associate with householders. how a nice Brahmacarini asrama can be maintained? In the asrama we must supply all inmates necessary nutritious food. they can freely mix without any restriction. Voluntary restraint is tapasya. But the main thing is that in Boston. A Brahmacarini asrama is certainly a great necessity because there are so many girl devotees who are attached to our Krishna Consciousness movement. we cannot put any deadline restriction. But if one can check it. But factually if you can organize a Brahmacarini asrama. If some arrangement for such sales organization can be made. And not to be checked artificially. otherwise. 8 th February. both men and women. it will be very nice idea. then that is the highest stage of perfection. then it will be a very excellent idea .speak. But it is not compulsory. similarly it is not good also for the Brahmacarinis to mix with Brahmacaris. that sort of quarreling will continue whenever there is a little bit individuality. Artificial separation is foolishness. but with advancement of strength in Krishna Consciousness. you are the only earning member. if by the Grace of Krishna. of course. I expected that the pictures painted by the Brahmacarinis would be a source of income to the society. That is a special restricted term of our cult. Some source of income by honest endeavor must be there. that will also be helpful. Those who are married couple. So you have got now good engagement so remain engaged in that work and train the Brahmacarinis also. it is natural. Even such quarreling is visible in the spiritual world also.(SPL to Jayagovinda. 1968) I understand that you are trying to organize a Brahmacarini asrama. That is the nature. because they were accustomed to take meat and some protein food. if the boys and girls get themselves married just like ideal Vaisnava householders. if they can remain Brahmacarinis. But there is another difficulty. The tendency is there. for begging. Of course. they can manage such asrama. but in your country the boys and girls are accustomed to mix freely. that when the girls live together they will pick up quarrels. And when you see.(SPL to Himavati. Live together and train up your mind. We recommend voluntary restraint. So you should understand that there is no objection to live together as husband and wife. or man and woman. How you will maintain such a Brahmacarini asrama separately unless there is some source of income. you can teach the Brahmacarinis sewing very nicely. that is all. just like regular 109 . chant Hare Krishna and pull on your sewing machine. But because in your country there is no distinction between boys and girls. that is very good. Artificial separation is never recommended. But it is difficult also .1968) Yes. living together. and this is possible with advancement of Krishna Consciousness. I want that all of my spiritual sons and daughters will inherit this title of Bhaktivedanta. morning lecture is also allowed. rice. It appears that in your previous life you had cultured this knowledge. man separate from woman. must be properly administered. There is no need of eating more than necessity. fruits and milk. 1968) Regarding your third question. similarly morning lecture can also be delivered. 24th January. 110 . You are a very good girl. Those possessing the title of Bhaktivedanta will be allowed to initiate disciples. that will be a great help. etc. but the minimum demands must be supplied. So New Vrindaban is the right place for you now. if the Brahmacarinis learn typographic machine. 21st October. following in this line of disciplic succession. you have got a very good son who is developing in Krishna Consciousness. So we should not simply publish these books for reading by outsiders. but our students must be well versed in all of our books so that we can be prepared to defeat all opposing parties in the matter of self-realization. 3rd December. There is a great need for this. And I wish sincerely that except for husband and wife. So far as girls or boys lecturing in the morning. and Nectar of Devotion. and I have seen with pleasure your advancement in Krishna Consciousness. can deliver lecture. and on account of your pious life. the girls will also be able to take these. Srimad-Bhagavatam. Lecture is also kirtana.(SPL to Hamsaduta. that doesn't make any difference. The girls also may become preachers if they are able. and woman separate from man.supply of dahl. But if you can organize such nice Brahmacarini asrama it will be a great success of our society. 12th July. all of my disciples will be allowed to initiate and increase the numbers of the generations. (SPL to Himavati. 1) taking care of the children. when I was present I was giving lectures in morning also . I have advised Kirtanananda Maharaja that girls who are living in New Vrindaban should be engaged in the following activities. Bhagavad-gita. capatis. and so as morning kirtana is there. so I shall reply to it herewith. I shall be glad to hear from you about further developments. But one thing can be very nicely utilized.(SPL to Syama dasi. 1969) I am just looking over the letter that you had given to me in New Vrindaban. anyone who is a devotee of the Lord. We have no such distinction of bodily designations. male or female. on the teachings of Bhagavad-gita.(SPL to Satsvarupa. 1968) Another examination will be held sometimes in 1971 on the four books. And if the Brahmacarinis help us in the making of letter printing. Maybe by 1975. 2) cleaning the temple. In New York . Teachings of Lord Caitanya. One who will pass this examination will be awarded with the title of Bhaktivedanta. That is my program. so that the family transcendental diploma will continue through the generations. In Krishna Consciousness there is no distinction between girls and boys. Krishna Consciousness is on the spiritual platform. Either girl or boy devotees may deliver lecture if they choose to do. As such. 1968) Regarding your questions about the examinations to be given. Srimad-Bhagavatam. simultaneously to advance in Krishna Consciousness and to take care of your boy directly in your presence. everyone should live separately. That will be a great help because printing is one of our most important line of activities. or even in San Francisco. 1970) 111 . 1969) So I am very glad that you both. 15th December. In India all the acaryas and their descendants later on acted only from the man's side. you remain in New Vrindaban. April. This is a new thing in the history of the Sankirtana Movement. 1970) I am very glad also to know that you are engaged as Pujari there.(SPL to Himavati. and all the wives of our students should be especially trained up for Deity worship and cooking. Because he is family man. 18th April. (SPL to Labangalatika. We shall touch the Deity altar and Deity in very clean condition. When Lord Caitanya delivered Jagai and Madhai He was also a householder. it has my approval. after taking bath and washing mouth nicely. husband and wife. The more you worship the Deity very nicely. are executing the mission of Lord Caitanya so nicely and faithfully. You may note it. was not there. Please continue to act like that and certainly Lord Caitanya will bestow all His blessings and power upon you. and prove it by practical example that there is no bar for anyone in the matter of preaching work for Krishna Consciousness. Therefore this point should be very much carefully attended. 1969) I am so glad that Dayananda is doing everything so nicely. and their whole family is coming out nice. But always remember that Nandarani is also a very nice devotee girl. then you will advance very quickly to the perfectional stage of Krishna Consciousness. The temple and altar should always be very clean and decorated with flowers and incense. But in this case and in many other cases also. are doing this preaching work so nicely. Their wives were at home because that is the system from old times that women are not required to go out. and I am sure that your life will be successful. I find that my disciples combined together. So I am especially proud how my householder disciples are preaching Lord Caitanya's Mission. Similarly in London Yamuna is also doing nicely. Try to learn this art of Arcana very nicely. responsible boy. follow the principles carefully. You can consult in this connection Himavati. 3) cooking. but when Jagai and Madhai were actually reclaimed. Cleanliness is next to Godliness. and whatever you do conjointly. A brahmacari can tolerate any inconvenience. His wife. Practice washing hands after eating and wash with soap and water after toilet. Please therefore carry on these missionary activities. but women and children cannot. Yamuna and also Silavati . I wish that all our girl devotees be expert in the matter of Arcana and cooking. 24th June. 20th December. and when possible they should go outside on Sankirtana Party with their husbands and others.kitchen. husband and wife. all of you will feel very nice and peaceful spiritually. (SPL to Hamsaduta. He is intelligent. 1970. so this point should be very carefully observed. Visnupriya. he should have some special consideration. But in Bhagavad-gita we find that women are also equally competent like the men in the matter of Krishna Consciousness Movement . and the information is very encouraging. 1969) I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated 12th April. So for the time being. and 4) churning butter. Personally I am so much engladdened that the pairs of young boys and girls whom I have placed in householder life are doing so nicely in the Western world. (SPL to Gargamuni. so you should see always that they are not in inconvenience in any way. They will have difficulty. etc. (SPL to Kancanbala. 1972) Our girls can be engaged for teaching as well as temple worship. paragraph 2. and when a man takes Sannyasa the woman has no connection with him. but there is no ``Swaminie. (SPL to Bhavananda. and you should dress yourself always very nicely so that Krishna by seeing you will be pleased. simply association. simply from milk. they will learn automatically. Among my disciples there is only one Swami or Sannyasi. 26th July. At 12 years. These are the most important duties for the brahmacarinis--namely cleansing . like that. you have not done very nice. We are transcendental artists. And it is not necessary to say that women only can instruct the girls and men only can instruct the boys. 1972) I don't know who has given you this idea of shaving your head and wearing white garments. 26th May. 1972) So far your question regarding women. I am glad to learn that the brahmacarinis are engaged in assisting work and cleaning. ``O.'' but so far we are concerned we follow strictly the Vedic principles. Up to Vanaprastha stage the woman may remain with her husband as assistant or friend without any sex relation.(SPL to Caya dasi. (SPL to Guru dasa.'' you have been misinformed. 16th February. '' Woman is never offered Sannyasa in the Vedic culture. actually I want that every woman in the Society should be married. she should always be engaged in churning butter. keep everything neat and clean. they may be initiated. and if there is sufficient milk supply available. The woman should be cleaning.Regarding Swamis and ``Swaminies.'' So try to follow His footsteps in the matter of cleansing. so many nice varieties. But what is this training to become wives and mothers? No school is required for that. I am very sorry to inform you that there are some Indian ``Swamis'' in this country who are living with so-called ``Swaminies. Nothing should be done without group consultation. 16 th July. After all we are members of Krishna's 112 . yes. So if you simply practice these things yourselves and show examples. writers. 14th April. 1970) Yes. so everything should be beautiful for Krishna. 1970) You ask about marriage. one doesn't have to give formal instruction in these matters. sewing. In India only the widows are allowed to shave head . All our students are following the regulative principles as mentioned in Section 3. A woman's real business is to look after household affairs. Don't try to be ugly before Krishna. I have always accepted the service of women without any discrimination. making yogurt.(SPL to Yamuna. so I have no objection if Yamuna devi contributes her ideas on this construction project. Caitanya Mahaprabhu personally used to inspect temple cleaning and if He would see a little particle of dust He would remark.(SPL to Nevatiaji. curd. but we can discuss this matter further when we shall meet again in London for Rathayatra. By nicely cleansing one can get promotion in the spiritual kingdom in some of the Vaikuntha planets--it is so nice. That is your business. You remain the beautiful maid servant of Krishna. not when they are so young. I have never suggested your husband to take to Sannyas. Krishna does not like ugly gopis. musicians. but was gradually trained in so many ways how to cook. and this attachment on the girls side for her husband becomes more and more strong. That is sahajiya. it is enjoined that the society should be organized in such a way to protect women. just as it is more difficult to bend the bamboo when it is yellow.000 wives and each wife has thousands of servants and maidservants and all of them are very beautiful for serving Krishna and His Queens. You want to perform sacrifice so continuously read our Vedic scriptures and perform the Vaikuntha yajna. that is their vow. clean and serve her husband in so many ways--up until the time of her puberty. from the first night onwards. So all the time there was no anxiety because a girl would know--I have got a husband. when they have got little independence and their own ways of doing things. In this way the so called independent woman has to work very hard to make herself attractive by artificially wearing cosmetics--mini skirts and so many other things. struggling to capture some man who will take care of her. elderly persons must have grown up children to protect them. which means a class of men that take everything very cheap. (SPL to Himavati. 7th November. old people and cows. So the servants of the gopis and queens cannot be ugly. In Vedic society no girl was allowed to remain independent and unmarried. then the wife will remain always chaste and devoted to her husband. and the boy would know I have got this girl as my wife. it is when people are a little grown-up. simply by thinking of the Glories of the Lord. she can never for a moment forget him. just like Krishna had 16. In the Vaikuntha world there is no need of serving anything because everything is already clean and beautiful. Independence for women means they become like prostitutes. 1972) You are exactly correct when you write that Krishna has benedicted you with a first class husband. I was very young when I got married.family. Loy. So remain always compact in Vaikuntha yajna. So you are fortunate. and woman must have husband. So I can assure you that you may have nothing to fear that your daughter has married such a nice boy. And the pychology is the first boy that a girl accepts in marriage. automatically the wife of such a good husband inherits all the benefits of his spiritual advancement. At such young age. But there is no question of separation in our marriage belief. Rather. they are as beautiful as the queens. It is so clean that just like a mirror when the maid-servants would sweep the floor they could see the reflections of their bodies. thus if a girls gets a good husband--one who has accepted a bona fide spiritual master and is firmly fixed up in his service. say six years old. Therefore when the boy and girl would come of age there was no chance of illicit sex-life. children. serve you husband always and in this way your life will be perfect. 1972) In our Vedic science of living. neither your daughter will ever be separated from that boy. and my wife was 11 years only. and together husband and wife go back home--Back to Godhead. So children have parents. But although a girl was married early she did not stay with her husband immediately.(SPL to Mr. being still child and unspoiled. Don't try to do anything artificially. And it is recommended they should be married at very early age. therefore she becomes the perfect chaste wife. because factually all of them are innocent. then if they marry there is often difficulty to adjust. and in those times the wife was so much devoted to her husband that she would voluntarily die in the fire of his cremation. unable to live without him. 1973) 113 . Formerly the girl would be married to a suitable boy at a very early age. 28th July. 15th June. Go on in this present attitude. that girl will completely give her heart to. Myself.(SPL to Naiskarmi devi dasi. No one invited me. sannyasa. I came and I preached aggressively. and who take bath three times daily in the Ganges. Now devote your life to chanting Hare Krsna and if possible write articles on Krsna Consciousness. Not whether one is male or female. Don't bother anymore with rascals like Gaurasundara or anyone else. I think you should follow the footsteps of Srimati Visnupriya. In this way all day and night. They are doing their business peacefully. and you can also keep giving Bhagavatam class if you like. Actually male and female bodies. Don't add anything or concoct anything. in the Bhagavad-gita it is stated striyo vaisyas tatha sudras te'pi yanti param gatim. But. The qualification for leading class is how much one understands about Krsna and surrendering to the process. 25th December. these are just outward designations . I myself was aggressive in coming to your country. Even you boys and girls did not invite me. Women in our movement can also preach very nicely. 30th April. and therefore you are now my disciples. 1974) So you please continue your devotional service. 1974) Regarding women worshiping the deity. do not comb the hair. he must read and study regularly and study the purport and realize it. as many as possible with your own paintings and send it for publication to BTG.(SPL to Govinda dasi. She was chanting her rounds on the beads and after one round she was collecting one grain of rice. that many grains she would cook and eat. generally speaking are less intelligent. Of course women. Only chant Hare Krsna Mantra day and night. When Lord Caitanya left home accepting the renounced order of life. These are all material relationships and have nothing to do with spiritual advancement. 13th August. The vivid example is Visnupriya devi. Just she how much austerity she underwent! Visnupriya is the incarnation of the Goddess of Fortune but to teach us how much austerity and penance she underwent. 1974) Regarding the problem of how to be aggressive on Sankirtana and submissive in the temple. ``Please take this Krishna book. you forget your relationship with Gaurasundara. read books and expressing the philosophy in your own words write articles for publishing in BTG. better she has heard nicely then she will speak nicely. Lord Caitanya's wife. So now you well know you have to approach the men and women of your country. Forget this nonsense Gaurasundara. and it may appear that superficially that you have to disturb them. cooking etc.To you my advice is. Practice this prescription and you will be happy eternally. and you come and disturb them. wear white sari and are engaged 24 hours a day in chanting Hare Krsna Mantra. Take Krsna as your Supreme Protector and Krsna will help you in all respects. Engage your life fully for Krsna Consciousness. (SPL to Uttama Sloka. then he can preach very nicely. So one who gives class. Lord Caitanya said that whether one is brahmana or whatever he may be if he knows the science of Krsna then he is to be accepted as guru.'' 114 . There are many ideal young Hindu widows who do not dress nicely at all. Now you become mixed up in Krsna business and live like a chaste Hindu widow woman. 16 years old. and good artistic ability.(SPL to Malati. my request to you is that you should go on being aggressive on Sankirtana. The idea is that everyone who is properly initiated and following the rules and regulations can worship the deity. at that time Visnupriya was on the summit of youth. because you are very intelligent and educated girl. as many rounds as she could finish. You have good writing capacity. but when her husband became sannyasi she also became greater than sannyasa. Of course it is good that you are concerned about being chaste, shy, and submissive amongst your godbrothers. Canakya Pandit said that every man should see all other women as mother, and similarly a woman should see all men as son . So what is your difficulty? If you are completely aggressive on Sankirtana, there should be no material aggressiveness and pride remaining. You have to distinguish between devotees and nondevotees. Aggression for the cause of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu is pure. If you become completely absorbed in such aggression to spread Sankirtana Movement, there will be no question of wanting to lord it over in the temple. Preaching purifies us of these material tendencies for sense gratification. It is simply a matter of time that you will see this. Do not worry. Krishna will help you.(SPL to Jagaddhatri, Pasupati, Sailogata, and Pamela devi dasi’s, 30 th July, 1975) Regarding the disturbance made by the women devotees, they are also living beings. They also come to Krishna. So consciously I cannot deny them . If our male members, the brahmacaris and the sannyasis, if they become steady in Krishna consciousness, there is no problem. It is the duty of the male members to be very steady and cautious. This can be done by regular chanting like Haridasa Thakura did. Whenever there is a young woman, we should remember Haridasa Thakura and beg his mercy to protect us, and we should think that these beautiful gopis are meant for the enjoyment of Krishna. It is a dilemma for our Society that we cannot deny these girls, and at the same time they are a great dangerous allurement to the young boys. Yes, as you say, I never think in terms of Indian or American regarding my students. I take you all as part and parcels of Krishna.(SPL to Gargamuni Swami, 29th September, 1975) The idea of a woman's asrama is good. Those not married, if there is not provision for separate living quarters for them in the temples, they can go there. It is very risky having single women living in the temples, especially where there is no suitable living quarters.(SPL to Yamuna devi dasi,22nd October, 1975) Yes, the separation of man and woman is desirable. If Yamuna and yourself can develop such an institution of a woman's asrama, that will be nice. You are all elderly devotees. I think that this will be a good idea. If you produce milk, you should not drink milk very much. Rather, you should save it and convert it into ghee and then sell it to the householders and centers and thus maintain your asrama. The excess quantity of ghee may be exchanged by trade. Kirtana is our first duty. The Deity worship should be simple and the eating should be as meager as possible.(SPL to Palika devi dasi, 13th November,1975) The nursery school program is very good. That is good that the mothers are being freed to increase their devotional service. It is not that women should only produce children, but they are meant for advancing in devotion. (SPL to Jayatirtha dasa, 20th November, 1975) 115 Regarding Yamuna and Dinatarine, they want to live independently, that is the defect . A woman cannot live independent. According the the Vedic culture a woman is always to be protected by a man. Why they should purchase a house? We already have Los Angeles. If they want they can have a separate asrama supported independently of ISKCON. Every woman in America has money, so why do they want support? No, the BBT cannot give them loan. You may check that they are chanting and following the rules but do not get involved with their management. So far your suggestion that they sew clothes for the sannyasi’s Deities it is not possible. Sannyasis may have no connection with women.(SPL to Jayatirtha, 13 th January, 1976) You can attract the fair sex community. Most of them are frustrated being without any home or husband. If you can organize all these girls they will get a transcendental engagement and may not be allured to the frustration of life. Your engagement should be chanting and worship of the Deity. Jiva Goswami advises that in the Kali-yuga sankirtana is the principle worship. Even if one chants many mantras it must be preceded by glorious sankirtana. Sankirtana is the maha-mantra. Yes, you are right, women are generally after sense gratification. That is the disease. Chant 24 hours a day and don't dress nicely to attract men. It is better that you don't make a large program. Remain a humble program. In bhakti there is no grotesque program.. A humble program is better. We are doing all these grotesque programs to allure the masses. My Guru Maharaja used to say that no one hears from a person coming from a humble, simple life. You remain always very humble. So far as giving loans, I think it won't be possible because in India we require a huge amount of money for Bombay and Mayapur. We also have to build nice Temples at Kuruksetra and Jagannatha Puri. The Americans are accused of being C.I.A., so counteract this. We want to prove how Americans have constructed very large temples. Certainly it is not for C.I.A. propaganda. Sita Devi, Mother Laksmi, wife of Lord Ramacandra, went to live with Valmiki Muni in a cottage. Although she was a King's daughter and a King's wife, she preferred to live very humbly in the cottage of Valmiki Muni with two sons in the absence of Ramacandra. That should be the ideal example. Women when not with husband must live very very humbly and simple life.(SPL to Yamuna and Dinatarini, 13th January, 1976) The thing is cow protection is not possible for women. You can keep two or three cows, but on larger scale it is not possible. You should not try to take care of more. It is not women's business. Women's business is getting milk and making milk preparations. On the whole larger scale is not to be attempted by women. Manage a small asram, but don't try bigger scale, then you require the help of men. Don't try manual exertion, then again there is mixture and that is not desired. Simply keep yourself aloof from men--chanting, many more times as possible, read books, worship the deity. I am very much pleased with this girl Svati--she has adopted this white dress. She must not be attractive at all. A widow is forbidden to use ornaments, nice sari, decoration, combing the hair nicely. These are forbidden for the woman who is not with husband.(SPL to Yamuna and Dinatarini, 21st February, 1976) 116 DRESSING LIKE A VAISNAVA February 17th, 1976 Prabhupada told us today that everyone should shave up every purnima, or full moon. (P.D.,1,359) The Tiloks on the forehead and other parts of the body are symbolic representation of Radha Krishna Temples. In other words by marking Tiloks on all parts of our body we become protected by the Lord from all sides. Besides Tilok marking at once makes one known as Vaisnavas therefore they are necessary as much as the beads. (SPL to Dayananda, Nandarani and Uddhava, 20th September, 1967) Regarding change of dress, I beg to inform you that every Krishna conscious person must be clean shaved, must have Tilakas on the forehead and other eleven places and must have the Sikha on the top of the head besides beads on the neck as usual. Rarely one can continue to keep beard but it is better not to keep it to distinguish oneself from the Hippies. gentleman but one I think all of you except a Sannyasi may dress yourself just like a fine up to date American must have the Tilakas etc as I have mentioned above. (SPL to Brahmananda, 11th October, 1967) Regarding the hippy religion; we must distinguish ourselves from the hippies. The hippies generally maintain long hair & beard & in order to distinguish ourselves from them we should be clean shaved. When our devotees go outside I have no objection if he dresses as nice American or Canadian gentleman. Up to date gentlemen are all clean shaved so if we do not keep long hair & dress ourselves nicely with tilaka, flag & beads on the neck, apart from our devotional service, then certainly we shall be distinct from the Hippies. I think we should follow this principle rigidly & there is no question of giving up robes in the temple. We do not wish to be estranged from the material world. That is another nonsense. We have to deal with persons in the society & perhaps we are the only community in the world which can render the best possible service to the society.(SPL to Pradyumna, 17th October, 1967) Householders may wear dhotis in the Temple, or as they like, but not of the saffron color. They may wear white, yellow, or whatever. Outside the Temple they may wear American gentleman's dress, with Tilaka, flag, and beads. It is not required to wear dhotis, as this society does not understand, so outside the Temple dress suit is more socially acceptable. If they so desire, for ceremony, they can dress in dhotis for Kirtana.(SPL to Balai, 12 th March, 1968) If you want you can cut your hairs, but there is no need of cutting. It would be nicer if you can put on sari, you can learn it from Jadurani. You must remain like a nice girl. The dress and appearance is social convention of the society. (SPL to Madhavi Lata, 20th June, 1968) 117 The Sivaite tilaka is three pundra, 3 lines, on the forehead, in 3 parallel lines. Our tilak udra pundra, they are distinctive marks of different sections. There are two sections of the Vedic followers. Namely, the impersonalists and personalists. So the tilak distinguishes one from the impersonalists. Our udra pundra, Visnu temple, udra pundra means Visnu temple, so we are distinguished from the mayavadis who use the three parallel lines, tripundra.(SPL to Rupanuga, 30th August, 1968) The next point is that you should dress just like perfect American gentlemen, but the sikha and tilak must be very prominent . Coat, pants, necktie, and everything, Brahmacari and Grhasthas, they can put on, because you are not Sannyasi. In the temple, you can dress as brahmacari, but in order not to become ridiculous in the eyes of others, outside you should dress just like a very nice perfect aristocratic American. So there is no objection. But we must have always our tilak and sikha and there is no compromise for this purpose.(SPL to Brahmananda, 6th October, 1968) Regarding dress, I have already written to you that you can dress as smartly as possible to deal with the public, and dress is immaterial in Krishna Consciousness. Consciousness is within. I am a sannyasi, but if some important work requires I dress myself just like a smart gentleman, I would immediately accept it. So it is not a problem. (SPL to Gopala Krsna, 3rd September, 1969) Tilaka means victory personified.(SPL to Tilaka devi dasi, 5th July, 1971) There is not much difference in the robes of mayavadis and Vaisnavas, but they generally use a deeper color and we use lighter saffron.(SPL to Jadurani, 28th June, 1973) Unless absolutely necessary, one should keep head shaven and not allow the hair to grow long. If absolutely necessary, one can dress like an American gentleman, with short hair, but long hair is prohibited . The reason that one with long hair is not my disciple is because he is against the principle. Unless absolutely necessary one should keep hair short, and if necessary one can dress like an American gentleman with short hair. It is not expected that everyone will join. For that reason we can't compromise. The tendency is there to be hippy. When the acaryas are seen with beard, that is during Caturmasya, July-September. If observed strictly there is not simply a beard. There are so many rules and regulations. One can't eat a variety of foods. Only kitri prepared and poured on the floor, and then licked up. There are so many other rules also. That is not always that they kept beard.(SPL tp Dhrstaketu dasa, 17 th July, 1976) 118 SPIRITUAL MASTER AND DISCIPLE QUALIFICATIONS OF A SPIRITUAL MASTER Cc. Madya 24.330 guru-lakñaëa, çiñya-lakñaëa, doìhära parékñaëa sevya——bhagavän, sarva-mantra-vicäraëa SYNONYMS guru-lakñaëa—the symptoms of a bona fide spiritual master; çiñyalakñaëa—the symptoms of a bona fide disciple; doìhära—of both; parékñaëa—the testing; sevya-bhagavän—the Supreme Personality of Godhead is worshipable; sarva-mantra-vicäraëa—consideration of the different types of mantras. TRANSLATION “Your book should describe the characteristics of the bona fide guru and the bona fide disciple. Then, before accepting a spiritual master, one can be assured of the spiritual master’s position. Similarly, the spiritual master can also be assured of the disciple’s position. The Supreme Personality of Godhead, Kåñëa, should be described as the worshipable object, and you should describe the béja-mantra for the worship of Kåñëa, as well as that for Räma or any other expansion of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Cc. Madya 8.128 kibä vipra, kibä nyäsé, çüdra kene naya yei kåñëa-tattva-vettä, sei ‘guru’ haya SYNONYMS kibä—whether; vipra—a brähmaëa; kibä—whether; nyäsé—a sannyäsé; çüdra—a çüdra; kene—why; naya—not; yei—anyone who; kåñëa-tattvavettä—a knower of the science of Kåñëa; sei—that person; guru—the spiritual master; haya—is. TRANSLATION “Whether one is a brähmaëa, a sannyäsé or a çüdra—regardless of what he is—he can become a spiritual master if he knows the science of Kåñëa.” PURPORT This verse is very important to the Kåñëa consciousness movement. In his Amåta-praväha-bhäñya, Çréla Bhaktivinoda Öhäkura explains that one should not think that because Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu was born a brähmaëa and was situated in the topmost spiritual order as a sannyäsé, it was improper for Him to receive instructions from Çréla Rämänanda Räya, who belonged to the çüdra caste. To clarify this matter, Çré Caitanya 119 Mahäprabhu informed Rämänanda Räya that knowledge of Kåñëa consciousness is more important than caste. In the system of varëäçramadharma there are various duties for the brähmaëas, kñatriyas, vaiçyas and çüdras. Actually the brähmaëa is supposed to be the spiritual master of all other varëas, or classes, but as far as Kåñëa consciousness is concerned, everyone is capable of becoming a spiritual master because knowledge in Kåñëa consciousness is on the platform of the spirit soul. To spread Kåñëa consciousness, one need only be cognizant of the science of the spirit soul. It does not matter whether one is a brähmaëa, kñatriya, vaiçya, çüdra, sannyäsé, gåhastha or whatever. If one simply understands this science, he can become a spiritual master. It is stated in the Hari-bhakti-viläsa that one should not accept initiation from a person who is not in the brahminical order if there is a fit person in the brahminical order present. This instruction is meant for those who are overly dependent on the mundane social order and is suitable for those who want to remain in mundane life. If one understands the truth of Kåñëa consciousness and seriously desires to attain transcendental knowledge for the perfection of life, he can accept a spiritual master from any social status, provided the spiritual master is fully conversant with the science of Kåñëa. Çréla Bhaktisiddhänta Sarasvaté Öhäkura also states that although one is situated as a brähmaëa, kñatriya, vaiçya, çüdra, brahmacäré, vänaprastha, gåhastha or sannyäsé, if he is conversant in the science of Kåñëa he can become a spiritual master as vartma-pradarçaka-guru, dékñä-guru or çikñä-guru. The spiritual master who first gives information about spiritual life is called the vartma-pradarçaka-guru, the spiritual master who initiates according to the regulations of the çästras is called the dékñä-guru, and the spiritual master who gives instructions for elevation is called the çikñä-guru. Factually the qualifications of a spiritual master depend on his knowledge of the science of Kåñëa. It does not matter whether he is a brähmaëa, kñatriya, sannyäsé or çüdra. This injunction given by Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu is not at all against the injunctions of the çästras. In the Padma Puräëa it is said: na çüdrä bhagavad-bhaktäs te ’pi bhägavatottamäù sarva-varëeñu te çüdrä ye na bhaktä janärdane One who is actually advanced in spiritual knowledge of Kåñëa is never a çüdra, even though he may have been born in a çüdra family. However, even if a vipra, or brähmaëa, is very expert in the six brahminical activities (paöhana, päöhana, yajana, yäjana, däna, pratigraha) and is also well versed in the Vedic hymns, he cannot become a spiritual master unless he is a Vaiñëava. But if one is born in the family of caëòälas yet is well versed in Kåñëa consciousness, he can become a guru. These are the çästric injunctions, and strictly following these injunctions, Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu, as a gåhastha named Çré Viçvambhara, was initiated by a sannyäsé-guru named Éçvara Puré. Similarly, Çré Nityänanda Prabhu was initiated by Mädhavendra Puré, a sannyäsé. According to others, however, He was initiated by Lakñmépati Tértha. Advaita Äcärya, although a gåhastha, was initiated by Mädhavendra Puré, and Çré Rasikänanda, although born in a brähmaëa family, was initiated by Çré Çyämänanda 120 Prabhu, who was not born in a caste brähmaëa family. There are many instances in which a born brähmaëa took initiation from a person who was not born in a brähmaëa family. The brahminical symptoms are explained in Çrémad-Bhägavatam (7.11.35), wherein it is stated: yasya yal-lakñaëaà proktaà puàso varëäbhivyaïjakam yad anyaträpi dåçyeta tat tenaiva vinirdiçet If a person is born in a çüdra family but has all the qualities of a spiritual master, he should be accepted not only as a brähmaëa but as a qualified spiritual master also. This is also the instruction of Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu. Çréla Bhaktisiddhänta Sarasvaté Öhäkura therefore introduced the sacred thread ceremony for all Vaiñëavas according to the rules and regulations. Sometimes a Vaiñëava who is a bhajanänandé does not take the sävitrasaàskära (sacred thread initiation), but this does not mean that this system should be used for preaching work. There are two kinds of Vaiñëavas—bhajanänandé and goñöhy-änandé. A bhajanänandé is not interested in preaching work, but a goñöhy-änandé is interested in spreading Kåñëa consciousness to benefit the people and increase the number of Vaiñëavas. A Vaiñëava is understood to be above the position of a brähmaëa. As a preacher, he should be recognized as a brähmaëa; otherwise there may be a misunderstanding of his position as a Vaiñëava. However, a Vaiñëava brähmaëa is not selected on the basis of his birth but according to his qualities. Unfortunately, those who are unintelligent do not know the difference between a brähmaëa and a Vaiñëava. They are under the impression that unless one is a brähmaëa he cannot be a spiritual master. For this reason only, Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu makes the statement in this verse: kibä vipra, kibä nyäsé, çüdra kene naya yei kåñëa-tattva-vettä, sei ‘guru’ haya Cc. Madhya 8.128 If one becomes a guru, he is automatically a brähmaëa. Sometimes a caste guru says that ye kåñëa-tattva-vettä, sei guru haya means that one who is not a brähmaëa may become a çikñä-guru or a vartma-pradarçakaguru but not an initiator guru. According to such caste gurus, birth and family ties are considered foremost. However, the hereditary consideration is not acceptable to Vaiñëavas. The word guru is equally applicable to the vartma-pradarçaka-guru, çikñä-guru and dékñä-guru. Unless we accept the principle enunciated by Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu, this Kåñëa consciousness movement cannot spread all over the world. According to Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu’s intentions, påthivéte äche yata nagarädigräma sarvatra pracära haibe mora näma. Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu’s cult must be preached all over the world. This does not mean that people should take to His teachings and remain çüdras or caëòälas. As soon as one is trained as a pure Vaiñëava, he must be accepted as a bona fide 121 but he employs everything for Krishna's service . but still I have nothing to close from the eyes of my disciples. (SPL to Jugalakishore Birla. How could she marry a young girl to Krishna? Is Krishna so play thing that He can be handled in such a way? This means she has no knowledge of Krishna. As soon as one deviates from this principle one is no longer a teacher . Lord Caitanya wanted that the message should be distributed in every village and town of the globe. but that is not a very important thing. She is simply a sentimental devotee.(SPL to Brahmananda.(SPL to Jaya Govinda. This is the essence of Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu’s instructions in this verse. We can not make any compromise with anyone for cheap popularity. they may contribute at least half of their income to Krishna. I beg to thank you for this. I am a bona fide teacher as long as I follow the instructions of my spiritual master. The Spiritual Master does not accept anything for his personal use. through the Spiritual Master. 29th October. 26th August. When a sentimental devotee takes the part of becoming representative of Krishna. 1969) Regarding my diary. I hope you will not misunderstand the position of the acarya who is so important a figure in the matter of learning the transcendental science. a brahmacari should contribute whatever he has got to Krishna. The acarya is the direct representative of the Personality of Godhead. that is a nice attitude. The only gift for the humanity at large.000 which you promised to send me within three weeks. she must have some trouble because she has done something which is nescience. 1969) Regarding your $2. Let us do this service as far as possible in all seriousness. 21st December. 22nd May. 15th May. Lord Caitanya was eulogized by Rupa Goswami as the latter understood that Lord Caitanya was there to distribute Krishna Consciousness. Then life is sublime. everyone of my disciples may become a teacher strictly following my instructions. My hearty thanks for you when you write to say that ``Krishna Consciousness is the full perfection of life''. Srila Rupa Goswami therefore said in his Bhakti-Rasamrita-Sindhu that devotion to Krishna without reference to authoritative scriptures is simply a disturbance.brähmaëa. After all. 1967) Regarding Mataji. That is the only one qualification for becoming a teacher. Therefore the Spiritual Master is accepted in the renounced order of life. 122 . 1967) Krishna was very kind to me when He sent you to me for cooperating.* Actually. So far as householders are concerned. there is simply havoc. 1958) Regarding the Teachings in the temple. you are right when you say that you would not see my personal belongings. How Krishna could be married with a young girl?(SPL to Gurudasa. and nobody can claim to become a bona fide acarya if he is not strictly following in the footprints of the previous acaryas authorized in the matter.(SPL to Nandarani. I think that my diary is now lying somewhere in New York. I have not added anything of my own interpretation . Like father. I am simply serving my spiritual master. 4th September. your preaching will have effect. but not all of them. 10th January. and the sooner we return whatever we have got to Krishna. So if you simply remain pure.(SPL to Caityaguru dasa. I have not done anything personally. and throughout my whole life I do not know what is illicit sex. 1970) Most of the Spiritual Masters are situated in Madhurya rasa. Up to now as I have got respectable situation. 16th May. 1971) It is a fact that by serving the spiritual master one becomes free from material life and makes spiritual advancement. I am simply trying to carry out the order of my Guru Maharaja. Samba and Joseph. I may give initiation very easily. Krsna dasa. 1976) 123 .(SPL to Tamala. 5th July. If I have done anything of credit it is that I have not changed their teachings. the better it is. That is our normal life. 1970) So far my qualifications are concerned. 1970) Although I had immense opportunities to indulge in the four principles of sinful life because I was connected with a very aristocratic family. 17th November. very wonderful. Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Goswami Maharaja and all the acaryas in the disciplic succession. Nityananda. 12th November. but what can I do? I am prepared to go to hell for service of Lord Caitanya. So far my present life is concerned.everything belongs to Krishna. I wish that all my disciples will have similar respectable position in society. (SPL to Rupanuga. Krsna always saved me.(SPL to Giriraja. meat-eating or gambling. 1974) So do everything conscientiously and my blessings are always with you. 1971) I am successful in my teaching work because I have not deviated one inch from my Spiritual Master's instruction. this is my only qualification. as I have repeatedly informed you that I am simply the bearer of the message from Lord Caitanya through the disciplic succession and I do not make any addition or subtraction. (SPL to Bhagavan dasa. I do not remember any part of my life when I was forgetful of Krsna. 21st June.(SPL to Jadurani. They are not my words.(SPL to Bhima dasa. 5th March.(SPL to Brhaspati dasa. However. 11th July. 1971) The spiritual master accepts the sinful activities of his disciples from the first initiation. don't create any awkward situation that may be criticized. intoxication. That will keep my name good. 1969) I also thank you very much for your appreciation of my books and letters and for my speaking in the meetings. Caesar's wife must be above criticism.(SPL to Nityananda. like son. Sanat Kumara. 1968) I thank you once more for your noble sentiments about me and I can simply say that for this nice attitude Krishna will certainly help you. Personally.My blessings are always with you as you have requested. everything goes to Him. Actually we are all 124 . So far your questions are concerned. and He has kindly sent you all boys to assist me. You may pray to Lord Nityananda to help you become dedicated in the service of your Guru.(SPL to Brahmananda. 1969) I thank you very much for your nice sentiments so expressed in this letter.(SPL to Brahmananda. So I am sure that my Guru Maharaja will be easily inclined to your prayers than that of mine. and I am simply to abide by His order . I am nonentity. Krsna consciousness cannot be achieved artificially. 19th December. You should always pray to His Divine Grace because naturally He will be more affectionate to you than to me.(SPL to Krsnadasa. Generally one is more affectionate to the grandchildren than to the children directly. but I am trying to act as faithful servant of my predecessors and just presenting without any adulteration the message which I have received from my Spiritual Master.(SPL to Prahladananda. I am fully aware of your sincere service and therefore I pray always to Krishna for your all-round welfare. 1968) It is all Krishna's Grace that He has sent such a nice assistants to me. but all the credit goes to my Spiritual Master. 14th March. You should approach Nityananda Prabhu through your Spiritual Master. 1st June. the Gurudeva is the incarnation of Nityananda. You are a very good devotee and servant of Krsna. there is no credit for me. mahat seva. Anyone strictly following the instruction of the Guru is following Nityananda. and Krsna is non-different from Nityananda. 24th October. Nityananda is the principle of the Guru. I have come here on the order of my Spiritual Master. 1968) I am just trying to disseminate this message of my Spiritual Master and if there's any credit for this service. The price one has to pay if he wants to become Krsna conscious is that he must dedicate himself to following the order of the spiritual master.(SPL to Makhanal dasa. You will do good always by offering your prayers to His Divine Grace Bhaktisiddhanta Goswami Maharaja. because He has arranged everything. So whatever is being done. If the Spiritual Master is pleased with disciple then the blessings of Guru will be there. for executing the mission of my Spiritual Master. 1976) A GURU GIVES ALL CREDIT TO HIS GURU Personally I have no credit for myself. That is the best way to become Krsna conscious. It is very encouraging to me. that I am not unreasonable--rather you have taken the responsibility on your part. 16th October. You have got a nice temple by the grace of my Spiritual Master. So. Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Goswami Prabhupada. it is due to His Divine Grace only. That is the way of disciplic succession. He sent to me some good souls like you unsolicited. 28th July. and I have asked my Guru Maharaja to just see how nicely these nice young boys and girls are taking to His Divine Mission. He is so kind upon me that when I came to your country. 10th March. By the mercy of the Spiritual Master. (SPL to Brahmananda. (SPL to Mukunda. So someway or other He is dragging me towards Krishna. In fact I am a worthless person because my Spiritual Master ordered me to take up this work in 1922 but I did not carry his order until 1958. Otherwise. This means although I was not very enthusiastic to carry out His order He forced me circumstantially to accept it. when I was obliged to carry out His order by His arrangement only. we are now together and with great enthusiasm and patience let us erect this mission of Krishna Consciousness. if there is any credit it goes to my Spiritual Master. the business which we have taken to work together is neither your business nor my business as far we are personally concerned. Practically there is no credit for me. Whatever is being done. Anyway.(SPL to Tamala Krsna. That is the only hope. I think that I am so sinful that I cannot even approach Krishna to show me any favor. 1969) This is very. and I am so much moved from your kind sentiments that you have expressed for my humble activities. Who is helping me by sending so many good souls like you in this movement . one gets into Krishna Consciousness. Actually I am not worthy of any one of the words spoken by you but all of them are due to my Spiritual Master Who was so kind to me. where I was completely unknown. Narada Muni is our original Spiritual Master and he has dragged so many fallen souls towards Krishna. So my business is just to carry out His order. Fortunately.(SPL to Dayananda. if we study our own qualifications. very encouraging.conditioned souls so our demand from Krishna to accept us is unreasonable. and by the mercy of Krishna. 1970) I beg to acknowledge receipt of your two letters dated January 5 and 8 1970 respectively. I think that is the only credit on our part that we happened to meet Him by some ``ajnata sukriti'' or unknown auspicious activities. Sri Caitanya Caritamrta says therefore: Guru Krishna. From my personal point of view. and we are also hoping to be dragged by Him through the disciplic succession. if you also follow the same principles then our combined effort to serve Lord Krishna will be surely successful. 1969) I am very much thankful for your nice appreciative letter of my activities in this country and my Krishna bless you for all the fine sentiments that you have by the grace of the Lord. there is none--rather I have got so many disqualifications. So I accept you all as assistants or representatives of my Guru Maharaja Who is still helping me because I am so feeble and unworthy. 26 th March. So this is His special mercy upon me and I always think about this with gratitude to this exalted personality coming directly from Vaikuntha World and we had the great fortune to meet Him. But I have only one hope--my Spiritual Master--He is very kind. 1969) The sentiments that you have expressed in your letter are all due to my Guru Maharaja who has deputed me to pick up all good souls like you in this part of the world. and as you have all come to help me. 12th January. but it is the business of Lord Caitanya and His bona fide servants like 125 . and our duty is to remind them--then everything will be alright. Yes. Actually I am the most unworthy servant of His Divine Grace because I delayed to execute His order by so many years. otherwise I cannot repay your sincere service in my mission. Maharaja. 1970) I thank you very much for your nice letter of appreciation. and because I am very much worthless. you are working so hard for broadcasting the glories of Lord Krishna's lotus feet and thus my Guru Maharaja will be so pleased upon you. 1970) I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated 3rd May. and by the Divine Will of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura we are now combined together. Krsna. but all the credit goes to my Guru Maharaja. He has been helping me in this matter by sending so many young boys and girls . I am so much obliged to you that you are all helping me in the discharge of my duties towards my Spiritual Master. but He is so kind that by force He engaged me in His service. This is the way of Krsna transaction. preach this cult all over the world and make the people happy. 22nd February. He asked me to take up this job as soon as I met Him in 1922 . and beg to thank you very much for your kind sentiments. 1970) You are doing so much for fulfilling the desire of my Spiritual Master so you are indirectly the representative of my Guru Maharaja. The kindly words that you have used in this connection are very much pleasing. In other words. Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Goswami Maharaja. Please therefore continue your good cooperation. and I am sure great things will happen without delay. and therefore He has kindly sent to me so many young hearts to cooperate with me in this great Movement.(SPL to Kirtanananda. and thus I tried to engage my tongue in repeating the same words without any change. So follow the path chalked out by our predecessors. After all.(SPL to Bali Mardan.(SPL to Candanacarya.B. But it was better I began late than never. with great enthusiasm. then all facilities will come for our help. otherwise who would help me in this mission while I came here empty handed and without any friend. 15th April. 6th May. unfortunately I was so worthless that I delayed the matter until 1965. unknown to one another. All Glories to the assembled devotees. we are the eternal servants of Krsna.N. therefore He has sent me so many of His nice representatives--the beautiful American boys and girls like you. I can only pray to Krsna to take care of you. and success is sure. although originally we are born in different parts of the world.(SPL to Los Angeles devotees. 1973) 126 . although I was so much reluctant to execute it. 12th March. 1970) My dear boys and girls.(SPL to Hayagriva. They are missing the central point. 1970. so let us. Certainly my Guru Maharaja will bestow His blessings thousand times more than me and that is my satisfaction. 14 th January. Every one should go with the Sankirtana Party as soon as possible. we shall just try to discharge our responsible duties faithfully and seriously. that is what you have written that I tried to give aural reception to the words of my Spiritual Master.my Guru Maharaja. if it is any credit for me. Therefore it is the duty of all of us to execute it as nicely as far as possible within our capacity. this is all due to the blessings of Srila Prabhupada. 15th November. That is very kind of you.(SPL to Ramesvara dasa.(SPL to Jahnava dasi. The report of the book printing is both encouraging and surprising. Caitanya Caritamrta. So I thank you very much that you are appreciating my Guru Maharaja who wanted to preach Krishna Consciousness all over the world. I am in due receipt of the package from Los Angeles containing the Vyasa Puja and the latest BBT newsletter and I have found both to be extremely pleasing. I am constructing so many marble temples and I am distributing so many books on Krsna consciousness. These American boys are helping me in this endeavor. ``O. 1976) Please accept my humble obeisances. 14th November. by his mercy a dumb man can speak and a lame man can cross a mountain. Whatever success there is is due to his mercy. In my last meeting with him in Radha Kunda he advised me to print some books if I get money. Sri Purusottama Matha. Srimad-Bhagavatam. etc. until they are admitted to the Jagannatha Puri temple I'm not inclined to go there. Every time I see this I remember the words of my Guru Maharaja when he told me that wherever there was money it should be used to print books. Vrndavana. not that we shall have big big temples and then fight in the court.'' It is all by his blessings. Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu. I shall do it. Puri. His Divine Grace wants some books. Mayapur. but in association with sun it has become accepted as great. Upadesamrta.'' So I accepted it.You have given me the credit of being the best disciple of Prabhupada. So I took it. but actually the moon is by nature dark and cold. He said that I have got so many temples and now in Calcutta I have got a marble temple. 1975) Please accept my blessings. I have no credit in this connection. Out of such proceeds I am bringing foreign exchange of not less than 10 lakhs per month for construction work in Bombay. So. this is the real position. 1976) 127 . but I would have wished that if by selling the marbles I could publish and distribute books. He said personally to me. You'll be surprised to know that these books and my magazine Back To Godhead are selling daily 5-6 lakhs of rupees in the foreign countries.(SPL to Shyama Sundarji.You have written so many nice things in praise of me but I think that my Guru Maharaja is great. He asked me to do this and I am trying my little bit.'' He predicted that there would be fire within these walls. I took it very seriously and by His grace we have now published my translations of Bhagavad-gita. It is all by his blessings for without his blessings this wonderful thing would not have happened. therefore. Just like the sun is great heat and light and by reflecting the greatness of the sun's light the moon in dead of night also appears great. ``If I could sell this Gaudiya Matha building. that was my Guru Maharaja's purpose. he is so great. 1973) This book distribution. I am not great he is great.(SPL to Ramesvara and Radhaballabha. Mukam karoti vacalam pangum langhayate girim. etc. that would have been better. but it is the mercy of my Guru Maharaja that he is giving me the facility for doing both. Now by the mercy of His Divine Grace Sri Srimad Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Gosvami Maharaja Prabhupada I am doing both by the co-operation of my American disciples. I am in due receipt of your letter dated 30/10/76 and have noted the contents. but I am just trying to serve him. This does not mean that I am excelling my Guru Maharaja. that's all. 14th August. to the extent of 84 books. So sometimes by association of the great one appears great. ``Yes. 1 st August. The mistake is that being addressed as boss or prabhu one thinks himself as exactly Prabhu or the boss. 18th January. I select so many masters to train them in the service of the Lord.80]. 16th December. I do not have any disciples. 1967) May Krishna give you more and more strength my dear child. If Subala das or anyone thinks that he has attained perfection he will be wrongly directed. I am servant of the servant of Krishna [Cc. Madhya 13. 28th November. 1967) Practically. I consider you all students as my Spiritual Master because your love for Krishna and service for Krishna teach me how to become a sincere Krishna Conscious person. This prabhu means boss. but we are not perfect. but on the whole. Sometimes misunderstanding may take place but it should be adjusted in a spirit of service attitude to the prabhu. Unfortunately if the spiritual master thinks that he has become the Supreme Lord then he is doomed. But Krishna informed me that I'm not going to die immediately. if it is approved by you. One should never forget __ be humble in dealings. I know that my presence is very urgently required. The spiritual master is offered respects as they are offered to the Supreme Lord. (SPL to Brahmananda. on behalf of Krishna I am accepting your sincere service. But Krishna is very great and magnanimous. I had very little hope to come back again. Your natural attraction for Krishna makes it show that in your previous birth you have cultured this science of Krishna Consciousness. One should not forget himself as humble servant even though one is addressed as prabhu . If everyone of us would conduct our business in that spirit of prabhu and servant then there is very little chance of being misunderstood. I have come back again to get inspiration of Krishna Consciousness from you all good souls. Thanking you once more. If everyone of us thinks of his fellow worker as boss there is no question of misunderstanding. (SPL to Jai Mazo. I have asked you all to address your Godbrothers as prabhu. 21st December. He can do everything for you and for us all. 1967) When I left your country on the 22nd of July. we can adjust things in any kind of place.THE HUMILITY OF A SPIRITUAL MASTER I am very sorry that Subala das has assumed such air of importance. 1968) Regarding apartments: we are Indians. I am very poor but Krishna is very rich. Of course.(SPL to Jadurani. We should always remember that we are on the path of perfection. But I shall stay in any place hell or heaven. Although officially I am your Spiritual Master. I can simply pray to Krishna. Therefore I may be in designation your Spiritual 128 .(SPL to Nandarani. therefore. A bona fide spiritual master always think of himself as the servant of the Lord. especially mendicant. 10 th December. 1968) You are good for everything but your attitude to remain good for nothing is very nice.(SPL to Brahmananda. he takes no time to become angry or take offense with others or find out some fault. 15th February. 14th June. A Vaisnava is always humble and meek and he is never puffed even he has got the highest qualities of demigods. 1968) Today they will observe Vyasa Puja ceremony (my Birthday Anniversary).(SPL to Himavati. (SPL to Upendra. I hope the remaining days of my life may be utilized to serve you all Western devotees of Krishna. sublime and easy to perform.Master. There is nothing of my personal contribution and I ask all your mercy so that I may be able to distribute Krishna's message as it is without any deviation. So I am always appreciating you and your good wife.(SPL to Hamsaduta. Devotee means very liberal and kind to everyone. 24th February. 14th June. 1972) COMPASSION OF A SPIRITUAL MASTER I am always thinking of you and praying to Krsna to help you and give you more and more advancement in Krsna consciousness. no . and because he is so much absorbed in serving Krishna. (SPL to Himavati. That will make Krishna. 1970) Devotee means he is able to tolerate all kinds of discomfort and whims of the material nature. and because you are all sincere servants of Krishna. and others like me to stay. May Krishna shower you with His all blessings. and all others eternally happy .(SPL to Guru dasa. Please pray to Krishna that he may give me the necessary strength to discharge the duty entrusted by my Spiritual Master. Rayarama. It is so nice. Himavati. unidentified. 18th August.(SPL. So now you have practically become inseparable from Germany temples. 19th April. I shall be glad to stay wherever yourself. myself. but actually I am servant of the servant of Krishna. always gentleman under all kinds of conditions of life. 1968) I am very much obliged to you for expressing your good sentiments on account of my humble service to you all. and you have introduced this strict brahminical standard in those countries and it is coming out successful. I am your servant. 1968) 129 . I will be stepping on the 73rd year. so from this day. 1968) It is my duty to help you always in the matter of understanding Krishna Consciousness and whatever I am trying to bestow upon you all is the gift of Lord Krishna directly--I am just doing the work of a bearer. Your appreciation of my humble service is thankfully accepted. for your kindly helping me in this way. You are always welcome to write me directly. and whom I initiate and accept as my disciple. (SPL to Satsvarupa. I may inform you that I always think of him and pray to Krishna for his good sense. it is like kicking of the small child. 1969) I have already replied Jadurani's letter. I must pray for him and his welfare always. offenses. 16th February.Regarding Kirtanananda's letter. and even though she might have done so. 4th May. how can they be saved? (SPL to Bhavatarini. so all these so called offenses are readily excused by me. So she has nothing to bother about it. That is my duty. So long as one follows the principles. 23rd May. 1971) The only concern of the devotees is that so many rascals are suffering in the concocted civilization of illusory sense enjoyment. no offenses. Krishna will give you all protection(SPL to Upendra. It does not matter where it is situated. 1970) Even if you think you have committee. 1968) And I am glad to learn that you are feeling somewhat healthier (SPL to Jadurani. offenses. 1968) I am always thinking of you. 19th March. 1969) My Guru Maharaja wanted me to come here and to pick up as many of you as is possible. which is taken pleasingly by the parents. they are all excused. So don't worry about it.(SPL to Ranadhira. he can remain separately. 7th November. 1975) 130 . Regarding her offenses.(SPL to Kirtanananda. he continues to be my disciple.(SPL to Jaya Gopala. 16th March.(SPL to Janardana. 1971) And you have committee. but it does not mean that he may disobey the principles that I have laid down. Just like the mother who does not take the kicking of her child very seriously. without any hesitation. But it is my duty to see to their comforts as far as possible. So please let me know if such house is available. 26th April. 11th January.(SPL to Sriman Radharamana Sharanji. 1974) Even if somebody does not go in one line with the rest of the godbrothers. 21st April. And I am trying my best. 1970) My students are so nicely trained that they can even lie down on the street. Even if there were some. Anyone who comes to me for my help or wants advance in Krishna Consciousness. I do not remember when she committee. 25th June. I excuse her 100 times. Sometimes I silently cried and prayed to Krishna that how I have lost this child. (SPL to Madhudvusa Swami. TRANSLATION A foolish person who manufactures his own ways and means through mental speculation and does not recognize the authority of the sages who lay down unimpeachable directions is simply unsuccessful again and again in his attempts.B. This Kåñëa consciousness movement directly receives instructions from the Supreme Personality of Godhead via persons who are strictly following His instructions. tasya—his. his actions are naturally liberated from the contamination of the material nature. avidvän—rascal. Lord Caitanya therefore says: “By My order you may become a spiritual master. A conditioned soul is hampered by four defects: he is sure to commit mistakes. arthän—schemes.4. ärabdhäù— attempted. and his senses are imperfect. if he follows the supreme. 22nd January. Although a follower may not be a liberated person. Presently people are so fallen that they cannot distinguish between a liberated soul and a conditioned soul. 131 . liberated Personality of Godhead. (SPL to Jayatirtha. humanity is completely bewildered.18. he is sure to become illusioned. svayam—personally. Materialistic men are not interested in taking directions from a liberated person. PURPORT At the present moment it has become fashionable to disobey the unimpeachable directions given by the äcäryas and liberated souls of the past.5 tän anädåtya yo ’vidvän arthän ärabhate svayam tasya vyabhicaranty arthä ärabdhäç ca punaù punaù SYNONYMS tän—those. ärabhate—begins. ca—and. yaù—anyone who. Because the entire world is now following the imperfect directions of conditioned souls.” One can immediately become a spiritual master by having full faith in the transcendental words of the Supreme Personality of Godhead and by following His instructions. arthäù—purposes. he has a tendency to cheat others.You cannot survive without my mercy and I cannot survive without your mercy. It is reciprocal. This mutual dependence is based on love--Krishna Consciousness. Consequently we have to take direction from liberated persons. vyabhicaranti—do not become successful. anädåtya—neglecting. which make them repeatedly fail in their attempts. but they are very much interested in their own concocted ideas. punaù punaù—again and again. 1976) QUALIFICATIONS FOR BECOMING A GURU S. The gurus from nature's study are accepted as such on the principle that an elevated person in Krishna Consciousness does not accept anyone as disciple. and on. this Guru parampara system is working. One who is submissive and ready to give aural reception of the transcendental message.(SPL to Janardana. and you will become a spiritual 132 . similarly I have heard it from my Guru Maharaja. but there are persons who are less qualified or not liberated. 6th March. you are receiving it from me . 1968) The science of Krishna Consciousness is transcendental science which is never understood by materialistic persons. simply talk of Krishna Consciousness. but he accepts everyone as expansion of his guru. 1968) A person who is liberated acharya and guru cannot commit any mistake. 17th June. to him only the transcendence becomes revealed. sometimes thinks a subordinate of hers as her teacher. and he is fixed. but anyone who follows the principles of such ever liberated persons is as good as one in the above mentioned group. It is the injunction of the sastras that anyone who sees the Deity in the Temple as made of wood or stone. Therefore. (SPL to Sacisuta. called Maha-bhagavata. 1968) The statements of Thakura Bhaktivinode are as good as scriptures because he is liberated person. to understand devotion of Krishna. but still can act as guru and acharya by strictly following the disciplic succession. That is the verdict of Srimad-Bhagavatam and blessings of Lord Caitanya. 26th April. it is effective. similarly. My disciples are my agents. and so on. And because you are a sincere soul. can go anywhere and turn the place into a sacred pilgrimage. the Vedas order is that one must approach a spiritual master to understand that transcendental science. 26th April. Your question about Bon Maharaja in relation with his disciple is very intelligent and intricate.Yes. therefore it is transmitted from you to another. are called hellish. Because you have heard it from a pure devotee of the Lord. from Lord Caitanya and from Lord Krishna. whoever you tell the chant to. It is never understood by any challenging spirit. Lord Caitanya gave a plain order that anywhere we go. constantly. That is very high position. and the result is that a spiritual master is completely convinced of the existence of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. 1968) Yes. Just as an aerial message. Just like Radharani. Anyone who carries Krishna within himself. and discriminates Vaisnavas or devotees as belonging to a certain group or caste. Buffalo will certainly gradually grow to a nice center. or considers the acaryas and gurus as ordinary common men.(SPL to Andrea Temple. your good self can make any place a sacred place of pilgrimage because you always carry within your heart Lord Krishna. Generally the spiritual master comes from the group of such eternal associates of the Lord. You have heard it from me and my disciples. In other words. because there is a sincere devotee like you. So that is the real truth. And the qualification of a spiritual master is that he has to have received the knowledge similarly from a bona fide spiritual master. When Vidura met Maharaja Yudhisthira received him by saying that. is transmitted from one place to another. those who are hearing the Mantra from you are receiving it in disciplic succession.(SPL to Janardana. this science is appreciated by service attitude only. That is the qualification of the spiritual master. my representatives. so by hearing it from them. and we shall discuss at long when we meet. and the devotee? The answer is that Krishna is the source of all energies of the spiritual and material creations. so that the family transcendental diploma will continue through the generations. if we simply do this work very sincerely. That is my program. This process is called parampara.(SPL to Prahladananda. Maybe by 1975.master. and as there are many cheap gurus and cheap disciples. everything goes to Him. So. the living entity gradually comes to remember that I am not part of this miserable material world. 1968) I am training you all to become future Spiritual Masters. All living entities are the servants of Krishna. (SPL to Acyutanandana and Jaya Govinda. If you immediately become Guru.(SPL to Rupanuga. there is simply havoc.(SPL to Hamsaduta. Those possessing the title of Bhaktivedanta will be allowed to initiate disciples. servant of Krishna. and all spiritual progress choked up. and manufacturing new sampradayas. This message of Krishna Consciousness is coming down from Krishna Himself. 1968) I am just trying to disseminate this message of my Spiritual Master and if there's any credit for this service. what is the difference in full between the Spiritual Master. 15th May. and the Spiritual Master is the transparent via media for leading the conditioned souls back to home. and my only business is to give pleasure to the Lord in pure Krishna Consciousness. 1968) I want that all of my spiritual sons and daughters will inherit this title of Bhaktivedanta. In this way . 1969) Regarding your first question. and we are all servants of the Supreme Lord working under the consecutive disciplic succession.(SPL to Gurudasa. 3rd December. and the life of those who will hear us. back to Godhead. without any substantial knowledge. The role of the bona fide Spiritual Master is to lead the conditioned souls out of forgetfulness and back into pure consciousness of serving the Lord in transcendental loving service. Go on steadfastly to render service first. but I too am the eternal servant of Krishna. and he is forgetting that he is spirit soul. 14th March 1969) When a sentimental devotee takes the part of becoming representative of Krishna. Krishna. 3rd July.(SPL to Vilasa dasa. Don't be allured by cheap disciples. but the living entities who have fallen into this conditioned life are forgetful of their eternal relationship with the Lord. Then by the association and instructions of the purified servants of Krishna. or the line of disciplic succession. the devotee is the part and parcel servant of Krishna. In material consciousness one is identifying himself with his particular body. but do not be in a hurry . 1969) 133 . such devotee becomes himself eligible to lead other back to the path of devotional service and thus he too may become a Spiritual Master. will be benedicted. then the service activities will be stopped . and with service activities stopped. our life. 21st August. all of my disciples will be allowed to initiate and increase the numbers of the generations. 16th June. Please try to understand our philosophy through various books that I have already published and sometimes after you will have to carry out this order of disciplic succession. Swami Brahmananda may write me and I will instruct him. but it is the etiquette that in the presence of one's Spiritual Master. 1969) So far as your taking initiation from Brahmananda Maharaja. But in my opinion he is the best of the lot. he left this world earlier. can only a few pure devotees deliver others. Siddhasvarupa does not want to take disciples.So far as initiating disciples is concerned. he can become spiritual master. Still he requested his disciples to form a strong Governing body for preaching the cult of Caitanya Mahaprabhu. He never recommended anyone to be acarya of the Gaudiya Math. He is my old friend. 1972) As for your next question. They have no idea or brain how to broadcast the cult of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. Srila Bhaktivinode Thakura was householder and Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati was staunch brahmacari. I do not wish to discuss about activities of my Godbrothers but it is a fact they have no life for preaching work. 2nd November. yet they both were qualified for initiating disciples. I have never said that Siddhasvarupa is a pure devotee. 14th December. Give them all facility to perfect their lives by protecting them and instructing them nicely. For example. 1971) I am very glad to accept them as my initiated students. 24th March. In this connection. like blind men leading the blind. and I have given their spiritual names as Ganga Narayana das and Jaga Mohini dasi respectively. Now you must guide them very nicely in Krishna Consciousness.) That is simply concoction.(SPL to Karandhara.(But everyone can become a pure devotee if he has no other desire than to serve Krsna and the spiritual master. they engage disciples to get foodstuff by transcendental devices and eat and sleep. My Guru Maharaja used to lament many times for this reason and he thought if one man at least had understood the principle of preaching then his mission would achieve success. if he is a pure devotee he can deliver others. otherwise he would have continued to live for more years. 1972) You are right about Sridhara Maharaja's genuineness. at least he executes the regulative principles of devotional service. 15th September. Because on the night before he passed away he talked of 134 . In the latter days of my Guru Maharaja he was very disgusted. neither he should have disciples while I am alive. anyone. But unless he on that platform he should not attempt it. (SPL to Krsna devi. All are satisfied with a place for residence in the name of a temple.(SPL to Tusta Krsna. 3rd December) Regarding Siddhasvarupananda. Actually. because you are a veteran devotee and practically speaking the future of our Krishna Conscious Society rests in the hands of my older disciples. anyone who is qualified can do this. That is the process . I have no objection. that is now the duty of my senior disciples. Now I am going to India in few weeks and I shall stop at Hawaii and take Siddhasvarupananda to India for training him up properly. (SPL to Jhon Milner. If Guru Maharaja could have seen someone who was qualified at that time to be acarya he would have mentioned.(SPL to Sudevi dasi. one does not accept disciples. these things which you have heard are simply rumor and there is no substance. and he and others who are already dead unnecessarily thought that there must be one acarya. But Sridhara Maharaja is responsible for disobeying this order of Guru Maharaja. Then both of them will to go to hell. In this way everyone is expected to become guru. We are getting perfect knowledge from krishna through the disciplic succession. 2nd December. The result is now everyone is claiming to be acarya even though they may be kanistha adhikari with no ability to preach. and in his absence or disappearance you can accept disciples without any limitation. His idea was acarya was not to be nominated amongst the governing body. He only thinks himself as the servant of the servant of the servant: gopi bhrtya pada-kamalayo das dasanudasa [Cc. But of course a guru never thinks himself as being God. (SPL to Tusta Krsna Swami. Of course it is proper to offer obeisances to a Vaisnava. Whatever we hear from the bona fide spiritual master should be practiced in life and the same message 135 . 23rd November. 1975) Every student is expected to become Acarya. But as a matter of etiquette it is the custom that during the lifetime of your Spiritual master you bring the prospective disciples to him. so our position is very firm. it will come to that stage. and Mrs. Therefore we may not commit the same mistake in our ISKCON camp.(SPL to Hamsaduta. Keep trained up very rigidly and then you are bona fide Guru. Otherwise it will create factions.(SPL to Mr. 28th April. the Supreme Personality of Godhead. This is the law of disciplic succession. I want to see my disciples become bona fide Spiritual Master and spread Krishna consciousness very widely. So those who simply repeat His words. and teaches them to his disciples. 1974) So I am very pleased to hear this and I thank you for your service in helping to push on this mission of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. Si I am very very happy to receive all this news. but now wait. they also become guru. 1st October. Bhatia.so many things. Thank you very very much. Acarya means one who knows the scriptural injunctions and follows them practically in life. But how to be a guru? It is said that one simply has to repeat the instructions that Krsna has given. Actually amongst my Godbrothers no one is qualified to become acarya. Our mission is that especially those who have taken their birth in India that it is their responsibility to become perfect in the science of Krsna Consciousness and to deliver everyone in the world.(SPL to Tusta Krsna Swami. In some of the camps the acarya is being changed three times a year. that will make me and Krishna very happy. 1975) I am very glad to inform you that Sudama Vipra Maharaja is also now following my principles. but not in the presence of the spiritual master. but never mentioned an acarya. If he repeats without adding or subtracting anything. and you can accept disciples on the same principle.(SPL to Rupanuga. 1975) We do not have to manufacture anything new. 1974) I have heard that there is some worship of yourself by the other devotees. He said openly you make a GBC and conduct the mission.80]. So his idea was amongst the members of GBC who would come out successful and self effulgent acarya would be automatically selected. Actually there is only one guru--Krsna. After the departure of the spiritual master. Madhya 13. 2nd December. then he is qualified as guru. So Sridhara Maharaja and his two associate gentlemen unauthorizedly selected one acarya and later it proved a failure. 20th August. So far the Bhagavad-gita is concerned every one. He told me that having a following is not such a serious offense. it is not harmfull. he said that one has to be strictly following the principles. 1975) It is not very difficult. I questioned him further. saying it is all right.1. (SPL to Jayadharma dasa. I questioned Srila Prabhupada again on the criticism that Siddha Svarupa ´s men are more attached to him than to Prabhupada. and then repeat the same message without any change.D. (SPL to Kirtiraja dasa.'' So continue your present aptitude and you will be successful in your spiritual progress. In this way you become spiritual master. But if someone thinks that he is qualified. After lunch. let him be a very great scholar in the mundane sense. that in itself would be his disqualification. 1958) The secret of success in the matter of Krishna Consciousness is devotion to the Lord and the Spiritual Master. Still you will be able to execute all spiritual duties in the matter of 136 . 26th August. one should wait until his own spiritual master has departed before doing so. and accepts disciples in the presence of his own spiritual master. That is the crucial point of testing an Acarya false or real Sri Arjuna is the first man to understand Geeta and the mode of his understanding is clearly defined in the Bhagavad-gita. 1976) 8th March. the secret of success is described as follows: yasya deve para bhakti yatha deve tatha gurau yasya ete kathotha hi artha prakasyanta mahatmanah ``Anyone who has developed unflinching faith in the Lord and the Spiritual Master can understand the revealed scripture unfold before him. I am sure that even if I am not physically present before you. Prabhupada shrugged it off.423-424) ACCEPTANCE OF A SPIRITUAL MASTER The whole thing has been disturbed in the set of Sanatana Dharma only by violating this principle of following the Acarya. Then he can be considered to be on a pure platform. 1976 After they had gone.Our determination is to preach the Bhagavad-gita strictly on that parampara system as it is recommended in the Bhagavad-gita . 31st December.(SPL to Jugalkisora Birla.(P. So there is no difficulty in testing an Acarya whether he is false or bona fide. In the Vedas. But as a matter of etiquette. Replying to my question whether one has to be a pure devotee to make disciples. simply one has to hear from the perfect authority who is in disciplic succession from Krsna Himself. If one does this then he is qualified to become guru. That is requirement.. He said that each of us has become a guru and accept many disciples.delivered to whomever we meet. must be in confirmed position along with the mode of understanding of Sri Arjuna. The process of speculation without approaching the bona fide spiritual master is simply a waste of time. They must be served simultaneously. The Spiritual Master and Krishna are like these two tracks. 29th September. they must be served simultaneously. though he was Krishna Himself [Cc. If one does not get bona fide Spiritual Master. then how he can ever understand Krishna? You cannot serve Krishna without Spiritual Master. Therefore. The train. Lord Caitanya affirms this principle. His great disciple to initiate Dhruva in the matter of Krishna Consciousness. therefore your picking up of the process of acquiring spiritual knowledge from Bhagavad-gita is very nice. 1967) I have come here last Saturday the 6th of January.(SPL to Umapati. Krishna Consciousness is a parallel process in worshiping the Supreme Personality of Godhead & the Spiritual master simultaneously. I thank you very much for your acceptance of my guidance. It is so intimately connected. Our line of action is simultaneous service to the Spiritual Master and Krishna. when he says that a fortunate living being while wandering in different species of life gets the chance of meeting a bona fide spiritual master by the causeless mercy of Krishna. is the only means to attain spiritual knowledge. Lord Caitanya desired the same thing in order to set an example. The Lord Narayana in heaven or in the heart of Dhruva understood the sincerity of Dhruva's purpose & sent Narada.(SPL to Mahapurusa. Krishna is Absolute and we are all under His guidance but the bona fide Spiritual Master is accepted as guidance because he is transparent via media between Krishna and the devotee. The Spiritual Master and Krishna are two parallel lines.(SPL to Aatie. one is already replied and the other is pending. From your letter I can guess a first hand knowledge of Kirtanananda and Hayagriva. This Dhruva understood from his mother when he was only five.Krishna Consciousness. I am very poor and therefore I can pray only to Krishna for your guidance. 1967) I was very glad to learn that you are following our four principle rules. This incident confirms that by the grace of Krishna. 12th February. The devotee has no access to Krishna without the via media. In the Vedic literature there is a nice story about Dhruva.80]. Dhruva was able to get the help of Narada as his spiritual master. 14th January. Madhya 13. You have to make your progress on these two parallel lines. 1968) 137 . 1968) To stick to the principles advised by the Spiritual Master and serve Krishna under the direction of the Spiritual Master is the only hope of our advancing in Krishna Consciousness. on two tracks. 28th October. I thank you once more for your service. if you follow the above principles. you cannot avoid one in preference of the other. Dhruva went to the forest in search of God. In the Caitanya Caritamrta. Your desire to become the servant of the servant of Krishna is very pious. that God can be found in person in the forest. nobody can have the association of a bona fide Spiritual Master and nobody can have the mercy of Krishna without being favored by the Spiritual Master. In the Bhagavad-gita it is said that one should ``prostrate oneself at the feet of the wise. I am feeling well here because the climate is warmer. and bona fide Spiritual Master helps one to understand Krishna. Without being favored by Krishna. In the meantime I have received two letters from Hayagriva. moves forward. The Bhagavad-gita confirms this. My guidance means Krishna's guidance. or serve just Spiritual Master without serving Krishna. Krishna helps one to find bona fide Spiritual Master.(SPL to Subala. rendering him all forms of service & question him with a guileless heart again & again''. Krishna is the original Spiritual Master known as Caitya Guru and He manifests Himself as the Instructor Spiritual Master. It is very good sign. Yes. and I shall try my best to help you. But to act for Krishna is the cause for opening the door for liberation. So. I am therefore requesting you to come here at least for a fortnight. So. Try to continue this attitude. and you have no cause for hesitation.(SPL to Jayapataka. 1968) Therefore there is no possibility of receiving perfect knowledge without approaching a self-realized Spiritual Master coming down in disciplic succession. I shall be very glad to accept an educated and intelligent disciple like you. 21st January. or I can accept you as my disciple. but the process of putting questions is service and submission--that is the injunction in Bhagavad-gita. 17th November. but first of all we must meet and you should know whether you can accept me as your Spiritual Master. By the Mercy of Krishna we come in contact with a bona fide Spiritual Master and by the Mercy of a bona fide Spiritual Master we can approach Krishna. In the Caitanya Caritamrta it is said that one is successful in Krishna consciousness by the combined Mercy of the Spiritual Master and Krishna. though I can understand Hindi fairly well. script. you can remain here with us in the temple here. that is the secret of success. (SPL to Sriman Kenneth. My life is dedicated for this purpose. say. So this principle of following Krishna and Guru simultaneously is the secret of success. This is preliminary necessity. you are welcome to put it before me. (SPL to Sriman Anil Grover. The mental speculator. no matter how advanced he may be. such tendency is the cause of material bondage. at least for a fortnight.(SPL to Vinode Patel. cannot deliver us the right knowledge. I think it is better if you reply me this letter in English. and let us understand one another. 1970) 138 . people are inclined to do business or make profit for sense gratification.Generally. 1970) So the first step is that one should consider carefully whether here is a bona fide Spiritual Master to whom I can surrender myself without any hesitation. (SPL to Janaki. I shall not try to implicate you in business if you are not ready to award the profit for Krishna's benefit. because I find it difficult in reading Gujarati. 1970) I am so glad to learn that you are an educated boy and coming to our Temple and trying to understand our Krishna Consciousness philosophy very seriously. 6th July. 5th February. Questions should be put before a person to whom you can submit yourself and to whom you can render some service also--that is the way of self-realization. and whenever there is some question. and talk with me in details before you become my disciple. 28th February. Actually. and if you follow this policy in the chain of disciplic succession than there is no doubt about your final achievement. both of Them are cause and effect of either of Them. 1969) I am glad to learn that you are realizing about Krishna's providing us with more and more facilities and that you are appreciating for my following purely the instructions of my Spiritual Master. The best thing will be that if you can come here for some days. and there is every chance that one will fall prey to all sorts of material desires and have to come back again in the next life--and one cannot guarantee that he will be born in the form of life he may desire. 1971) I am very glad to hear you are following my instructions by chanting 16 rounds daily. You have asked ``How serious would it be for me if I should miss the golden opportunity to become your initiated disciple?'' You should know that the value of accepting a bona fide spiritual master is more than we can calculate. We cannot manufacture our own process. or one who has the mercy of the spiritual master. 1975) I am in due receipt of your Vyasa Puja offering dated August 22. So we have to examine whether the person who is presenting himself as our guru is actually in knowledge of the science of Krsna or whether he is leading us away from Krsna. 7th November. I thank you very much for your sentiments. 12th February. The Lord is the original spiritual master. (SPL to Trista Hibbarth. therefore mental speculation does not at all help us in spiritual life. ass. In order to chant offenselessly. (SPL to Sriji devi dasi. and a person in the disciplic succession can convey the message of the Lord as it is to his sincere disciple. 1974) 139 . or leading us to hell in the name of yoga mysticism.(SPL to Ravendra Gupta. but until one gives up sinful activities and becomes determined to serve Krishna through His representative then the firm fixing up of devotional service will not take hold. and in fact according to Lord Krsna. rascal). Just like the sun is shining equally everywhere. In this connection. Of course everyone is encouraged to chant Hare Krishna. 30th March.Actually the mercy of the bona fide spiritual master is there equally for everyone. It is not a mere formality. so that the chanting will have the greatest effect. the chanting of Hare Krsna is very efficacious because it develops personal relationship with the Personality of Godhead and cleans the heart of sinful reactions.( SPL to Gurukrpa.I am so glad to accept you as my initiated disciple. Satisfaction of the spiritual master is the secret of advancement in spiritual life. he is a fool. ( the word that Krsna uses is mudha. 1974) One who teaches other conclusion from that of the Bhagavat. one must avoid the four sinful activities. yet there are those who refuse to come out completely into the light.gita and the succession of acaryas is certainly not a guru. 1974. Your spiritual name is Gurukrpa. received just now and I am very glad to receive it. 3rd May. better late than never. Please go on reading our literatures and pray to Krsna to give you the right direction from within how to approach a bonafide spiritual master for advancing in spiritual life. One simply has to surrender himself to his guru and everything will be revealed to him. (SPL to Satadari devi dasi. It is only that I can call Spiritual Master someone who is teaching me purely what my initiating Spiritual Master has taught. It requires teaching. there is no harm. 1974) 140 . Paramahamsa. anyone who can give instructing in spiritual life is treated as Spiritual Master. there is no harm. these two things must be there simultaneously. If you like to take instruction from Madhukanta. one who teaches can be treated as Spiritual Master. whether Madhukanta or anyone else. initiator and instructor. 30th April. Thakura Bhaktivinode was not official Spiritual Master of Gaura Kisora dasa Babaji Maharaja. Gaura Kisora dasa Babaji Maharaja was already renounced order. higher than me. They cannot be separated but must go together as parallel lines. but Thakura Bhaktivinode. 24th January. and if you are unable to understand any portion of the books. 1st May.(SPL to Dayananda. 1969) So far as your second question. and in this sense. means the beginning of spiritual realization. Any senior devotee can be an instructor in spiritual subject matters. So every disciple must make his own spiritual progress positively and help others to do so. So officially Bhaktivinode Thakura was like siksa guru of Gaura Kisora das Babaji Maharaja. if I learn from him. 1971) To answer your last point. or initiation. while He was even playing the part of a householder. master. Do you get the sense?(SPL to Galim dasa. None of us have perfect desires but we are trying to be perfect and teach others to be perfect as far as possible. just as you have only one father. But every Vaisnava should be treated as prabhu. diksa. There are two kinds of Spiritual Master.(SPL to Nayanabhirama. You take instruction from my books. who initiates you. then you can get it explained by any senior devotee. and thus He was always treating Him as His Spiritual Master.(SPL to Himavati. was treated by Gaura Kisora dasa Babaji Maharaja as Preceptor. 20th November. No. you have only one Spiritual Master. That is wrong. It is not that I disobey my real Spiritual Master and call someone else as Spiritual Master. on account of His highly elevated spiritual understanding. 1971) Yes. Siksa means learning. siksa guru and diksa guru. Actually. he may be regarded as guru. all senior godbrothers may be treated as guru. So if we take instruction from them. It is not that after we become initiated we become perfect. 1969) Cleansing oneself as well as teaching others to be clean. 7th July.SIKSA GURU Regarding your question about the husband becoming the Spiritual Master of the wife. namely. a shiksa guru is anyone who can give spiritual advancement. Siksa and diksa. The Spiritual Master is divided into two parts. So the husband can help the wife as instructor. I have already written to Jayananda. 1968) In answer to your question about the importance of initiation. please go on with this business sincerely and Krishna willing. it is to be understood that initiation means that power is coming from the Supreme by the bona fide disciplic succession. and you should be the instructor guru by teaching what I am teaching and doing what I am doing. then he will leave. The chanting Hare Krishna is our main business. for example. and gradually by doing so he may want to be initiated. in that matter. that is real initiation. enjoy chanting Hare Krishna. so why you should be feeling any difficulty? (SPL to Satyabhama dasi and Paramananda dasa. of course that ceremony has value because the name. Holy Name. but he is not equal with the regular students. This is not a title. One who is initiated is authorized. Has somebody else been elected? This is the function of the GBC. I don't think he is saying anything against our principles. There is no harm in going through Kirtanananda.(SPL to Satsvarupa.If Kirtanananda Maharaja speaks what I speak. The GBC should all be the instructor gurus. 1968) Yes. if one does not follow the regulative principles. One who becomes initiated is channelized to the authorities in the disciplic succession. but in spite of that. but because there are some other program. But. it has got value. 19th August. that is a fact. that the President has left. then he can be taken a siksa guru. That is a fact. This I want. Pradyumna is attending class in Sanskrit in a college. 141 . immediately. And as you are all following my instruction. 1975) CONNECTION BEFORE FORMAL INITIATION About my coming to San Francisco. But otherwise he may fall away from following the rules and regulations.(SPL to Madhudvisa Svami. Kirtanananda Swami may be taken a sadhu not spiritual master. I have already written to Jayananda about this. but you must actually come to this platform. will be delivered to the student from the disciplic succession. or as instructor guru.(SPL to Tamala Krsna. he is given chance to learn Sanskrit. Now the next initiation will be performed as a ceremony officially . why you cannot know me? I have no objection to your taking Kirtanananda's instruction. and you are also a disciple. 20th July. 14th November. Just like. Pray to Krishna that I may meet you very soon. One who isn't initiated may chant Hare Krishna (and should certainly be encouraged to do so) and serve in his own way. so what is the wrong?You have written that the devotees here say that you cannot know me.You are both old disciples. so please ask all the devotees on my behalf to wait and in the meantime. but only Kirtanananda Maharaja can know me. so don't be impatient. Guru sastra sadhu. I am in the initiator guru. as you are going on chanting. 4th August. The spiritual master is one. 1974) Regarding Sydney. if Kirtanananda is a disciple and he can know me. the initiator is already there. there is definitely a vast difference between initiated and non-initiated. I may be coming to you very soon. I am always hankering after going there. and one who is not initiated is not authorized . to see that one may not be taken away by maya. Although you are not formally initiated. Out of many. Arjuna was a disciple of Krishna and Brahma was also a disciple of Krishna. and it is not possible to list all such relationships in the short description given in Bhagavad-gita As It Is. So in one line of disciples we may not see another name coming from a different line. ``Now I submit unto You. being students of Krishna. therefore we are in the disciplic succession of Arjuna. but our Gurudeva is a representative of Vyasadeva. things equal to one another are equal to each other. Disciplic succession means to accept the disciplic conclusion. Another example is that a tree has many branches. This is essential. Another point is that disciplic succession does not mean one has to be directly a disciple of a particular person. 25th January. you will see that the taste is the same. We are not exactly directly from Vyasadeva. Because Vyasadeva and Arjuna are of equal status. Krishna can understand from within the sincerity of purpose of a particular living entity. So there is connection in this way.(SPL to Dinesh. 1969) There are innumerable living entities wandering within the universe in different forms of life and conditions in different planetary systems. The conclusions which we have tried to explain in our Bhagavad-gita As It Is is the same as those conclusions of Arjuna. only one will come into contact with a bona fide Spiritual Master by the Grace of Krishna. Thus there is no disagreement between the conclusions of Brahma and Arjuna. 1969) Regarding the disciplic succession coming from Arjuna. So there is no difference of opinion of understanding Krishna between ourselves and Arjuna. But this does not mean that person whose name does not appear was not in the disciplic succession. you have associated with our devotees in the New York temple. and you will find one leaf here and another leaf there. 31st October. This is an axiomatic truth. and it has acted. Arjuna and Krishna were friends but still Arjuna submitted himself formally as Krishna's disciple. for anyone to hear the message of Srimad-Bhagavatam will produce a favorable result but formally one should receive this knowledge from the disciplic succession. Narada was the Spiritual Master of Vyasadeva. 1968) Regarding your question about the disciplic succession coming down from Arjuna. and from the taste you can understand that both leaves are from the same tree. and Arjuna was Vyasadeva's disciple. I hope this will clear up your question sufficiently. 23rd November. Things equal to the same thing are equal to one another. Things equal to the same thing are equal to one another.'' So this is the process. The seed is already there in you and it has to be helped to grow and fructify. Of course. But if you take this leaf and the other leaf and you press them both.This is required. Vyasadeva is in the disciplic succession of Brahma. For example.(SPL to John Darsinos. Arjuna accepted Krishna as the Supreme Personality of Godhead. We should take example from these great Personalities. it is just like I have got my disciples. Arjuna was hearing Krishna speaking Bhagavad-gita but still he submitted as Krishna's disciple. So according to the axiomatic truth. The taste is the conclusion. and we also accept the same truth under the disciplic succession of Caitanya Mahaprabhu. Please do not miss the opportunity . disciplic succession does not always mean that one has to be initiated officially. so in the future these many disciples may have many branches of disciplic succession.(SPL to Kirtanananda. please teach me. many of such conditioned souls. So you have already achieved to this stage of life. 1969) 142 .(SPL to Larry Snyder. The teachings to Arjuna was recorded by Vyasadeva verbatim. not as initiated disciple but there was some blood relation between them. 1st February. and He gives direction to such sincere devotee to the path of realizing Krishna Consciousness. to save the general populace from being offender to a Vaisnava.(SPL to Jadurani. and no gambling. etc. but there were many disciples of Bhaktivinode Thakura who were considered as Godbrothers who protested against this action of my Guru Maharaja. So for sudras there is no initiation according to the Vedic system. he was initiated according to the pancaratrika system taking him to be a sudra. just like primary and secondary education.Under the circumstances. why don't you preach this cult. That was the beginning. He persistently introduced this sacred thread ceremony and we must follow His footsteps. The sacred thread inaugurated by my Guru Maharaja according to pancaratrika system and Hari-bhakti-vilasa by Srila Sanatana Goswami must continue. fish or eggs. The eternal bond between disciple and spiritual master begins from the first day he hears. including tea. The first initiation gives him chance to become purified. Now see that she is raised in Krsna Consciousness so that at the end of this life she can go back to Home. coffee. And after you have practiced these things for a few months' time. As far as my blessing is concerned it does not require my physical presence. During my Guru Maharaja's time. Besides that my students must chant sixteen rounds of japa-mala of Hare Krsna mantra daily. but according to the Pancaratrika system initiation is offered to a person who is inclined to take Krsna consciousness. you are educated boys. Of course He had actually no Godbrothers. reading the books. no illicit sex life. and when he is actually purified then he is recognized as a brahmana and that means real initiation. then you are as good as my disciple. then there is no question of your not receiving the blessings of Lord Caitanya whose mission I am humbly trying to push on. 30th June. 11th August. 14th November. So the birthright brahmanism is not applicable at the present moment. it was protested even by His inner circle of Godbrothers or friends. In 1922 he said in our first meeting. cigarettes. 1972) Allow me to congratulate you and your wife for giving birth to a new child. Therefore the relationship began from that day. just to make him prepared..(SPL to Acyutananda Maharaja.. no taking of intoxication. Just like my spiritual master. but He didn't care for it. It does not matter whether the priestly class accepts it or not. the conclusion is that the whole population is now sudra. namely no eating of meat. 1972) Regarding your questions. (SPL to Bala Krsna. now it is coming to fact. So I instruct my disciples to refrain from four prohibitions. First initiation is the preliminary. Actually one who takes to chanting Hare Krsna Mantra offenselessly immediately becomes situated transcendentally and therefore he has no need of being initiated with sacred thread. If you are chanting Hare Krishna there and following my instructions. When my Guru Maharaja Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Goswami Prabhupada introduced this system. second initiation is real initiation. 4th September. 1970) A disciple means one who is always following the orders of the spiritual master. taking only Krsna prasadam etc. So if you are able to follow these principles without fail.(SPL to Suresh Candra. as it is stated kalau sudra sambhava. back to Godhead. To accept a Vaisnava in material caste system is hellish consideration (naraki buddhi). but Guru Maharaja introduced this sacred thread because a Vaisnava was being mistaken as belonging to the material caste. Therefore. 1974) 143 . then we can see to your formal initiation. even a person was coming from a brahmana family. then what is the value of such atonement?‘ This is very nice question.(SPL to Panjabi Premananda. 1974) Concerning your questions: Yes. . you inquire. better. RadhaKrishnan. for one year the prospective disciple should hear from the person and then decide.“ Prabhupada defined submission. ‚How my guru is learned?‘ No. Sukadeva Gosvami said that for any sinful action. etc. of course it it not such an important thing. not being guided by the parampara system. . That is Vaisnava injunction. 1976) 10th May. dharmaksetre kuruksetre ..“ (P. have simply misled the public.125-126) 144 . The submission is there. . So he immediately catches this word. we shall discuss tomorrow. pariprasnena. you may be misguided. when you hear from a realized soul. the guru also should see a person is actually submissive or not. But when the guru says something he may not understand. tattva-darsana--hearing from one who has seen the truth. „Our process of Vedic knowledge is how to surrender.2. one has to atone. the system is.“ Therefore he said Pariksit`s question was very intelligent because as a king he knew practically that criminals repeatedly commit crimes even after giong to jail. Dr.. Just see how intelligently the question is put. 1976 He explained very clearly the proper way to receive this perfect knowledge. the Vedic system. It is not that he is checking the guru. Therefore. so many politicians. hearing from devotees. but hearing the sound vibration from the realized soul is still more effective. The Bhagavad-gita is the standard book of knowledge in India and many eminent persons like Gandhi. Hari-bhakti-vilasa. 22nd November.D. Reading the book is the same thing . They were themselves misled and on account of their big position they misled so many followers. „Intelligently serve. Therefore. if you read independently. he'll mislead you and you'll learn that Kuruksetra means this body which is not actually the fact.So far Gayatri Mantra is concerned. But. The Hare Krishna mantra is sufficient for becoming Krishna Conscious. from the time before the Battle of Kuruksetra.Surrender means you first of all be convinced that ‚The person whom I am going to accept as guru. Without the help of guru. not that I hear and reject it. Aurobindo. The main thing is to chant Hare Krishna but you can consult with the GBC. scholars. In the Bhagavad-gita. That is the difference. That is not the way. a person who knows things.. that concession is there. Mental speculation will not help.. That is another rascaldom. 16th April. because neither can stop their bad habits. Hearing is the main point. You may please me the most by reading my books and following the instructions therein and by becoming fully Krishna Conscious in this life time .(SPL to Bahurupa dasa. he'll explain that Kuruksetra is a place where religious ritualistic ceremonies are performed from time immemorial. „This is student. and medical patients repeatedly become diseased even after undergoing troublesome and painful treatment. it is written. And similarly. it will help to read Bhagavad-gita but to have to hear from the realized person. atonement. but could not do it. etc. the sound vibration coming from the realized person. Reading or hearing from the realized person there is no difference. Our system. is to approach the right person and hear from him exactly as Arjuna listened from Krishna. they tried to understand the Bhagavad-gita. Jayatirtha and get his recommendation. if you read the books of some cunning politician. before taking a guru. that ‚What is the value of this atonement? If he cannot correct himself to commit the sinful activity. this intelligent disciple. whether he actually can give me knowledge?‘ That is wanted. . So every disciple must make his own spiritual progress positively and help others to do so. But if one does not strictly follow the guidance of a bona fide Spiritual Master his initiation does not bear any meaning. As recommended by the president or GBC they should only do so when they are quite confident of a man. these two things must be there simultaneously. 1973) Initiation should be given as a future hope. or it may be activity according to Scriptural injunction. 11th January. Siksa means learning. Otherwise. then the success is sure. 1974) Now be sure these devotees know and vow to follow the four rules and that they are chanting at least 16 rounds daily. The responsibility goes to the presidents who pick them. the answer is that so long we are in this material world. so we must stick with vow to the Lotus Feet of Krishna. 30th April. Therefore. If you follow this principle it will be successful. not perfection. rather upon initiation he begins spiritual life in earnest. are counted as devotional service. Diksa. 1971) The word initiation means ``to begin'' not that when he is initiated a disciple becomes slack. They cannot be separated but must go together as parallel lines.(SPL to Jaya Gopala. Every day I am getting request for second initiation. The initiation performance is an agreement by the disciples to abide by the order of the Spiritual Master. None of us have perfect desires but we are trying to be perfect and teach others to be perfect as far as possible.(SPL to Rupanuga Maharaja. he is no longer a karmi and all his activities which may appear to be like ordinary work. But if someone falls down after being initiated he should not be credited with second initiation. An initiated devotee is given the chance for becoming free from the entanglement of karma wheel. In the beginning we may be a little lenient. he should not be recommended . Initiated means beginning. but we should be careful about the second initiation.(SPL to Nayanabhirama. but I do not know. 22nd June. Unless they are thoroughly convinced second initiation should not be given. 28th April. if the Spiritual Master is bona fide and the disciple is serious to abide by His order. Siksa and diksa. And devotional service in all circumstances is free from the actions and reactions of karma. (SPL to Makhanal. 1970) Cleansing oneself as well as teaching others to be clean. The Spiritual Master's business is to guide him to the perfectional point.DIKSA INITIATION THE MEANING OF INITIATION Regarding your question of an initiated person falling prey to the maya. or initiation. But if a disciple follows strictly the devotional way of life. there is always chance of being spoiled by Maya. Initiation does not mean they have completed all spiritual perfection and now they can relax but it means now they have begun spiritual 145 . means the beginning of spiritual realization. Otherwise. so actually you are obliged to do this.life. that the problem is that you are not following the basic principles of our society. then we shall see about initiation. we can more readily give them a chance. Next time I am not going to initiate anybody who has not attended our classes at least for 3 months. 1974) I think it is very obvious.(SPL to Yamuna devi dasi and Harsarani devi dasi. 1st January. 23rd January. 1970) Regarding your proposal that recommendations for initiations should be approved by the GBC members. have not been strictly following the rules 146 . 1968) When someone is very interested and recommended by the Temple Commander. You have taken initiation from me. that some of our older students who have been given the second initiation.(SPL to Gauragopala dasa.(SPL to Karandhara. we shall be very careful now in the selection of candidates for initiation and everything must be followed by them very strictly as we have instructed. Then your mind will become very clear. I have become very concerned lately.(SPL to Hanuman Prasad Poddar. 15th January. therefore there is no choice. Such recommendation is for the local President to make from first hand observation. The best thing for you is to seriously try to follow all of the rules and regulations very strictly under the guidance of the temple authorities. 1970) Regarding initiation as mentioned in your letter addressed to Devananda Maharaja.(SPL to Sahadeva. You have promised. Less intelligent persons cannot take to Krishna Consciousness. 19757) INITIATION QUALIFICATIONS I have heard about the incidents created by a new devotee. but I have given him a chance to improve . even you have admitted. 13th November. not so agitated. Provided they are enthusiastic and you observe they are following the devotional practices then you can submit their names.(SPL to Karandhara. He appears to be a crazy fellow. 1974) Regarding second initiations.--you must follow strictly. you are carving your pathway to hell. If they are true to their vows they will _ all perfection in this life and be eligible to go back to home back to Godhead. Jivanuga. 26th May. He should not have been initiated. 1971) With this first initiation.(SPL to Bhakta dasa. and is not recommended by the leading members of the society. 8th July. I accept him and give him first initiation in the form of Harinama in a regular ceremony with fire sacrifice. 5th February. for becoming initiated. that is not a good idea. The fact that you have not chanted your rounds for a long time is enough to make you without any spiritual strength. Because they are kept sudra. attending the classes and the mangala aroti and refraining from the four prohibitions.443) 147 . one must be prepared to follow the order of the spiritual master with life and soul. but first the persons must be qualified before they can award the post. then we rightly understand what is Bhagavad-gita or what is the lesson of Bhagavad-gita. First of all by birth he`s a sudra and when he`s purified then he becomes dvija. he becomes a dvija. this tapasya. the sacred thread means that this man. then he`s allowed to read Vedic literature.“(P. You should lecture on these points at the initiation ceremony so that everyone understands fully. twice-born. First of all. So from now on I want our presidents to be very sure about the devotees they are recommending to me for second initiation. diksa. it is a serious matter. He`s brahmana. 1975) 18th June. If you remain a sudra. and the Vaisnavas. It is not necessarily required to live in the temple.2. it is required that you be recommend by one of our temple presidents to me and then I shall consider it. properly initiated. So he has the right to read vedic literature.and regulations. the government has need for a number of men to fill important posts. Either you have no right or you cannot understand. 7th October. The Bhagavad-gita is summary of all Vedic knowledge so if we pass through this process of divya-jnana. Yes. impress upon the devotees that they are taking vows before Radha and Krishna. 15th February. the spiritual master. 1974) I am glad that you are taking the recommendation of new initiates very seriously.(SPL to Ajita dasa. And by your own example you should teach. So when one is brought nearer to the spiritual master and he accepts him as his disciple he gives the sacred thread as badge that this man is now dvija. Of course. Upa means near and nayana means bringing. The Bhagavad-gita is there throughout the whole world. Dvi means twice and ja means birth. I think sometimes in the past devotees have been recommended chiefly because some more helpers were required in maintaining the deity work. but they have misunderstood. 1974) Regarding initiation. (SPL to Sahadeva. no samskara. then you have no right to understand Vedic knowledge. but you must observe the rules. chanting 16 rounds.(SPL to Tulasi dasa. 1976 He clearly explained how the process of initiation works. 1974) When you hold the fire sacrifice. 23rd January. The when he becomes dvija.D. Dvija. one must have followed the regulative principle for at least six months without deviation.. No. Not that let me take a spiritual master as a pet and I can do whatever I want. no purifikation. that they are writing essays. upanayana. necessity is there. He`s no more sudra. 1975) It is your responsibility to see that these devotees that you have recommended strictly follow the rules and regulations. everyone knows Bhagavad-gita. Even though there may be a pressing demand. 19th October. It is just like in government. by the purificatory method.(SPL to Praphavisnu. samskara bhaved dvija. so it is a serious thing. 13th November. Sudra cannot. first the man must be qualified. second birth. (SPL to Jennifer. „By samskara. (SPL to Rupanuga. Your sincerity & service mood will always help you in advancing your genuine cause. 30th August. You should always pray to His Divine Grace because naturally He will be more affectionate to you than to me. Relationship of father & son on spiritual platform is real and eternal .C.(SPL to Janaki. And our relationship is based on Krishna Consciousness. 1968) I always think of you as my naughty daughter and from the start of this movement. 20th February. 1968) When I initiated you. Krishna has sent many nice beautiful obedient children for propagating my mission. But in my old age. 1969) 148 . Krishna has given me so many young mothers to take care of me. without forgetting His exalted position. 16th January. you and your very good husband have always shown to be very sincere and important members of our society. 1968) The relationship with the Spiritual Master must always be continued with the greatest respect and veneration. like father and son. So I am sure that my Guru Maharaja will be easily inclined to your prayers than that of mine. So you are eternally my daughter and I am your father. 1968) I thank you once more for your noble sentiments about me and I can simply say that for this nice attitude Krishna will certainly help you.HOW SPIRITUAL MASTER RELATES TO DISCIPLE PATRENAL RELATIONSHIP You have accepted me as father. 1969) I lost my mother when I was only 14 years old. on the material platform such relationship is ephemeral and temporary.(SPL to Brahmananda. 30th August. You have got a nice temple by the grace of my Spiritual Master. You will do good always by offering your prayers to His Divine Grace Bhaktisiddhanta Goswami Maharaja. So I didn't get much of my mother's affection in my childhood. There is no doubt about it.(SPL to Yamuna. Although I cannot give you anything as father. (SPL to Hamsaduta. So I am very much obliged to you. I am fully aware of your sincere service and therefore I pray always to Krishna for your all-round welfare. Generally one is more affectionate to the grandchildren than to the children directly. I accepted you on that very moment as my daughter. 9th December. It is very encouraging to me. 1968) Although I left my few children born out of this physical body. Janaki. Malati.(SPL to Syama dasi. still I can pray to Krishna for your more & more advancement in K. 19th December. And you are one of them. 22nd January. so I have also accepted you as my dear and real son.(SPL to Satsvarupa. 1970) You are all my children and I love my American boys and girls who are sent to me by my spiritual master and I have accepted them as my disciples. Therefore. and I am taken care of by my so many fathers and mothers like you . Nobody in this world likes to be defeated by somebody else. but here. where I felt not very much comfortable. So far I am concerned. I was very sorry to have lost such affectionate father. by Krishna's Grace I have got so many American young fathers. So I am not at all inconvenienced under the care of my children here. I am putting more and more burden upon you but you are so tolerant that you have no hesitation to accept my demands even although sometimes they are unreasonable. although I came alone. even though I am in a foreign country. but the father when he is defeated by the son feels more pleasure. so I replied that I left my home consisting of five children. but I think I am your disturbing father. So I told him to just compare the practical happiness.(SPL to Nandarani. 20th February. because our relationship is father and son. 6th May. 1969) You have written to say that you are my disobedient son.(SPL to Brahmananda. real love can be perceived only on the platform of Krishna Consciousness where there is no possibility of thinking oneself in the bodily concept of life. So although I lost my father in 1930. this body is old enough. Actually. although personally I do not feel old. about 40 years ago.(SPL to Brahmananda. and my father used to satisfy me. Krishna has given me hundreds of nice children . so nobody will be more satisfied than me by seeing your successful preaching work. 1969) So carry on this work more enthusiastically and you will feel more and more jubilant in transcendental bliss. So I have no anxiety. (SPL to Mukunda. and I used to catch my father in so many ways demanding unreasonable things. 18th February. I have now many American fathers and mothers. I feel exactly like your little child. 27th July. I am keeping well. So I answered him that in India I left my five children. But the same nature continues. (SPL to Satsvarupa and Uddhava. but Krishna has given me many obedient and loving children. 1970) 149 . one Indian boy asked me whether I am happy. 23rd May. So let us try to introduce this nice consciousness in the human society. That is my happiness. I may once more request you to try your best to construct New Vrindaban an exact duplicate of Vrindaban. So practically you are acting as my father. and I am demanding from my fathers the same thing which may be a little burdensome. 1969) Regarding my health. but by Krishna's Grace.(SPL to Kirtanananda Maharaja. 27th February. 1969) The other day there was a question in class. but after all.When I was young and lost my father. and that will give me the highest pleasure. In my childhood I was very naughty boy. Somebody asked me whether I am happy. But I am sure Krishna will be very much pleased if you will kindly tolerate some unreasonable demands from me. (SPL to Kirtika devi dasi.S. then after establishing this center in Hamburg you can come to our New Vrindaban and grow things. as my fatherland and you are all my fathers. and when that energy is employed under the expert direction of Spiritual Master. and if I accept them then automatically Krishna accepts them. 1976) THE DUTY OF A SPIRITUAL MASTER Your letter is very encouraging.Although I am Indian materially. if you remember this principle it will be very nice. 1968) Your specific talents are to be engaged under direction of the Spiritual Master. 21st March. But the most important part again. This is the simple method of spiritual advancement.(SPL to Sivananda. In India I had one father who raised me a Krishna Conscious child but in America I have got many fathers who are reminding me always of Krishna. That is the secret of Krishna Consciousness. 1976) 150 . still I have adopted U. 7 th August. It is also nice that you are caring for the devotees. Therefore I will always wish to live under your care. Fruits and flowers can be produced anywhere. 11th November. They have left everything for me. So therefore wherever you are He will accept your prayers. and I think in future your enthusiasm and energy can very suitably be engaged in the transcendental loving service of Krishna. 4th April. If you have got specific training in this connection. You have the tendency for botany. 1968) Regarding your questions. Everything. He is even between the atoms. so they should be treated as sons and daughters .(SPL to Batu Gopala dasa. one's life becomes successful . If your prayers are sincere then Krishna will accept them and if Krishna accepts them then automatically I accept them. 1971) My dear daughter Nirmala.(SPL to Nathan Baruch. and therefore I automatically accept. or you can grow things in Hamburg also. every talent can be employed in Krishna's service. that is the utilization of your natural tendency. and how to do it is known to the Spiritual Master. Please accept my blessings. 19th February. 18th February. The Spiritual Master must be bona fide representative of Krishna. the prayer must be sincere. So like this Krishna is everywhere . Everyone of us has got a certain amount of good energy derived from Krishna.(SPL to Nirmala. that is not the spiritual master's business. by disciplic succession.A. 1973) Regarding your question regarding your household situation. I am in due receipt of your letter dated 11-3-76 and it is very nice how you are appreciating. receiving orders from the superior. and the disciple must agree to abide by the orders of the Spiritual Master. (SPL to Visnujana Maharaja. you can grow nice flowers and fruits for Krishna. Just like a tax collector must collect for the treasury. Krishna will dictate to you what to do in this connection. I thought of you all throughout my journey from Francisco to New York and I was praying to Lord Krishna for your more and more advancement(SPL to devotees. or from any of my disciples . So I have no right to accept service from any disciple. not for himself . Krishna has sent you to me to help me in my mission .(SPL to Rayarama. Sincere service to the Spiritual Master is service to the Supreme Lord. 1967) Regarding other books printed by. 21st February. I accept service from my disciples on behalf of Krishna. (SPL to Sally. 1967) When you drive your car you always chant ``Hare Krishna'' and when I was by your side I could understand how heartily you have accepted the philosophy of Krishna Consciousness. published by. I am very much thankful to you and next time when I shall go to your home.(SPL to Jayananda. but on behalf of Krishna I can accept.(SPL to Sukirti dasa. 1967) When I return I shall drag him forcibly and make all right again. 1967) Your strong desire to serve me is very beautiful. Anyone who has once come to me has become my beloved son. 1965) I am so much obliged to you for your devotion and affection for me. 13th February. 6th November. ``Prasadad Bhagavat Prasadad''. 1976) APPRECIATION OF DISCIPLES’ SERVICE Regarding your reminder for my good cooking. As stated in the prayer. That is not the business of the guru. 29th December. As you are my sincere spiritual son. temporarily one may display some Mayic affliction. therefore pleasing the Spiritual Master is equal to pleasing the Supreme Lord. your serving me means serving Krishna. You have got also the full power of attorney in this connection. but that can not prolong.(SPL to Brahmananda. or distributed by some European firm is very welcome.(SPL to Upendra. I am also your servant so I cannot accept your service from you. 2nd November. 10th April. I must serve you with good lunches without fail. That means because Krishna accepts service through the via media of Spiritual Master. 16th September. The spiritual master cannot be approached for solving marriage problems. 1968) 151 . If he himself touches so much as a farthing it would be unlawful.Thank you for serving steadily and taking responsibility in Krishna Consciousness. So I have full faith in you and you can determine as Krishna speaks within your heart . Please continue your service attitude in the same spirit. and occasionally please try to write such letters whenever you find convenient. and I am enjoying it everyday in the morning.(SPL to Krsna dasa. you need have no doubt.(SPL to Aniruddha. Krishna will bless you for your strenuous service single-handedly. And offer the same to your good husband. that I cannot but admire your capacity to grasp so quickly about the whole philosophy and I must pray to Lord Krishna for your more and more advancement in Krishna Consciousness. 19th August.(SPL to Hayagriva. I was so much comfortably situated in spite of my not very good health. Hope you are well. rest assured. (SPL to Tamala Krsna. Madhya 13. So Krishna has given you a very good talent and you are sewing expert.(SPL to Tamala Krsna. I am glad to see in your letter indication that within very short time.(SPL to Syama dasi. 21st October. This humbleness is the sign of progress in Krishna Consciousness. 1968) I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated August 13. Please continue in this attitude and Krishna will save you. and Krishna will bless you with all benediction. 1968) 152 . 1968. I was so glad to receive the two caps which are very nicely made fitting to my skull. and Krishna will bless you . and be happy and successful even within this very life. I am very poor and I have nothing to return for your loving service. 1968) Your humbleness is very much appreciated by me. you have been entrapped by Lord Krishna's Grace and you have expressed your transcendental feelings in such a nice way. I think that is the best blessing which we can have in this material existence. 1968) I am very much pleased by your renewed and serious efforts to help me in my service to my Guru Maharaja. 14th June. Thank you very much for your writing me. and when I walk on the street they all look at me due to your cap.(SPL to Himavati. 1968) Please accept my blessings. And Lord Jagannatha is also enjoying similarly with cap and ghagara. A Krishna Consciousness person thinks always about himself as the lowest creature in the world.80]. That is my ardent desire. and the more one thinks like that he becomes elevated more and more. 1st June. 1968) I am so much grateful to you and other devotees of the Krishna Consciousness society that it gives me a great pride that Krishna has given me association of such nice boys. 1968) I am so grateful for your nice sentiments for me. but I can simply pray to Krishna for your gradual advancement in Krishna Consciousness. 13th March. A Krishna Conscious person is never falsely puffed-up. 19th August. 23th November. Not only your cap but also I am enjoying the shirt made by you.I am so obliged to you for your hospitality with which you served me so long I was in Los Angeles. and noted the contents with so happiness. he is satisfied with his humble position as the servant of the servant of the servant of Krishna [Cc. 25th December. very good husband. I think. 1st December. I think this will solve the fitting problem. So I am sending them to you.(SPL to Jayapataka. (SPL to Himavati. 1968) I am in due receipt of your two letters December 21 and December 23. and they are too much beautiful. is also pleased with this action. Your sincere and humble outlook is very nice. 23th March. I am very glad to know of your sincere activities in Krishna Consciousness. Anyway.(SPL to Krsna dasa. You are just a child and only by Krishna's Grace you've taken the courage to go to Germany to open a center and work very hard. The first set which you made for Them was the perfect fit. because you are eternal. 1969) Yes I received the package of clothing. Purusottama says that this is a particular specialty of your letters that you write without any date.I can understand clearly that you are making nice progress in your devotional service attitude. and what can I do for you except pray to Krishna that you become more and more advanced in Krishna Consciousness along with your very. 25th December. and it is very nice. It was so much ecstatic. 1968. immediately upon receipt of this ring I pushed it on my finger. 1st January.(SPL to Jadurani. that your husband. That is your service and I accept it on behalf of Krishna. 1969) Your desire to serve me is very praiseworthy. Mukunda. Thanking you once more. although my father was always educating me in Krishna Consciousness from the very beginning. I thank you very much for your kind presentation which you have given . though. I think that you are right. 1968) I am in due receipt of your letter without any date. So what I say you follow so you may advance in Krishna Consciousness. and your wish to serve me actually means to serve Krishna. even sacrificing your husband's interest. 1969) Please accept my blessings.(SPL to Himavati. so that you can measure from this first set of clothes and make more in the same size. I was thinking of you since about a week why you are silent. I am always praying to Lord Krishna to bestow His Causeless Mercy upon you. So I am rather envious of your advancement in Krishna Consciousness because when I was of your age I had no such energy. You never get tired of serving Krishna. 21st February.(SPL to Janaki. but still must be a little longer. So I am sure that your efforts will be successful. 18th January.(SPL to Arundhati. so I hope you shall eternally be engaged in serving Krishna because there is no end of such service. There is no beginning and no end and your enthusiasm is also eternal. 1968) I know you are always eager to help me in all respects. This is a very good attitude. But because I am the humble servant of Krishna I cannot accept any service on my account. and all of a sudden I got your letter with a golden ring enclosed. 1969) 153 . Yes I received your very nice set of clothes for my Deity, and I thank you very much for them.(SPL to Satyabhama, 24th March, 1969) I have accepted you as my disciple and you have accepted me as your spiritual father. This relationship cannot be ended anymore. It is eternal . So it will be my duty always to pray to Krishna for your further and further improvement in Krishna Consciousness, so you should go on serving this movement to your best capacity.(SPL to Rayarama, 9th July, 1969) I do not think you should divert your attention in any other matter. Yesterday we held Vyasa Puja Ceremony, and it was very nice. I shall take the opportunity now to thank you for the nice booklet you have had printed and for the part in this booklet written by you. After all of the reading was finished, I explained how service and prayers are accepted by Krishna through the medium of the disciplic succession. It is something like electricity: if one is in touch with his Spiritual Master , and his Spiritual Master is in touch with his bona fide Spiritual Master, then in this way an offering is automatically transferred to Krishna. Just as the Mercy of Krishna is coming down through the disciplic succession, so the service of the devotee is offered up to Krishna through the disciplic succession.(SPL to Brahmananda, 5 th September, 1969) I do not know why you write that you are unhappy. You can join me at any time providing your business does not suffer. You are developing the Seattle temple nicely. If you think in your absence there will be no mismanagement, then you are welcome to stay with me as long as you like. I like your cooking very much, so I shall enjoy nice good foodstuffs. But at the same time I desire that your field of activities may not suffer. (SPL to Upendra, 27th October, 1969) I have received the overcoat-cloak sent by Govinda dasi who is so much kind and affectionate to me. I am using it daily while going on my morning walk , but the temperature here is not so acute, suitable for putting on the coat. Still, it appears very comfortable in the morning and I am enjoying it. I have also received the dried banana, 8 packages altogether and they are being fully utilized. For the time being she may not send any more of them, but I think if she prepares more of them in the sunshine of Hawaii and keeps them in stock, they will not go bad.(SPL to Gaurasundara, 24th January, 1970) I beg to acknowledge receipt of a package yesterday which contained one set of Deity clothes. I have immediately got them on my Deities and They are wearing them and looking so beautiful. You have made the colors and clothes so nicely. I am very much pleased.(SPL to Himavati, 30th July, 1970) I have got confidence in you because Krishna has given you special talent for chanting Hare Krishna Mantra. When you were chanting in L.A. temple in the evenings, or in the mornings, I enjoyed your chanting so nicely that I thought myself immediately carried to Vaikuntha.(SPL to Visnujana Maharaja, 4th April, 1971) 154 I am in receipt of your note and gift of one ring. Just now I am wearing it. Because you have sincerely offered, I must accept on behalf of my Guru Maharaja although I am not worthy.(SPL to Kadamba dasi, 8th December, 1973) I am in due receipt of your letter dated October 23, 1974 and have noted the contents with much joy. You have done something tangible, and I am pleased that you are simply carrying out my order without any consideration of your self-interest. This is wanted for progress in spiritual life. So as you have pleased me, you should take it that you have pleased Krsna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead. It is for this I have given you sannyasa, to be prepared to go anywhere on my order and preach sincerely and purely without any other consideration. So I thank you very much in this regard.(SPL to Subala dasa Swami, 13 th November, 1974) Thank you very much for trying so hard so many times to send me milk sweets, like sandesh, etc. Unfortunately this last time they went bad on the way here, therefore they were not in offerable condition. The fact that you have offered them to me is what counts. Not so much whether I have personally eaten them or not. So thank you for your sincere efforts in pleasing me.(SPL to Parvati, 27th December, 1974) By these activities I am must trying to satisfy my spiritual master and you are all trying to help me, so I am very much obliged to you. This is real co-operation on the platform of love.(SPL to Satsvarupa Maharaja, 9th November, 1975) I beg to thank you for your letter dated 16th January, 1976 along with the enclosed donation. Unless there is loving feeling, how is it possible for you to always make offerings to me? The spiritual master is always instructing his disciples and they in turn are always trying to serve their spiritual master. It is a reciprocal relationship of love. (SPL to Bhurijana, 31st January, 1976) I am very pleased that you are preaching for preaching is our main line. Harikesa Swami was also doing preaching work and now you are also. Preaching is the most important business. Although my personal service is also important, the preaching work comes first. I want everyone of our men to become first class preachers. So you want to preach that is best. Don't be worried, but go on with your preaching and you will be happy.(SPL to Purusa Krsna, 25th July, 1976) CHASTISING THE DISCIPLE You have written to say that I am “as hard as the thunderbolt & softer than a rose” is quite right in the line of Krishna Consciousness.(SPL to Jadurani, 13th October, 1967) 155 I am very sorry that Satyavrata has left us on some petty sentimental thing. Please ask him to come back and excuse me if I have struck his sentiment. (SPL to Rayarama, 11th January, 1968) At the present moment, you are not prepared to follow my instructions. You are simply visiting different places for sightseeing recreation. This sort of service is not accepted by Krsna.(SPL to Harivilasa, 25th July, 1968) Your third question: why does Srila Narada Muni condemn Srila Vyasadeva for compiling the Vedic Scriptures? Sri Narada Muni was the Spiritual Master of Srila Vyasadeva. A Spiritual Master has the right to chastise his disciple any way He likes. A sisya or a disciple means one who accepts the disciplinary action given by the Spiritual Master. Even although sometimes a Spiritual Master chastises his disciple as a fool or rascal in fatherly affection, it does not mean necessarily that the disciple is a fool or a rascal . You will find even in the statement of Lord Caitanya--He presents Himself as a fool designated by His Spiritual Master, but that does not mean that He was a fool. A sincere disciple feels it pleasurable when his Spiritual Master chastises him with calling him such names as fool and rascal.(SPL to Gajendra, 27th January, 1970) Regarding punishment, there is no punishment upon you. Rather, there is reward. You have been awarded Sannyas so you have the best opportunity to serve Krishna by preaching His glories. Why punishment? Before taking Sannyas, I told you that you may remain a brahmacari because management in L.A. was with you. Now you have voluntarily taken sannyasa. You may take advantage of this opportunity and preach this Krishna cult and expand missionary activities. Do it sincerely. For my disciples there is no punishment. There is no need for that. One who preaches Krishna Consciousness is supposed to be glorious. Directly write me and I will give you instructions how you can go on preaching. I hope this meets you in good health.(SPL to Gargamuni Maharaja, 27th October, 1970) So far my chastising you at Mayapur for your questions it is simply out of love that I chastise any of my students. It is a father's duty to raise his son to be a strong, useful citizen, and sometimes he must reprimand him for some mistake in order to teach him. But this harshness is only for his son's benefit. Similarly, you are all my spiritual children, and my only concern is to see that you all become strong in your devotion to Lord Krishna, so sometimes scolding may be there, but you should always remember that it is done with love and it is only for your benefit. You are an intelligent boy, and I want to train you very nicely so that you will be able to preach this great Krishna Conscious philosophy with conviction, and help to deliver all the spiritually-starving souls in this age. Therefore, you should take this chastisement as an opportunity to advance in Krishna Consciousness and not in any other way.(SPL to Niranjana, 12th April, 1972) I know you are working hard and sincerely. I have no business to criticize you but as head of the institution or your spiritual master, it is my duty to find out your faults. Even Caitanya Mahaprabhu presented himself as faulty before his spiritual master. To remain faulty before the spiritual master is a good qualification so he is subjected to rectification. But if one thinks he is all perfect then there is no scope for rectification. Don't be sorry when I find fault. That 156 is my primary duty. Canakya pandita says one must find fault with disciples and sons, it is good for them.(SPL to Bhavananda and Jayapataka, 20th April, 1974) Regarding your statement that your success is due to your dependence on serving my lotus feet, yes, that is the instruction of the Bhagavad-gita. Krishna advises Arjuna to work to his bet capacity but not to think that he is the best capable. We should work to our best capacity and depend for the result on Krishna. After all, our life is dedicated to Krishna's service, and Krishna will give us intelligence, capability, and all kinds of success. I know you are doing your best capacity. Depend for the result on Krishna. When I point out some discrepancy of my disciples, it is always with good will so you can become the best servant of Krishna. There is nothing of material grudge. Kindly remember this.(SPL to Hamsaduta, 19 th October, 1974) You are appreciating the chastisement of your spiritual master, and Krishna will bless you by this appreciation.(SPL to Hamsaduta dasa, 14th November, 1974) NOTE TO ALL THE GBC MEMBERS:Please let me be known that Nitai has become a venomous serpent. Be careful of him.(SPL to all tha GBC members, 15th September, 1976) Dear Ramesvara Maharaja, Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. The following is an extract from a morning class on S.B. 5/6/3, delivered on 25/11/76. Srila Prabhupada has requested that it be sent to all temples and G.B.C. "If you pat your subordinates it will increase their faulty habits and if you chastise them, they will improve. Therefore it is advised that either your son or disciple, you should always chastise them, never give them leniency. So a little leniency, immediately so many faults will grow. Now for our practical life we are known all over the world as shaven headed, is it not? Now we are becoming hair-headed, we are forgetting shaving. Because there is a little leniency, immediately faulty things are creeping in. So we should be known as shaven-headed, not hair-headed. This is discrepancy. At least once in a month you must be clearly shaven-headed. On the bright fortnight, on the day of purnima, four days after ekadasi. Once in a month, in the bright fortnight we must be shaven-headed. It is not desirable that in grown up age also, you be chastised. that is not desirable-that is also difficult because when the disciple or son is grown up, if he is chastised, then he breaks. So before being chastised we should be conscious that this is our rules and regulations, we must observe. Therefore it is advised by Canakya Pandit (Sanskrit) After the 16th year of the disciple or son, he should be treated as friend because if you chastise when he is grown up then he will break up- that is also another risk. So our request is that instead of chastising, with folded hands I request you, don't you become hippies again by growing hair. Keep your head cleansed at least once in a month. That is my request. Neither I can chastise you, I am an old man and you are young men.Approved: A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami.(SPL to All Temples, 26th November, 1976) 157 ABSORBING THE SINFUL REACTIONS OF THE DISCIPLE I have seen what you have written about your protection by my humble self, but that is inevitable when a Spiritual Master accepts somebody as disciple. Krishna says in Bhagavadgita that He takes charge of a surrendered soul; so much so that Lord Krishna protects His devotee from all his sinful activities in the past. Similarly, the Spiritual Master, when He accepts a disciple and the disciple surrenders unto Him , He has got the responsibility of absorbing the sinful reaction of His disciples life. This is a great responsibility of the Spiritual Master. We should therefore be very careful not to overburden our Spiritual Master by further repetition of sinful activities. Of course, one who has entered into Krishna Consciousness cannot act deliberately anything sinful. Still, we should always be on guard against such activities. Sometimes we hear that people are going to church to confess their sinful actions for being excused, but as soon as he comes out of the church, he begins the same drama again. This is like the bathing of the elephant, who immediately throws dirt again on his body. We should not follow such examples. Lord Caitanya accepted Jagai and Madhai on condition they would not commit further sinful activities. So all our students should be careful in the matter of violating the four principles and at the same time must carry on the chanting process rigidly.(SPL to Sacisuta, 19th September, 1969) As soon as he saw that His neophyte disciples were increasing in number, He immediately decided to leave this world. To accept disciples means to take up the responsibility of absorbing the sinful reaction of life of the disciple. (SPL to Satsvarupa and Uddhava, 27th July, 1970) You get the seed of devotion, and the Hare Krishna mantra through the mercy of the spiritual master and Krishna. Similarly, upon your surrender, the spiritual master and Krishna take responsibility for your sins. So if you commit sin again, the spiritual master becomes responsible for your sinful reaction. (SPL to Batu Gopala, 22nd August, 1972) The spiritual master accepts the sinful activities of his disciples from the first initiation. I may give initiation very easily, but what can I do? I am prepared to go to hell for service of Lord Caitanya.(SPL to Jadurani, 4th September, 1972) Instruct them fully in the qualifications for becoming brahmana, and henceforth they must be very, very careful not to commit any sinful acts or otherwise I shall have to suffer as their spiritual master. The ceremony should be held in the company of devotees only.(SPL to Sri Govinda, 27th December, 1972) 158 SPIRITUAL MASTER AND REBIRTH FOR DISCIPLE I am so glad to learn that you are now getting the fruit of chanting Hare Krishna. Hare Krishna is so nice that it clears the dirty things from the mind of the devotee and the more one is used to chant the Holy Name offenselessly, the more one develops love of God, forgetting the whole material nonsense. (It is my duty to deliver you the right thing in right earnestness and it is the duty of the receiver to act in the standard spiritual regulation. When you left us I simply prayed to Krishna for your return to Krishna Consciousness because that was my duty. Any good soul who approaches me once for spiritual enlightenment is supposed to be depending on my responsibility to get him back to Krishna, back to home. The disciple may misunderstand a bona fide spiritual master being obliged to do so under pressure of Maya's influence. But a bona fide spiritual master never lets go a devotee once accepted . When a disciple misunderstands a bona fide spiritual master, the master regrets for his inability to protect the disciple and sometimes he cries with tears in the eyes. We had an experience while my Guru Maharaja was alive. One of His disciples who accepted sannyasa was one day forcibly dragged by his wife. My Guru Maharaja lamented with tears in His eyes saying that He could not save the soul.) We should always, therefore, be careful in the matter of being attacked by Maya's influence and the only means of guarantee is to chant Hare Krishna offenselessly. The greatest offense is to defy the spiritual master and to act sinfully, thinking in the strength of chanting. If a man thinks that chanting will save him from all kinds of sinful reaction deliberately committee. by him, then he becomes the greatest offender. By chanting Hare Krishna certainly we become free from all sinful reactions, but that does not mean that we shall deliberately commit sins and counteract it by chanting. Your reference to Kirtanananda and Hayagriva is very nicely appreciated. We shall silently pray for them to Krishna and shed tears for them for our inability to save them. Let us honestly pray and go ahead with Krishna Consciousness. More when we meet(SPL to Umapati, 23 rd November, 1967) In the absolute world there is no distinction as me, or he, and I. Krishna and His representative is the same. Just like Krishna can be present simultaneously in millions of places. Similarly, the Spiritual Master also can be present wherever the disciple wants . A Spiritual Master is the principle, not the body. Just like a television can be seen in thousands of places by the principle of relay monitoring.(SPL to Malati, 28th May, 1968) You have asked if it is true that the Spiritual Master remains in the material universe until all of His disciples are transferred to the Spiritual Sky. The answer is yes, this is the rule. Therefore, every student should be very much careful not to commit any offense which will be detrimental to this promotion to the Spiritual Kingdom, and thereby the Spiritual Master has to incarnate again to deliver him. This sort of mentality will be a kind of offense to the Spiritual Master. Out of the ten kinds of offenses, the number one offense is to disobey the orders of the Spiritual Master. The instructions given to the disciple by the Spiritual Master at the time of initiation should be strictly followed. That will make one advance to the spiritual path. But if one deliberately defies such instructions, then his advancement is hampered from the very beginning. This defying means to disconnect the relationship with the Spiritual Master. And anyone who defies and therefore disconnects 159 the relationship with the Spiritual Master can hardly expect the assistance of the Spiritual Master life after life. I hope this will clear up this question sufficiently for you . (SPL to Jayapataka, 11th July, 1969) So far as I am concerned, in relationship with my disciples who are so kindly cooperating with me in the matter of my rendering service to my Spiritual Master, for them I am always ready to come back from Goloka Vrindaban, if they are not delivered along with me. So don't be worried about the clutches of Maya. Be fixed up in your determination and go on serving the Supreme Lord, Krishna, with determination as you are already doing.(SPL to Brahmananda, 15th November, 1969) It is a basic principle that one must accept a bona fide spiritual master in order to achieve the highest perfection of life, love of God. I thank all of you very much for accepting me as your spiritual master, and I promise that I will take you back to home, back to Godhead. I ask you all to promise me to always chant at least 16 rounds, follow the regulative principles, read our books and try to preach this Krishna Consciousness Movement all over the world. So far my qualifications are concerned, I am simply trying to carry out the order of my Guru Maharaja.(SPL to Nityananda, 12th November, 1971) You do not require to worry as I shall never leave you, you are my disciple and I am your spiritual master, so there is no question, as long as you follow my instructions, that I shall ever leave you. Just remember under all circumstances to chant sixteen rounds of japa daily, offer your prasadam to Krsna, and do all of the things which you already know, as you are senior disciple. These things will protect you under all conditions, without any doubt (SPL to Bhaktijana, 21st September, 1972) Your next question, after leaving this material realm does the devotee remain forever with his spiritual master? The answer is yes. But I think you have got the mistaken idea in this connection. You speak of pure devotee, that he is saktyavesa avatara, that we should obey him only--these things are the wrong idea. If anyone thinks like that, that a pure devotee should be obeyed and no one else, that means he is a nonsense. We advise everyone to address one another as Prabhu. Prabhu means master, so how the master should be disobeyed? Others, they are also pure devotees. All of my disciples are pure devotees. Anyone sincerely serving the spiritual master is a pure devotee, it may be Siddhasvarupa or others, a-Siddhasvarupa. This must be very clearly stated. It is not only that your Siddhasvarupa is a pure devotee and not others. Do not try to make a faction. Siddhasvarupa is a good soul. But others should not be misled. Anyone who is surrendered to the spiritual master is a pure devotee, it doesn't matter if Siddhasvarupa or non-Siddhasvarupa. Amongst ourselves one should respect others as Prabhu, master, one another. As soon as we distinguish here is a pure devotee, here is a non-pure devotee, that means I am a nonsense. Why you only want to be in the spiritual sky with Siddhasvarupa? Why not all? If Siddhasvarupa can go, why not everyone? Siddhasvarupa will go, you will go, Syamasundara. will go, all others will go. We will have another ISKCON there. Of course, Mr. Nair must stay. And if somebody does not go, then I shall have to come back to take him there. One should remember this and every one of my disciples should act in such a way that they 160 as is the fashion of the foolish pretenders.34 tad viddhi praëipätena paripraçnena sevayä upadekñyanti te jïänaà jïäninas tattva-darçinaù SYNONYMS tat—that knowledge of different sacrifices. 14th December.(SPL to Tusta Krsna. Unless there is submission and service. without false prestige. Therefore. mental speculation or dry arguments cannot help lead one to the right path. 14th December. One must be able to pass the test of the spiritual master. PURPORT The path of spiritual realization is undoubtedly difficult.(SPL to Tusta Krsna. dharmaà tu säkñäd bhagavat-praëétam: the path of religion is directly enunciated by the Lord. Satisfaction of the self-realized spiritual master is the secret of advancement in spiritual life. paripraçnena—by submissive inquiries. Nor by independent study of books of knowledge can one progress in spiritual life. Inquire from him submissively and render service unto him. 1972) THE DISCIPLE—QUALIFICATIONS CHARACTERISTICS & DUTIES B.may go with me and may not have to come back to take another birth . No one can be spiritually realized by manufacturing his own process. The self-realized souls can impart knowledge unto you because they have seen the truth. tattva—of the truth. and one should serve the spiritual master like a menial servant. The Lord is the original spiritual master. 4. Such a spiritual master should be accepted in full surrender. The Lord therefore advises us to approach a bona fide spiritual master in the line of disciplic succession from the Lord Himself. inquiries from the learned spiritual master will not be effective. you can simgly ponder over Lord Christ’s crucifixion. sevayä—by the rendering of service. viddhi—try to understand.3.g. and a person in the disciplic succession can convey the message of the Lord as it is to his disciple. 1972) Regarding your qustion about sufferings of master.19) says. Inquiries and submission constitute the proper combination for spiritual understanding. and when he sees the genuine desire of the disciple. One has to approach a bona fide spiritual master to receive the knowledge. jïänam—into knowledge. te—you. praëipätena—by approaching a spiritual master. TRANSLATION Just try to learn the truth by approaching a spiritual master. he 161 . upadekñyanti— they will initiate. jïäninaù—the selfrealized. No one can be a bona fide spiritual master without following this principle of disciplic succession. darçinaù—seers. The Bhägavatam (6. In this verse. They are not lowering the standart.. They are coming to kirtana. We have no objection. dance. So anyone of my students can inquire from me in the matter of serving Krsna directly. but they`re not completely shaved up and they still wear karmi clothes. not out of contention. It is simple thing. This is the clear settlement. dance. we have no objection.“ „That should be. but 162 . Baradraja and Muralidhara.automatically blesses the disciple with genuine spiritual understanding. 4th June. No feeling. and especially you are advanced and approved students. That is the first condition. They`re clean. Otherwise. they may have their own dress. they must follow this. but don`t recommend them for initiation unless he agrees to the rules and regulations given by the spiritual master.“ „I think they only feel that because. Inquire from him submissively and render service unto him. „You cannot remain independent. The self-realized soul can impart knowledge unto you because he has seen the truth“ „You have to submit. where is the question of sisya? Chant. „But when they are initiated they must shave.“ Prabhupada cut him short. Not only should one hear submissively from the spiritual master. There is no objection. „No. they`re devotees. in submission and service and inquiries. I beg to thank you for your letter dated nil. They must keep to the standard. If you don`t want to disturb them. „There are a lot of devotees there who follow the principles. the reciprocation of knowledge and inquiries becomes perfect. Sometimes somebody sends some irrelevant inquiries which students should not have asked from the Spiritual Master. taking prasadam. Otherwise they should not be initiated. that does not make influential. But when they are to be initiated. they must follow the rules and regulation given by the spiritual master. That much is all right. If one becomes initiated and if he still keeps the hippie form. So you are at liberty to send your letters directly. Therefore when the student is submissive and is always ready to render service. ‚Yes. but one must also get a clear understanding from him. I agree to abide by your order. and I see that it is approved by the President. and for them the restrictive circular was issued.“ Prabhupada emphasized. So long they are coming as outsider. chant. But when they are to be initiated. 1970) 5th May.(SPL to Jadurani. Let them go on chanting. and they are attracting many of the local people because they are able to relate to them.‘ Then he becomes sisya. A bona fide spiritual master is by nature very kind toward the disciple. joining kirtana.“ Prabhupada agreed. Where is the wrong? Where is the difficulty? You can talk with him like that.. When you are surrendering to the spiritual master —find out this verse—tad viddhi pranipatena pariprasnena sevaya. take prasadam. both blind following and absurd inquiries are condemned. Sisya means voluntarily accepting the rules offered by the spiritual master. I read out the oft-quoted vers thirtyfour from the fourth capter: „Just try to learn the truth by approching a spiritual master. It doesn`t matter. but to see how Srila Prabhupada would respond to their own claims that they are still doing the right thing.“ Having grown familiar enough with Srila Prabhupada`s method of preaching during darsanas I already had the Bhagavad-gita on heand. 1976 The visiting devotee ofered a more positive view than I did. take prasadam and remain. Do you think it is all right? No. and I will reply them duly. that is not good. let them come. ‘“ „So then.D. Remain as friend. ‚You don`t become sisya. The public may take or not take. That is initiation. Who is prohibiting to chant? You can chant.2. Spiritual master has not said that you must sell so many books daily.. Just for clarifikation: they`re working. „The idea was. <we don`tcare for them.D. no gambling. You chant. You simply please Me.“ I stated the obvious. I must try my best. if vou have no determination? If you want to make 163 . Give good impression and then people will come. „Then you don`t become initiated. There were many other activities involved. fire. that is public`s opinion. „Initiation means to surrender to the spiritual master.“ It was becoming very clear that Prabhupada`s standard for a disciple was more than simply following the four prohibitions and chanting. 103) 23th June. preaching Krsna Consciousness by distributing Prabhupada`s books and living visibly as devotees.. spiritual master.‘ That is obedience. part of initiation means that you`re prepared to do something more than simply chant and eat prasadam?“ I asked. but they were not doing what he asked either. that. They prefer to try to spread Krsna consciousness by public relations. But my duty is because spiritual master has said. Their thinking is that ‚If we shave our heads and wear robes. they are disttributing foodstuffs to all the other storeson the island. they were not doing anything wrong. As Prabhupada had said to Bhurijana earlier in the day.. Otherwise why Krsna says.‘ Then what is the use of making a spiritual master? We have to follow the instruction of the spiritual master.“ „Yes. you can take prasadam. no meat-eating. they have a store on Mauli. „Our success is in the spiritual master`s pleasure and not the public`s pleasure. ‚We shall build some public relations. „Why gradually?“ Prabhupada replied. He has not said that. essentially. Vaisnava? Why do you make this farce. then you cannot remain independent. that is bhakti. „When you promise before your spiritual master that no illicit sex. they are working a lot within the society with the karmis. ‚Spiritual master`s order to distribute books: we shall do that. Why do you manufacture. If there is still hesitation to surrender to the rules and regulations and honor such spiritual master. it doesn´t matter. „not by the dictation of your spiritual master. you can dance.“ „Then you are dictated by the public. I`ll be very much pleased.18. he should not become.100-102) I said. Public says that ‚You dance naked.“ The visiting devotee nodded in assent. 1976 „Can one develop determination gradually?“ someone asked. that`s all. why should you fall down? If you have no determination.‘ like he`s saying with this store. they are distributing foodstuffs to all the other stores on the island.‘“ At the mere suggestion that shaving the head and wearing robes might be an impediment. otherwise shall I reject you. These things convince him. Prabhupada. why should you promise in persence of the Deity.when you become sisya. Everyone may try his best. (P. „I think it is pretty clear to me. The public may take or not take.2.66) ‚You haven`t got to preach so many religious systems. I shall give you some money. As our guru Prabhupada gave his clear requirement . sarva-dharman parityajya mam ekam saranam vraja? (Bg.(P. This seemed to be the real difference between the ISKCON devotees and the split-off group.“ Prabhupada said. There is no harm. ‚The public will be pleased like this‘? public may or may not please.. Prabhupada interrupted. that depends on you. it should be simultaneous. and Krishna is your Spiritual Husband.3.‘ That is called drdha-vrata. that ‚I have given my promise.farce. that is determination. Krishna is such a nice boss that he gives more facilities & improvement to the sincere servant.(P.. but correct their mistakes by consulting me without any reservation. I hope you all pray to Krishna so I may be able to execute my duty properly. 1967) Your service attitude encourages me because Krishna can never be an order supplier. Therefore I wish to leave some trained preachers so that they can do the work of Krishna Consciousness in the western world.(SPL to Mrinaline. 1967) So far remembering me and Krishna.(SPL to Nandarani. (SPL to Mukunda. Subala dasa and Uddhava. But you should not fall down. A girl can never forget either her father or her husband. From the very beginning of your meeting with me you have very sincerely & honestly carried out my orders & I am so much 164 .(SPL to Jadurani. I may be overcome by death at any moment. That is gentleman`s determination. The bona fide spiritual master is the manifest representative of Krishna. 27th August. 5th June. That is my ambition. 3rd October. On this principle we must advance our Krishna Consciousness and there is no danger. This service attitude is a great asset of revelation in Krishna Consciousness. Krsna devi. 1967) I am very happy that since it is entrusted to you the things are improving. 1967) Do not ever try to approach Krishna directly. Anyone who talks of Krishna without service to Guru will not be successful.(SPL to Devananda. Let Krishna help us meet again.C. This means that Krishna is giving you more & more facilities. who think freely. The spiritual master is described in the scriptures as good as Krishna because he is the most confidential servitor of Krishna. 27th September. Himavati. even in my absence. Hamsaduta. boy or girl cannot be ``nonsense''. and a K. 1967) Your letter is certainly full of sense.29) My dear boys and girls I am so much obliged to you for your prayers to Krishna to save my life. Pradyumna. I am your Spiritual Father. I am always feeling separation for you all. (SPL to Janardana. and attacked with serious disease. I am now old man. 6th June. We should always remember that Krishna is the only order giver. July. To please the spiritual master is to please Krishna.D. I am proud to have disciples like you.(SPL to devotees. ‚I must respect promise. His order is received through the agency of the spiritual master. 1967) Therefore I have a great hope to train some of my disciples for preaching work. 1967) Please inform Upendra that I have very much appreciated his letter of service attitude. 28th June. why shall I fall down?‘ That is determination. We should remain everlastingly a fool before the spiritual master. 1967) I do not want crowd of Kirtananandas but I want a single soul like Brahmananda. But if a disciple is actually fool it reflects on the spiritual master . Kirtanananda is a crazy man. 1967) The separation of Kirtanananda and Hayagriva is not a very happy incident. In other words it is my incapability that I could not save these two souls. The nonsense theory of oneness becomes null and void by the evidence presented in this incident.(SPL to Satsvarupa. no establishment can make any progress. and Satsvarupa. 4th October. 1967) Regarding your last but one paragraph of your letter under reply. 6 th October. still one has to maintain the disciplinary principle of obeying one chief man in any establishment. I was practically in tears for their attitude of separation on such flimsy grounds. Rayarama. That is proved. By lips he says that he is a surrendered soul but by action he is thinking differently. But Lord Nityananda Prabhu in the matter remained calm and quiet and delivered the two rascals to the highest elevation. By misuse of one's independence one at once becomes a victim of Maya and thus he loses all importance in Krishna Consciousness. 1967) Kirtanananda may be eager to address in the Harvard university but recently he has lost his link on account of disobedience. Even if one becomes equal to the spiritual master in education and knowledge.obliged to you for your simple and plain behavior. Jagai and Madhai. the author of Siksastak. 9th November. He says that he has become equal to the spiritual master but he is such a fool that he does not understand the principle of disciple even in ordinary worldly affairs. Not artificially but feelingly 165 . 11th November.(SPL to Rayarama. To think of becoming a fool is the real qualification for a bona fide disciple. Better to remain an ever fool before the spiritual master. Even Lord Caitanya. He must rectify his mistake before he can play in our Society any important role. If such discipline is not maintained. committee. Mukunda. The two brothers. became agitated. The same example is always applicable that one moon is sufficient for the night as not thousands of stars .(SPL to Rayarama. So it is my definite opinion that his lecture anywhere now will bear no spiritual sequence. As soon as one thinks that he has become the wiser man than the spiritual master one is surely doomed. Kindly continue this attitude & advise all your God-brothers to do so & they will be happy consequently I shall also be happy. We should always try to represent Lord Nityananda Prabhu in the matter of preaching work. violence on Lord Nityananda. Try to convince them by argument and reason but do not become angry with them. but this a great evidence that every soul is individual. Very recently Kirtanananda has developed a different consciousness of Maya which is called misuse of one's minute independence offered by Krishna. But we should not be angry with these poor souls.(SPL to Brahmananda. Lord Nityananda when he was dealing with Jagai and Madhai maintained the maximum amount of tolerance and patience in spite of the greatest provocation. I may inform you that you cannot be fool as you have humbly expressed yourself. You sing every day morning that by the mercy of the Spiritual master one can please the Lord and one who has not pleased the spiritual master cannot have any access in the realm of Krishna Consciousness. 1968) Yes. Therefore one should always think of Spiritual Master not an ordinary man. Of course. sometimes there is risk in the matter of direct service. Maya's duty is to keep the conditioned souls under her clutches. and I hope your injured thumb is now fully recovered. and was existing only on account of his service. cooking for me. and you can understand what is the attack of Spiritual Master by Maya. Kirtanananda was giving me direct service by massaging. so the thought that there is no necessity of Spiritual Master. and to depend on an ordinary man is a tyranny. because Spiritual Master is an ordinary man. 1968) 166 . You are intelligent and advanced in Krishna Consciousness. Even my spiritual master a great scholar remained a so called fool before His spiritual master Who was outwardly an illiterate village fellow. so if there is any hindrance by anyone in the discharge of her duties.(SPL to Brahmananda. 14 th December. May Krishna bless you. 1968) Your are saying that you are a fool. she must attack the opposite party. It is better service to Krishna and Spiritual Master in a feeling of separation. This duty is understood through the transparent medium via media of the Spiritual Master.Please continue your excellent service and I will always be so pleased with your sincere service. but later on by dictation of Maya. Kirtanananda was doubtful about my existence because he thought that I am dependent on his massaging.(SPL to Rayarama. 28th March. This is the process of understanding Krishna and his devotees. he became puffed up. those who are sincere devotee. they take direct service as an opportunity. but the illusory energy is so strong that it acts on this doctrine of familiarity breeds contempt. Hope you are well.(SPL to Jadurani. that alone can make us much more advanced in Krishna Consciousness. But Krishna saves his sincere servant in Krishna Consciousness. 1967) So far I am personally concerned. so much so that he thought his Spiritual Master a common man. Whatever allocation of duty there may be. but ultimately they were victorious by the Mercy of Krishna. it is stated that for the fixed up devotee there is one duty. 13th January. as I am so much happy with you. 21st January. if we try to execute such specific duty sincerely. Kirtanananda was thinking I was existing on his service. and so many other things. December. The Pandavas were declared devotees of Krishna ___ and so many troubles in their life. For example. (SPL to Mahapurusa. and I shall be glad to get a number of fools like you. I want such transcendental fools and not material intellectuals.and then we can make real progress. (SPL to Madhusudana. This mentality at once pushed him down. In the Bhagavad-gita. 1967) I am very concerned that due to your sincerity and service mood you have improved in Krishna Consciousness excellently. Lord Caitanya also accepted Himself a great fool before His spiritual master and all of us must follow the transcendental process. So in the Absolute world the fool is also the master and the master is also a fool in reciprocal exchange of dealings. the ecstasy of separation of Spiritual Master is even greater ecstasy than meeting with Him. instead of realizing I was giving him opportunity to do me some service. intoxication. if one voluntarily becomes the slave of Krishna. This is maya. then his success is sure. then this is liberated position. Srila Bhaktivinode Thakura said. We are slaves--every moment we are serving our senses. Hoping you are all well. actually they are slaves to the senses. that is good for him. So it is not slavish when one agrees to become slave of Krishna and His representative. I shall eat. let me become your dog. My Dear Vaisnava Thakura. then after establishing this center in Hamburg you can come to our New Vrindaban and grow things. 10th October. 11th November. 1968) Our relationship is eternal.(SPL to Hamsaduta.So you young men should not simply eulogize my hard working capacity.(SPL to Brahmananda. so in spite of our eternal relationship one may not meet other at the destination. the students should agree to be malleable by the Spiritual Master. Everyone wants to assert his personal views and opinions. there is no doubt. So I am very glad that you are so inquisitive. does one take regular dictation from one's Guru Maharaja? I know you to confirm yes. We are slaves to so many abominable things. Just like a flock of birds-although very intimately related. and how to do it is known to the Spiritual Master. That is the law of nature. people are falsely taught not to become slavish. If one is less strong. and I shall guard against any nonsense persons trying to enter. 1968) Your question. Spiritual Master. you can grow nice flowers and fruits for Krishna. 15th October. Krishna conscious. you can fly in the spiritual sky and meet together without failure. That is the general tendency. and I shall remain as your dog. every talent can be employed in Krishna's service. but I wish that you should also follow my example. 20th September.(SPL to Sivananda. that is the utilization of your natural tendency. without following any authority. In your western part of the world. So instead of being a slave of the senses. or you can grow things in Hamburg also. to drugs. So long everyone of us is strong in Krishna Consciousness. doing the most abominable things in the service of the senses. 1968) In the Bhakti Rasamrita Sindhu it is stated that the inquisitive disciple advances very quickly in Krishna Consciousness. individual strength is most important. thinking that we are independent. and whatever food you will give me. 3rd May. how would one 167 . 1968) I am so glad that Krishna is enlivening you in your service attitude. these your questions are very intelligent questions.(SPL to Satsvarupa. But if somebody lags behind. or His representative. ``When one has become pure enough. You have the tendency for botany. and trying to understand things in proper perspective. Therefore.Yes. and I am sure Krishna will give you sufficient intelligence to make your life successful. But although such persons claim not to be slaves.(SPL to Nandarani. Fruits and flowers can be produced anywhere. and I shall remain at your door. Everything. the other cannot keep him in the sky. If you have got specific training in this connection. liberated from being slave to the senses. Yes. everyone of them has to fly in the sky by individual strength.Your specific talents are to be engaged under direction of the Spiritual Master. This is the secret of success in Krishna Consciousness--unflinching faith in Krishna and in the Spiritual Master enlightens a devotee in the progressive march of Krishna Consciousness. sex. 1968) Yes. And that individual strength is achieved in the association of devotees also. So you can make your own judgment. and keep this attitude. but how is this so? Understanding that each individual has a certain particular rasa with Krishna. 1968) I very much appreciate your sincere endeavor for preaching our Krishna Consciousness movement.'' Caitanya Mahaprabhu inquired. The Spiritual Master's position is to train the disciples. But such actions are very rarely to be done. 14 th November. This is not actually violating the order of the Spiritual Master. So that special qualification reveals in the higher stage. ``Govinda. That was a little tactic to advance the cause of the Spiritual Master. That is not a gift of the Spiritual Master. You think yourself as very humble but you appreciate the services of your God-brothers and I am very much pleased on your such behavior . then he realizes his position. you have not taken your Prasadam. ``Why so late?'' He replied. ``I could not go on the other side because You were lying on the threshold. So these topics are not to be discussed in the conditioned stage. Just like the student in lower stages has to study so many things as preliminary education. ``Yes. So He inquired. he may be a very expert mathematician. The Spiritual Master's mission was to deliver fallen souls. I shall go now to take Prasadam. ``How did you come in?'' He flatly replied. 1968) The story of Ramanujacarya as stated by you is not disobedience.. So these things are not to be discussed at the present moment. then we can know what taste you have for what particular type of food. Ramanujacarya violated the order of the Spiritual Master to advance the cause of the Spiritual Master. So one day Caitanya Mahaprabhu fell asleep very soon and keeping His head on the threshold. etc . But he was sitting there.'' Then He inquired. but in the lower class he is teaching English. A qualified disciple increases the importance of the Spiritual Master. I have received one letter from Dr. Just like a teacher. and he was so much pleased with your behavior and talk that he has been induced to see me at Los Angeles. therefore Ramanujacarya considered that if the mantra was so powerful to deliver the persons. so when Caitanya Mahaprabhu was awake He saw that Govinda was sitting there although it was too late. It was a great fervor for the disciple to advance the missionary cause of the Spiritual Master. and be cured of the disease (out of maya). etc. The story is like this: Caitanya Mahaprabhu after taking His lunch would rest for a while and Govinda was daily massaging His feet. I have 168 . but I cannot go out crossing You for taking my lunch. Such rare instances are sometimes visible in many places. history. 13th November. Just like there [TEXT UNCLEAR] lying on the floor.(SPL to Satsvarupa. math.(SPL to Upendra. So while He was sleeping. but in higher stage of education. English. That would be for my sense gratification.relate with another soul of a different rasa? Especially between that of the Guru and disciple?'' That doesn't matter. Govinda came crossing the body of Caitanya and massaged His Feet. the Spiritual Master helps him to realize his relationship with the Lord. ``That I cannot do. and when we come to the liberated stage we can understand. ``Why did you not go out by crossing Me?'' Govinda said. In the beginning let us do the preliminary routine work very nicely.'' Caitanya Mahaprabhu said. why not deliver it to everyone as soon as possible. Ramanuja's Spiritual Master embraced him. This is useless talks in the preliminary stage. So everything has to be judged by the motive. he has got a particular taste for a special subject. so he specializes as a mathematician or a historian. but when he comes to the perfectional stage of training. you are sitting here?'' So he replied. ``By crossing You. and as the motive of such apparent violation was very good. I came crossing You inside the room for Your service.'' The idea is for service of the superior sometimes such violation appears to be in the scene. So I find in you some good qualities. Athvale whom you met in Amsterdam. The Spiritual Master's duty is to train him. (SPL to Sivananda. That's a good scheme. 1968) The absence of the idea of God is not very important. Of course I do not mean to impose upon you such strictures. but still one has to learn about the greatness of Krishna. So all this encourages me that you are doing your best. The relationship of the Spiritual Master and the disciple is not the same as the relationship with Krishna in Vrindaban. we should worship Krishna as God with respect and veneration. 1968) Dayala Nitai is a very nice boy. To come to the stage of spontaneous love for Krishna is a very high stage. but unfortunately we do not get financial help by our schemes. Our whole philosophy is to increase our love for Krishna. 1968) First of all.(SPL to Sivananda. 16th January. and Krishna will bless you for your noble attempt. but the sense of loving God is the most important. 1969) 169 . but still you should not do anything without consenting me. I know that you are sincere devotee and a faithful brahmacari. Yasoda was so much absorbed in love of Krishna that she did not care to know that He is God. and by your sincere endeavor you have now got a nice house to stay free of charges till it is sold. It is said in Srimad-Bhagavatam that a brahmacari should beg and collect things and then deliver them to his Spiritual Master.received the news cutting. he did not do right. The relationship with the Spiritual Master must always be continued with the greatest respect and veneration .(SPL to Hamsaduta. but you should know that without the instructions of the Spiritual Master that there is no question of devotional service. 17th December. and when the Spiritual Master will ask him to come and take prasadam he will do so. A disciple should not do anything without asking first his Spiritual Master . 31st December. That is the secret of success in Krishna Consciousness. Anyway.(SPL to Gurudasa. a sincere soul so please try to train him as your assistant. That is the system. 19th December. I am very glad to learn that he is automatically improving in Krishna Consciousness on account of his sincere service spirit to Krishna and the Spiritual Master. but the purport is that a brahmacari should not do anything without being directed by the Spiritual Master. Your scheme is all right. Love with awe and veneration and love that is spontaneous is different. The cowherd boys and all of the residents of Vrindaban were so much absorbed in love for Krishna that naturally there was absence of the idea of God. 15th November. but should always depend upon the Causeless Mercy of Lord Krishna. 1968) You mentioned that leaving is the best thing for your devotional service. In our conditioned state of life. This is also very nice attempt. he should rather fast that day than take food out of his own accord. and it is not to be imitated. your mother has some financial strength and you want to be in her confidence to get the money engaged in the Krishna Consciousness Movement. I must inform you that Vamanadeva's advice that first you should make a move and then consult your spiritual master is most unauthorized. I have carefully read the contents of your letter and I can understand your mental situation. like father and son. If one day the Spiritual Master forgets to call a brahmacari to participate in the lunch. If Vamanadeva gave such unauthorized counsel.(SPL to Janardana. without forgetting His exalted position. Krishna is never approached directly.Regarding serving your godbrothers. being disgusted. you must also serve his minister.'' In this connection. So the Spiritual Master is not alone. Krishna is approached through His bona fide servitors. this is a very good practice. or anyone. But still they are doing more tangible work than what Bon Maharaja could do there 35 years ago. You should not depend on your own intelligence. we can meet any opposing elements and come out victorious. a brahmana. and everyone who serves him. Although he tried for three years and at the expense of my Guru Maharaja. similarly. 1969) Regarding utilizing intelligence in devotional service. as much as one should take care of his hat as well as his shoes . And to know the science of Krishna means to serve Krishna under the directions of a bona fide Spiritual Master. So Guru Maharaja. to him only the science of Krishna Consciousness becomes revealed. Both are equally important for the upkeep of the body. I may inform you that you try your best to serve Krishna under the direction of your Spiritual Master and Krishna will surely help you in all respects. When you want to serve the king. so to serve the Spiritual Master also means to be the servant of His disciples. If he would do some work for our society. he may also find out some good shipping agents in these places. 1970) 170 . The Spiritual Master is never without His followers. 8th January. intelligence should be confirmed by the Spiritual Master. And to serve his servants may please him more than to serve the king personally. He says that. He is always with His entourage. 23 rd January. In comparison to that situation. 22nd May. 1969) If Acyutananda is serious about purchasing goods and dispatching from Calcutta or Bombay. Just like a child requires a parent to tell him the correct thing to do. 1969) The boys and girls in London are doing very nicely. When we serve Krishna in this way. ``Carrying out the order of My pure devotee is greater than carrying out that directly given by Me. our 6 young boys and girls are neither very much advanced in their study of Vedanta nor any other Vedic literature. I hope that you will understand this rightly. Then when we are fully conversant in revelation of Krishna Consciousness. 1969) Yes.(SPL to Sivananda. called him back. he could do not do any appreciable work. a strict disciple should always use his intelligence in conformity with the instructions of the Spiritual Master. sometimes in 1933. We are not impersonalists. provided he knows the science of Krishna.(SPL to Sudama. This very fact confirms the statement of Lord Caitanya that a preacher or teacher may be a householder. surely he would be happy. Krishna is pleased to reveal Himself. 13th February. secretary. My Guru Maharaja sent one sannyasi. a sannyasi.(SPL to Hayagriva. a sudra. 31st January. Swami Bon Maharaja. So we should follow strictly the Vedic principle that anyone who has unflinching faith in Krishna and the Spiritual Master. We take care of every part of the whole. Therefore we accept the Spiritual Master for guidance. to preach Krishna Consciousness in London.(SPL to Sivananda. (SPL to Jaya Govinda. neither are they sannyasis. That is most auspicious. Vaisnava Acaryas.(SPL to Damodara. This is a very nice attitude. 27th April. so no sincere prayers go in vain. we should always maintain this fearful attitude which means careful attention. You are capable in so many ways. In the beginning of your letter your comparison of the soldier and commander is very appropriate. I eat. In the material condition of life the consciousness of the living entity is covered over in varying degrees by the material energy in the form of sensuous body and subtle mind. and he educated all others how to make our present Prasadam. 29th November.Whatever the Spiritual Master gives in His own hand. So in the beginning I was cooking. you eat and sometimes you cook. at that time not less than a dozen. it should be accepted immediately as His grace. Gradually. We shall always offer such prayers to Spiritual Master. but there is a word maryada which means respect which should always be offered to the Spiritual Master and elderly members. In the beginning in New York I was cooking myself and was distributing at least one or two capatis to all my disciples. (SPL to Gopala Krsna. It is the duty of the disciple to accept Him as Superhuman Man . and at the end Radha Krishna. must be followed. Otherwise it is impossible to direct the fighting capacity of the soldiers and thus defeat the opposing elements.(SPL to Mahananda. 1970) 171 . all of them are conveyed to Krishna. 1970) I am very much happy that you have added worship of Srimati Tulasi devi to your Temple activities. Kindly therefore take courage. (SPL to Jayapataka. 1970) It is the injunction of the Vedas that the Spiritual Master should not be treated as ordinary man even if sometimes the Spiritual Master behaves like ordinary man. They are transmitted positively. Superior Spiritual Master. 1970) Regarding your questions are the Spiritual Master and the Grand Spiritual Master consciously aware of the prayers of a sincere devotee who prays in love to Them?--the answer is that no conscious prayers go in vain. This attitude will advance you progressively in Krishna Consciousness. the other side Krsna. Our Krishna Consciousness movement is based on complete fellow feeling and love. you should not try to speculate on the "level of consciousness" of the pure devotee of the Lord. 17th April. so there is no objection to take from the Spiritual Master.(SPL to Brahmananda Maharaja. But the consciousness of the pure devotee is not limited by the influence of maya and so it is never to be speculated in that way. Kirtanananda Maharaja took charge of the cooking and learned the art very nicely from me. We are on the battlefield of Kuruksetra--one side Maya. In rendering service to Lord Krsna and His representative the Spiritual Master. However. Let things be rightly done so that our mission may be correctly pushed forward to come out victorious. Lord Caitanya. namely to abide by the order of the commander. It is a question of love that sometimes I cook. So the regulative principles of a battlefield. 1970) I am very glad to learn that you are doing spiritual activities very nicely and you are always alert to see whether you are committing some offense. that is the system. But one thing you must know that any prayer you offer to your Spiritual Master and Superior Spiritual Master. 31st July. 21st April. (SPL to Sankarsana. That is not the way. I have decided to follow Your order. Just like a small child can only eat such things which are sanctioned by his parents. Hope this meets you in good health. And another test is if my Spiritual Master is pleased by my service then I know that I am pleasing Krishna . because if I am following the prescribed regulative principles of my Spiritual Master. Neophyte means no independent decisions.65) Krishna asks. then without doubt I am pleasing him. but what good is so much knowledge without practice? Obedience must be there. 1972) It is very good that you want to become very learned in Krishna Consciousness. 1972) Actually. if you think it over. Without discipline there cannot be any spiritual progress. 1972) 172 . Deliberate on this fully. that is the business of the older children. and do exactly as they say. Disciple means discipline. to serve the father. whether we have it or not ? If one is not intelligent enough for making for making decisions. no that we can independently question. 19 th February. you will understand the answers to all your questions. all such questions become answered automatically. kindly inform the others that I may be relieved to give you so many more nice books--that is my real desire. so by being submissive in this way and following the direction of the temple leaders is practicing the knowledge of Krishna Consciousness. I never asked my Spiritual Master one question except one: ``How shall I serve you?'' So in this way. 2nd January. there is much time in the day for studying.(SPL to Upendra. So in this way.(SPL to Satsvarupa.'' This is free will. 28th February. not this is right and this is wrong . that is the result or practice of your studying. you can use your free will to do it or not to do it. and then do what you wish to do. that means surrender. then all decisions shall be sanctioned by the spiritual master. then I know I am pleasing Krishna.So my best advice to you is that without questioning you follow the instructions given to you by Visnujana and other leaders. but you must go also on Sankirtana party.It is our duty to offer the very best to Krishna and the Spiritual Master. 1972) In other words. 18. Simply studying is dry and useless without chanting. no free will. So there is test for knowing if I am pleasing Krishna: If He reveals Himself to me. 27th July.(SPL to Kitriraja. 23rd July. the purpose of our life is to please Krishna. not by his own discretion. But when he is trained up then automatically he gets his freedom. ``Have you decided to fight?'' ``Yes. if I see Krishna. it is very simple. Therefore our system is to follow the authority or our superiors. If you want to study. 1971) Your next question was about the free will. if you are sincere to serve continuously and always chanting. Free will is that when the controller says do this. then everything will be all right. You have got the power to not do: iti te jnanam akhyatam guhyad guhyataram maya vimrsyaited asesena yathecchasi tatha kuru ``Thus I have explained to you the most confidential of all knowledge.G.(SPL to Yajnasvara.'' (B. That is reciprocal love. (SPL to Tusta Krsna. so why you should be feeling any difficulty? (SPL to Satyabhama dasi and Paramananda dasa. preach as much as possible. then he can be taken a siksa guru. As there are in Vrindaban some residents like monkeys and hogs. and whenever you have time read and study and never neglect to chant your sixteen rounds daily. I have seen it in your country. preaching Krsna is the same as remembering Krsna. And do not dare to question imprudently before your Spiritual Master. make life members. and do not mix yourself with my so-called god-brothers .Your program for preaching in Delhi is very much approved by me. that is a fact. be careful of them.(SPL to My dear Sons and Daughters. his dog being patted. and this will be the perfect program. collect. 21st November. There is no harm in going through Kirtanananda. or as instructor guru. 1974) 173 . 1972) My first instruction to all of my disciples is that they should help me spread this Krsna Consciousness movement all over the world. 9th August. If anyone tries to please Krishna directly.(SPL to Bhanvantarini. But. he's fool number one. so what is the wrong?You have written that the devotees here say that you cannot know me. So you have not to minimize the preaching program in order to study independently. 1974) If Kirtanananda Maharaja speaks what I speak. 9th January.(SPL to Niranjana. Further talks we may discuss when we meet. The conclusion is this: Without pleasing the spiritual master he cannot please Krishna. is it not? So the man becomes automatically pleased. Kirtanananda Swami may be taken a sadhu not spiritual master.(SPL to Teijas. His pet dog is also the object of your love . loving Him. I don't think he is saying anything against our principles. similarly there are many rascals in the name of Vaisnavas. 14th December. utilizing their energy as best they are able to do it. 1972) If you are serious to be an important assistant in our Society you should fully engage yourself in translation work. Guru sastra sadhu. 1973) Your enthusiastic response to my instructions is very encouraging. continue as you are doing. It is common sense that if Krishna is the object of your love. 20th July. should we love Krishna or love the spiritual master: You cannot go to Krishna directly. The spiritual master is one. no. Friends meet friends and if the friend is with his dog the gentleman pats his dog first.You are both old disciples. but only Kirtanananda Maharaja can know me . and you are also a disciple. I can understand if one of my students is making spiritual advancement if he is also making many life members and devotees . Actually the disciple is supposed to find relief from all his problems just by carrying out the orders of the spiritual master. why you cannot know me? I have no objection to your taking Kirtanananda's instruction. 1972) Your next question is. 4th May. if Kirtanananda is a disciple and he can know me. dhai tava pache pache. how is it possible for you to always make offerings to me? The spiritual master is always instructing his disciples and they in turn are always trying to serve their spiritual master. I am poor and wretched and running behind you shouting Krsna. no one can catch Him. 1976) I beg to thank you for your letter dated 16th January. 14th July. 1976 along with the enclosed donation. This is Krishna Consciousness.(SPL to Amsu dasa. (SPL to Bhurijana. but if someone follows the parampara. Those who are not fixed up they have various lines of action. (SPL to Jagatikanda dasi. 21st January. He agrees to be captured. If you feel at all indebted to me then you should preach vigorously like me. (eka means ``one'' and bahu means ``many''). That is Krsna's special mercy.'' ``Krsna is yours and you have the power to give Him to anyone you wish. 2. (SPL to Gopala Krsna dasa. 1976 and the enclosed daksina and pictures of the murtis in New Dvaraka which I am having framed and put on my wall here in Bombay. It is reciprocal. I am trying my best and if you try to follow surely you will benefit. Bhaktivinode Thakura has sung. 31st January. 1976) The disciple is always thinking how he or she can better serve the spiritual master. The spiritual master's duty is to lead the disciple to this ocean. Ami ta'kangala. Of course. In the Bhagavad-gita it is said: vyavasayatmika buddhir ekeha kuru-nandana [Bg. The spiritual master is accepted by all advanced devotees as Hari. and their aim is one. 22nd January.41]. 1975) You cannot survive without my mercy and I cannot survive without your mercy. and the spiritual master is always thinking how to help his disciple to surrender to Krishna.'' Our only business is to be fixed up in devotional service by pleasing the spiritual master. krsna krsna boli. 1976) 174 . but the spiritual master is very much pleased by such as attitude by the disciple . 1st February. Therefore it is said saksadharitvena 'samasta sastrair. Please accept my blessings. Residents of New Dvaraka. It is a reciprocal relationship of love. No matter what the conditions. (SPL to Jayatirtha. tomara sakati ache. but Krsna is afraid of Mother Yasoda. I am in due receipt of your letter dated August 9. Anything that is Krishna's is not different from Krishna. no one can repay the debt to the spiritual master. ``Those who are on this path are resolute in purpose. 14th August. 1975) Yes. Krsna dite para. Actually Krishna and Krishna's representative are not different. The real ocean of mercy is Krsna and it is the duty of the spiritual master to tell his disciple to come to the ocean and be happy.(SPL to Los Angeles. that I am incarnation of Caitanya Mahaprabhu. ``Krsna sei tomara. Unless there is loving feeling. That is the proper way to repay me. 1976) My Dear Sons and Daughters. Everyone is afraid of Krsna. This mutual dependence is based on love--Krishna Consciousness. still a devotee will always try his best to please his spiritual master and Krishna.Thank you very much for distributing my books in such severe conditions of cold. Krsna!''Krsna is unlimited. everybody says like that. then one day. presence by message (or hearing) is real touch. And so wherever I am there. I wish to return at the earliest opportunity. and I am feeling separation. I am anxious to come there and see it. We feel always the presence of our past Acaryas simply by their immutable instructions. and it may be that on or before I will come to you again. So we should all work together for satisfying Lord Krishna and in that way the feelings of separation will transform into transcendental bliss. Never think that I am absent from you. and that will make you always associated with me. this is very blissful. ``I really miss Swamiji and my God-brothers' association so much.(SPL to Sivananda brahmacari. But either separation or meeting. I am also feeling like that. along with all you my students there who are carrying on so nicely even in my absence.000 years ago. 3rd May. Please remember always the humble teachings that you have received from me. and I am always receiving good news of the New York Temple so it is very nice that now you have provided Krishna a beautiful new throne. So continue your activities with great vigor. Lord Krishna is present by His message which was delivered 5. If you sincerely. and with your other God-brothers. although nobody can conquer Him. I cannot stop my western world activities and I have taken leave from you for only six months. 1968) You write to say. Physical presence is not essential.'' But I may remind you that I am always with you. 2nd August.The purport is. don't become over intelligent. 12th March. actually separation is more relishable than meeting.(SPL to Uddhava. In the transcendental platform. I am separated from my Guru Maharaja since 1936 but I am always with him so long I work according to his direction. but try to follow the principles which are necessary to strengthen oneself in the matter of spiritual advance. the state is always 175 . and you are there.(SPL to students. I hope you will understand me right and do the needful. you will be able to conquer Krsna. 1977) VANI AND VAPU I am always thinking of you. I shall always pray to Krishna for your steady advance. Kirtanananda says from my bodily feature that I am improving. 1968) I am so glad to learn that the New York devotees are all feeling my separation and you are feeling also. 1967) I am very pleased to hear about Krishna's new throne of gold leaf and velvet. 24th August. But you must know that I am always with you all so long you are executing Krishna Consciousness.(SPL to Balai. Just hear from the self-realized soul. (SPL to Vasudeva dasa. 1968) Please be happy in separation. seriously hear from the realized soul. all your God-brothers are there. 23rd January. rather in separation one relishes the loving relationship more tasty. 7th April. If you 176 . under my direction. 1970) We are not separated actually. I am sure He is helping me by His spiritual blessings. So far I am concerned. Actually in the spiritual platform. So try to preach this Krishna Consciousness Movement amongst the hippies there. Then gradually make them more and more advanced by participating in Love Feasts and ceremonies. I do not factually feel any separation from my Spiritual Master because I am trying to serve Him according to His desire. And this thinking process is Krishna consciousness . like Janmastami and Rathayatra. 1970. that will make our movement successful.(SPL to Advaita. That is real association . Therefore. 1969) That does not matter because you are not personally tending me in Boston. 1968) You write that you have desire to avail of my association again. automatically our devotional love for the physique is done. that is formality. If we can think always of Krishna even in separation. So there are two kinds of association: physical and preceptorial. 6th October. The separation is also meeting. If they kindly join in chanting Hare Krishna. but it is a different stages of rasas. although He is not physically present. Spiritual Master. But you should always remember that whatever we are doing. When we love the message and serve Him. So Krsna when He was physically present before Arjuna is the same when He is present before us by His vani of Bhagavad-gita. and simply induce them to chant Hare Krishna.(SPL to Govinda dasi. Then all help will come automatically. down to us. Physical association is not so important as preceptorial association . 17th August. (SPL to Govinda dasi.(SPL to Krsna dasa. Then everything will go smoothly. that is Krishna Consciousness. 1968) To feel separation from the Spiritual Master or Krishna is very good position. Just like I always think of my Guru Maharaja every moment. and I am very much pleased for the nice sentiments you have expressed therein. If one is engaged full time in the service of the Lord. The only thing wanted is that we should work very sincerely. he thinks always of Them. So vapu is physical presence and vani is presence by the vibration. it is in the parampara system beginning from Lord Krsna. There are two--vani or vapu. I am also always thinking of you how you are making progress there. but they are all the same. I want to see that all my disciples are engaged 24 hours in the service of the Lord. with full faith in Krishna and the Spiritual Master. that is my personal service. So don't be disappointed that you are separated from me. 9th January. And I am always expecting your letters that you have already opened a center there. 1970) I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated 2nd April. That means one who is in pure love with Krishna and His Representative.(SPL to Satsvarupa. our loving spirit should be more upon the message than the physical representation. And in the absolute platform. there is no difference of separation and meeting.absolute. That should be the motto. but why do you forget that you are always in association with me? When you are helping my missionary activities I am always thinking of you and you are always thinking of me. 21st October. there is no separation. and because I am trying to serve Him to my best capacity. The key to success in spiritual life is to always endeavor to please the Spiritual Master. 20th February. This is called Vaniseva. (SPL to Satadhanya. and follow his instructions. Sarasvati Gosvami Thakura. 19th July. (SPL to Tusta Krsna. 22nd June. To carry out the teachings of guru is more important than to worship the form. So in the absence of physical presentation of the Spiritual Master the vaniseva is more important. Please try to open as many branches as possible in European countries. 1970) I thank you very much and all the devotees for offering me a garland daily as you were doing when I was physically present. Form is called vapu and teachings is called vani. may appear to be physically not present. Both should be worshiped. with a little independence. and vapuseva means physically or personally rendering service. You should never act independently. but all he can succeed in doing is biting the king. 22 nd August.kindly try to fulfill my mission for which you have been sent there. because my guidance in my words are always there. Personal association is not so important as association through service. My Spiritual Master. He may be very puffed-up by his position. The GBC should personally 177 . 1972) My only anxiety is to guide you. (SPL to Syamasundara. When I am engaged in His service His pictures give me sufficient strength. So there are two kinds of service to the Spiritual Master One is called vaniseva and the other is called vapuseva. Because I am following his instructions.(SPL to Karandhara. If a disciple is constantly engaged in carrying out the instructions of the Spiritual Master he is supposed to be constantly in company with hs Spiritual Master. that will be our constant association. Vani is more important than vapu. This is just like the bug who is sitting on the lap of the king. but I have never left his association. There are some of my Godbrothers here in India who had constant personal association with Guru Maharaja. The main guidance is all of us should remain spiritually strong by chanting the minimum number of rounds and following the rules and regulations . executing the instructions. but none of them should be neglected. 14th December. but you made no arrangement so what can I do? So let us meet by Sankirtana . I was only with my Guru Maharaja four or five times. I expect that all of you should follow these instructions. 1970) Thank you very much for your sincere endeavor and faith in your Spiritual Master.So far personal association with the Guru is concerned . but who are neglecting his orders. I also do not feel separation from my Guru Maharaja. One who is determined in this effort will advance very quickly in Krishna consciousness. not even for a moment. Vaniseva means as above mentioned. In form as well as in teachings. I have never felt any separation. To serve the Spiritual Master's word is more important than to serve him physically. 1970) You are expecting to see me.(SPL to Hamsaduta. but still because I try to serve His instruction I never feel separated from Him. Krsna sometimes makes me sick just to examine how much you have learned to conduct the business under my guidance. 1972) Next you ask if I am present in my picture and form? Yes. but I also expected to see the London Rathayatra. like that. to please Visnu. and Brahma Sampradaya. Ramanuja is in the Sri or Laksmi sampradaya.(SPL to Nityananda. 12th November.(SPL to Sivani devi dasi. 1977) OUR PARAMPARA AND OTHER SAMPRADAYAS Principally there are four sampradayas. so there are four bona fide Visnu sampradayas. 178 . If your business will not suffer. (SPL to Hrdayananda Maharaja. Sri Sampradaya coming from Laksmi. So. My request is the same for everyone: that they follow strictly the regulative principles and chant at least sixteen rounds daily. And you should follow the four regulative principles without deviation. 1975) Jagadisa Prabhu also is thinking to come as my GBC secretary for the month of February. you will make steady advancement in Krishna Consciousness and there will be no fall downs. but we have to do preaching work and therefore have to remain separate. but they are following the directions given under off-shoot authorities. 1974) To take shelter of the Spiritual Master means to follow his instructions. Nimbarka is in the Kumara sampradaya. The four Visnu sampradayas are authorized by us. but these are not recognized by us. Rudra Sampradaya coming from Lord Siva. If you do these simple things. according to Bhagavad-gita. Then there will be no fear of being victimized by maya. But actually there is no question of separation for one engaged in Lord Krishna's service. 14th March. 1976) Personal service to the spiritual master means to follow his instructions.(SPL to Bali Mardana dasa. the Vaisnava religion. there are other sampradayas. you are welcome anytime. You should be very careful to chant 16 rounds daily and read all of the books carefully. 5th September. they are the original authorized sampradayas or religion. If you come in February I have no objection. They have created so many. Nimbarka sampradaya coming from the four Kumaras. Besides the Visnu sampradayas. I wish to remain with all my disciples together. Vivasvan is in the Brahma Sampradaya. Then everything will be all right. and these are created. 4th January. And as much time as they are able should be devoted for preaching according to our books. I can have three dozen secretaries. you should be very careful to not deviate even a little bit from the order of your Guru.observe strictly all the rules and regulations and they should become the practical example to others. All the sampradayas are related with one another because the conclusion is the same: that Lord Krishna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead and the living entities are His eternal servants. 1971) There were four listeners when Krishna instructed Arjuna.(SPL to Rajarsi dasa. Vallabhacarya is a follower of Visnuswami or Rudra sampradaya. You should attend mangala arati and classes. The original dharma is to follow the varnas and asramas. 12th March. So you and your wife should try to follow this instruction. it is different from the param brahma. But on account of the param brahma being the supreme. inconceivable. although officially we belong to the Madhva sampradaya. 30th January. This is almost similar to Visistadvaita vada. Try to convince them by 179 . this philosophy is called acintya-bheda bheda tattva. Vaisnava philosophy is now being pushed on all over the world under the Hare Krishna movement.5]. The nonsense theory of oneness becomes null and void by the evidence presented in this incident. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu gives the identification of jiva soul as the eternal servant of Krishna and is situated as marginal potency of the Lord based on the philosophy of acintya-bheda bheda-tattva. So far I am personally concerned. following the footsteps of my guru maharaj Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura Prabhupada. a Godbrother is addressed as His Grace. . This is supported by the Katho Upanisad 2/5/13 nityo nityanam cetanas cetananam/ eko bahunam yo vidadhati kaman.'' given to me by you on 2/11/74 was very interesting to read.(SPL to Sri Chakravarti. 1974) GENERAL ETIQUETTE One thing you may note also as a matter of etiquette. But we should not be angry with these poor souls.(SPL to Brahmananda.(SPL to Madhvananda. The Spiritual Master is addressed as His Divine Grace. and we feel Sripada Ramanuja a great support for the Vaisnava philosophical understanding. The Bhagavad-gita supports the Vedanta Sutra brahma-sutra-padais caiva/ hetumadbhir viniscitaih [Bg. 1967) The separation of Kirtanananda and Hayagriva is not a very happy incident. Because it is appreciated simultaneously which is very difficult to comprehend by the common man. In other words it is my incapability that I could not save these two souls. To the jiva brahma identification is one part of acintya-bheda bheda-tattva. Srisaila Chakravarti. 22 nd November. The summary is that the simultaneous one and different jiva brahma is simultaneously one with and different from the param brahma. and any Sannyasin is addressed as His Holiness. 1972) The book compiled by your father V. but this a great evidence that every soul is individual. In this sense jiva soul is avheda or non-different from the param brahma.R. As spirit soul or identical brahma. 25 th April. Our sampradaya is known as the Madhva Gaudiya sampradaya.So sampradaya means one of the four original Visnu sampradayas. we accept the principles of all the acaryas. We find great shelter at the lotus feet of Sri Ramanujacarya because his lotus feet are the strongest fort to combat the mayavadi philosophyI hope the book ``The Philosophy of Sri Ramanjua'' published by you will be a great help the the Vaisnavites all over the world. Of course we Gaudiya Vaisnava follow Srila Ramanuja's philosophy almost in the same manner. It is like a combination of nyaya sruti and smrti prasthans. I was practically in tears for their attitude of separation on such flimsy grounds. or jiva brahma is identical with the Supreme Brahma or the param brahma. the biggest. This is almost similar to the visista-dvaita vada. 13. the identical brahma or jiva brahma being very minute. namely ``The Philosophy of Sri Ramanuja. no establishment can make any progress. I understand that he has been induced by Bon Maharaja to be initiated by him for giving him shelter. He says that he has become equal to the spiritual master but he is such a fool that he does not understand the principle of disciple even in ordinary worldly affairs. which please take note. Anyway. 1968) Regarding my apartment. So it is deliberate transgression of Vaisnava etiquettes and otherwise a deliberate insult to me. violence on Lord Nityananda. He may be called Hrsikesa. 1968. But Lord Nityananda Prabhu in the matter remained calm and quiet and delivered the two rascals to the highest elevation. and this foolish boy has accepted his inducement. all acaryas should be addressed as Srila. assisted by a newcomer. 26th March. and I am greatly surprised. Lord Nityananda when he was dealing with Jagai and Madhai maintained the maximum amount of tolerance and patience in spite of the greatest provocation. the author of Siksastak. I do not know why he has done like this but no Vaisnava will approve of this offensive action. I am fully aware of your sincere service and 180 . if it is possible to keep it with no strain on your financial condition it is alright. ``My Dear Hrsikesa.argument and reason but do not become angry with them. we shall be very cautious about them. I am in due receipt of your letter of March 14. you can call him Hrsikesa. If such discipline is not maintained. Kirtanananda is a crazy man. 1968) In meantime. 14 th July. In the meantime.(SPL to Brahmananda. became agitated. Otherwise I am not very serious about retaining the apartment. 1968) I thank you once more for your noble sentiments about me and I can simply say that for this nice attitude Krishna will certainly help you. 19th December. I have also received one letter which is very depressing from Hrsikesa. Everything should be performed with no strain because too much financial strain will hamper our progress in Krishna Consciousness. We should always try to represent Lord Nityananda Prabhu in the matter of preaching work. Please accept my blessings. After my Guru Maharaja. I am greatly surprised for Bon Maharaja's initiating you in spite of his knowing that you are already initiated by me. 1968) I am so pleased to learn that you have got a Deity Room and you are performing jointly Kirtana. 1967) The proper form of address to Bhaktivinode Thakura is Om Visnupad Srila Bhaktivinode Thakura. and I have replied Hrsikesa's letter in the following words. The two brothers. Even if one becomes equal to the spiritual master in education and knowledge. Even Lord Caitanya.(SPL to Hayagriva. and the same name will be continued after his initiation also. That is proved. This isn't very happy news. ``Om Visnupad Srila''. 9th November.(SPL to Brahmananda. still one has to maintain the disciplinary principle of obeying one chief man in any establishment. let him be trained up in our line of activities to observe the rules and regulations and chant Hare Krishna jointly with you. 22nd January. but generally a Holy Name after Lord Krishna is offered to a devotee after his initiation. and in the future. Jagai and Madhai.(SPL to Rayarama. there is no objection. committee. Harold Olmstead.(SPL to Mukunda. (SPL to Ekayani. 1970) Regarding the means of worship. 1st May. You should always pray to His Divine Grace because naturally He will be more affectionate to you than to me. therefore the Spiritual Master is the representative of Vyasa. and He can also appear in mind in His own form. Regarding instructions from the Spiritual Master. 1969) So far your dreams are concerned. our Vaisnava process is first offer respects to the Spiritual Master. so why not in your dream.(SPL to Linda. Goswami directly explains master of senses. (SPL to Mukunda. and master means the master of the senses. 1969) Regarding your questions.''(SPL to Tamala. is not the Sankaracarya's order. Go means senses.(SPL to Dayananda. Vyasa is the Spiritual Master. You will do good always by offering your prayers to His Divine Grace Bhaktisiddhanta Goswami Maharaja.(SPL to 19th December. 23th January. 19th February. But the Swami title offered to me is equivalent to Goswami. Goswami. 1970) Regarding the activities of such great sages and devotees like Parvat Muni and Parasara Muni begetting children. every time she was touching my feet and offering obeisances. Therefore the Spiritual Master's seat is called ``Vyasasana. So this name. 1970) 181 .therefore I pray always to Krishna for your all-round welfare. It is very encouraging to me. 1969) When Mataji Syamadevi came to see me in Los Angeles she was very respectful to me. You have got a nice temple by the grace of my Spiritual Master. the swami order is certainly introduced by Sankaracarya. She was also very serious of having my cooperation in spreading the Krishna Consciousness Movement. such activities of these elevated souls are not to be questioned by us. Lord Jagannatha is very kind. So I am sure that my Guru Maharaja will be easily inclined to your prayers than that of mine. and then Lord Krsna. Swami and Goswami are actually the same . because almost all sannyasis of impersonal philosophy take this name. it is very nice that you are thinking about Krsna Consciousness even while sleeping. Krsna is so nice that we want to remember Him even more than twenty-four hours daily. Swami. They have a higher purpose which we cannot determine . then Lord Caitanya. 15th May. (SPL to Sivananda. there is no need of taking instructions spoken in dream while the Spiritual Master is still present. synonomous. but one should follow their instructions. 22nd May. When he comes offer your respect by bowing down as you do unto me. Swami means the master. 25th July. 1968) His Holiness Swami Sadananda. my German god-brother may come to see you. therefore it is said in the Srimad-Bhagavatam that one should not try to imitate the actions of the Isvaras or those who are very powerful. Generally one is more affectionate to the grandchildren than to the children directly. 1971) So long as a devotee is not initiated he should have Bhakta before his name. 1972) If anyone thinks like that. Swami Brahmananda may write me and I will instruct him. but so far we are the Gaudiya Sampradaya is concerned. everything is illusion. 25th August. In the material world either picture or person..(SPL to Jadurani.(SPL to Upendra. if he is a male. that means he is a nonsense. that is offense. 1972) One thing. My main purpose is to propagate the teachings of Lord Caitanya or Krishna Consciousness. Therefore we should honor and keep pictures in that spirit.In the Mayavadi Sampradaya they observe the Guru Purnima day to offer respect to the Spiritual Master. Bhaktin if she is a girl. the name should be there. 4th September. on the invitation card you have written All Glories to Our Guru Maharaja. Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati. Why you are learning this impersonalism. rather it can be fully utilized. 14th July. it may not be disturbed. 19th February. 1971) So far as your taking initiation from Brahmananda Maharaja. we offer on the Appearance Day of the Spiritual Master our humble homage annually and this particular auspicious moment is called Vyasa Puja.. I have no objection.(SPL to Bhavananda. As soon as we offer obeisances to guru. 17th December.(SPL to Hamsaduta dasa. I don't remember. This system of offering respect to the Spiritual Master is current in all sections of Vedic followers. 8th January. and Mayavadi sannyasis are known as only Swami. 1971) As for your question about Santa Rasa and the opinions of Rupa Goswami and Sridhara Swami. If we throw pictures this way and that way. I am not after recruiting some disciples. If they have sincere faith in you. The name and picture are as good as the person in spiritual world. who has taught you? Daily I am offering obeisances to my Guru by vibrating his real name. Vaisnava sannyasis are known as Tridandi goswamis. otherwise it is impersonal. There is no reason why Acaryas cannot differ on certain points. but it is the etiquette that in the presence of one's Spiritual Master.(SPL to Bali Mardana. (SPL to John Miller. This is impersonalism. 1st October. 1974) 182 .(SPL to Nityananda. You can send me the appropriate passages.(SPL to Sriman Sai. We are strictly personalists. The sahajiya's. In this connection. 1972) There is no difference between me and my picture. but for preaching work we want some assistants and if somebody offers voluntarily his service it is welcome. 24th March. 1970) The problem that your followers want to accept you as guide in spiritual matters is not objectionable if they are sincere. So the best thing will be that you become a regular disciple of me and you can teach your followers in the same principles. one does not accept disciples. they write Glories to Guru. that a pure devotee should be obeyed and no one else. although nobody can conquer Him. This is very important. (SPL to Jayatirtha dasa and Manjuali dasi. 1976) Devotees always humbly offer respect to everyone.(SPL to Sukriti dasa. 21st February. (Even amongst our God-brothers we have misunderstanding but none of us is astray from the service of Krishna. then one day. they do not observe the usual etiquette. Unfortunately we are now separated. seriously hear from the realized soul. 1975) As soon as one thinks that he is greater than his spiritual master that is the greatest offense. but to these offenders everything is lost. (SPL to Gopiparanadhana dasa. They speak only the satyam. Krsna will give one everything. although it may not necessarily be priyam.You have also mentioned to repeatedly offer obeisances to your spiritual master. 29th January. The more one becomes fixed up in guru obeisances. 1976) Thank you for serving steadily and taking responsibility in Krishna Consciousness. not namaskara. 9th August. this is not the proper type of question to place before your spiritual master. 23rd January. The spiritual master cannot be approached for solving marriage problems. 10th November. 15th November. the more he advances in spiritual progress: yasya deve para bhaktir yatha deve tatha gurau(SPL to Atreya Rsi. 1976) Don't become over intelligent. but when there is a discussion on a point of sastra. (SPL to Madame Sumati Morarji. A disciple should offer dandabats. That is not the business of the guru. I hope therefore they will not go astray and the misunderstanding may be cleared up in due course of time.(SPL to Vasudeva dasa. My Guru Maharaja ordered us to execute his mission combinedly. satyam bruyat priyam bruyat. 1977) SRILA PRABHUPADA’S GODBROTHERS( IN GENERAL) I understand that Hayagriva and Kirtanananda are continuing to chant Hare Krishna is their center. If you sincerely. you will be able to conquer Krsna. 15th February. But none of us have stopped preaching Krishna Consciousness. 1975) The murti of the Spiritual Master should be treated as good as the Deity (SPL to Karandhara.1974) Regarding your problem of not being able to get married. Just hear from the self-realized soul. Even if there was misunderstanding amongst the God-brothers of my 183 . If the central point is fixed up then there is no harm in such controversy. but their central point is always service to the country. and I shall be glad to know your terms of cooperation. But I am prepared to accept any condition for getting your cooperation in full. and because Krishna was on the side of Arjuna. A. Dr. I beg to enclose herewith a copy of a letter received from my Godbrother. So if it is now possible to combine ourselves together. that is the significance of individuality. Syama Sundardas Brahmacari that we cooperate at least in London. Bhaktivedanta Swami (SPL to Gaudia Mission. I shall be the first man to welcome this good opportunity. 18th November.O. The only qualification we have to scrutinize is if one is acting in Krishna Consciousness as far as one is able to do it. if Gaudiya Mission is prepared to cooperate with me. In the battlefield of Kuruksetra were Arjuna and Bhisma who were fighting with one another. but the central point is how to preach the mission of His Divine Grace. 23rd May. Similarly. But still they remained the greatest devotees of the Lord. I am prepared to accept this cooperation in any condition. Every one of us is conducting his own institution. So far as my starting a separate organization known as International Society for Krishna Consciousness. Syama Sundardas Brahmacari. but I do not know under what condition you wish to cooperate with me. and there is difference of opinion even between Gaudiya Mission and Gaudiya Math. C. sometimes Bhisma pierced the body of Krishna also with arrows. But our staunch faith in Krishna Consciousness may not allow any material disruption. Please therefore let me know your terms of cooperation. Baghbazar. It has been suggested by Dr. and 184 . 1967) GAUDIYA MISSION Reg. Thanking you in anticipation for your early reply. So I shall be glad to know from you under what condition our cooperation is possible. but all such differences of opinions must coincide in Krishna. I am prepared to cooperate with the Gaudiya Mission in all respects. of your Mission. Please therefore try to be sympathetic with any person even if they differ. But this controversy is not material.Guru Maharaja none of them deviated from the transcendental loving service of Krishna. it was inevitable because none of our godbrothers are cooperating with one another. But apart from others. The idea is that provocation and misunderstanding may remain between one man and another.) (SPL to Brahmananda. Sincerely yours. But I am prepared in every respect and I shall await your reply with interest. Every individual being must have his opinion. Just like in a national program. amongst the disciples of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati there may be some controversy. Office: Sri Gaudiya Math P. Taking the concluding portion of his letter inviting me to cooperate with the Gaudiya Mission in the matter of my activities of spreading the objective of Srila Prabhupada Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Goswami Maharaja. Calcutta-3 Att: Secretary Dear Sir: Kindly accept my humble obeisances. that is a fact. different political parties are sometimes in conflict and make propaganda against each other. and I shall be very glad to consider it. 1969) So far as your question about controversy amongst the disciples of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Goswami Maharaja. At that time I was also thinking of chanting and dancing in Sankirtana as well as distributing prasadam in the matter of my preaching Bhagavatam. and perhaps Gaudiya Mission was established at that time. But when I first met His Divine Grace Srila Prabhupada.(SPL to his Godbrothers. Before coming to your country. I think now we should cooperate fully for preaching the Mission of Srila Prabhupada. I think I would also have gone back to India without any success.(SPL to Rupanuga. when I was in India and I was planning to come here. Although I was intimately connected with the Gaudiya Math institution. About 40 years before. Forty years before when two of my eldest God-brothers came to London with this mission they simply devoted their time in lecturing in some renowned public place and inviting some leading politician to preside over the meeting. Please therefore follow this transcendental policy with heart and soul and make your center as spiritually opulent as far as possible. This was out of my inspiration in receipt from Srila Prabhupada. Sripada Bon Maharaja. 1969) I have also read specifically your articles on the matter of acaryas. I was thinking that my preaching work in this country would be a difficult job for me on account of the country's position being completely different from the principles of Bhakti cult. Since then. I was a householder. So after taking sannyasa in 1959 I prepared myself for coming to the foreign countries. Prasadam and Srimad-Bhagavatam'' is very welcome. You know very well that when I began my preaching work in New York I never followed this policy of lecturing amongst the stereotyped politicians or elites of the society. I wish that Gaudiya Mission should send their preachers and establish different centers in different parts of the world. so this is a controversial point which I do not wish to enter into while we are proposing for cooperation. and every one of our Godbrothers are acting as acharya. I was thinking in the same way. I started for New York in 1965. ``All glories to Sankirtana.Krishna accepted the friendship of Arjuna just as He accepted the inimical arrows of Bhisma in the same loving spirit. Different persons have interpreted on this point. That will fulfill the Mission of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Goswami Maharaja. Therefore. So you do not be disturbed by such controversial points. guided by our senior old Tirtha Maharaja were sent to London. I think if my Godbrothers would have attempted similarly. 21st August. and it appears that my attempt in the foreign countries has become successful to a great extent. 1970) 185 . Prasadam and Srimad-Bhagavatam has been successful in all the centers. He instructed me to preach in the foreign countries. activities in foreign countries was practically stopped altogether. As soon as three books were ready. And if I would have followed such a policy. 2nd January. beginning from Hamburg to Tokyo. But we do not find any record where our Srila Prabhupada nominated any acharya after Him. Srimad-Bhagavatam. wherein on the 14th Paragraph I see the acharya shall be entitled to nominate in writing his successive acharya. preaching centers would have been established all over the world by this time. He very eagerly desired that the message of Lord Caitanya should be preached all over the world. 1969) Your statement in the letter. 28th July. I think this policy of Sankirtana.(SPL to Mandali Bhadra. Better you engage your mind very seriously in the matter of the service entrusted upon you. So this planning has by the grace of my Guru Maharaja and Krishna become successful in the practical field. but I could not do anything tangible on account of my family attachment. That will make you progressive in Krishna Consciousness. By my personal attempt I have established preaching centers numbering about two dozen. who is distributing? Who is sending these books? The Gaudiya Math does not sell our books. 18th November. who has introduced these books? You say that you would read only one book if that was all that I had written. I shall be glad if you kindly inquire on this point.(SPL to Niranjana. It is now clear that my Godbrothers take objection of my being called as Prabhupada and on this point they wanted to poison the whole Society--that is now clear. That is their business.'' said the first friend. as if they were advised by Brahmananda Maharaja and company to come to India and join Tirtha Maharaja. Anyway. So there is no possibility of cooperation with them. These books should not at all be circulated in our Society. one friend informed another that one man has become the High Court Judge. Further talks we may discuss when we meet. repression. So many persons were envious of my Guru Maharaja. Their proposal for cooperation is a myth. Their policy has been all along to suppress me and take credit for himself. 14th November. As there are in Vrindaban some residents like monkeys and hogs. You may have talked many things with Mangala Niloy but why write him in black and white. They cannot do anything and if somebody does something. but they will manufacture some fault. Rather you should avoid strictly meeting with them.I am very pleased that you all GBC members are remaining vigilant so that the disturbance in our Society may not continue. ``I have seen him sitting on the bench. so you teach others to do like that. That cannot be right. ``Oh no. All along my godbrothers gave me only depression. but He was preaching and did not care for them.(SPL to Yamuna devi. 1970) Regarding the Gaudiya Math. The letter must not be sent. be careful of them.(SPL to Sukadeva dasa.(SPL to Rupanuga. compression--but I continued strong in my duty. So never mind there is some discouragement. My Guru Maharaja once told this story.'' The second man replied. And do not dare to question imprudently before your Spiritual Master. 25th September. 29th August. Bhakti Vilas Tirtha is very much antagonistic to our society and he has no clear conception of devotional service. In Isana and his wife's letters there is reference to Tirtha Maharaja's name. That is the nature of third class men. But how it was manipulated--that is a mystery. 186 . They haven't done anything which is cooperative. ``No. You know in a recent article they managed to write in such a way that Madhava is doing the world movement and we are his subordinate. From the beginning that has been their mentality. similarly there are many rascals in the name of Vaisnavas. 1972) If you are serious to be an important assistant in our Society you should fully engage yourself in translation work. they will be envious. he is now a Judge. There is no fault.(SPL to Gurudasa. 1971) Regarding the Gaudiya Math books being circulated there. 1970) Do not be depressed. ``Maybe. 21 st November. It appears like that.'' ``Yes. But I don't think he is getting any salary. He is contaminated.'' Such envious men will find out some fault anywhere.'' he replied. and do not mix yourself with my so-called god-brothers. our position has nothing to do with them. continue with your work in full enthusiastic Krishna Consciousness attitude of service. actually. 1973) You should not write anything to Madhava Maharaja's camp. why we should sell their books. Who has introduced these books? Let me know. Do not think or indulge in loose talks. By his blessings it has come out successful. This is the motto of our spiritual life: yasya prasadad bhagavata prasadao. 1974) I thank you for following the order of your spiritual master. nor should they give them any of my books or should they purchase any of their books. so what is the pracara? As far as I am concerned I have the blessings of my guru maharaj. If politics come. Krsna and Srila Prabhupada Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura are our only hope and they and helping us.(SPL to Subala dasa Swami.(SPL to Gurukrpa Swami. and now it is 1976. Do not come to this. Please avoid them.(SPL to Acyutananda Maharaja. 9 th November. Otherwise why they are non cooperating with me? So no cooperation is possible. I do not need anything else. So I have now issued orders that all my disciples should avoid all of my godbrothers.(SPL to Visvakarma dasa. 15th October.They are not after preaching but material gain and reputation and adoration. 1975) I am in due receipt of your letter dated September 3. Why is there this politics? This is not good. politics. then the preaching will be stopped. everything is spoiled. As soon as politics come. In the Gaudiya Math the politics is still going on. Let us do the duty of propagation sincerely and seriously on our own principles. and diplomacy. 1975 with the enclosed statement about Van Maharaja. That is the difficulty. 1975) 187 . 1974) I am in due receipt of your letter addressed to Rupanuga das dated September 16. but I know his mentality is different and there is no possibility of cooperation. 1975 and have noted the contents. so after 40 years the litigation is still going on. If anything thing has to be done it is to be talked on the higher level between Madhava Maharaja and myself. 30th November. My other godbrothers they are concerned with litigations. My Guru Maharaja left in 1936. Be careful always. just to try to carry out his order. 8th June. They should not have any dealings with them nor even correspondence. neither should you visit any of their temples. That is how I went to your country. 29 DEVOTIONAL SERVICE AND PREVIOUS BIRTHS………………….34 MEANING OF SADHANA BHAKTI (DEVOTIONAL SERVICE IN PRACTICE)…………………………………………………………………...34 TWO PARTS OF SADHANA BHAKTI……………………………………..12 6 CHARACTERISTICS OF PURE BHAKTI…………….29 DEVOTIONAL SERVICE AND PROTECTION……………………….32 SADHANA BHAKTI 1...…....Bhakta Course-Part 1 Table Of Contents ISKCON EDUCATION……………………….……6 DEVOTIONAL SERVICE THE MEANING OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE…………………….......….27 DEVOTIONAL SERVICE AND PRAYERS…………………………….25 DEVOTIONAL SERVICE AND ENTHUSIASAM…………………….……11 DEFINITION OF PURE BHAKTI………………………………………….…33 3 CATEGORIES OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE………………………...35 188 ..………………12 DEVOTIONAL SERVICE IN GENERAL…………………………………13 DEVOTIONAL SERVICE AND SURRENDER………………………….What is sadhana bhakti STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT OF BHAKTI…………………………. ..…77 5 POWERFUL FORMS OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE (INTRODOCTION) ……………………………………………………………82 189 ...Why to practice sadhana bhakti THE NECESSITY OF SADHANA BHAKTI………………………………...How to practice sadhana bhakti HOW TO PRACTICE SADHANA BHAKTI…………………………….66 HEALTH………………………………………………………………………67 c)What to do 5 POWERFUL FORMS OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE 9 PROCESSES OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE……………………………...What to practicaly do in discharge of sadhana bhakti a)What to completely give up THE FOUR REGULATIVE PRINCIPLES……………………………….61 CONTROL OF THE TOUNGE/EATING………………………………….40 THE RESULT OF NEGLECTING SADHANA BHAKTI……………..55 CONTROL OF THE SPEECH…………………………………………….59 CONTROL OF THE MIND……………………………………………….....44 4...62 CONTROL OF THE SEX URGE/SEX ATTRACTION…………………...….49 b)What to regulate REGULATION……………………………………………………………….64 AUSTERITY…………………………………………………………………..55 GENERAL MEANING OF SENSE CONTROL………………………….52 SLEEP………………………………………………………………………54 SENSE CONTROL…………………………………………………………...2.60 CONTROL OF THE ANGER …………………………………………….42 3.36 THE RESULT OF SADHANA BHAKTI…………………………………..75 2 MAIN BRANCHES OF DEVOTIONAL SERVICE…………………. …141 DIKSA INITIATION THE MEANING OF INITIATION……………………………………145 INITIATION QUALIFICATIONS……………………………………146 HOW SPIRITUAL MASTER RELATES TO DISCIPLE PATERNAL RELATIONSHIP………………………………………..179 SRILA PRABHUPADA`S GODBROTHERS (IN GENERAL)…………..105 WOMEN IN KRSNA CONSCIOUSNESS………………………………..….…151 CHASTISING THE DISCIPLE……………………………………….148 THE DUTY OF A SPIRITUAL MASTER…………………………..129 QUALIFICATION FOR BECOMING A GURU……………………….………..178 GENERAL ETIQUETTE……………………………………………….APPRECIATION AND CIMPETITION…………………88 CRITICISM AMONGST DEVOTEES…………………………………….159 THE DISCIPLE-QUALIFICIATIONS.....ASSOCIATION WITH DEVOTEES THE PURPOSE OF ASSOCIATION…………………………………………86 CO-OPERATION .…95 LEAVING ASSOCIATION OF DEVOTEES…………………………………98 VAISNAVA ETIQUETTE VAISNAVA DEFINITION…………………………………………………99 3 CATEGORIES OF VAISNAVAS………………………………………101 GENERAL VAISNAVA ETIQUETTE………………………………….155 ABSORBING THE SINFUL REACTIONS OF THE DISCIPLE......161 VANI AND VAPU……………………………………………….119 A GURU GIVES ALL CREDIT TO HIS GURU…………………………124 THE HUMILITY OF A SPIRITUAL MASTER……………………….…140 CONNECTION BEFORE FORMAL INITIATION………………….....…....….175 OUR PARAMPARA AND OTHER SAMPRADAYAS…………….158 SPIRITUAL MASTER AND REBIRTH FOR DISCIPLE…………..183 190 .117 SPIRITUAL MASTER AND DISCIPLE QUALIFICATIONS OF A SPIRITUAL MASTER…………………...136 SIKSA GURU………………………………………………………….103 MORE ON THE BEHAVIOUR OF A VAISNAVA…………………..…104 ETIQUETTE WITHIN RELATIONSHIPS……………………………….108 DRESSING LIKE A VAISNAVA ……………………………………….1...150 APPRECIATION OF DISCIPLES´ SERVICE…………………….......128 COMPASSION OF A SPIRITUAL MASTER……………………….131 ACCEPTANCE OF A SPIRITUAL MASTER…………………………..…..CHARACTERICTICS AND DUTIES ……………………………………... 193 JAPA………………………………………………………………………….212 TEMPLE KIRTANA…………………………………..265 SAHAJIYISM……………………………………………………………….289 COMING ON BRAMINICAL LEVEL…………………………………….286 EKADASI…………………………………………………………………….....282 PURCHASING BHOGA………………………………………………...250 STUDYING KRSNA CONSCIOUSNESS PHILOSOPHY………………..290 PREACHING....….…218 HARI-NAMA SANKIRTANA………………………………………….……………………………………..….….DEITY WORSHIP THE NECESSITY OF DEITY WORSHIP………………………………..HEARING SRIMAD BHAGAVATAM THE CULTURE OF HEARING……………………………………………....CHANTING HARE KRSNA THE IMPORTANCE AND RESULTS OF CHANTING……………….…282 COOKING AND KITCHEN RULES……………………………………....271 4.217 SONGS AND BAJANS…………….Bhakta Course -Part 2 Table Of Contents 2.……220 HARINAMA AND TEMPLE WORSHIP……………………………………222 3...…278 THE RESULT OF PERFORMING DEITY WORSHIP………………….…227 EVERYTHING IS IN SRILA PRABHUPADA`S BOOKS………………….226 THE IMPORTANCE OF HEARING…………………………………….248 BOOKS TO BE AVOIDED………………………………………………….…253 RELATIONSHIP WITH KRSNA………………………………………….293 191 . CHANTING AND DEITY WORSHIP…………………….....261 CONFIDENTIALITY OF DISCUSION ABOUT RADHA-KRSNA LILA…………………………………………………………………………...284 TULASI……………………………………………………………………….……………………..281 PRASADAM THE IMPORTANCE OF PRASADAM………………………………. ..…304 AUTHORITY OF THE GBC…………………………………………308 MAYAPUR ANNUAL MEETING………………………………….296 MANAGERIAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE GBC……………….321 RULES AND POLICIES………………………………………….336 HOW SHOULD DEVOTEES EXECUTE THEIR DUTIES…….357 PREACHING-WITH PURITY AND CONVICTION……………………369 BOOK DISTRIBUTION THE IMPORTANCE AND RESULTS OF BOOK DISTRIBUTION….344 RECRUTING DEVOTEES………………………………………..LIVING ON THE HOLLY PLACE STRUCTURE OF ISKCON 7 PURPOSES OF ISKCON……………………………………………….349 PREACHING PREACHING-IMPORTANCE AND GUIDELINES……………………..316 EVERY CENTER SHOULD BE INDEPENDENT………….312 ISKCON TEMPLE MANAGEMENT ORGANISATION HOW TO MANAGE A TEMPLE………………………..….…..390 BOOK DISTRIBUTION AND TEMPLE WORSHIP……………….393 192 .383 BOOK DISTRIBUTION AND STREET CHANTING….322 TEMPLE PROGRAMS……………………………………………328 LABOR TEMPLE PRESIDENT´S RESPONSIBILITIES AND QUALIFICATIONS………………………………………….310 ISKCON HISTORY AND OBJECTIVES……………………………….5....333 HOW TO MANAGE AND ENGAGE DEVOTEES……………..295 GOVERNING BODY COMISSION……………………………………..301 GBC AND THE TEMPLE PRESIDENT………………………….….......……………….….296 SPIRITUAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE GBC…………………..…….... Hare Hare/ Hare Räma.” (C. Kåñëa Kåñëa. one cannot find a method of religion more sublime for this age than the chanting of Hare Kåñëa. Adi lila 3.c. CHANTING HARE KRSNA THE IMPORTANCE AND RESULTS OF CHANTING In the Kali-santaraëa Upaniñad it is stated: hare kåñëa hare kåñëa kåñëa kåñëa hare hare hare räma hare räma räma räma hare hare iti ñoòaçakaà nämnäà kali-kalmaña-näçanam nätaù parataropäyaù sarva-vedeñu dåçyate TRANSLATION “The sixteen words—Hare Kåñëa. Hare Räma. Räma Räma.40) 193 . such as the Kali-santaraëa Upaniñad.” (Teachings of Lord Caitanya) The Hare Kåñëa mantra is specifically mentioned in many Upaniñads. Hare Hare—are especially meant for counteracting the contaminations of Kali. where it is said: hare kåñëa hare kåñëa kåñëa kåñëa hare hare hare räma hare räma räma räma hare hare iti ñoòaçakaà nämnäà kali-kalmaña-näçanaà nätaù parataropäyaù sarva-vedeñu dåçyate TRANSLATION “After searching through all the Vedic literature. Hare Kåñëa.2. To save oneself from the contamination of Kali. there is no alternative but the chanting of these sixteen words. chanting the holy name of Lord Hari. TRANSLATION “‘In this Age of Kali there is no other means. eva—certainly. näma-rüpe—in the form of the holy name. näma—holy name. na asti—there is none. Adi lila 17 TEXT 20 tabe çuklämbarera kaila taëòula-bhakñaëa ‘harer näma’ çlokera kaila artha vivaraëa SYNONYMS tabe—thereafter. haya—becomes. artha—of the meaning. no other means for self-realization than chanting the holy name. bhakñaëa—eating. kalau—in the Age of Kali. eva—certainly. kåñëa—Lord Kåñëa. jagat—of the world. TEXT 21 harer näma harer näma harer nämaiva kevalam kalau nästy eva nästy eva nästy eva gatir anyathä SYNONYMS hareù näma—the holy name of the Lord. nistära—deliverance. hareù näma—the holy name of the Lord. haite—from.C. kevalam —only. chanting the holy name. kaila—did. kaila—did.c.’ Ädi 17. no other means. hareù näma—the holy name of the Lord. vivaraëa— explanation. taëòula—raw rice. harer näma çlokera—of the verse celebrated as such. çuklämbarera—of Çuklämbara Brahmacäré. na asti—there is none. avatära—incarnation. eva—certainly. TRANSLATION 194 . sarva—all. anyathä—otherwise. na asti—there is none. TRANSLATION After this incident the Lord ate raw rice given by Çuklämbara Brahmacäré and explained very elaborately the import of the “harer näma” çloka mentioned in the Båhan-näradéya Puräëa. eva—certainly.22 kali-käle näma-rüpe kåñëa-avatära näma haite haya sarva-jagat-nistära SYNONYMS kali-käle—in this Age of Kali. gatiù—destination. Simply by chanting the holy name. according to the prescribed principles. jïäna—cultivation of knowledge. harer näma—of the holy name of Lord Hari. following the regulative principles. Ädi 17. Ädi 17. or “certainly.24 ‘kevala’-çabde punarapi niçcaya-karaëa jïäna-yoga-tapa-karma-ädi niväraëa SYNONYMS ‘kevala’-çabde—by the word kevala. just as one might say.” TRANSLATION “This verse repeats the word ‘eva’ [‘certainly’] three times for emphasis. Anyone who does this is certainly delivered. It is our practical experience in the Kåñëa consciousness movement all over the world that many millions of people are factually coming to the spiritual stage of life simply by chanting the Hare Kåñëa mahä-mantra regularly. or “only”. Therefore our request to all our students is that they daily chant at least sixteen rounds of this harer näma mahä-mantra [Cc. yoga—practice of the mystic yoga system. Thus their success will be assured without a doubt. the Hare Kåñëa mahämantra. and it also three times repeats ‘harer näma’ [‘the holy name of the Lord’]. the holy name of the Lord. is the incarnation of Lord Kåñëa. jaòa loka—ordinary common people. punaù—again. niväraëa—prohibition. Ädi 17.21] offenselessly.23 däròhya lägi’ ‘harer näma’-ukti tina-vära jaòa loka bujhäite punaù ‘eva’-kära SYNONYMS däròhya lägi’—in the matter of emphasizing. TRANSLATION 195 . one may repeat it three times. tapa—austerity.“In this Age of Kali. niçcayakaraëa—final decision. “You must do this! You must do this! You must do this!” Thus the Båhan-näradéya Puräëa repeatedly emphasizes the chanting of the holy name so that people may take it seriously and thus free themselves from the clutches of mäyä. one associates with the Lord directly. tina-vära—three times. just to make common people understand. bujhäite—just to make them understand. ädi— and so on. ukti—there is utterance. PURPORT To emphasize something to an ordinary person. karma—fruitive activities. eva-kära—the word eva. punarapi—again. nähi——e tina ‘eva’-kära SYNONYMS anyathä—otherwise. eva-kära—bearing the meaning of emphasis. it is the injunction of the çästras. tära nähika nistära nähi. haite—than. karmés and tapasvés. TRANSLATION 196 . anye—unto others. nothing else. labe—chant. yogés. ye—anyone who. nothing else. anye dibe mäna SYNONYMS tåëa—grass. nähi nähi nähi—there is nothing else. When we point this out very plainly to an audience. néca—lower. mäne—accepts. PURPORT Our Kåñëa consciousness movement stresses the chanting of the Hare Kåñëa mantra only. sadä—always. such as the cultivation of knowledge. When they say they are as good as we are. or performance of austerities and fruitive activities.25 anyathä ye mäne. nothing else. we must say that only we are good and that they are not good. we cannot make compromises with these socalled jïänés.’ which emphasizes the real process of selfrealization. whereas those who do not know the secret of success for this Age of Kali unnecessarily indulge in the cultivation of knowledge. TRANSLATION “This verse clearly states that anyone who accepts any other path cannot be delivered.26 tåëa haite néca haïä sadä labe näma äpani nirabhimäné. haïä—becoming. members of opposing groups become angry at us. They are simply wasting their time and misleading their followers. dibe—you should give. Ädi 17.“The use of the word ‘kevala’ [‘only’] prohibits all other processes. näma—the holy name. But according to the injunctions of the çästras. This is not our obstinacy. nothing else. This is the reason for the triple repetition ‘nothing else. nirabhimäné— without honor. äpani—personally. mäna—all respect. tina—three. nähi. We must not deviate from the injunctions of the çästras. nistära—deliverance. practice of mystic yoga. the practice of mystic yoga or the performance of fruitive activities or useless austerities. e—in this. tära—of him. Ädi 17. This is confirmed in the next verse of the Caitanya-caritämåta. nähika—there is no. TRANSLATION “A devotee engaged in chanting the holy name of the Lord should practice forbearance like that of a tree. the quality of forbearance automatically develops. jala— water. vaiñëava—devotee. kichu—something. tabu jala nä mägaya SYNONYMS käöileha—even being cut. one should be humbler than the grass in the street and devoid of all desire for personal honor. bolaya—says. Ädi 17. PURPORT This practice of forbearance (taror iva sahiñëunä) is very difficult. nä —not. he should not say anything to others to retaliate. kichu—something. karibe—should practice. balibe—will utter. Even if rebuked or chastised.“To chant the holy name always. nä—does not. but when one actually engages in chanting the Hare Kåñëa mantra. for a devotee develops all good qualities simply by chanting the Hare Kåñëa mantra regularly. täòane—chastising.27 taru-sama sahiñëutä vaiñëava karibe bhartsana-täòane käke kichu nä balibe SYNONYMS taru-sama—like a tree.28 käöileha taru yena kichu nä bolaya çukäiyä mare. mare—dies. and even if it is drying up and dying. Ädi 17. TRANSLATION “For even if one cuts a tree. tabu—still. it does not ask anyone for water. yena—as. käke— unto anyone. Ädi 17.29 ei-mata vaiñëava käre kichu nä mägiba ayäcita-våtti. kiàvä çäka-phala khäiba SYNONYMS 197 . mägaya—ask for. sahiñëutä—forbearance. it never protests. A person advanced in spiritual consciousness through the chanting of the Hare Kåñëa mantra need not practice to develop it separately. but one should offer others all respectful obeisances. bhartsana—rebuking. çukäiyä—drying up. nä—not. taru—the tree. TRANSLATION “Thus a Vaiñëava should not ask anything from anyone else. phala—fruits. TRANSLATION “One who thinks himself lower than the grass. TRANSLATION “One should strictly follow the principle of always chanting the holy name. bhakti-dharma—of devotional service. eita—this. Ädi 17.31 tåëäd api su-nécena taror iva sahiñëunä amäninä mäna-dena kértanéyaù sadä hariù SYNONYMS tåëät api—than downtrodden grass. yathä— inasmuch as.” PURPORT 198 . äcära— behavior. su-nécena—being lower. kichu— anything. çäka—vegetables. Such devotional behavior solidly maintains one’s devotional service. la-iba—one should chant. kare—does. nä—not.30 sadä näma la-iba. but if nothing comes. sadä—always. taroù—than a tree. näma—the holy name. mäna-dena—giving respect to all. Ädi 17. sahiñëunä—with tolerance.ei-mata—in this way. he should accept it. yathä-läbhete santoña eita äcära kare bhakti-dharma-poña SYNONYMS sadä—always. hariù—the holy name of the Lord. kiàvä—or. If someone gives him something without being asked. santoña—satisfaction. amäninä—without being puffed up by false pride. who is more tolerant than a tree. ayäcita-våtti—the profession of not asking for anything. iva—like. and one should be satisfied with whatever he gets easily. kértanéyaù—to be chanted. vaiñëava—a devotee. and who does not expect personal honor yet is always prepared to give all respect to others can very easily always chant the holy name of the Lord. khäiba —shall eat. mägiba—shall ask for. a Vaiñëava should be satisfied to eat whatever vegetables and fruits are easily available. läbhete—gains. käre—from anyone. poña— maintenance. kahoì—I declare. sütre—on the thread. Chanting is very simple. sarva-loka näma-sütre gäìthi’ para kaëöhe ei çloka SYNONYMS ürdhva-bähu—raising my hands. Ädi 17. tåëäd api su-nécena taror iva sahiñëunä. but one must practice it seriously.32 ürdhva-bähu kari’ kahoì.The grass is specifically mentioned in this verse because everyone tramples upon it yet the grass never protests. advises everyone to keep this verse always strung about his neck. Ädi 17. One should note in this connection that chanting involves the activities of the upper and lower lips as well as the tongue. This example indicates that a spiritual master or leader should not be proud of his position. sarva-loka—all persons.” PURPORT When chanting the Hare Kåñëa mahä-mantra. All three must be engaged in chanting the Hare Kåñëa mahä-mantra. I declare. TRANSLATION Raising my hands.33 prabhu-äjïäya kara ei çloka äcaraëa avaçya päibe tabe çré-kåñëa-caraëa SYNONYMS 199 . Kåñëadäsa Kaviräja Gosvämé. “Everyone please hear me! String this verse on the thread of the holy name and wear it on your neck for continuous remembrance. kari’—doing so. in the beginning one may commit many offenses. Therefore one must chant the Hare Kåñëa mahä-mantra according to the principles of the above verse. çloka—verse. ei—this. Therefore the author of Çré Caitanya-caritämåta. which are called nämäbhäsa and näma-aparädha. kaëöhe—on the neck. Sometimes one mechanically produces a hissing sound instead of chanting with the proper pronunciation with the help of the lips and tongue. In this stage there is no possibility of achieving perfect love of Kåñëa by chanting the Hare Kåñëa mahä-mantra. he should go on preaching the cult of Caitanya Mahäprabhu by chanting the Hare Kåñëa mantra. The words “Hare Kåñëa” should be very distinctly pronounced and heard. para—get it. gäìthi—stringing. çuna. näma—of the holy name. çuna— please hear. being always humbler than an ordinary common man. prabhu—of the Lord. marma—purport. päbe—one will get. This is the purport of all scriptures. kara—do. simply by chanting the Hare Kåñëa mantra one will be able to see the lotus feet of the Lord. vinu—without. yuga-dharma—the religious practice for the age. kåñëa-näma—the holy name of Lord Kåñëa. sarva— all. nämera—of the holy name. mantra—hymns. Ädi-lélä 3. dharma—religious principle. ei—this is. lägi’— 200 . tabe— afterwards.c. ei çloka—of this verse. Cc. sära—essence. pracära—propagation. TRANSLATION “‘In this Age of Kali there is no religious principle other than the chanting of the holy name. ei çästra-marma SYNONYMS näma—the holy name. haite—from. habe—it will be. certainly he will achieve the ultimate goal of life. kali-käle—in this Age of Kali. the lotus feet of Çré Kåñëa. Indeed. If one simply follows in the footsteps of Lord Caitanya and the Gosvämés. Adi 7. näma—the holy name. päibe—he will get. äjïäya—on the order. TRANSLATION One must strictly follow the principles given by Lord Caitanya Mahäprabhu in this verse. ära—or any alternative.74 näma vinu kali-käle nähi ära dharma sarva-mantra-sära näma.’ Çré C. TRANSLATION “Simply by chanting the holy name of Kåñëa one can obtain freedom from material existence. çré-kåñëa-caraëa—the lotus feet of Lord Kåñëa. which is the essence of all Vedic hymns. Adi 7. avaçya—certainly. haite— from. äcaraëa—practice. Cc.40 kali-yuge yuga-dharma——nämera pracära tathi lägi’ péta-varëa caitanyävatära SYNONYMS kali-yuge—in the Age of Kali.73 kåñëa-mantra haite habe saàsära-mocana kåñëa-näma haite päbe kåñëera caraëa SYNONYMS kåñëa-mantra—the chanting of the Hare Kåñëa mahä-mantra. mocana—deliverance. tathi—this. saàsära—material existence. çästra—revealed scriptures. nähi— there is none. caraëa—lotus feet. kåñëera—of Lord Kåñëa. B. descended as Lord Caitanya. TRANSLATION The religious practice for the age of Kali is to broadcast the glories of the holy name. caitanya-avatära—the incarnation of Lord Caitanya. hi—certainly.3.11. He quotes this verse from the Näräyaëa-saàhitä: dväparéyair janair viñëuù païcarätraiç tu kevalaiù kalau tu näma-mätreëa püjyate bhagavän hariù “In the Dväpara-yuga people should worship Lord Viñëu only by the regulative principles of the Närada-païcarätra and other such authorized books. He is accompanied by His associates. In the age of Kali. su-medhasaù—intelligent persons. pärñadam—confidential companions. This was introduced in this age by Lord Caitanya. TRANSLATION In the age of Kali. yajanti—they worship. 12. yajïaiù— by sacrifice. people should simply chant the holy names of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. upa-aìga— servitors. akåñëam—not black (golden).B. servants. Bhakti-yoga actually begins with the chanting of the holy name. astra—weapons.51 201 . Only for this purpose has the Lord. intelligent persons perform congregational chanting to worship the incarnation of Godhead who constantly sings the names of Kåñëa.32 kåñëa-varëaà tviñäkåñëaà säìgopäìgästra-pärñadam yajïaiù saìkértana-präyair yajanti hi su-medhasaù SYNONYMS kåñëa-varëam—repeating the syllables kåñ-ëa. péta-varëa—having a yellow color. Although His complexion is not blackish. S. PURPORT In this age of Kali the practical system of religion for everyone is the chanting of the name of Godhead. saìkértana-präyaiù—consisting chiefly of congregational chanting. tviñä—with a luster.for.5.” S. in a yellow color. He is Kåñëa Himself. as confirmed by Madhväcärya in his commentary on the Muëòaka Upaniñad. sa-aìga—along with associates. weapons and confidential companions. however. ” (Çrémad-Bhägavatam 5. in Tretä-yuga by performing sacrifices and in Dväpara-yuga by serving the Lord’s lotus feet one can also obtain in Kali-yuga simply by chanting the Hare Kåñëa mahä-mantra. Hare Kåñëa. They do not discriminate between Çré Kåñëa’s name. KC The Top Most Yoga System The Hare Kåñëa Mantra The transcendental vibration established by the chanting of Hare Kåñëa. Goloka Våndävana. form and qualities must be understood to be lacking in absolute knowledge.kaler doña-nidhe räjann asti hy eko mahän guëaù kértanäd eva kåñëasya mukta-saìgaù paraà vrajet TRANSLATION “My dear King. Ädi-lélä 2. A pure devotee knows that when he chants the transcendental name Kåñëa. form.12. Räma Räma. Kåñëa Kåñëa. Hare Hare/ Hare Räma. the chanting of the Hare Kåñëa mahä-mantra. He therefore chants with full respect and veneration. although Kali-yuga is full of faults. there is still one good quality about this age: simply by chanting the Hare Kåñëa mahä-mantra.1. How unfortunate I am that I have no attraction for this.11 Devotees of the Personality of Godhead know that Çré Kåñëa son of the King of Vraja. Çré C. we are 202 . one can become free from material bondage and be promoted to the transcendental kingdom.B. Çré Kåñëa is present as transcendental sound.3. which is imported from the spiritual world.-c. One who wants to separate the Lord’s absolute name. Hare Räma.” S. is the Absolute Truth.2) Narotama dasa Thakura: “The only remedy is hari-näma-saìkértana.52 kåte yad dhyäyato viñëuà tretäyäà yajato makhaiù dväpare paricaryäyäà kalau tad dhari-kértanät TRANSLATION “Whatever result one obtained in Satya-yuga by meditating on Viñëu. is the sublime method for reviving our transcendental consciousness As living spiritual souls. Hare Hare. quality and pastimes. it is called illusion.all originally Kåñëa conscious entities. These are: 203 . When we hear the transcendental vibration. we are ever more dependent on her. There is no need. therefore. one is not expected to commit offenses on grounds of spiritual understanding. Kåñëa Kåñëa. we can cleanse away all misgivings within our hearts. In a more advanced stage. which are eight in number. Hare Kåñëa. nor is there any need for mental speculation nor any intellectual adjustment for chanting this mahä-mantra. or illusion. mental and intellectual. The basic principle of all such misgivings is the false consciousness that I am the lord of all I survey. or the Great Chanting for Deliverance. he is then on the transcendental plane. When a servant artificially tries to imitate the all-powerful master. In the material concept of life we are busy in the matter of sense gratification as if we were in the lower animal stage. our consciousness is now adulterated by the material atmosphere. anyone can take part in vibrating this transcendental sound without any previous qualification. surpassing the stages of sense. We are trying to exploit the resources of material nature. And when one is factually on the plane of spiritual understanding. In the beginning. of course. This simplest method of meditation is recommended for this age. while actually we are under the grip of her stringent laws. Mäyä means that which is not. A little elevated from this speculative status. This consciousness is the original natural energy of the living entity. but due to our association with matter from time immemorial. one can at once feel a transcendental ecstasy coming through from the spiritual stratum. there may not be the presence of all transcendental ecstasies. This illusory struggle against material nature can be stopped at once by revival of our eternal Kåñëa consciousness. Therefore. This chanting of the Hare Kåñëa mantra is enacted from the spiritual platform. Kåñëa consciousness is not an artificial imposition on the mind. one tries to find out the supreme cause of all causes—within and without. Hare Hare is the transcendental process for reviving this original pure consciousness. although we are engaged in a hard struggle to conquer nature. and thus this sound vibration surpasses all lower strata of consciousness—namely sensual. A little elevated from this status of sense gratification. one can perceive that by chanting this mahä-mantra. And what is this illusion? The illusion is that we are all trying to be lords of material nature. but actually we are becoming more and more entangled in her complexities. is called mäyä. Hare Kåñëa. By chanting this transcendental vibration. and as such. mind and intelligence. in which we are now living. By practical experience also. this consciousness is revived. to understand the language of the mantra. one is engaged in mental speculation for the purpose of getting out of the material clutches. It is automatic. from the spiritual platform. The material atmosphere. when one is intelligent enough. Kåñëa and Räma. But there is no doubt that chanting for a while takes one immediately to the spiritual platform. and the words Kåñëa and Räma are forms of addressing the Lord Himself. N. (4) dislocation of voice. This chanting is exactly like the genuine cry of a child for its mother’s presence. to give protection to the conditioned soul. (3) standing up of hairs on the body. Hare Räma. called Harä. it has the greatest efficacy on hearers. Hare Hare/ Hare Räma. for one who is too entangled in material life. so that immediate effects can be achieved.(1) Being stopped as though dumb. are the transcendental seeds of the mahä-mantra. (2) perspiration. Hare Hare. called mäyä. it is established in its happy. the name of Lord Viñëu. As far as possible. changed to Hare (Hah-ray) in the vocative. but when the superior marginal energy is in contact with the superior energy. Of course. of the Lord. When the superior energy is in contact with the inferior energy. but even such a materially engrossed man is raised to the spiritual platform very quickly. The supreme pleasure energy of the Lord helps us to reach the Lord. and as such this chanting should be heard from the lips of a pure devotee of the Lord. The material energy. Both Kåñëa and Räma mean the supreme pleasure. Mother Harä helps the devotee achieve the Lord Father’s grace. namely Harä. And we the living entities are also the energy. and Harä is the supreme pleasure energy of the Lord. and one shows the first symptom of this in the urge to dance along with the chanting of the mantra. marginal energy. Kåñëa Kåñëa. (6) fading of the body. (Sometimes the atheistic class of men take it that any 204 . We have seen this practically. (7) crying in ecstasy. and the Lord reveals Himself to the devotee who chants this mantra sincerely. When it is chanted by a pure devotee of the Lord in love. (2) To consider the names of demigods like Lord Çiva or Lord Brahmä to be equal to. Milk touched by the lips of a serpent has poisonous effects. These three words. and (8) trance. Hare Kåñëa.D. an incompatible situation arises. The chanting is a spiritual call for the Lord and His energy. (5) trembling. 8:Offenses to be avoided The offenses against the chanting of the holy name are as follows: (1) To blaspheme the devotees who have dedicated their lives for propagating the holy name of the Lord. normal condition. The living entities are described as superior to material energy.o. or independent of. is also one of the multienergies of the Lord. chanting from the lips of nondevotees should be avoided. Räma Räma. The word Harä is the form of addressing the energy of the Lord. No other means of spiritual realization is as effective in this age of quarrel and hypocrisy as the mahä-mantra: Hare Kåñëa. it takes a little more time to come to the standard point. Even a child can take part in the chanting and dancing. The next stage. If Mr. We do not therefore mind so much about the artistic presentation of Krishna Kirtana but we want to see how much a devotee is satisfying the Supreme Will. Renovich is 205 . if someone thinks that he can chant “Kälé. (7) To commit sinful activities on the strength of the holy name of the Lord. is independently as good as the Supreme Personality of Godhead.) (10) To not have complete faith in the chanting of the holy names and to maintain material attachments. even after understanding so many instructions on this matter. one may continue to act sinfully and after that chant Hare Kåñëa to neutralize his sins. (5) To consider the glories of chanting Hare Kåñëa to be imagination. Kälé!” or “Durgä. (9) To instruct a faithless person about the glories of the holy name. is known as näma-äbhäsa. Every devotee who claims to be a Vaiñëava must guard against these offenses in order to quickly achieve the desired success. Therefore. Durgä!”and it is the same as Hare Kåñëa. (It should not be taken that because by chanting the holy name of the Lord one can be freed from all kinds of sinful reaction. (6) To give some interpretation on the holy name of the Lord. But one who is a devotee knows that no demigod.) (3) To disobey the orders of the spiritual master. This is the stage in which one can attain freedom from sins and even liberation. Mukunda mala stotra 51 Çréla Bhaktivinoda Öhäkura elaborately describes the stages of chanting the holy name in his Hari-näma-cintämaëi: Chanting that is full of ignorance and offenses is known as näma-aparädha. Such a dangerous mentality is very offensive and should be avoided. The chanting with music is specially attractive for the mass of people. and therefore it is better not to instruct them in this matter. but in the beginning one should not be instructed about the transcendental potency of the Lord. however great he may be. It is dynamic service to the Lord. which still contains imperfections. or the pure chanting of the holy name. (SPL to Jadurani. Krishna Kirtana is not for earning livelihood. 12th December. or the shadow of the holy name. Those who are too sinful cannot appreciate the transcendental glories of the Lord.) (8) To consider the chanting of Hare Kåñëa one of the auspicious ritualistic activities offered in the Vedas as fruitive activities (karma-käëòa). Krishna Kirtana is not meant for entertaining the public for demonstration of arts. that is the greatest offense. The whole Srimad-Bhagavatam is full of philosophical discussions and we are prepared to present our Krishna Consciousness movement both ways. (4) To blaspheme the Vedic literature or literature in pursuance of the Vedic version. a stage known as çuddha-näma. but talking from philosophical point of view on Krishna Consciousness is also chanting. whichever is suitable in special circumstances. (Anyone can take part in chanting the holy name of the Lord.demigod is as good as the Supreme Personality of Godhead. But one can attain pure kåñëaprema only by chanting without offense. 1967) Kirtana means both lecturing and chanting with music. Viñëu. we shall feel the greatest separation from the Lord. practically we do not make any distinction between the omkar and Hare Krishna but the spiritual path is to follow the footprints of the path of 206 . 4th December.(SPL to Makhanlal. and I have noted the contents with great satisfaction. It is very much encouraging to me. just so long as I can always chant Hare Krishna. (SPL to Sivananda. Renovich is especially interested in scholarly philosophical discussions. But at the same time we are concerned mostly with the mass of people. This is Krishna's Mercy. 21 st October. Similarly the Hare Krishna Mantra is also the sound representation of Krishna. So. gradually. So that is our request to everyone. very insignificant. please remind me to always chant Your Holy Name.(SPL to Devananda. it is very nicely explained by Lord Caitanya. 23 rd November. So there is no problem if Mr.interested only in philosophical discussions. we understand everything. even You send me into the hell. we are prepared for that. And you always remember to abide by the laws of Krishna as described by His bona fide Representative. Simply our prayer should be. 1968) So far crying for Krishna is concerned. or prema..(SPL to Upendra. 18. Thank you very much for your writing me. But pure devotees do not even want to go to Krishna's abode. This prema is the perfectional stage of consciousness and the most blissful by very far.when one becomes accustomed to inoffensive chanting. He says that a moment is appearing to me as 12 years. so what can we do? Simply He wants to see that we are engaging our time and energy in His service. Krishna is not ungrateful but rather He sees all our efforts and appreciates our sincere service. 1968) In the Bhagavad-gita. You are sitting within me as Supersoul. so you can put me into forgetfulness or into remembering You. Lord Caitanya and Nityananda are singing one very nice song in which they are requesting everyone to please chant Hare Krishna. then his fruit is that he is promoted to the stage of pure Love of Godhead. 14th August. we shall be on the loving platform and at that time. We are very small. Krishna is interested in how we engage our energies in His service. but that feeling of separation from the Lord is more relishable than meeting the Lord. The thing is that as we go on chanting Hare Krishna. please do not put me into forgetfulness. These are all transcendental existential understandings and as we grow in Krishna Consciousness.. Please always remind me to chant. and come along with Them. Just keep this your attitude of sincere service and without a doubt Krishna will give you all intelligence to serve Him nicely. therefore Hare Krishna kirtana is our life and soul. and I am feeling everything vacant in the absence of Govinda. it doesn't matter. and He reveals Himself to the devotee with the progress of Krishna Consciousness. So please do not put me into forgetfulness. and my eyes are tearing torrents of rain. by the Grace of the Supreme Lord. in the pure status. this omkar is mentioned as being the sound representation of Krishna. and the passage of going back to Godhead is assured. I can understand from your letter that you are working nicely for the spreading of Lord Caitanya's mission. My dear Krishna. the Supreme Personality of Godhead. 1968) I am in due receipt of your letter of Nov. The Supreme Lord is situated in everyone's heart. 1968) . so there is no need of extra exercises which are required by persons who may eat more than what is required. or the chanting of Hare Krishna. 10th December. but such work would be done under the direction of the Spiritual Master. But Haridasa Thakura said that he would continue the practice till the end of his life. What one should do is chant the Holy Name of the Lord with faith. so we may better have to check it from the vision of ordinary persons. One should not be too much greedy. So that is the position of transcendental taste. Srila Rupa Goswami used to say.the great acaryas. wishing if he had possessed millions of ears. and billions of tongues then he could chant the Hare Krishna mantra a little bit relishably. such as Gopala and Govinda are as powerful as the name Krishna. Working for Krishna is not different from chanting. Please therefore chant very sincerely with your present aptitude of mind and Krishna will bless you more and more in understanding this secret of transcendental vibration. The transcendental experience which you had during kirtana performance at the Loyala University is very nice. 1968) Regarding other yoga exercises. So far the strange colors. intoxication and gambling. and noted the contents with great pleasure. Also what is important is to follow the four regulative principles of avoiding all illicit sexual connections. the ecstasy which is automatically manifest is very welcome. So for prosecuting Krishna Consciousness one should not eat more than what is needed. One should not stick with some extra regulative principles. (SPL to Mahapurusa.(SPL to Mr. Lord Caitanya encouraged the Sankirtana Movement. it may be some effects of your past drugs habit. that will help you to understand what they are. etc. we chant Hare Krishna mantra officially without any attachment and try to finish the rounds as soon as possible.Chagan Govind. 1969) As for your question about the ecstasy of chanting and working for Krishna. One should not endeavor beyond his capacity. better when you see all these things that you chant and hear. he was chanting 300. towards perfection. 13th February.) (SPL to Jayapataka. enthusiasm.. (Also. Sometimes we also forget to chant the prescribed number of rounds. One should not talk unnecessarily. Relishing the transcendental sweetness of Krishna Kirtana is only possible when one is actually advanced. 25th January. Of course. but we should not try to come to the ecstatic status by any artificial practice. the other names of Krishna which you have mentioned. and firm conviction on the statement of Lord Caitanya that simply by chanting the Maha Mantra one can be gradually elevated to the highest platform of spiritual perfection. 11th March 1969) 207 . I am sure that Rupanuga will ably guide you in these matters. 1969) Regarding your second question. You should give more stress on the importance of chanting.(SPL to Kanupriya. nor should one associate with persons who are not in Krishna Consciousness. In the conditioned stage. if you take Krishna prasadam you shall keep your body automatically fit for working. 1969) I am very glad to receive your letter dated February 28. 15th January.000 beads although Lord Caitanya personally asked him to not labor so hard. meat-eating. sometimes the public may misunderstand such tears of bliss. is the means for God realization for this age and it is in pursuance of the revealed scriptures. (SPL to Sivananda. But Haridasa Thakura even at the last stage of his life. (SPL to Subala dasa. and subsequent fall down. Then advancement will be swift and you will gradually come to see everything clearly so that you may act for the pleasure of the Lord without uncertainty. 16 th June. always in the 208 . 1969) Simply pray to Krishna that you may be able by His Grace to serve Him nicely.When the Composer machine is purchased. Especially in the Kali Santara Upanisad it is stated that this sixteen word Maha Mantra is the Holy Name of the Supreme Brahma for the deliverance of the fallen souls.(SPL to Ranadhira. and from seven till ten PM. similarly. our prayer to Krishna is to give us relief from the inferior quality of service to Maya. Everyone of you should be thoroughly convinced of the power of the Hare Krsna mantra to protect you in all circumstances and chant accordingly at all times without offense. So do not be misled that you are typing and not chanting. you will be engaged from eleven till three PM. 8th July. Chanting on the beads and chanting on the typewriter Composer machine are both transcendental sounds of Krishna. So they are authorized by disciplic succession. When one is spontaneously engaged in this way. 1970) I am so glad to learn that you are taking very much interest in the Deity worship. Hare Krishna means ``Oh Hare. otherwise there will be loss of spiritual strength. study of literatures in the class will keep you fit for effective preaching work in the outer field.(SPL to Arnudhati. That means seven hours in a day . and all of us must chant at least 16 rounds daily to keep us fit on the Krishna Consciousness transcendental platform. 1969) The sixteen word Maha Mantra is nobody's invention. Service we have to render. Such regular activities like attendance of Arati. His Qualities--all of them are on the absolute platform. Our prayer of the Hare Krishna Mantra means addressing Radha and Krishna for being engaged in Their service. 24th January. so do it nicely in cooperation with the GBC.(SPL to Ekayani. because the work is also on the matter of Krishna.'' Just like a person resigns from an inferior quality of service and accepts a superior quality of service. and to be engaged in the superior quality of service to Krishna. you should know that it is as good as chanting. and following all these footsteps we are also chanting. Oh Radharani! Oh Krishna! Please engage me in Your service so that I can get relief from the service of Maya . and therefore there is no difference between one and another. I hope this finds you in good health. 1970) Your idea for film distribution is also good. all the Goswamis and Acaryas chanted.10th February. Krishna's Name. and such activities must be accompanied with chanting of the Holy Name regularly. His Fame. There are authorized mantras in the different Puranas which are Vedic authorities . Caitanya Mahaprabhu chanted. Our standard of purity must be kept. chanting of rounds. When you are typing. I am very much anxious that at the same time as you carry out all these outside activities you are maintaining a strict schedule of Temple activities. Haridasa Thakura chanted 24 hours. and on the basis of such activities all other devotional services will sustain. and the whole process is to accept the superior quality of service in Krishna Consciousness. my Guru Maharaja chanted. Actually chanting of the Holy Name regularly is our life and soul. You know these things. In this age the chanting of Hare Krsna is recommended as the only possible method to associate with Krsna. It is not that we have to endeavor separately to become rid of envy or any deficiency or impurity. 3rd December. So people who are imitating are hearing from a Vaisnava.(SPL to Madhavananda. 31st August. You know it. Highest benefit is from the Mahamantra. because the Hare Krishna Mantra is introduced by us only into the western world. 1971) 209 . so whatever they have heard is from a Vaisnava. By offenseless chanting. 1975) In the spiritual sky there is no birth. especially by chanting Hare Krsna. because this is said by authorities. there was one ghost. so where is the question of baby? Krishna is there eternally as Kisora. a 16 year old youth. now try to realize it yourself and convince others. Best thing is if you chant Hare Krishna and go to Krishna Loka and find out the answers to all these questions yourself.service of the Lord and anxious to avoid all mundane activities. So if you want to have Krsna. 18th November. They are not a Vaisnava. 1971) Everyone who is chanting Hare Krishna is getting benefit. we have no taste for this chanting. so actually it is so. you are becoming strong yourself by chanting this mantra. he went away immediately. or Hare Krishna Mantra. So far I have experience. then all inauspicious things are cleared from the heart. or non-Vaisnava. Lord Caitanya has said the heart will become cleaned of all the dirty things accumulated in the heart. one will become strong. so they have only proportionate effect as much as they are authorized or unauthorized. But as soon as the devotees began chanting very loudly.(SPL to Govardhana dasa. when we associate with Krsna through His Holy Name. 25th April. 1972) The Mahamantra was given to Narada by Brahma. Sanatana Goswami says that one should not hear from an aVaisnava. That requires some strength. In England.(SPL to Cintamani dasi.(SPL to Ekajani. and that in itself will bring all perfection.(SPL to Damodara. Other mantras made by ordinary men are not authorized by the Sastras. 17th July. the best way to remove them is to chant Hare Krishna very loudly and have jubilant kirtana until they leave. (SPL to Damodara. Simply by chanting Hare Krsna. His childhood pastimes exhibited in the material universes. one must be above illicit sex life. 1973) There is two things: there's Krsna and there's sex life. So wherever you are you should always go on chanting. So you have to impress upon them that following these rules and regulations. he is actually experiencing the taste of bliss in Krsna consciousness. This is our misfortune.(SPL to Revatinandana. Compare what you were before to what you have become. 1971) You mention ghosts. 1972) You ask how you can become free of envy. 10th January. on Mr. John Lennon's house where I was staying in 1969. that is Krishna Consciousness. 2nd April. now challenge any other mantra to produce such effect. Unfortunately. . At least we must do that numerical number.D. he retorted. Ask them.“ Aksayananda Swami said. that`s all. This is not ordinary hotel.“ Aksayananda Swami confirmed. Why in the evening? Every morning it should be cleaned and washed and mopped. „Hm.. See that they do not make it a free hotel for eating and sleeping.“ „Yes. that is not possible. „Yes. we accept that figure in perfect faith. and everything is unclean.“ „They were unable.“ Prabhupada confirmed. Simply eating. with a touch of irony. You must fix up in numerical strength. „In the sastra it is not said like that.11th December.“ Aksayananda Maharaja agreed. however. First of all clean. It is said. So. That is wanted:“ „Yes. (P. because you cannot do. which some have faulted. „What is the use of such cleaning. But that sixteen must be finished.whatever you can. with everybody laughing. „You can do also now. it means that that sixteen will increase to continuously chanting. and the chanting of japa another time.“ „So if we are serious and sincere. „Yes. This all is the temple. It should be clean. „Of course we accept. In the name of japa they are dozing. said cleaning must come first. to corroborate that at least they must chant sixteen rounds? Or that many number of names?“ „No. not working. „I was told that in the beginning you asked the first disciples to chant sixty-four rounds?“ Prabhupada said.“ he said. You`re the acarya. You should not imitate. And you should follow rigidly. 1976 From there he inspected the kitchen area. „Yes. but whatever you fix up you must do. „Otherwise. we may finally be able to chant constantly day and night. they must go away. This nonsense should not be allowed. But what if we wanted to convince others? Is there any sastric or Vedic verse we can refer to. Haridasa Thakura was chanting three lakhs. no one should be allowed to join us. That is also difficult.1.94-95) 18th January. „Sri-vigraharadhananitya-nana-srngara-tan-mandira-marjanadau. if it is dirty the next morning?“ One of the managers said it was difficult to get the devotees to clean in the early morning because they all wanted to complete their japa..“ Prabhupada answered. When told the place was cleaned every night. that`s to bring us to the platform of chanting constantly. „When you tell us to chant sixteen rounds.“ Prabhupada said. a separate building with accommodations for householders on the upper floor. „What I mean is. „Then you asked them to chant thirty-two?“ Prabhupada grinned. or numerical strength must be there. „That`s all we can do. ‚Stop japa-ing.‘“ 210 . They must give up japa. 1975 During this morning`s walk Aksayananda Swami sought sastric verification for our standarts of chanting japa. Then make japa. Don`t allow this.“ „Yes. He was not pleased to see dirt on the steps. sankhyapurvaka.“ Aksayananda Swami said. If they cannot take care as temple. Aksayananda Swami added. free hotel.“ Aksayananda Swami laughed. Sankhya-purvaka-nama-gana-nat-ibhih. first of all clean. sleeping.“ Aksayananda Swami said.“ and he demanded to know why.“ Prabhupada continued. Prabhupada. He said they looked as if they had not been cleaned „for three hundred years. „It`s not that because I`ve finished sixteen rounds— You can increase. But I have fixed up sixteen rounds. He stressed that unless they are prepared to work.“ Prabhupada smiled and added. Sankhya-purva. If we`re fortunate. He`s so kind. Everyone should be. It is very . That`s a fact. Immediately he comes. and still become ecstatic in love of Krsna. Oh. But it must be God`s name because God and God`s name ( are not different ). as they were for Ajamila. The Yamadutas..‘ Just see. Simply by bhakti. As soon as you call them. even without proper understanding. especially in this age.272) 29th May. engaged to some work. hundreds and thousands. We cannot do anything. the order-carriers of Yamaraja.„Under a plea of japa they are simply dozing.D. or the primary. disturbing him? Stop!‘ „So take this chance of chanting harer nama harer nama harer nama eva kevalam. immediately. God has many names. There are sahasra. Oh. Don`t allow this stupidity. He`s everyone`s friend. Just see: ‚Here`s a person. who was about to be dragged away by the agents of death. Your life is saved. very fallen souls. If we take advantage of the mercy of Lord Caitanya. the name of the Supreme Lord. Not that one has to chant Krsna.“ He told us it is Lord Caitanya`s special benediction that we can chant. Srila Prabhupada used an appropriate analogy to show how this was possible. ‚Why shall I chant Krsna?‘ Well you chant any other name—but it must be God`s name. He`s coming personally to canvass. because the powerful name of God and God Himself are not different. which described how the representatives of Lord Visnu instandly appeared before the dying Ajamila. ‚Who are you.So anyway if somebody thinks that this Krsna is an Indian name. So any name you prefer you chant. your next life is saved. Why? That Krsna means allattractive. Come on. one can become liberated from all contamination. So take this opportunity chanting Hare Krsna. So Caitanya Mahaprabhu has introduced Krsna name. from the police station they immediately inform the patrol police on the car. 1976 211 . Immediately. If there is such material arrangement within the government how much nice arrangement is there in the supreme government?“ He stressed that we should always be chanting the names of God and in that way we can be saved. He`s always ready. I`m very glad that you are doing—but be very strict.1. is as good as the Supreme. But in this age especially it has got special potency. Then it will be effective. (P. „Always the name Narayana or Krsna. he`s chanting Narayana. devotional service.. Out of many names the Krsna name is mukhya. in the name of so-called japa. You`re always safe. krsna-varnam. „Just like the police are everywhere.D. Just like immediately chanted Narayana. Take him.‘ The Yamadutas were there. This name can attract everyone.“(P. „So this is arrangement that God is there and He`s everyone`s father. ‚Here this person is chanting Narayana. take advantage of free boarding and lodging. „You should not give shelter to persons who. very difficult. the recommended practice is to chant the Hare Krsna mantra.“ he said. Pradyumna read out the translation. 1976 After chanting this morning`s verse. will not be able to touch you. isn`t this wonderful? He`s chanting Narayana. That is because we are all very. according to his capacity. Narayana will do. then the results of our chanting will be wonderful. sincerely chant.. But His names are given according to His activities. one thousand Visnu-stotra. God has sent so many order-carriers just to see if one is inclined to come to Him. Krsna—Krsna is the best name. You should be very careful. It is always. Govinda will do..2. This is the most perfect. It desn`t matter which name of God. 211-212) 21st June. Still. Everything is all right. save and except the instruction which I have also heard from my Spiritual Master.“ Prabhupada cut in. that will make one's advancement very quick. but they`re doing the chanting. That one should be occupied in activities in the modes of goodness and associate with spiritualistic persons. Therefore to follow the instructions of a Spiritual Master is to follow the instructions of the Supreme Person. it is not one sided. So all instructions in the disciplic succession directly comes from the Supreme Person. A concrete example is Arjuna. I have no particular instructions.SPL to Rayarama.. 212 . But sacrificing the results of action is as good. Your ambition for chanting Hare Krishna exclusively is very good. One can execute this transcendental activities staying as he is. and the Lord certified him to be the best devotee and friend of the Lord.D. received through the proper channel. But this is not applicable when we have the opportunity to get the association of pure devotees. That is also recommended by the Goswamis. „You wrote a lot of books.“ „But suppose one is illiterate. Sometimes under the garb of chanting people take to the habit of laziness. that is the quality. It will progress them without reading the books? Because they`re the most important. 10th May. they never read the books. who was alone chanting 300.. Of course. By such chanting. we shall try to avoid the 10 kinds of offenses. negating only will not make you successful.“(P. Our program is negative and positive simultaneously. Therefore it is better to remain positively within the society of pure devotees. then all our misgivings of material existence are over . If you have no positive standing.(SPL to Dayananda. It is better to remain alone than to mix with materialistic persons. So there is no distinction between chanting and offering the results of one's activity . and I`m very much concerned about the books. 1968) Regarding quality of chanting Hare Krishna. „How he`ll read if one is illiterate? That means he has no chance? Chanting is sufficient. Execution of devotional service is prescribed first with enthusiasm and patience. Persons who want to take advantage of cheap reputation they imitate great personalities like Haridasa Thakura. That is also recommended by the Goswamis in their instructions. He fought very chivalrously under the instructions of the Lord.There was a final question from one of the Indians. which is not required at all. about living alone. We want to negate the materialistic side and make positive the spiritual side. living alone is a general tendency for a person who wants to get disassociated with the materialistic persons..000 of Holy Names daily. A lot of devotees. again a doupt related to the men`s contact with the devotees.467) JAPA I am so pleased to learn that you are constantly trying to follow my instructions. 1968) Regarding your question. 10th May. but he must follow and try to apply in practical life the instructions as they are given in the Bhagavad-gita or Srimad-Bhagavatam. And as soon as we are accustomed to this habit.2. etc. If by chance you miss to finish in one day.(SPL to Sivananda. 1968) So far as you not completing your chanting.(SPL to Sivananda. but it is difficult also. You should try to chant at least 2 or 3 hours every day. that is very good. neither there is suitable place for executing it. everything is all right. Loudly or silently. I think you should know that it is not offensive. but nobody can follow the rules and regulations strictly. are in his thoughts. Yoga system is approved. then always he will remember Krishna. activities. His Pastimes. 8th March. 13th February. I think this should not be a regular practice . 4th December. When we are full in Krishna then where there can be any chance for maya in us? So this is our duty to remember Krishna's Pastimes. 1969) Regarding your question: I do not remember if Rayarama ever chanted very loudly in my room. and conclude with declaring that the topmost yogi is he who surrenders to Krishna. His Form.‘ is it offensive to think of Krishna's Pastimes while chanting?‘. and everyone is always full of anxiety. so how they can concentrate? So best thing is to chant Hare Krishna which is forced meditation .(SPL to Satsvarupa. 1968) It is very nice that you shall speak on this at the yoga group program. 11 th November. neither he ever lived in my room. hearing the vibration very distinctly. and intelligence. 1969) 213 . (SPL to Brahmananda. In this way make nice speech. that is a different thing. we gradually acquire our spiritual strength without failure. One who cannot remember Krishna. 20th November. So to always be immersed in thoughts of Krishna this is our process. let him always hear Hare Krishna and then when he has perfected this art. that will make one gradually successful. nor I had ever asked him not to chant loudly. when we are actually engaged in with the preaching work. Only thing is that we should chant very attentively. but rather it is required . His Activities. Better to be engaged in preaching work. There is no such requirement that Japa should be silently and chanting should be be done differently. so for chanting we can find 2 or 3 hours without any difficulty. so that one can remain alone simply being engaged in chanting. If one can remain alone simply being engaged in chanting. Subala should read carefully that Hatha yoga received in the Bhagavad-gita is very difficult in this age. But as far as possible we must try to complete the prescribed number of beads. So one should not imitate such great personalities but one should try to see how much taste he has developed for chanting. and worships Krishna with all thoughts. We have got 24 hours at our disposal. His Qualities. Simply we have to adjust things in the right way.(SPL to Sivananda. There is no such restriction. Besides that. 1968) Regarding your first question. His Quality. A conditioned soul in conditioned life it is very difficult to concentrate our mind in chanting absolutely. I do not know how these news are spread.lonely chanting he got so much spiritual power that he could convert even a harlot to become a great devotee whereas an ordinary person falls easily a victim to such allurement . One must try for the point when he simply hears Krishna and immediately all of Krishna. Everyone can become a great devotee. That will not be good. then we remain happily eternally. we will have to make other arrangements. 1969) 214 . Material life means trying to imitate the Enjoyer. then it is delusion. and spiritual life means to remain in one's eternal position as enjoyed. especially to take care of the cows. if you are always engaged in Krishna's service. kindly keep me engaged in Your service. I will write to Lilavati in Boston to see if she is able to fill this position for that time. ``What does Rama mean in Hare Rama? Is this Balarama or Lord Ramacandra?''. being freed from the offenses 100%. So you cannot make any distinction between listening to the sound and thinking of the Pastimes. 16th June. Oh the Spiritual Energy of the Lord. Just like the sunshine has an equal effect on everyone. Similarly. This is no great loss. hearing the vibration of Hare Krishna automatically reminds one of Krishna's Pastimes. the more the effect of chanting becomes manifested through us . As you are an important worker there and you have so many important duties. The more we become free from the ten offenses. 1969) Regarding your question. and He will be very kind upon you for this. 29th July. or jiva tattva is always enjoyed. will automatically come to mind: That is very nice. you should know that the Hare Krishna Mantra has an equal effect upon all devotees. But as much as possible you should try to fulfill the goal of 16 rounds daily. because there is no difference between Ramacandra and Balarama. 1969) Regarding someone to go there to take charge of the children in Satyabhama's absence. simply by one's determination and effort.(SPL to Arundhati. Form. 10th April. Krishna sees your sincerity in Krishna Consciousness. you should make effort to finish your 16 rounds whenever possible. Generally it means Krishna. If we remain in that position and properly use our small independence. If you must fall short of this because you have so much service to render to Krishna. But wherever you go. 1969) Regarding your last question about the ecstatic symptoms of chanting Hare Krishna. do not be disturbed by this.(SPL to Paramananda. etc. that is also a nice status. the influence of the Hare Krishna Mantra becomes manifest when one is no longer covered by the ten offenses to chanting. 9th September. But the process is to hear. This Hare Krishna Mantra is addressed to the energy of the Lord and the Lord Himself to keep the chanter in his eternal position of being enjoyed. But artificially. So either Ramacandra. and always chanting Hare Krishna. because Rama means enjoyer. and you should not feel badly about it. even if not on your beads. Balarama or Krishna are all Visnu Tattvas and are always enjoying. Qualities. either in New Vrindaban or New York. it may not be possible for you to stop your work for chanting 16 rounds. So both of them arise simultaneously in the mind when one is sincerely chanting. The prayer is ``My Lord. Krishna in His four-handed Visnu Form is within our hearts. Our position is always predominated. If not. you can take it both ways. and then Krishna's Pastimes. but when it is covered.'' Regarding your other question.Regarding Jadurani's question. the sunshine has a different effect. Of course. The sakti tattva. But you should not fall too much short of this goal.(SPL to Arundhati. if we want to be independent and imitate the Supreme Enjoyer. (SPL to Satsvarupa. but He is not different from two-handed Krishna. pastimes. And this is the way of cultivating spiritual realization. this is wrong. transcendental Pastimes etc.Regarding the information you heard that it is all right to neglect one's 16 rounds as a daily minimum. 27th February.(SOL to Hamsaduta. 1969) Regarding Omkar. The lamp is the more important thing. If one is busy for other Krishna Consciousness activities and cannot fulfill the regular routine of chanting. Everyone should strictly follow the regulations of 16 rounds daily. That is our strength in spiritual life and will make for your rapid advancement in Krishna Consciousness. Om is the right vibration of transcendental sound. 1970) When we chant. Those who are unable to utter immediately the Sweet Name of Krishna. curtailing his activities in the matter of sleeping or eating or any other sense gratificatory process. Impersonal feature of the Lord is just like the illumination of the lamp.(SPL to Harold Torf. So in the beginning. and automatically all questions will be answered. Our business is directly with the Supreme Lord. we must concentrate our mind on the sound vibration and in that way everything will be revealed one after another. Every one of you must regularly read our books at least twice--in the morning and evening. and we can realize at that stage the transcendental Name. Sankirtana is our life and soul. will soon vanish by the grace of Lord Jagannatha. Otherwise. it is very nice. Simply continue chanting and any offenses you may be committing. transcendental Qualities. We should not be carried away simply by the Krishna duties which is also regarded as good as chanting. That is the beginning. as much as possible. he must compensate it the next day . 1970) Amongst all our duties surely we must not forget to complete our sixteen rounds. 1970) I am so glad to hear how you are strictly following the regulative principles of devotional service and chanting regularly 16 rounds daily. and the meaning is to address the Supreme Lord. So if you can do so. (SPL to Jagadisa. Caitanya Mahaprabhu prescribes to chant Hare Krishna Mantra 24 hours. you consult with Brahmananda.(SPL to Jagadisa. 21th January. mother and other relatives. you may know that Om is the impersonal sound form of Krishna.. (SPL to Sri Govinda. qualities. Just like a child is taught to make a particular type of sound. 1969) And by hearing this transcendental sound through the ear our heart becomes spiritually purified. Thank you very much for your letter. You will gradually understand all these features of the Absolute Truth if you read Bhagavad-gita and adhere to the regulative principles. mostly before Lord Jagannatha. 11th October. and thus he learns the name of father. of the Lord. If there is difficulty in understanding. or still further you send your inquiry tome. or in the liberated stage. (SPL to Ranadhira. etc. but in all circumstances we shall not forget this duty. 23rd January. they are recommended to chant Om. There are three stages of chanting: offensively. 24th January. because they are not intentional. 1971) 215 . transcendental Form. and in full love of Godhead. free of offense. So far as how long each day to go out on Sankirtana Party. 15th November. the form.. Generally it is the process to simply chant and hear, but if Krishna's lila comes into remembrance, that is very good. It should come automatically. Not that you are remembering artificially.(SPL to Prahladananda, 17th June, 1971) All these initiation beads should be kept very carefully and protected. It is not a question of changing beads, but this carelessness, of losing beads, is not very good. You are very intelligent boy, so you should be careful and instruct others also. So keep your beads in a bag and keep the bag around your neck. Then you won't lose. (SPL to Hrdayananda, 6th July, 1971) If there are broken beads, they may simply be replaced without that I have to chant on them. Once sanctified by the Spiritual Master, your chanting of Hare Krishna is eternally blessed.(SPL to Upendra, 8th December, 1971) Also, I have sent beads of Sukasagari dasi, duly chanted. In cases when beads are lost, it is not necessary to give new ones to the spiritual master for again chanting. Once the disciple received the Hare Krishna Mantra from the spiritual master, that is an eternal blessing, whether these beads or those beads.(SPL to Bhagavan dasa, 10th December, 1971) You have got a very important duty to see that all the branches are kept with a full stock of all my books. And I know that we are getting many mail-orders daily, so you must see that these orders are all filled promptly. If we take the public's money, and then delay too long in filling the orders, this will give us a bad reputation. So be very conscientious and hard-working and Krishna will give you the ability to do everything nicely. There is no difference between chanting Hare Krishna or Sankirtana and doing one's assigned work in Krishna Consciousness. Sometimes we have to do so much managerial or office work, but Lord Caitanya promises us that because in the Kali yuga this is required for carrying on our preaching mission. He gives assurance that we will not become entangled by such work. When the work has to be done, do it first, then chant. But you must fulfill at least 16 rounds daily. So if necessary sleep less but you have to finish your minimum number of rounds.(SPL to Kirtiraja, 2nd January, 1972) Chanting japa should be done early in the morning with full concentration preferably during the Brahma Muhurta time. Concentrate fully on the sound vibration of the mantra, pronouncing each name distinctly and gradually your speed in chanting will increase naturally. Do not worry so much about chanting fast, most important is the hearing. A devotee should always be grave and silent which means that he only discusses topics relating to Krishna Consciousness. Yes, spend your time chanting and reading and taking Krishna Prasadam and automatically your tongue will come under control. If you sincerely engage 24 hours daily in devotional service according to the instructions of the Spiritual Master, chant daily 16 rounds, attend the arati ceremony of Lord Krishna, associate with the devotees and adhere strictly to the regulative principles then Krishna will reveal Himself personally to you. (SPL to Radhaballabha dasa, 6th January, 1972) 216 So far your other letter , devotion does not depend on the body, and in spite of all difficulties we can chant, so long we have got the tongue--and even we have got no tongue we can chant in our mind. So where is the question of not serving with devotion? On the contrary, I consider that you and your good husband, Gaurasundara, are two of my topmost disciples and the work you are doing greatly encourages and pleases me, therefore do not think that because you are sometimes sick or weak that you are not making any advancement and that you are disappointing me, no. I am always thinking upon you both, that Krishna will give you His all blessings. Simply if you are able always to chant Hare Krishna, that is the same as following all other regulative principles .(SPL to Govinda dasi, 12th February, 1972) Your third question, What is the explanation of split-personality, actually, there are not two personalities, there is only change of mind. Therefore, the mind has to be fixed up in Krishna, then there is no more extreme change in the mind from one personality to another. There is always only one personality, it is just that if the mind is very disturbed, it may change in extreme way; if such person is devotee; best remedy is to sit down very tightly and chant Hare Krishna very loudly and hear for the a long time until he feels himself one-minded and fixed on Krishna's Lotus Feet.(SPL to Mohanandana, 27th February, 1972) You write he is chanting 14 rounds daily; so you are experienced and know what to do in this case, simply encourage him to chant 16 rounds. The injunction is kirtaniya sada hari, one should always be chanting all day. The 16 rounds is just a minimum 1 set for my disciples so they will chant at least that much. Actually chanting should always be going on. So I will be anxious to hear that Govardhana has returned and is chanting more seriously, aware that he must do so to remain free from the clutches of maya.(SPL to Jagadisa, 25 th June, 1974) As far as the seven transcendental meters for singing the names of the Lord, that is not so important for now. Better to try to increase the purity of the chanting first, that is our most important thing.(SPL to Bhakta Mark, 15th December, 1974) It is your responsibility as the president of the temple to see that these devotees strictly follow the rules and regulations such as chanting 16 rounds minimum on the beads. 16 is the minimum; one can chant more. There is no harm, but one at least must chant the fixed number of rounds.(SPL to Alanata dasa, 10th November, 1975) TEMPLE KIRTANA Kirtana means both lecturing and chanting with music. (SPL to Upendra, 14th August, 1968) 217 Regarding your desire to improve your singing voice, by singing you will become an expert singer. Anything you practice regularly you become expert in. (SPL to Sivananda, 4th May, 1969) Regarding your question about kirtana, practically we are not concerned with the instruments. They are used sometimes to make it sweeter, but if we divert our attention for using the instruments more, that is not good. Generally kirtana is performed with mrdanga and karatalas, but if somebody is expert instrument player, he can be admitted to join Sankirtana. We can accept everything for Krishna's service, but not taking the risk of diverting attention to any other thing which will hinder our Krishna Consciousness. That should be our motto, or principle.(SPL to Jadurani, 26th May, 1969) Regarding crying, when someone cries during kirtana, this crying is crying of the soul. But if anyone tries to imitate such crying to get some adoration, that is a bodily function. (SPL to Arundhati, 2nd November, 1969) Regarding the morning kirtana songs, what you have given is all right. If time permits there are other songs that can be sung, such as jiva jago, udilo aruna ``There is now sunrise on the Eastern horizon and Lord Caitanya accompanied by His devotees have started the morning Sankirtana party. . . .''(SPL to Drstaketu dasa, 14th October, 1973) Regarding the 24 hour kirtana as a regular temple function, do not do anything impractical. If it is not possible, then don't do it. (SPL to Bali Mardan dasa, 5th September, 1974) Regarding your dancing in the middle of the kirtana, it is not wrong. It is completely right. If in your kirtana everyone dances in ecstasy it is perfectly all right. That is spiritual enthusiasm.(SPL to Hamsaduta dasa, 19th October, 1974) Regarding instruments for temple kirtanas, karatala and mrdanga are sufficient. There is no need of other instruments.(SPL to Rupanuga dasa, 2nd February, 1975) As far as music is concerned, we have got our standard of music, the Hare Krishna Maha Mantra. We do not require to introduce anything new.(SPL to Bhakta Wayne, 3rd January, 1977) SONGS AND BHAJANS 218 You have asked about singing the prayers of Narottama Thakura and yes, they are very much approved in any language.(SPL to Hmsaduta, 12th December, 1968) Regarding the Raghu Pati Raghava song, we are not concerned with this song because it had a political motive; it is not pure devotional service. Gandhi was a great statesman in the garb of a saintly person, so that the Indian population would blindly follow him. But his motive was political and we are therefore not very interested with it. However, you can sing the first two lines, (Raghu Pati Raghava Raja Ram, Patita Pavana Sita Ram). (SPL to Krsna dasa, 13th February, 1969) Regarding your questions about various names of God, we have nothing to do with Jehova, Allah, Jesus, etc. If somebody else wants to chant in this way it is all right, but nobody is chanting Jesus etc. If they like, let them do that but as far as we are concerned, we should be satisfied with the Hare Krishna Mantra and nothing more. We have registered our association particularly under the name of Krishna. God has millions of names undoubtedly, but we are especially concerned with the name of Krishna because we are in the disciplic succession of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu Who chanted this Holy Name, Krishna. Everyone should be particular to his particular disciplic succession or sampradaya's regulative principles. This is required, as much as there are many different political parties, although every one is meant to serve the country.(SPL to Sivananda, 13th February, 1969) My opinion is that it is not necessary for us to utilize these different musical talents for spreading Krsna Consciousness. I would rather see people follow strictly the path of Lord Caitanya and His Sankirtana devotees. We are using mrdanga, karatala, that is enough. We are not musicians. We are Krsna bhaktas. Therefore we do not stress so much importance on these different musical talents. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu is God Himself. Had He thought it would have been better to spread Krsna Consciousness by another way He would have done so. But no, simply with mrdanga and karatala, traveling and chanting Hare Krsna, asking everyone to chant Hare Krsna, preaching simply Srimad-Bhagavatam philosophy, this is the process. There is no need for us to try and add anything to this simple method. It will only be a distraction. Therefore I request you to follow the simple path of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu and help me spread this wonderful mission all over the world. Keep yourself pure and fixed up in Krsna Consciousness by following the basic principles that I have given; chanting 16 rounds daily, following the four regulative principles, rising early, attending mangala arati and classes etc. This is of the utmost importance.(SPL to Jagadisa Pandita, 28th December, 1974) Concerning the recordings of Krsna dasa Babaji, how can I make any judgment as I have not heard them. However, you should just go on chanting Hare Krishna Mahamantra and the Pancatattva mantra and don't divert your attention. You cannot understand the meaning of the Indian songs and simply parrot like chanting of these songs has no value.(SPL to Damodara Pandita dasa, 17th July, 1976) 219 HARI-NAMA SANKIRTANA I have tested it definitely that melodious vibration of Sankirtana, if they are performed by serious devotees, can attract people from the very spiritual platform, and it at once makes the spiritual background very smooth, when a spiritual instruction from the Bhagavadgita can be implemented very nicely. So my first concrete program is that if you agree to organize such a Sankirtana party, a batch of American students may join, and I can combine these American and Indian devotees together under discipline. The American boys are being trained up strictly on spiritual line, which I have already explained to you in my last letter. Similarly, the Indian boys or girls must be spiritually trained; it is only by spiritually trained vibration can implement spiritual seeds in the heart of the audience, not otherwise.(SPL to Harikishand Agarwal, 3rd March, 1968) I am going to Montreal on Monday, June 3rd, and if I find Montreal quite suitable, I shall call you and some other students to assemble there to practice Sankirtana in a systematic way. Of course, chanting Hare Krishna does not require any artificial artistic sense, but still, if the procedure is presented rhythmically, then the people may be attracted more by the transcendental music.(SPL to Upendra, 1st June, 1968) Those who are agitated in the mind, they will hear neither Krsna conscious philosophy nor Christian philosophy. So to make the mind smoother, you should chant Hare Krsna nicely, not to do it by changing the philosophical topics. The chanting will work. When there is no possibility of talking philosophy, we should simply chant, nothing more. Don`t talk anything. That will help both the singer and the audience. Your little speach is very nice. Caitanya Mahaprabhu also said there are millions of names of God, and one can chant any one of them he prefers.We chant Hare Krsna because Lord Caitanya also chanted Hare Krsna. We recommend to chant any name of God, but we prefer to chant the holy name of God, Krsna, following the footprints of Lord Caitanya.(SPL,unidentified) So far Sankirtana is concerned, that should be continued in all circumstances. Chanting of Hare Krishna, Sankirtana is our life and soul. Side by side, if possible, then you can 220 attempt for the ISKCON restaurant and Krishna Prasadam distribution, but this I think is secondary.(SPL to Nathan Baruch, 7th August, 1968) Our propaganda should be focused on spreading kirtana and distributing literature, books and magazines. The process experienced now is that after holding kirtana, they are selling magazines and books successfully.(SPL to Brahmananda, 30th January, 1969) Try to keep nice peace with the police as far as possible, because our method is to be tolerant more than the tree and humbler than the grass on the street. We don't mind for so-called prestige. If keeping peaceful we can execute our Krishna Consciousness duties, that is all we want.(SPL to Satsvarupa, 31st May, 1969) Regarding registration of the society, you can simply translate our New York registration form into German and submit it to the court clerk, depositing the requisite fees, and I think that will finish the registration problem. If the police do not allow you to perform kirtana in public places, do not disobey their orders. Try to abide by the law of the state for taking advantage of performing kirtana as far as possible. (SPL to Krsna dasa, 13th June, 1969) Regarding the six months contract for L250 per week from engagements in halls, colleges, clubs, etc., it is very good news. But one thing we must remember that we are not professional musicians or concert party. Our main business is to vibrate the Holy Name of Krishna everywhere so that the people will be benefited by hearing the transcendental sound. The musical training is not so important as it is to keep ourselves spiritually fit in spiritual strength, that we should not forget. If we are in spiritual strength, there will be no scarcity of money; and the spiritual strength is that each and every one of us must chant the sixteen rounds of beads and follow the rules and regulations with great adherence.(SPL to Tamala Krsna, 8th February, 1970) Regarding your question is it all right to assign the entire sankirtana party for distributing books so that no one will be free for street chanting?? Of course we should not understanding the meaning of sankirtana very narrowly, that only chanting and dancing and playing instruments, no, sankirtana means to glorify the Lord in a congregational manner. So if many devotees are going out daily on the streets and public places for distributing our literature, that is also sankirtana, even if there is no one chanting. Hearing and chanting are essential processes for sankirtana. So if someone is hearing us singing on the street, or if he is purchasing one book and if he reads sincerely, these two activities are the same. So if there is any occasion of necessity, if there are not very many men available or if there is prohibition by the municipal authorities, something like that, we may assign everyone for distributing our literatures, there is no loss for that. But it is always better if there are also some devotees chanting loudly on the street. If there is even one man to two men or a small party who are chanting Hare Krishna, that will increase also the book sales. So if there are sufficient men, and if we have got sanction by the authorities, it is always better to have at least a small party chanting along with as many distributers of books as possible.(SPL to Ravindra Svarupa, 5th January, 1973) 221 My opinion is that it is not necessary for us to utilize these different musical talents for spreading Krsna Consciousness. I would rather see people follow strictly the path of Lord Caitanya and His Sankirtana devotees. We are using mrdanga, karatala, that is enough . We are not musicians. We are Krsna bhaktas. Therefore we do not stress so much importance on these different musical talents. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu is God Himself. Had He thought it would have been better to spread Krsna Consciousness by another way He would have done so. But no, simply with mrdanga and karatala, traveling and chanting Hare Krsna, asking everyone to chant Hare Krsna, preaching simply SrimadBhagavatam philosophy, this is the process. There is no need for us to try and add anything to this simple method. It will only be a distraction. Therefore I request you to follow the simple path of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu and help me spread this wonderful mission all over the world. Keep yourself pure and fixed up in Krsna Consciousness by following the basic principles that I have given; chanting 16 rounds daily, following the four regulative principles, rising early, attending mangala arati and classes etc. This is of the utmost importance.(SPL to Jagadisa Pandita, 28th December, 1974) I am glad to note that you are taking out the traveling party. I hope that you have good success. Just do everything very soberly. Regarding the instruments, stringed instruments are Vedic, but the real Vedic instrument is mrdanga and karatala. Anyway, you have to do according to the time and circumstances if you use these other instruments. So you have got my approval and you can go on. (SPL to Bahudaka dasa, 10th November, 1975) Yes, kirtana and prasada will appeal to even the uneducated. We have means to preach to both the educated and uneducated, the sinful and the pious--dhiradhira-jana-priyau. Regarding the concerts, make mrdanga concert. You will get good mrdangas from L.A. (SPL to Dvarakesa dasa, 29th September, 1976) Go on singing Krsna kirtana. That is our program . Caitanya Mahaprabhu used to go out chanting. He never spoke philosophy in public, only among higher circles. The chanting is very effective. Along with tampura and mrdanga played very rhythmically let them chant. Perform this musical demonstration and sell books as far as possible, and feasting. Then everything will be successful. It is good that they do not like these bogus yogis and they like Hare Krsna mantra. Give them the chance to chant the Hare Krsna maha mantra somehow or other, then very soon good results will be visible.(SPL to Harikesa Swami, 28 th October, 1976) HARINAMA AND TEMPLE WORSHIP 222 Actually 223 . 17th May. 27th May. Last night . Sankirtana.(SPL to Mukunda. even at the cost of suspending all editorial work. and I saw it was so fine and satisfactory .1969) In this age. Primary factor is Sankirtana. chanting of Hare Krishna Mantra is the prime business of the devotee. 1969) Sankirtana and distributing BTG and our other literatures is the fieldwork of this movement. That is your first and foremost business. Side by side. The next business is completing the chanting of 16 rounds every day. but when there is a question of accepting one of them. Sankirtana is more important for drawing the attention of the people in general. 5th September. your movement will go on progressively. That is your life and soul. they are our primary engagements and next Temple worship. temple or no temple. Deity worship helps to keep us externally purified and Sankirtana helps to keep us internally purified. 1969) That is a fact. And by your exemplary character.(SPL to Hamsaduta. (SPL to Sudama. Temple worship is secondary. and if you find extra time. 1969. We are not much concerned about the temple because temple worship is not primary factor in this age. and in that case. 15th December. Temple worship is needed for the inner section .I am in due receipt of your letter dated May 14. In our Krishna Consciousness Movement. Love Feast and selling BTG. the only way for our success. Our hearts in material condition are filled with all dirty things. but outdoor kirtana. first business. and preaching of this Hare Krishna Mantra by outdoor Sankirtana and propagation of literature is our more important business. external and internal. 1970) I am so glad to learn that you are taking very much interest in the Deity worship. I am very much eager to see that you are again living together. In the beginning. and this Krishna Consciousness Movement is the cleansing process. So try your best immediately to live together. I went to see our men chanting in Hollywood Boulevard. My advice to you under the circumstances is that at least for one hour you must all go to have Sankirtana outside on the streets or in the park. this plan of Sankirtana is the only way. but the outdoor kirtana cannot be stopped. The next business is your editing. the whole temple can be locked. Deity worship is recommended. Otherwise you can stop these activities. so a temple is required secondarily. we shall prefer to accept chanting of Hare Krishna Mantra first. and I have received a similar letter from Brahmananda also that you are finding some difficulty in keeping pace regularly with the routine work. Outdoor kirtana must be done. There are two kinds of purification methods. the general mass of people will be benefited. Temple worship is not so important.8th January. So as far as possible we shall execute both of these processes simultaneously.(SPL to Rayarama. If need be. People are invited to come to the temple to see the behavior of the devotees specifically in the matter of purification. and such activities must be accompanied with chanting of the Holy Name regularly. then you can attend the temple ceremonies. 1969) Now you try to assemble together in the same spirit as you were doing.(SPL to Cidananda. your editing work and chanting of 16 rounds must be done. But sometimes we want a center where people may gather and see. so I have no objection. and when possible they should go outside on Sankirtana Party with their husbands and others..A. very nicely. When Caitanya Mahaprabhu was touring India He did not bring His Deity with Him.(SPL to Ekayani. keeping both sides in balance.chanting of the Holy Name regularly is our life and soul. I am glad to learn that you are continuing your mahasankirtana. that is very nice. Although there is no Deity.(SPL to Hamsaduta. 1970) Now work with great enthusiasm and ask Himavati to take care of the Deities very. that is all right. 4th April.(SPL to Visnijana Maharaja. If there is scarcity of such qualifies pujaris. 1971) Regarding your question about taking Gaura-Nitai Deities with you on travelling Kirtana. but where there is want of pujaris only Panca Tattva picture should be worshiped by performance of Kirtana and as soon as Jagannatha or Radha Krsna Deities are installed you will require some qualified pujaris immediately. Your class schedule is also very nice. we must observe the rules and regulations of Pancaratriki Biddhi. and everyone is captivated by seeing the smiling face of the Lord. 1973) 224 . very nice.(SPL to Rupanuga. namely the Pancaratriki Biddhi and Bhagavat Biddhi. But if you can make proper arrangement then you may take them. Similarly in London Yamuna is also doing nicely. 1970) So far as waiting for sending Deities. we shall do this. how much they are careful about Deity worship. Actually we should give more stress in worshiping the incarnation of sound vibration but whenever there is possibility of installing Deities and strictly following the regulations of worship. Our London Deities are certainly very. I learn that your marriage is already arranged. Both of you have seen in L. but the essential part of our activities is to worship the sound incarnation. 14th February. 10th February. and on the basis of such activities all other devotional services will sustain. this is not so important. and all the wives of our students should be especially trained up for Deity worship and cooking. 1970) I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated 12th April. each center should be satisfied only by worshiping Panca Tattva of Lord Caitanya by performance of Sankirtana. but if you say you have no Brahmins then I think for the time being you may postpone this program. It is very enchanting. We have to make our steady progress. 1st July. still this Hare Krishna Mantra is considered to be the sound vibration incarnation of Krishna . The more you worship the Deity very nicely. The Pancaratriki Biddhi is Arcana or Temple worship. all of you will feel very nice and peaceful spiritually. 18th April. Although chanting is quite sufficient to cover all the Biddhis. 12th March. and the information is very encouraging. still to keep ourselves pure and sanctified. 1970) I do not know what Kirtanananda Maharaja has told you. and the Bhagavat Biddhi is to preach by chanting and distributing literature . Temple worship is not so important as Sankirtana on the public roads and selling our literatures.(SPL to Damodara. Therefore this point should be very much carefully attended. 1970. (SPL to Hamsaduta. This is our main business. how will it be maintained in a truck? Another thing is that opening temples should not be encouraged at this time.(SPL to Sudama. But you should not take Radha-Krsna travelling. So make propaganda in this way. Why is Deity worship being introduced? It should not be introduced because it is very difficult to maintain the standard under such circumstances. Subala did the same thing in Santa fee years ago. 1973) To install Deities in a moving vehicle is not very good. He is running on 8 New buses and distributing large quantities of literature. so go out and recruit some solid new devotees to help us push on this movement. You are wondering if you did the right thing by giving the Deities to Sudama. but in the bus there should not be Deity worship. 23th March. Sudama already has experience of this. Neglectful Deity worship means offense. will be very much attracted to the program. For serving Gaura-Nitai there is no offense. 1973) 225 . anyone. better you take Gaura-Nitai. and that is very nice. it is very difficult to maintain the standard of Deity worship in the temple.(SPL to Jagadisa. but if Radha-Krsna is there and there is some discrepancy. why again he is doing the same thing? Hamsaduta in Germany instead of increasing the temples and Deity worship he has increased the Sankirtana parties. Therefore. so the answer is no. simply the picture of Guru Gauranga. There is always danger of falling and breaking. I gave the same advice to Visnujana when I was in Pittsburgh. When I saw Rupanuga's bus in New Vrndavana I wanted that there be a whole fleet. Now you have my full blessings. 15th August. The idea of traveling Sankirtana is to distribute books not to do Deity worship. this is more important.You mentioned about your Temple bus. then there is great offense and this should be avoided.The idea of the Temple bus is to attract them aboard back to Krsna and the hippies and college students. If you have picture of Guru Gauranga that is sufficient. The deities may be brought back and worshiped in the temple as before. PURPORT … Simple hearing is not all.B. aham—I. The word niviñöa means that Süta Gosvämé drank the juice of Bhägavatam through his ears. vaù—unto you.3. saù— that very thing. 1. tejasaù—powerful. That is the real process of receiving 226 . HEARING SRIMAD BHAGAVATAM THE CULTURE OF HEARING S. çrävayiñyämi—shall let you hear. yathä-adhétam yathä-mati—as far as my realization. one must realize the text with proper attention. TRANSLATION O learned brähmaëas. I learned the Bhägavatam from that great and powerful sage. I heard him with rapt attention. aham— I. by his mercy. adhyagamam—could understand. niviñöaù—being perfectly attentive. Now I shall try to make you hear the very same thing as I learned it from him and as I have realized it. tatra—in that meeting. tat-anugrahät—by his mercy. when Çukadeva Gosvämé recited Bhägavatam there [in the presence of Emperor Parékñit]. bhüri—greatly.3. and thus. vipra-åñeù —from the great brähmaëa-åñi. tatra kértayato viprä viprarñer bhüri-tejasaù ahaà cädhyagamaà tatra niviñöas tad-anugrahät so ’haà vaù çrävayiñyämi yathädhétaà yathä-mati SYNONYMS tatra—there. ca—also. vipräù—O brähmaëas.44. kértayataù—while reciting. sukham—happiness. 16. fearing and mating.17 çåëvatäà sva-kathäù kåñëaù puëya-çravaëa-kértanaù hådy antaù stho hy abhadräëi vidhunoti suhåt satäm SYNONYMS çåëvatäm—those who have developed the urge to hear the message of. TRANSLATION He who discards scriptural injunctions and acts according to his own whims attains neither perfection. The secret of knowing Bhägavatam is mentioned here.Bhägavatam. at the very beginning one can assuredly see Lord Çré Kåñëa in person in the pages of Bhägavatam. na—never. kåñëaù—the Personality of Godhead. S. sleeping. hådi antaù sthaù—within one’s heart. hi—certainly. paräm—the supreme. One should hear with rapt attention from the real person. puëya— virtues. çravaëa—hearing. siddhim—perfection. sva-kathäù—His own words. vidhunoti— cleanses.2. vartate—remains. saù—he.g. na— never. No one can be pure in action who is not pure in eating. THE IMPORTANCE OF HEARING B. nor the supreme destination. But somehow or other if someone hears with rapt attention from the right person. na—never. suhåt—benefactor. çästra-vidhim—the regulations of the scriptures. satäm—of the truthful. TRANSLATION 227 . nor happiness. käma-kärataù—acting whimsically in lust. kértanaù—chanting. No one can give rapt attention who is not pure in mind.1. abhadräëi—desire to enjoy matter. and then he can at once realize the presence of Lord Kåñëa in every page. No one can be pure in mind who is not pure in action.23 yaù çästra-vidhim utsåjya vartate käma-kärataù na sa siddhim aväpnoti na sukhaà na paräà gatim SYNONYMS yaù—anyone who. aväpnoti—achieves. utsåjya—giving up.B. gatim— perfectional stage. The material sins are products of our desires to lord it over material nature. because every living being is associated with such things from remote time. the whole process becomes as easy as anything by the divine grace of the Lord. therefore. cleanses desire for material enjoyment from the heart of the devotee who has developed the urge to hear His messages.B. practically immemorial. It is very difficult to get rid of such desires. One cannot enter into the kingdom of God unless one is perfectly cleared of all sins. We have already discussed developing a taste for hearing and chanting the holy sound.2. the Personality of Godhead. But anyone who desires to go back to Godhead.Çré Kåñëa. But if one is engaged in hearing the glories of the Lord.18 nañöa-präyeñv abhadreñu nityaà bhägavata-sevayä 228 . it is to be understood that Lord Kåñëa is present there in the form of transcendental sound. By the grace of God such a devotee gets sufficient strength to defend himself from the state of disturbances. The Lord is more anxious to take us back into His kingdom than we can desire. who is the Paramätmä [Supersoul] in everyone’s heart and the benefactor of the truthful devotee. and anyone can chant the holy name with attention and reverence at his convenience. Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu. But when one is helped by the Lord Himself. To become restless in the contact of women and wealth is not an astonishment. When He sees that a devotee is completely sincere in getting admittance to the transcendental service of the Lord and has thus become eager to hear about Him. offenseless hearing and glorification of God are undertaken. in His Çikñäñöaka. but unfortunately we have no taste for hearing and glorifying the Lord’s name and activities. which are in themselves virtuous when properly heard and chanted. gradually he realizes his real position. It is done through the medium of service to the pure devotee of the Lord. Women and wealth are very difficult problems for the devotee making progress on the path back to Godhead. Whenever. declares clearly that the holy name of the Lord has all the potencies of the Lord and that He has endowed His innumerable names with the same potency. PURPORT Messages of the Personality of Godhead Çré Kåñëa are nondifferent from Him. The Lord is reciprocally respondent to His devotees. Many stalwarts in the devotional line fell victim to these allurements and thus retreated from the path of liberation. There is no rigid fixture of time. the Lord acts from within the devotee in such a way that the devotee may easily go back to Him. Most of us do not desire at all to go back to Godhead. and gradually all disturbing elements are eliminated from his mind. Only a very few men want to go back to Godhead. and it takes time to recover from this foreign nature. The Lord is so kind to us that He can be present before us personally in the form of transcendental sound.1. Çré Kåñëa helps in all respects. which is as powerful as the Lord personally. S. the more one becomes fixed in the transcendental loving service of the Lord. and the combination of these two Bhägavatas will help the neophyte devotee to make progress on and on. all that is troublesome to the heart is almost completely destroyed. nityam—regularly.bhagavaty uttama-çloke bhaktir bhavati naiñöhiké SYNONYMS nañöa—destroyed. abhadreñu—all that is inauspicious. uttama—transcendental. and thus he also came into contact with them. is established as an irrevocable fact. with the result that he becomes fixed in the devotional service of the Lord. or the pure devotee. And simply by associating with them and accepting the remnants of foodstuff left by the sages. The devotee Bhägavata is a direct representative of Bhagavän. There are two types of Bhägavatas. it should be noted that by such sincere association of the Bhägavatas one is sure to receive transcendental knowledge very easily. who is praised with transcendental songs. çloke—prayers. bhaktiù—loving service. These are the miraculous effects of the association of Bhägavatas. But actually these are facts explained by Çréla Näradadeva. And to understand these effects practically. sevayä—by serving. the Personality of Godhead. So by pleasing the devotee Bhägavata one can receive the benefit of the book Bhägavata. The remedy is the association of the Bhägavatas. bhavati—comes into being. therefore. namely the book Bhägavata and the devotee Bhägavata. 229 . The messages of the book Bhägavata. bhägavata—Çrémad-Bhägavatam. who happened to be a maidservant’s son in his previous life. PURPORT Here is the remedy for eliminating all inauspicious things within the heart which are considered to be obstacles in the path of self-realization. Bhägavata book and person are identical. who are also Bhägavatas. A devotee Bhägavata is as good as the book Bhägavata because the devotee Bhägavata leads his life in terms of the book Bhägavata and the book Bhägavata is full of information about the Personality of Godhead and His pure devotees. The maidservant was engaged in the menial service of the sages. Both the Bhägavatas are competent remedies. präyeñu—almost to nil. the son of the maidservant got the chance to become the great devotee and personality Çréla Näradadeva. and loving service unto the Personality of Godhead. naiñöhiké—irrevocable. The more progress is made in devotional service under the guidance of the Bhägavatas. bhagavati—unto the Personality of Godhead. Human reason fails to understand how by serving the devotee Bhägavata or the book Bhägavata one gets gradual promotion on the path of devotion. have to be received from the devotee Bhägavata. TRANSLATION By regular attendance in classes on the Bhägavatam and by rendering of service to the pure devotee. and both of them or either of them can be good enough to eliminate the obstacles. Cc.13. PURPORT In Çrémad-Bhägavatam (7. bhrama—doubt. This Bhägavatam reveals the means for becoming free from all material work. päramahaàsyam—attainable by the topmost devotees. yasmin—in which. vaiñëavänäm—to the Vaiñëavas. param—supreme. reading many books and scriptures and hearing many commentaries and the instructions of many men. puräëam—the Puräëa. jïäna-virägabhakti-sahitam—together with knowledge. tat—that. yat—which. niçcaya—certainty. naraù—a person. this will produce doubt within his heart. citte—within the heart. ekam—exclusive. jïänam— knowledge. haya—there is. amalam—perfectly pure. amalam—perfectly pure. vimucyet— becomes totally liberated. su-paöhan—properly chanting. especially if one is a 230 . TRANSLATION If one becomes a bookworm.13. çreñöha—about the best. vicäraëa-paraù —who is serious about understanding. sädhya-sädhana—objective and means. TRANSLATION Çrémad-Bhägavatam is the spotless Puräëa. together with the processes of transcendental knowledge. who properly hears and chants it with devotion. bahu-väkye—by many versions of many persons. priyam—most dear. çåëvan—hearing.12. nor should one try to make a profession of reciting many books. tatra—there. géyate—is sung.11 bahu-çästre bahu-väkye citte bhrama haya sädhya-sädhana çreñöha nä haya niçcaya SYNONYMS bahu-çästre—by many books or scriptures. becomes completely liberated.S. naiñkarmyam—freedom from all material work.B. renunciation and devotion. Adi 16. nä—not. Anyone who seriously tries to understand Çrémad-Bhägavatam. One cannot in this way ascertain the real goal of life. äviñkåtam—is revealed. renunciation and devotion. It is most dear to the Vaiñëavas because it describes the pure and supreme knowledge of the paramahaàsas. bhaktyä—with devotion.8) it is said.18 çrémad-bhägavataà puräëam amalaà yad vaiñëavänäà priyaà yasmin päramahaàsyam ekam amalaà jïänaà paraà géyate tatra jïäna-viräga-bhakti-sahitaà naiñkarmyam äviskåtaà tac chåëvan su-paöhan vicäraëa-paro bhaktyä vimucyen naraù SYNONYMS çrémat-bhägavatam—Çrémad-Bhägavatam. haya—there is. granthän naiväbhyased bahün na vyäkhyäm upayuïjéta: “One should not read many books. sleep and fall down from their position. thus becoming bewildered regarding the aim of life. karaye nartana SYNONYMS ye—he who. especially fruitive activities and philosophical speculation.279 ye lélä-amåta vine. nor can he understand many scriptures. religious ritualistic ceremonies and philosophical speculation. after some time. A living entity thus bewildered since time immemorial does not understand the real goal of life. amåta vine—without nectar. they will simply eat. sing and dance. PURPORT All the devotees connected with the Kåñëa consciousness movement must read all the books that have been translated (the Caitanya-caritämåta. häse. Innocent persons misled in this way are deprived of unalloyed kåñëa-bhakti. Madya 25.” One must give up the ambition to be a learned scholar and in this way earn a worldly reputation and financial facilities. but he could not ascertain what the goal of life is. Çrémad-Bhägavatam. for they are full of grave statements and meanings. gäya—chants. otherwise. lélä—of the pastimes of Lord Kåñëa and Caitanya Mahäprabhu. häse—laughs. Therefore he was given a chance to hear Lord Caitanya Mahäprabhu instructing Sanätana Gosvämé. Cc. TRANSLATION Men become strong and stout by eating sufficient grains. If one diverts his attention to studying many books. utphullita tanu-mane. gäya. are deprived of unalloyed devotional service because of their splayed attention. if one drinks but a drop of the nectar of Kåñëa’s pastimes. karaye nartana—dances. khäya yadi anna-päne—if one eats only ordinary food grains. Tapana Miçra is a vivid example of such a person. bhaktera—of the devotees. He was a learned scholar. eka-bindu-päne —if one drinks one drop. and thus his activities in life are wasted. his body and mind begin to bloom. and he begins to laugh. Lord Caitanya’s instruction to Tapana Miçra is especially significant for persons who loiter here and there collecting books and reading none of them. yära—of which. tabe—then. but the devotee who simply eats ordinary grains but does not taste the transcendental pastimes of Lord Caitanya Mahäprabhu and Kåñëa gradually becomes weak and falls down from the transcendental position. tabe bhaktera durbala jévana yära eka-bindu-päne. khäya yadi anna-päne. In this connection Çréla Bhaktisiddhänta Sarasvaté Öhäkura gives his opinion that those who are attracted to studying many kinds of literature concerning various subject matters. Man has a general tendency toward fruitive activities. utphullita tanu-mane—the body and mind become jubilant.devotee. However. durbala jévana—life becomes weakened. devotional service to the Lord. Thus 231 . Bhagavad-gétä and others). he cannot fix his mind in devotional service. that one has to hear Çrémad-Bhägavatam within seven days. daily. they are neither Parékñit Mahäräja nor Çukadeva Gosvämé. and that is being imitated. if one hears and chants ÇrémadBhägavatam. Lord Brahmä. SB 1. it is said.P. Again this karma-käëòéya. so nityam. they will perform some ceremonies and there is some charitable. That’s all. The result is that the professional reciter will gather some money and some goods and he will maintain his family. He is prayed with first-class composition.2. S. at the present moment.29]. they became perfect simply by çravaëaà kértanam. recited Çrémad-Bhägavatam. that gorgeousness. Sanskrit stanzas.24 13. Simply by hearing and chanting.2. cintämaëi-prakara-sadmasu kalpa-våkñalakñävåteñu surabhér abhipälayantam [Bs. regularly Çrémad-Bhägavatam. Just like we pray. regularly. nityam bhägavata-sevayä [SB 1. written or offered by the first living creature. These people. Nañöa-präyeñu abhadreñu nityaà bhägavatasevayä.February 1971 So both the spiritual master and the disciple. our devotional temperament becomes fixed up on the Supreme Personality of Godhead who is called Uttama-çloka.. we offer prayer to Kåñëa. Nañöa-präyeñu abhadreñu. Because we are so much contaminated that it is very difficult to get us freed from the contamination.18].. These stanzas are not ordinary. there is some effect. Nityam. regularly. just try to understand. The spiritual master chanted. It is very first-class composition.. hearing of Çrémad-Bhägavatam. who is glorified with first-class. It has become a profession. they have manufactured a way of bhägavata-saptaha. They will make a maïcha(?). People should hear daily. all the prayers we will find. Why seven days? Regularly. fruitive activities.. Kunté’s prayer to Kåñëa in the 232 .. So far we see in the Çrémad-Bhägavatam. That is a farce only because it is imitation of the process adopted by Parékñit Mahäräja and Çukadeva Gosvämé. then nañöa-präyeñu abhadreñu. there should be regularly class. This is Bhägavata-märga. All the çlokas. The smärta brähmaëas. Lecture 6. This karma-käëòéya vicära. No.they will miss the opportunity to attain an eternal. And these people will say that “I have heard for seven days Çrémad-Bhägavatam. as we have seen Bhéñma’s prayer to Kåñëa.. So how it is possible to finish ÇrémadBhägavatam within seven days? That is not possible. Now. they are not ordinary Sanskrit composition. and written by. But they are. 5. but this is not recommended anywhere in the Çrémad-Bhägavatam.2. I mean to say. then the dirty things within his heart becomes almost cleansed. uttama-çloka. By daily hearing.” Of course. Therefore Kåñëa’s name is Uttama-çloka.18 nañöa-präyeñu abhadreñu nityaà bhägavata-sevayä bhagavaty uttama-çloke bhaktir bhavati naiñöiké By the process of cleansing our heart. govindam adi-puruñam. blissful life of transcendental pleasure. and I am so glad to learn that you are feeling more and more Krishna Conscious. sacred thread. all perfect. nañöa präyeñu. So by studying. As soon as you are fixed up. Not that we make a function for seven days. Regular habit should be there. that means he is fixed up in the brahminical stage. mercantile people. The beginning of service is to engage our hearing organs. Sattva-guëa. 1967) I recommend. Because the less intelligent class of men. Not that he has completely become free. he is a brähmaëa. the other two qualities. At that time he is fixed up in devotional service. No.(SPL to Pradyumna. therefore His another name is Uttama-çloka. So far the stories are concerned.. 17th December. therefore that all my students read Brahma Samhita very carefully-especially because it was translated personally by my spiritual master Srimad Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Goswami Maharaja.(SPL to Janardana. How philosophically they are elevated. and receive the transcendental message 233 .. by hearing. Nañöa präyeñu abhadreñu. firmly fixed up.Çrémad-Bhägavatam.. education. When we see that “This man is chanting Hare Kåñëa mantra. 1967) Krishna is so sublime and transcendental that He cannot be realized by mental speculation or by personal endeavor. 17th October. therefore we offer the brahminical position. The devotional service is so nice. contaminated stage. It is. is much improved. He can only be approached and understood clearly by our service attitude.2. 1967) You have rightly said that learning more and more about Krishna makes you so happy. the Vedic literatures are full of instructive stories for the spiritual advancement of the human society. The more we learn about Krishna from the authoritative sources. And because Kåñëa is worshiped. and laborers. engaging all our senses in His service. or material acquisition. nityam. As soon as he is fixed up. The first test is whether he is fixed up. God is worshiped by such kind of language and elevated poetical and rhetorical. Just see. want to hear stories. I have read with great interest the copy of your letter. 22nd July.. it is all according to the çästra. Almost he has finished the contamination. One who is. Nityaà bhägavata-sevayä bhagavaty uttama-çloke bhaktir bhavati naiñöiké. and chanting. Präya means almost.(SPL to Blanche Hochner. Therefore we offer the brahminical position..19]. To be fixed up in devotional service. reciting regularly of ÇrémadBhägavatam. because a person who is fixed up in devotional service. Therefore he is fixed up.. how nicely they are composed. as soon as you are fixed up. And that firmly fixed up means you are immediately elevated to the platform of sattva-guëa.” Präyeñu means almost he is purified. If I get good assistance I can overflood your country with stories so nice and instructive. whatever we are doing. and all the days we do all nonsense. He is no more any other because he has cleansed almost the bad habits and the unclean state of mind. goodness. for them the Vedic idea or concept was explained in 18 Puranas and the Mahabharata.. like women. He is a brähmaëa.. The result will be that our devotional service towards the Supreme Personality of Godhead will be fixed up. Tato rajas-tamo-bhäväù [SB 1. the more we can be attached in Krishna Consciousness. but nañöa präyeñu. and his bad habits. by aural reception. 1968) You should all read very carefully Srimad-Bhagavatam and Bhagavad-gita. and as such. I very much appreciate your development of this spiritual perception. there is no need of sending the Kalyana books as you have mentioned.(SPL to Satsvarupa. similarly. reading of the literature and hearing of the chanting is the medicine. it is needed that you should be thoroughly conversant with the truth. and prasadam is the diet.(SPL to Aniruddha. This Brahma Samhita contains the highest of all spiritual knowledge . 1968) 234 . 1968) I am pleased to learn that you are singing the Cintamani prayers of Brahma Samhita. 24th November. 14th Novrmber. (SPL to Harivilasa. 27th June. And whenever we are mature in receiving the transcendental message from books like Bhagavad-gita. 10th June. not yet. Just read Srimad-Bhagavatam. and only in rare cases approach me.N.(SPL to Gurudasa. 7th July. But it is important that our students must be able to answer all questions for becoming preachers. In lecturing too if we sing a verse from Brahma Samhita and then nicely explain the meaning it will be very much appreciated.(SPL to Purusottama. 13th November. It is no use reading many books. The material covering of our senses becomes inactive and actual spiritual form of activity becomes manifest. (SPL to Dayananda. 1968) That you are chanting and reading with great delight is very good. if diet and medicine are properly administered the disease of maya will be cured. 1968) So. Please continue this practice and the delight will continue to increase the more you increase sincerity. these Krishna kathas of the Brahma Samhita are All-Attractive and will gain favorable attention from listeners. then we are able to chant or engage our tongue in the service of the Lord. it is better to assimilate one book and that is sufficient. our three volumes. because you are on the field work. being engaged in the service of the Lord. and Krishna has given you a good chance in the matter of your proposed dealings with the U. So. (SPL to Patita Uddharana. and Srimad-Bhagavatam. 1968) Now. Just as Krishna is the All-Attractive principle so. And you have to satisfy them or fight with them with conclusive statements from Bhagavad-gita. 1968) Always read and talk about Krishna between yourselves. you have to meet so many opposite elements. and you should be able to answer all questions like this. 1968) No.(SPL to Syamasundara. and Srimad-Bhagavatam. regularly and repeatedly. September. 2 nd February. and always remember that this life is but a flash only. We have to seek after our eternal life in Krishna Consciousness and be transferred to the spiritual world in the association of Krishna. via media the transparent bona fide Spiritual Master. Regarding books like Aquarian Gospel or even the Testiments. according to Vedic authorities. What happens in different corners of the Lord's Creation no one can say. Lord Buddha is mentioned specifically in SrimadBhagavatam as incarnation of Godhead. which is classified as atheism. Unless one is highly elevated in spiritual understanding it is risky to discuss these Pastimes. They are not stories after all. and they are put together in the shape of Puranas. we cannot 235 . but we should not indulge in this at present. you should know that everything that is found in these scriptures is factual. There is nothing allegory. But we have all respects for him without fail. Kair. that is our aim. This story of the sparrow is found in the Puranas. 1969) You have hinted about the value of concentration and in the stories from the Bhagavatam and Mahabharata. It is said saram saram samud dhritva. To understand Radha and Krishna's Pastimes. 30th January. all of the contents of these books become revealed from within. 1969) So far as reading scriptures out loud. These books are not material knowledge. 22 nd July.(SPL to Harer Nama.The final question which was asked by Tosana about the validity of the story of the sparrow and the ocean. but for the teaching of the commonplace people some of the important incidents of history are there. Mahabharata is called. But you must not depend upon your own limited experience. 1969) Jaya Govinda was correct in his observation that Radha-Krishna Pastimes should not be discussed at the present time. there is no need to read out loud.(SPL to Jayapataka. They did not believe in their Vedic literatures presented by Vyasadeva. but they are not imaginary. 1969) Regarding your question about Lord Jesus Christ. But such historical facts are not chronological. But we can hear from the authentic Vedic sources such as the Puranas. 12th January. even if we accept Lord Jesus Christ as saktyavesa avatara. If you can understanding by reading silently..(SPL to Sivananda. you are already a passed student so don't be afraid of it. we accept him as saktyavesa avatara. what is bhakti. Mahabharata. Caitanya Mahaprabhu never discussed Radha-Krishna Lila with ordinary persons. even if he has not thoroughly studied them all. you will find the questions so easy that within a few minutes you shall be able to answer them all. This means only the essential facts have been collected. Then there is sure to be misunderstanding. this depends upon the circumstances. as the history of India. I wish to introduce this examination system so that in the future our students may not remained unconcerned with these books we are publishing. (SPL to Hamsaduta. To a sincere student. what is the soul. Similarly. They are actual facts .(SPL to Mr.'' That is the cause of the falldown of Hindu culture. 8th July. because this may make others feel disturbed. 1968) Regarding the examination. When the examination will be held. and yet Vaisnavas do not accept his philosophy. 21st December. We have so many other things to discuss. Stories are imaginary. but I do not exactly follow what you mean by this. I do not know who first designated it as an ``epic. etc. The statements in the Bhagavatam and Mahabharata and the Puranas are all different historical incidents. Lord Buddha is in the same category also. it doesn't mean that we have to accept his philosophy. I reply each and every letter that I receive. 8. no meat-eating. 7th December. So the summary is that instead of diverting our attention to read such unauthorized books. morality. all in correct vision and approved by great stalwart acaryas. Our religion is to become the servant of the servant of the servant of Krishna. 1970) All the devotees who desire to know may ask their questions to the elderly members but still they are open to write me for all their questions and there should not be any hesitation. Offering prayers. So these Christian and Buddhist scriptures were delivered for a different class of men. 5.(SPL to Hamsaduta. or ``Thou shalt do no murder'' to the people. For example. Making friendship. they cannot be compared even. but sometimes it may be a little late due to pressure of work. After all. and we needn't spend our time in studying their doctrines. But they should write. And to learn this transcendental art we have got so many volumes of books. better pay our attention to more authorized Vaisnava literature. It is just like a king may give some rules and regulations for some criminals in prison. We do not concern ourselves with any other religion. 3.. if Lord Jesus Christ said ``Thou shalt not kill''. but for the good citizens out of the prison these rules are not necessarily applicable . 2nd November. etc. they are as follows: 1. but some Bishop in Boston has changed it to ``Thou shalt do no murder''. The real end is how to serve Krishna and sacrifice everything for Him. there is no checking. no intoxication. We must push on our philosophy how to love God. in the Ten Commandments it is clearly stated ``Thou shalt not kill''. This means the Bishop wants to keep hold for animal slaughter. out of these nine. For example. Hearing. sravanam or hearing is very important. (SPL to Kulasakhara. Our process is simple. Try to understand very soberly and you will feel ecstasy undoubtedly. This means the ocean of bliss is always increasing. Krishna Consciousness philosophy is as old as 120 million years at the least. You should read our own books over and over again and as far as possible do not try to enter into controversy. but still the are not always applicable to us. So. We have all respect for these great preachers. Meditating. 1969) Please continue to read the literature very attentively. but they are not ends in themselves. 1969) In our devotional service. no gambling. so it is better for us to mind our own business than to divert our attention in the studies of other books.(SPL to Aniruddha. and I am certain Krishna will be pleased make you successful on all accounts. So nothing can be compared with our philosophy either in the matter of antiquity. Every one of you must regularly read our 236 . Serving the Lotus Feet. 7. but they are so set up by the devotees. it does not reflect very good social structure of the audience. So don't bother about all these literatures. but we do not require to study books save and accept for some reference. So continue to execute your duties with enthusiasm and patience. But it is better if simple questions are solved amongst yourselves in the Istagosthi class. Just like we prescribe to our students no illicit sex-life. Temple worship. 2. Chanting. Rendering service. philosophy. So far others are concerned. 6. We have got volumes of books also. ethics. These scriptures of the Buddhists and the Christians may be the words of God.accept them as authorities because sometimes it is learnt that the words are not actually spoken by Christ. Our philosophy is above all these things. Surrendering everything to the Lord. 11th January. 4. This was definitely forbidden by Lord Caitanya. 9. The more we understand the spiritual literatures the more we become engladdened. science. there are nine different processes for executing devotional service. Lord Caitanya has written ananda ambhudhi bardhanam. 20th February. I think the book which I have sent you will help and the balance Krsna will teach you. 24th January. The means of understanding the spirit of the scriptures is to chant regularly sixteen rounds daily without fail and follow the regulative principles rigidly . I have already replied you in my last letter. both in the weekly classes and individually. 17th February. with close attention for thorough understanding of the transcendental subject. 1970) Similarly. and this will give us spiritual strength to convince the audience about our aims and object. 1970) So you take the good opportunity to study well our literatures and how to apply the philosophy of Krsna consciousness practically in daily working and help us to spread this transcendental message to all the people of the world. 3rd June. 9th April. 1970) 237 . and whoever will hear will be converted. (SPL to Madhavananda. (SPL to Sacisuta. We should always remember at the same time that we want to understand our business only and not try to become very scholarly because time is very short.(SPL to Tmala. at that time. and studying our literatures. Some one of us in each and every center must be well versed in the Sastras so that he can meet scholars and philosophers.(SPL to Ranadhira. every one of us must chant the beads according to the vow and follow the regulative principles in all departments of our activities. Staal requires a little bit of knowledge in the sastras which is called siddhanta. All our students must carry out these daily duties of regular chanting without offense of ten kinds. 14th February. and automatically all questions will be answered. In this way. That is the way of spiritual life. 1970) I may inform you that now we are in need of devotees who are very well versed in the scriptures. one should chant the beads sixteen rounds without fail. as you are trying may proceed on as far as possible on the scholastic way. I hope in Washington center you will ask all the boys and girls to follow this method.(SPL to Ekayani. Krsna will give all intelligence from within how to make steady progress in Krsna Consciousness. Krsna will certainly help you. if you chant and read. 1970) Regarding your other arrangement.books at least twice--in the morning and evening. But some of us. because henceforward we will have to face many scholars and philosophers to stabilize our Krsna Consciousness movement. and as you are trying your best to make our preaching propaganda as most authoritative on the Vedic culture. 1970) So far we are concerned. 15th March. following the regulations. So these siddhantic conclusions are being mentioned in all my books. when the devotee is constantly engaged in Krsna Consciousness. and if need be convince them about our movement and philosophy with great strength. and the boys and girls in our Krsna Society should now give more attention for studying the books very attentively. In the Caitanya Caritamrta it is said that nobody should be neglectful of the siddhanta because by siddhantic conclusion one becomes firm in Krsna Consciousness .(SPL to Pradyumna. And to get the strength. 1970) The way of discussion with Dr.(SPL to Krsna devi. you will also be powerful to preach. Thus by reading of these books. 1970) Before Vyasadeva. Both the students and the Spiritual Master of those ages were so sharp in their memory that once they heard the transcendental message from the Spiritual Master the message was immediately imprinted in their brain as vivid as a written language. 1970) I am very much glad to learn that you have appreciated the subject matter of Nectar of Devotion and Krsna while working on it in the press. 1970) 238 .One thing I must inform you in this connection that so far our activities in Krsna Consciousness are concerned. It is the essence of all Vedic scriptures enlightening about Krsna Consciousness. eighteen thousand verses. especially Nectar of Devotion. The whole Srimad-Bhagavatam. and actually these two books will keep us constantly in Krsna consciousness. For a devotee the objective is directly approached. It will be alright. I felt very much hesitating because I was not practiced to speak. So read your books carefully. everyone of us should read this book very attentively because all conclusive statements in the Kingdom of Bhakti are contained in this transcendental valuable book. He narrated the whole subject matter of Srimad-Bhagavatam continuously for seven days and Maharaja Pariksit also understood the subject matter very clearly. (SPL to Jadurani. For example. It requires practice. So you have to read our books very nicely and gather thoughts. So in the temple class some portions of this book must be regularly discussed. 1970) Speaking or anything all depends on practice and study.(SPL tp Advaita. Sukadeva Gosvami was narrating Srimad-Bhagavatam extemporaneously. This is explained in the Bhagavad-gita 12th chapter that persons who have no fixed idea what is God will have unnecessarily more trouble to reach to the goal. namely the Lotus Feet of Lord Sri Krsna simply by reciting and hearing respectively. you all must read Nectar of Devotion in your spare time. especially Nectar of Devotion now published. 11th July. back to Godhead.(SPL to Bali Mardan. Krsna is the ultimate objective.(SPL to Upendra. All different methods of self-realization are little or more troublesome. 18th June. 1970) Yes. The secret of Krsna consciousness is open in these two books.(SPL to Madhusudana. 50 minutes or one hour at a stretch. 24th June. I remember when I was first called for speaking by one of my senior Godbrothers. Unless one therefore reaches to this point he remains imperfect never mind what he is either a karmi. by the devotees everyone will go back to home. Later on by speaking and hearing or reading I got experience and now we can speak 45 minutes. very difficult to pronounce even and what to speak of memorizing. 29th June. he will have all guidance in Bhakti cult. So persons will be interested simply in reading our books wherein there is only Krsna consciousness described in transcendental varieties. Our method is very simple. and practice speaking. Krsna. were narrated very easily just like reading some printed book. or a yogi. then you can speak for hours without any difficulty. 25th August. or a jnani. If anyone will read this Nectar of Devotion very carefully. all the Vedic Scriptures were taught and received verbally by the disciplic succession. Both of them were so meritorious that they attained the highest goal of life. (SPL to Caturbhuj. If we keep to this simple formula then there is no doubt that we will be victorious wherever we go and very soon we shall become the only religion in the world. The language of Krishna Consciousness is ever-fresh and we can explain everything by it. The non devotee scholars say that it is mythology. what you read will become realized. Such group discussion of transcendental topics is so much potent and all should participate. This is our life and soul. Also I will be very pleased if you contribute articles to BTG. All of our previous acaryas on our line have written substantially on the science of God-consciousness. Hoping this will meet you in good health. Nectar of Devotion. 28th November. not only that but Anyone who will read this Krsna book in two parts. 1971) Your proposals for teaching them our philosophy are very good. 29 th December. so I would also like all my students to do this and I am very encouraged by this nice program you have initiated. 1971) You must all study very scrutinizingly all of the books so that when the need arises you can repeat in your own words their purport. As much as possible read. there is every danger of interpretation and speculation. (SPL to Jagadisa. That is parampara. 1972) 239 .(SPL to Hrdayananda. It is not that we are a dry philosophy of dogmas and slogans. and if possible Teachings of Lord Caitanya.(SPL to Bhakta dasa. and preach.I beg to acknowledge receipt of your kind letter dated 30th Sept. I am glad that you and the others are each writing one hour daily essays. No. 20th November.(SPL to Vrndavana Candra. just like my Guru Maharaja once lectured for three months on one verse from Srimad-Bhagavatam . (SPL to Bhavananda. chant. 1970) So these books will suply clear idea of God. 6th January. But every precaution must be taken to preserve our basic guiding principles as they are and not change them because we want to hear something new. By writing regularly. We need so many preachers who are soundly versed in the scriptures to convince the world to take to Krishna Consciousness. when Krishna was 7 years old he lifted Govardhana Hill. 1970) Your winter schedule is very nice. I am so glad to hear that temple worship is going on nicely and that you have made program for discussing all our books. for example. But if we try artificially to explain sastra in our own words. 1970 and I am glad to see how nicely you are reading my books. I’m sure he cannot go away from becoming a devotee of Krsna. but a devotee will know immediately that Krishna can do anything. so you can read because you know who Krishna is. Please continue to do this. Still our Krishna book is so nice that even an ordinary man can read it and derive benefit. 21st January. First the student must be able to repeat exactly the words of the guru and then after some time he may be qualified to apply the principles he has learned word-for-word to personal situations. That is only for those who do not know what is Krishna. 1971) As far as the restriction for reading the 10th canto pastimes of Krishna. 9 th November. but you are initiated. and even though it can be said that the devotee who knows Krishna.(SPL to Caturbhuj. 21st January. Our thoughts are always changing. so you cannot expect that even the great saintly persons are free from thoughts coming and going. and because He understands the heart of His sincere devotee. then these doubts will be killed. it is a very good question. For my part. and so there is no limit to that understanding because Krishna is unlimited. (SPL to Suresvara dasa. that you cannot believe that the Krishna from Krishna Book can be the Supreme Personality of Godhead.As for the difference between mental speculation and philosophical speculation. we take it that everything is known by the psychological action of the mind. the philosophical process never stops and the devotee continues to increase his knowledge even though he knows everything. so that philosophical speculation is the same as mental speculation if it is merely the random or haphazard activity of the brain to understand everything and making theories. So if we are able to employ our intelligence. 1972) Therefore because the devotee always knows this. The proper function of the brain or psychological activity is to understand everything through Krishna's perspective or point-ofview. then that philosophical speculation is not mental speculation. he knows everything (15th Chapter). So our philosophy is not dry. But even more important than the knowledge of Krishna is the acting upon that knowledge. that is the nature of the mind. "if's" and "maybe's. can be understood from unlimited angles of vision. It is just like this: Krishna syas in Bhagavad-gita that "I am the taste of water. 28th February. immediately He gives assistance. Why is that? Because Krishna gives me the intelligence. but because we are so much inclined to enjoy something unintelligently. Without reading books it becomes hackneyed and such obnoxious ideas trouble us. Most important is that the melody remains very simple. and if the goal of such philosophical attempts is to achieve Visnu. 8th March. To clear up these things the best remedy is to discuss amongst yourselves all members regularly all our books in classes." But if philosophical speculation is directed by Sastra and Guru. By the acting he realizes his knowledge and becomes complete. or devotional service. still. he is more superior person because he has got all knowledge." Philosophical speculation in the accepted sense then means to try to understand. The points of Bhagavad-gita.(SPL to Satyabhama.1972) You are experiencing some doubts. like mental speculation. 1972) The verses of the Gita have a specific melody but you may choose a suitable tune. 1972) 240 . But after thinking there is feeling and willing. Krishna makes promise to one who is striving to serve Him sincerely that He will give such devotee the intelligence by which he may come to Him. I am absolutely certain that anyone who challenges me I can defeat you. willing being the stage of putting the thoughts into action.(SPL to Sri Govinda. under the direction of Sastra and Guru. just how Krishna is the taste of water. Try to understand this point. Therefore we should always pray that Krishna may kindly provide me the intelligence to kill all demons of doubt. 3th February. for example. In this way we are able very easily to defeat all challengers to our philosophy and everything becomes very clear as it is revealed from different angles of vision. though they are simple and complete. then we kill the thoughts before they become manifest in activity. that it must be like some fairy-tale. we have to therefore daily sharpen our intelligence faculty by reading and discussing and preaching to others. 1972) 241 . In this way if we always concentrate on reading our literature then there will be no difficulty to preach . 23rd May. any type of occupation will suit me and we shall always be satisfied. that is a nice proposal if you speak like a learned scholar. 2nd May. take bath. 13th June. and everything will come out very successfully. Therefore. Therefore if your duty as a photographer is very much helpful to our propanganda work and for improving our BTG then there is very much need for your remaining in that occupation and doing it to your best capacity. so learn it and put in your own way by reproducing. The more such literatures are read and distributed. rise early without fail. that will spread the potency of Lord Caitanya's sankirtana movement with great strength. and other books then very easily you will make your advancement in Krishna Consciousness. This restlessness or agitation of the mind cannot be rectified by altering the material circumstances. by Knowledge and renunciation. In this way. and follow the other regulative principles.(SPL to Bhargava. attend mangal arati. (SPL to Kirtanananda. and if we think in this way we may go on trying out one engagement after another and always say the same excuse. 26th March. you can rest assured of that. then sometimes they may be printed into books also. then the tapasya or voluntary life of austerity will result automatically. You are also materially well-educated so reproduce what I have taught in your own language. then listen to the tapes of my lectures and hear in that way. Please continue this program with ever-increasing enthusiasm. So I am requesting all of my students to read my books very seriously every day without fail. the more auspicity will be there in the world.Your book distribution program is very much encouraging to me. By reading these books regularly we become more and more convinced in Krishna Consciousness.(SPL to Sudama. It is a fallacy to say that my present engagement with the press is not the best for my spiritual advancement. everyone will be interested. And never neglect to chant your 16 rounds of beads daily. jnana and tyaga or tapasya. if your mind becomes absorbed at least one or two hours daily in the transcendental subject matter of Srimad-Bhagavatam. It is able to be performed under any variety of material conditions or with any type of engagement. It is not a matter of changing our engagement. Writing is also required. Bhagavad-gita. and when you are working and you cannot read. Everything is there in our books. 1972) Yes. If we are Krishna Conscious. But we are only able to make such sacrifices and perform tapasya if we have got knowledge. I recommend you to read books more and more and try to understand the subject matter from different angles of vision and be always discussing it with your godbrothers even while you are working at the press.(SPL to Lilavati. Nor will the mind wander to other subjects. Krishna Consciousness is not like that. So first thing is to become knowledgeable in Krishna Consciousness. Let it be published first in our BTG. the more we advance in Krishna Consciousness. The more we become renounced from this material world. And if we become more convinced. 1972) Our advancement in Krishna Consciousness is made possible in two ways. These things are new thoughts in your western countries. 1972) I am very glad to hear that there is an increase in classes and that the mantra class is beng held daily twice. adjusting this or that material condition. in order to find our real happiness. If you get knowledge. In this way you will become gradually convinced. 16 th June. must appreciate first what is the transcendental knowledge . each word is pronounced by me and repeated by the students and then altogether we chant the sloka several times until we have learned it. and even you discuss one verse each day it will take you 50 years to finish Srimad-Bhagavatam in this way. And then we discuss the subject matter very minutely and inspect it from all angles of approach and savor the new understandings. therefore any man with scientific and philosophical good brain such as your good self.Your first job should be to make sure that every one of the devotees in your zone of management is reading regularly our literatures and discussing the subject matter seriously from different angles of seeing. 1972) I am very much stressing at this point that all of my students shall be very much conversant with the philosophy of Krishna Consciousness. and by your sincere attitude and devotional service you will make progress. they will automatically become convinced and very easily perform their duties for tapasya or renunciation of the material bondage. and that they should read our books very diligently at least one or two hours daily and try to understand the subject matter from varieties of angles. What good are many. If they are fully educated in our philosophy and if they can get all of the knowledge and study it from every viewpoint.(SPL to Bob. But we are not very willing to perform austerities without good reason. so your are responsible that the standard will be maintained. and that they are somehow or other absorbing the knowledge of Krishna Consciousness philosophy. One makes his advancement in Krishna Consciousness by giving up voluntarily his attachment to material nature or maya and such renunciation is called tapasya. and so on. just as we have done in our morning class in Los Angeles. then we will succeed.(SPL to Madhudvisa. 16th June. and reading the Sanskrit aloud.. So you introduce this system in all of the centers in your zone. very intelligent and your behavior is gentle. Therefore. and you will discover that everyone becomes very much enlivened by these daily classes. and then you make your advancement in spiritual life. So I want that advancement amongst all of my students. 1972) I am very much glad to hear that you are associating with us. I advise you to daily read our books as far as possible and try to understand the subject matter from different angles of vision by discussing frequently with the devotees at New York Temple. So to get knowledge is the first item for anyone who is hoping to find his perfection of life. and the process is that we are going through some chapters of Srimad-Bhagavatam by taking one sloka each day. 16th June. So first thing is to instruct all of your temple presidents and the other devotees to read daily. now we must fix-up what devotees we have got in the knowledge of Krishna Consciousness. many devotees if none of them are knowledgeable? (SPL to Satsvarupa dasa. so I have all confidence that very quickly Krishna will bestow all His blessings upon you and you will feel yourself becoming perfectly happy in Krishna Consciousness.. 1972) 242 . And if the students get knowledge more and more. Don't be too much concerned for the time being with nondevotees. automatically tapasya will follow. and that will be their successful advancement in Krishna Consciousness. Read one sloka and discuss and then go on to the next sloka on the next day. and I know that you are a very good boy. then very easily they will perform tapasya or renunciation and that will be their advancement in Krishna Consciousness. We are holding our morning class here in Los Angeles in the temple and I am speaking from 7 to 8 am. So we have got ample stock for acquiring knowledge. 1972) As far as studying my books is concerned. but distributing books is the main propaganda. philosophy must be there. and do exactly as they say. of your question via telephone from New York Temple. two hours for reading congregationally. 29th July.(SPL to Sankarsana. etc. Disciple means discipline. there is much time in the day for studying. I have already given the order. not this is right and this is wrong.Yes. but if you do not also apply the philosophy by participating in all temple affairs like rising early. Reading in class for two hours is sufficient and other reading can be done in spare time if one has got it. either Bhagavad-gita or Nectar of Devotion. If you want to study. all of my students may not be inclined to study but they are very much eager to give others the opportunity to read my books and this should not be discouraged. 1972) It is very good that you want to become very learned in Krishna Consciousness. That is not the way. Lord Caitanya's movement means the sankirtana movement. You may simply take two hours for chanting sixteen rounds daily. then simply learning the philosophy will have no effect. no that we can independently question. it is our most important program. you my good devotees turn it into Vaikuntha and I wish to be there where my disciples are. that is Vaikuntha. reading my books will help you. reading books and distributing books. Without discipline there cannot be any spiritual progress. We must do both. so by being submissive in this way and following the direction of the temple leaders is practicing the knowledge of Krishna Consciousness.(SPL to Rupanuga. but still he opens many schools for others to study at. but he must always follow the principles of rising early. that is sufficient. that is the result or practice of your studying. So my best advice to you is that without questioning you follow the instructions given to you by Visnujana and other leaders.(SPL to Dayananda. but you must go also on Sankirtana party.(SPL to Bali Mardan and Pusta Krsna. 7th July. Like this. and my reply is that this sankirtana or street chanting must go on. Just as some rich men have no inclination for studying. but what good is so much knowledge without practice? Obedience must be there. If someone has desired to distribute books all day he may do this. and balance of time go out for sankirtana . chanting 16 rounds. One hour in the morning class and one hour in the evening and if there is extra time during the day it may be used for studying but we cannot expect everyone to be studious . Therefore our system is to follow the authority or our superiors. 23rd July. it is not that one has to be always reading. 1972) Everywhere wherever Krishna Katha is spoken. attending mangal arati.14th February. One hour a morning for Bhagavata class and one hour evening. And wherever I go to my branches. 1973) 243 . 1972) I have been informed by Sriman Syamasundara. performing devotional service. 18th September. Simply studying is dry and useless without chanting. then everything will be all right.(SPL to Citsukhananda. The main thing is that the innocent are given the books and the chance to become Krsna Conscious by reading them. Here the Absolute Truth is explaining personally. how can we claim Bhagavad gita to be GITOPANISAD. When there is time I go on reading my own books. I have said before. 14th February. the American Ambassador to India and he has agreed to be our chief guest when we open our center in downtown Manhattan. I want this. 1973) Regarding your philosophical question. It is very good news. So I hope you will do the needful in this regard. Thank you. By reading my books carefully. 21st February. In one sense it is both sruti and smrti . therefore the Gita should be taken as sruti.(SPL to Acyutananda Maharaja. if the Bhagavad gita is part of Mahabharata which is considered smrti. or one of the Upanisads which are sruti? Actually because the Gita is spoken by the Supreme Personality of Godhead it is sruti. you will become enthused to distribute them more and more in greater quantities. 14th June. 1974) The book sales are very encouraging. is sufficient. 1975) 244 . Why the so-called Montessori method?(SPL to Satsvarupa Maharaja. We take it as sruti as far as we are concerned. But people take it as smrti because it is part of the Mahabharata. (SPL to Ganesa dasa. a book sold becomes a permanent matter for enjoyment. then it is all right selling in public in that way. namely learn English and Sanskrit. 1974) Regarding the techniques for book distribution. But. We read the scriptures again and again and it is still fresh. (SPL to Mukunda. I can understand that you are reading my books nicely and understanding our philosophy. increasing.(SPL to Hamsaduta. 1st October. then gradually they will come to the point of accepting us. You have to see that our book distributers are also reading my books and following all the regulative principles. Record selling is temporary.It has been brought to my attention that some of my students are not studying. Hearing is the first step in God realization. 25th June. The purport of sruti is to make one advanced in understanding the Absolute Truth. I do not know if this applies to you or the devotees under your care. The rest of the time they may go on distribution of my books.(SPL to Jagadisa. 1974) From your letter. it is all right if the devotees dress like the young people they are selling the books to. But they take it as smrti because it is part of the Smriti (Mahabharata). but I must stress again that we must have our classes one hour in the morning and one hour in the evening and the devotees must also chant regularly their sixteen rounds and follow the principles. This is wanted. 22nd May. 1973) The simple method I have introduced. increasing. 11th April. therefore if we can simply convince these big men to hear.(SPL to Ramesvara. 1973) Just recently Rupanuga Das Goswami has had one very successful meeting with Kenneth Keating. Even George Harrison's record sales do not continue for a long time. is to approach the right person and hear from him exactly as Arjuna listened from Krishna. from the time before the Battle of Kuruksetra. 1975) Thank you for appreciating Sri Caitanya-caritamrta. . scholars. 10th January. not being guided by the parampara system. . you simply have to hear about Krishna.(SPL to Bhakta Steven Knapp. Therefore our process for learning is by hearing. That is the difference. etc. tattva-darsana--hearing from one who has seen the truth . his name. Better to induce everyone to chant Hare Krishna and take prasadam. the sound vibration coming from the realized person. 1975) The sum and substance of spiritual life is attraction to Krishna. First of all. . Reading the book is the same thing . . Our system. they tried to understand the Bhagavad-gita. 1976) Concerning your questions: Yes. Without the help of guru. We do not want to become great philosophers but rather to understand the philosophy in our own books. Dr. let people understand Krishna. You want more nectarine and the supply is also there. There is no scarcity. so many politicians. 1976) Concerning making a comparative study and critique of philosophy. have simply misled the public. he'll mislead you and you'll learn that Kuruksetra means this body which is not actually the fact. (SPL to Kitriraja dasa. it will help to read Bhagavad-gita but to have to hear from the realized person. It was my intention in presenting the books that anyone who would read. Maybe one or two are interested in philosophy and for so few persons we can't spare so much valuable time. But. Reading or hearing from the realized person there is no difference. you may be misguided. For example almost all of my disciples are pronouncing Sanskrit very nicely just by reading my books. We are doing that. RadhaKrishnan. He says that there is no pronunciation guide. Hearing is the main point. Therefore. if you read the books of some cunning politician. Those who are actually looking for spiritual culture will find immense wealth in Caitanya-caritamrta. better. 26th September. 18th December. dharmaksetre kuruksetre . but hearing the sound vibration from the realized soul is still more effective. The Bhagavad-gita is the standard book of knowledge in India and many eminent persons like Gandhi.'s are out of employment because they did not get any service. hearing from devotees. he'll explain that Kuruksetra is a place where religious ritualistic ceremonies are performed from time immemorial. Hearing is so important. when you hear from a realized soul. 16th April.I have seen the latest reviews that you have sent with your letter and I thank you for them. Aurobindo. the Vedic system. his form and his teaching in Bhagavad-gita. Mental speculation will not help. They were themselves misled and on account of their big position they misled so many followers. There is no need to feel sad at the end of a chapter or a volume because there is always another chapter and another volume. they would learn Sanskrit. etc. In the western countries many Ph. but could not do it. That will be a mass benevolent activity. a person who knows things.D. (SPL to Pusta Krsna. it is written. but it is there is it not? The best thing would be is a recording.(SPL to Punjabi Premananda. The linguistics professor has correctly remarked. his activities. If we remain strong in our own 245 . if you read independently. So to develop attraction for Krishna is not difficult. unless one is very expert it is difficult for him. In the Bhagavad-gita. nonetheless I hope this meets you well. although it may not necessarily be priyam. We have full respect for him.“ Prabhupada agreed. This will make you happy and successful. They speak only the satyam. „Yes.D. just like Krsna and Arjuna. Thus one's mind becomes attached to Sri Krsna.(SPL to Madame Sumati Moraji. I shall be glad to hear from you and shall try to satisfy you to the best of my ability. 1976) 17th December.(SPL to Ayodhyapati dasa. 17th July. which means imitation. satyam bruyat priyam bruyat. otherwise we would all immediately surrender to Krsna.literature. Nor.. they do not observe the usual etiquette. 1975 Giriraja.1. led by Jayapataka Swami. „The process of hearing and then asking questions is the way to clarify our understanding. (SPL to Damodara Pandita dasa. So you should always remember that we have no ill feelings towards Vallabha Bhattacarya. 1976) Everything will become clear if you kindly read this chapter with attention. spoke up. so there is no harm if these facts are discussed in the society of devotees. So actually we must have some questions in our minds.1.(P. or clear it by question.D.“ (P. But they ended up returning after the start of Srila Prabhupada`s lecture. He said that the morning program of hearing Srimad-Bhagavatam is more important. 1976) Your siddhanta is correct to the sastra and in this way go on reading books and have the correct perception and Krsna will help you. If you still have any doubts. he said. 1976 Many devotees. and he was not at all pleased with this. and anusarana. I am very pleased that you are studying the books. anukarana. siddhanta baliya citte na kara alasa iha haite krsna lage sudrdha manasa [Adi 2. Krsna can do no wrong. they are expansions of His spiritual potency. I hope you will understand the whole situation.446) 11th June.125) 13th March. for such discussions strengthen the mind. but upon returning to the law library. following. we see that two lawyers in the courtroom may fight vigorously about a law point. A sincere student should not neglect the discussion of such conclusions. 246 . I am presently not in very good health. either you surrender to Krsna.. He emphasized that as God. 1976 He told us there are two processes.117]. 9 th August. You should be always alert in understanding the sastric conclusions that will help you. are the gopis ordinary women. For example. and so there should be no more early parikramas. otherwise we can be misled by bogus philosophies. we can meet anyone else without any fear. went out on parikrama very early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day. Devotees always humbly offer respect to everyone. 22 nd September. considering them controversial. they talk and embrace like friends. whose lawyer father had once offered him a million dollars to give up Krsna Consciousness. but when there is a discussion on a point of sastra. Our process is anusarana. Both of them should be accepted. The Lord is called arca-vigraha. parallel.330) 4th August. Don`t try to imitate. we must consider this material body. Janmady asya yatah.“(P. Two things. try to understand Krsna from the very beginning. There is no question of material. and gradually it will be neglected. try to understand Krsna. That is recommended in Caitanya-caitamrta. Otherwise. So therefore Vyasadeva has dedicated full nine cantos for understanding Krsna. Deity worship is pancaratriki-viddhi. arca-avatara.D. All material desires. you are simply wasting time. he coupled it with a warning. But to give Krsna pleasure.. sravanam kirtanam of visnu must go on. Aham sarvasya prabhavo mattah sarvam pravartate.7. that is all right. So long we shall think of nari-sanga. Where is siddha? Siddha-deha means there is no more any material lusty desires. 1976 247 . 1976 We do not want to become great philosophers but rather to understand the philosophy in our own books. So you must continue. His pleasure is full spiritual. it is essential to worship the Deity.“ (P. and bhagavata-marga is hearing. Should not think of it. “It has been very broadly described by Sri Jiva Gosvami.. So therefore it is very confidential. you`ll find. „But to clear it. he should not think of it even. We should know the position of Krsna. they think of gopis. That is siddha body. But if we simply worship the Deity without hearing obout the Lord.. one without the other will be later on troublesome. Otherwise. and the whole thing will be spoiled.. That is sahajiya. 1976 He especially focused on arcana. That is sahajiya.3. deity worship. Then it will be done very nicely. Krsna expands Himself by His spiritual energy. at the same time. First of all. In that question. how you can be perfect? So this arca-vigraha is the Lord`s incarnation to give facilities to people like us who cannot see God everywhere. Therefore Krsna`s lila is put into the middle of the Tenth Canto. siddha-deha. we can meet anyone else without any fear. This temple means not only we shall decorate the Deity very nicely.10-11) 17th July.3) The siddhis.„They are Krsna. He`s giving facility to the devotees to handle Him. When Krsna wants pleasure. like that.D. unity with woman. 337-338) 22th June. Vaisnava. For the neophyte devotees. parallel line. If you do not get the opportunity to serve the Lord. association. Sukadeva Gosvami has answered that unless one is liberated. His expansion of pleasure potency. (Pariksit Maharaja asked) that ‚How Krsna accepted to dance with so many gopis?‘ This was for clearance.2. chanting. They are not different from Krsna. sravanam kirtanam—these things are essential—then the Deity worship will be a burden. zero. If we remain strong in our own literature.‘ Bg. cleanse the temple. As he explained the value of it. one may endeavor for perfection. Here is the original source of everything.. „Manusyanam sahasresu kascid yatati siddhaye (‚Out of many thousands of men.D. Not siddha body. Sakti-saktimator abhedah. „So both things should continue: bhagavata-marga and pancaratriki-marga. He is also incarnation. Read all this. First of all. It is not that to imitate the gopis. So actually this life is meant for this purpose. it will be a burden. sandhini hladini. That is the expansion of His pleasure potency.3. At a certain point. „If you can contact Visnu or His devotee. Another incarnation. (P. Siddha body means anyabhilasita-sunyam. Please counteract this contamination which has been spread throughout our Society.Prabhupada nodded. and automatically all questions will be answered. so keep the GBC very vigilant.“ (P. 1969) Every one of you must regularly read our books at least twice--in the morning and evening. 24th January. 1970) Now I have invested the GBC for maintaining the standard of our Krsna Consciousness Society.. When we learn Bhagavad-gita. All the answers are there in Srimad-Bhagavatam. 3rd October. such reading may be detrimental to their advancement in Krishna Consciousness . It is 248 . I have already given you full directions in my books. 13th September. You will simply have to study these books to find out the answers. then we can have some glimpse of idea of Krsna.506) EVERYTHING IS IN SRILA PRABHUPADA’S BOOKS So if you can satisfy them intellectually and answer all their questions.(SPL to Satsvarupa. 1970) There is no need by any of my disciples to read any books besides my books--in fact.D.(SPL to Bali Mardan and Sudama. this is the first study of Krsna: ABCD. „Yes.3. except in certain authorized cases such as for example to read some philosopher like Plato to make an essay comparing his philosophy with Krishna's philosophy--but otherwise all such outside reading should be stopped immediately. and Teachings of Lord Caitanya. Bhagavad-gita As It Is. All reading of outside books. (SPL to Ranadhira. then we go further in the Srimad-Bhagavatam. that will be your success. 22nd November. you go on with your progressive interest and participation in this great movement. If you have further questions you may write me or consult with the devotees in the temple . she cannot check you one way or another. Presently our consciousness is clouded just like a mirror becomes covered with dust So the cleansing process is this chanting and hearing and doing some service and trying to please the Spiritual Master. what need is there to read Caitanya Caritamrta translated by someone else. We do not say that one has to leave home. If my students cannot even read my own books thoroughly. Krishna Consciousness is not a hackneyed thing but it is something which is our natural and original consciousness.We hear from authorized sources. without trying to adulterate by adding anything rumor.simply another botheration. Maintain your activities and increase gradually. The important thing is that you yourself become Krsna Consciousness. By reading daily the knowledge will be revealed to you and by this process your spiritual life will develop. you should know these things and avoid them. The actual fact is that worshiping 249 . 1972) Krsna has given you nice opportunity to preach the philosophy so you must be sure to understand it rightly.(SPL to Bahurapa dasa. but you must yourself surrender to Krsna and be engaged in devotional service. Caitanya Mahaprabhu says. that is not our process to act upon rumors. This movement is being spread everywhere.(SPL to Brian Fleming. Our preaching must be based upon the subject matter from our books and nothing outside of them. 14th October. and whether or not she becomes Krsna Conciousness. prithivite ache yata nagaradi-grama. Either you leave home or remain there.(SPL to Dina Dayala dasa. 25th February. So you are the leader of a big temple. sarvatra pracara hoibe mora nama. It is not necessary to leave your wife. I have instructed everything in my books. then you simply have to read again and again. Everything is given in my books for you.(SPL to Sri Govinda dasa. and then our hearing is perfect. So now it is actually becoming a fact.(SPL to Gunagrahi dasa. In my books the philosophy of Krishna Consciousness is explained fully so if there is anything which you do not understand. 1974) I am pleased to hear that you are chanting 16 rounds daily and reading my books regularly and following the four rules. By and by if you are strong in your determination. so kindly read them and chant Hare Krishna Mantra. So go on with your travelling and preaching program and you can count on it that Krsna will give you all facility. 6th March. why they should read others? I have given you TLC. we should not take any stock of rumors which may come. By this process our consciousness becomes clear and we are able to understand everything. You are right to stop such reading. 20th January. You may translate the Bhagavad-gita first. 1973) You write that you are becoming very involved in Krsna Consciousness but your wife is not very interested and you want to know from me whether you should leave her. Actually I have already answered all questions in my books such as Bhagavad-gita. she may also follow you. 1976) Regarding your questions. 1974) It is nice to hear that your activities are going on successfully in Athens. and instruct the other students there to stick to whatever is mentioned in our books und try to understand that subject matter from every angle of vision. no outsider needed. but it is a most unauthorized statement. but when there is a question of accepting one of them. everything should be offered as service to the Deitys. but one individual may be able to perform one activity more satisfactory than another. But in general we cannot say that any of the nine processes is more important than the others.(SPL to Prajapati dasa. In this age. etc. 16th May. So if we are able to practice even one of these activities perfectly. 1969) Regarding the Sanskrit class.(SPL to Hamsaduta. It is definitely concluded that we have not got to learn anything from any outsider beyond the jurisdiction of Gaudiya Vaisnava philosophy. we may execute several or even all nine activities in devotional service. Try to understand our own philosophy described in so many 250 . Our Temple is meant for our men. 5 th September. we shall prefer to accept chanting of Hare Krishna Mantra first.The other day one Indian boy came here to take permission for chanting some bhajan. chanting and remembering are there. that is quite all right. the result will be ths same. exept that if hearing. that is the most vital consideration for the general class of men in this age. It is simply a waste of time to hear and then again have to rectify the mistake . But never try to hear someone who is not in our line. but even if we execute one perfectly we shall be completely successful in devotional service. Deity worship is recommended. Regarding your question about my never returning to Spiritual Sky. So there is no question that one activity is more important than another or that Deity worship is more important than sankirtana. so I indirectly refused. I do not know who is the someone who has said this. Visvanatha Cakravarti. and this offering with remembering will gradually increase as you practice it. begins whenever you remember Them and offer all your services by remembering at the same time. chanting of Hare Krishna Mantra is the prime business of the devotee. but he wanted to teach us something other philosophy. and we may have our own discussions amongst ourselves. I think it was only a plea. Side by side. as you are asking me. words. Our philosophy is established on sound ground of the conclusion arrived at by Vyasadeva down to Jiva Goswami. Besides chanting and hearing and remembering there are six other recommended activities in devotional service. Or we may execute more than one. Bhaktivinode Thakura. Service to the Deitys.Deity and chanting the glories of the Lord are both within the nine processes of devotional service recommended by Rupa Goswami. Better you should stick to hearing from authorized persons. like your Spiritual Master or experienced Godbrothers. 1976) BOOKS TO BE AVOIDED Regarding your question about rasa with the Spiritual Master. and preaching of this Hare Krishna Mantra by outdoor Sankirtana and propagation of literature is our more important business. All activities. so to him that activity will be more important. So far as the quotation from Srila Bhaktivinode Thakura you have cited. that is possible simultaneously. he enjoyed them in the company of his selected three or four devotees. why we should sell their books. why they should read others? I have given you TLC. 1972) Brahmananda Swami has read me your letter regarding the students there reading other books. one thing is I understand that in the past you were visiting Lalita Prasadji and that you may also be planning to continue to visit him when you return to India. He holds a grudge against my Guru Maharaja and even if it is transcendental it will gradually appear mundane in our eyes. 20th January. but they have time to read other's books. Lord Caitanya never divulged in public. 1973) Regarding the Gaudiya Math books being circulated there. Who has introduced these books? Let me know. I request you to stop this practice. You are right to stop such reading. Sometimes our Krsnadasa Babaji sings. 14th November. We have got so many books.(SPL to Tamala. what need is there to read Caitanya Caritamrta translated by someone else. Don't divert your attention in that way. except in certain authorized cases such as for example to read some philosopher like Plato to make an essay comparing his philosophy with Krishna's philosophy--but otherwise all such outside reading should be stopped immediately. so you teach others to do like that. You have very good determination. not for us who are sadha bhaktas or learning bhaktas.books. 1973) Now.(SPL to Govinda dasa. who has introduced these books? You say that you would read only one book if that was all that I had written. 30th April. 1972) Regarding the songs by Jayadeva.'' that song is all right. 27th May. Those you should study. 15th July. All reading of outside books.(SPL to Acyutananda. 1970) Also.(SPL to Cyavana Swami. who is distributing? Who is sending these books? The Gaudiya Math does not sell our books. Whatever is to be learned of the teachings of Srila Bhaktivinode Thakura can be learned 251 . This is not approved by me and I request you not to go to see him any more. and the money to purchase them? Why this mentality is there? You are a serious student.(SPL to Nayanabhirama. We don't want babaji class. He is contaminated. Anyway. Bhakti Vilas Tirtha is very much antagonistic to our society and he has no clear conception of devotional service. such reading may be detrimental to their advancement in Krishna Consciousness . there is no need of studying Manu. 13th October. We want active preachers. therefore you have correctly found out the defect in these books. ``Srita Kamala'' is not approved . Those songs are for siddha bhaktas. If my students cannot even read my own books thoroughly. but I cannot allow you to hear form the mental speculators without any solid knowledge. These books should not at all be circulated in our Society. It is simply another botheration. (SPL to Sukadeva dasa. 1971) There is no need by any of my disciples to read any books besides my books--in fact. There is one song by Jayadeva. but it is not approved by Prabhupada. Our students have no time to read our own books. ``Worshiping the Ten Incarnations. but you cannot go outside for hearing others' lectures. This means the Bishop wants to keep hold for animal slaughter. For example. If you are not satisfied by the calibre of the classes at the Krishna Balarama Mandir. I have heard now that even some of the Indian devotees are doing likewise. So I hope that you have understood these matters and I pray to Krsna always for your protection and advancement in Krsna consciousness. in the Ten Commandments it is clearly stated ``Thou shalt not kill''. We have got volumes of books also.(SPL to Nitai dasa. Strictly nobody should go outside to hear lectures by others. Also. it doesn't mean that we have to accept his philosophy.from our books. then he should be permitted to give some lectures himself. 2nd November. Our process is simple. Kindly stop this habit immediately. This was definitely forbidden by Lord Caitanya. 1974) Regarding your question about Lord Jesus Christ. There is no other scripture which can compare to the Vedic scriptures so we should study these scriptures exclusively. but some Bishop in Boston has changed it to ``Thou shalt do no murder''. When one becomes an initiated disciple although he has respect for the Christian Bible.(SPL to Gurukrpa and Yasodanandana Swamis. but they are so set up by the devotees. Lord Buddha is in the same category also.. then you should give another class.(SPL to Hamsaduta. nevertheless he must understand the Bhagavad-gita and must apply all study there and not spend time unnecessarily with other literatures. (SPL to Gopala Krsna dasa. Similarly. We must push on our philosophy how to love God. Lord Buddha is mentioned specifically in SrimadBhagavatam as incarnation of Godhead. 2nd January. 14th July. 1976) Why Nitai should be attending lectures outside of our temple? If he is not satisfied with the standard of lectures in our temple. 1973) I think you have my books so please study them carefully. I am writing one letter to Nitai and the copy of this is enclosed for your reference. 25 th December. we cannot accept them as authorities because sometimes it is learnt that the words are not actually spoken by Christ. 1976) 252 . Therefore if you can chant and follow the four regulative principles and read our books only I am sure you will find a relief from all difficulties. 14th July. but this habit of going outside to here others should be stopped immediately. We have all respect for these great preachers.(SPL to Bhumata. Regarding books like Aquarian Gospel or even the Testiments. even if we accept Lord Jesus Christ as saktyavesa avatara. so it is better for us to mind our own business than to divert our attention in the studies of other books. and yet Vaisnavas do not accept his philosophy. but we do not require to study books save and accept for some reference. we accept him as saktyavesa avatara. There is no need whatsoever for any outside instruction. But we have all respects for him without fail. 1969) I have received reports that you have been developing the habit of going outside the temple to hear lectures by others outside like Nrsimhavallabha. So don't bother about all these literatures. which is classified as atheism. 1968) So far as reading scriptures out loud. we will have to make other arrangements. It is best to keep faith in Sukadeva Goswami. After all. But as much as possible you should try to fulfill the goal of 16 rounds daily. it is inconceivable. but it is round. Krishna. But wherever you go. back to Godhead. and you should not feel badly about it. 1976) We have no business with Tagore's Gitanjali. and always chanting Hare Krishna. Sharma. because actually our only business is to go back to home.(SPL to Madhava dasa.(SPL to S.(SPL to Jayapataka. Simply keep faith that whatever we describe.P. either in New Vrindaban or New York. that is a fact. (SPL to Hari Vilasa. it may not be possible for you to stop your work for chanting 16 rounds. As you are an important worker there and you have so many important duties. it is nothing interesting to us. In Gitanjali there is a little hint to surrender to the Supreme. We are simply interested in spreading Krishna's Gita. It is no use reading many books. This is our principle. there is no need of bringing small lamp. is there. read our Bhagavad-gita As It Is carefully and write something simple to benefit the common people. When there is brightest sunshine. our three volumes. 1976) STUDYING THE KRSNA CONSCIOUSNESS PHILOSOPHY No. We want to go back to home. Bharata-varsa in 5th Canto refers to the whole earth. and He will be very kind upon you for this. When you stand in any place you see flat. If not. even if not on your beads. What is the use of reading other books--you are not going there. there is no need to read out loud. 9th November. I will write to Lilavati in Boston to see if she is able to fill this position for that time. If you want to write something. Of course. When there is brightest moonshine. So whether Sukadeva Goswami or the modern scientists are right or wrong.Regarding details of the universe. When the greatest author. there is no need of sending the Kalyana books as you have mentioned. 3rd October. it is better to assimilate one book and that is sufficient. so whether you take the modern scientists or Sukadeva Goswami. there is no need of bringing smaller author. there is no need of bringing glowworm. Krishna sees your sincerity in Krishna Consciousness. This is no great loss. we are an insignificant creature in the universe. If 253 .S. so for us to some extent it appears flat. especially to take care of the cows. back to Godhead--yanti mad-yajino'pi mam. Some portion of the earth is flat. Just read Srimad-Bhagavatam. you should make effort to finish your 16 rounds whenever possible. 10th June. If you can understanding by reading silently. be satisfied by reading only Bhagavatam. this depends upon the circumstances. because this may make others feel disturbed.N. 30th January. 1969) Regarding someone to go there to take charge of the children in Satyabhama's absence. if you are always engaged in Krishna's service. that is also a nice status. regularly and repeatedly. not yet. Staal requires a little bit of knowledge in the sastras which is called siddhanta.realisation. Krsna as Supersoul will dictate from within the answers to all questions and will give the needed intelligence to progress more and more in Krsna Consciousness.(SPL to Hamsaduta. In this way. and see that all the devotees remain steady in their execution of daily chanting of sixteen rounds of beads and strict adherence to the four principles of spiritual life and all other regulative principles. 3rd December. And you may note that when these regulative duties are performed. 1969) So we should not simply publish these books for reading by outsiders but our students must be well versed in all our books so that we can be prepared to defeat all opposing parties in the matter of self. 29th July.(SPL to Paramananda. But you should not fall too much short of this goal.(SPL to Tamala Krsna. this will keep them strong in Spiritual power. 20th February. and this will give us spiritual strength to convince the audience about our aims and object . 27th February. 1970) So far we are concerned. so that our preaching work may be carried out nicely. one should chant the beads sixteen rounds without fail. and the boys and girls in our Krsna Society should now give more attention for studying the books very attentively. This is very encouraging. The best thing is to read one chapter daily. 1970) The way of discussion with Dr. 1970) 254 . Similarly. when the devotee is constantly engaged in Krsna Consciousness. I hope in Washington center you will ask all the boys and girls to follow this method. you must read Bhagavad-gita at least a few verses every day and think about them throughout the day. Krsna will give all intelligence from within how to make steady progress in Krsna Consciousness. That will not be good. Some one of us in each and every center must be well versed in the Sastras so that he can meet scholars and philosophers. In the Caitanya Caritamrta it is said that nobody should be neglectful of the siddhanta because by siddhantic conclusion one becomes firm in Krsna Consciousness. So these siddhantic conclusions are being mentioned in all my books. Please push our Sankirtana movement and improve the program of Deity worship as the centers of your activities.you must fall short of this because you have so much service to render to Krishna. 17th February. And to get the strength. because henceforward we will have to face many scholars and philosophers to stabilize our Krsna Consciousness movement. 1969) I am also glad to learn that already you have got a temple and enthusiastic and eager devotees there. but if you can meditate upon a few verses of Bhagavad-gita every day. (SPL to Jagadisa. Everyone of us must become thoroughly acquainted with our philosophy. do not be disturbed by this.(SPL to Krsna devi. and the devotee becomes fully absorbed in Krsna activities. at that time. that is better than reading for simply one hour and then forgetting the topics until the next reading . every one of us must chant the beads according to the vow and follow the regulative principles in all departments of our activities. and if need be convince them about our movement and philosophy with great strength. Please see that the program for studying our literatures is also undertaken very seriously by all the devotees there. No. That is the rule. Yes. that is the proof of your powerful preaching work . he will have all guidance in Bhakti cult. And if we are determined to please Krishna with our routine work despite all kinds of economic handicaps. So in the temple class some portions of this book must be regularly discussed. just like my Guru Maharaja once lectured for three months on one verse from SrimadBhagavatam. This question and answer practice should be encouraged amongst the devotees. We want good preachers also.(SPL to Bhakta dasa. 20th November. 1970) I am very glad also to know that you are managing the schedule of your center very capably. This following of the daily dut ies will carry us to the spiritual platform very rapidly. And your conclusion is very nice. Preaching shouldn't depend on me only. But every precaution must be taken to preserve our basic guiding principles as they are and not change them because we want to hear something new. there is every danger of interpretation and speculation .(SPL to Hrdayananda.One thing I must inform you in this connection that so far our activities in Krsna Consciousness are concerned. First the student must be able to repeat exactly the words of the guru and then after some time he may be qualified to apply the principles he has learned word-for-word to personal situations. 1971) So it is a very good sign that people are coming and of their own accord giving everything.(SPL to Damodara. but all the temple activities must go on regularly without any pause. I have looked over the sample of test paper from Srimati Joanne and it is very nice. any sane man will agree with us when we speak. 1971) 255 . 1970) Yes. 7th July. The language of Krishna Consciousness is ever-fresh and we can explain everything by it. If anyone will read this Nectar of Devotion very carefully. But if we try artificially to explain sastra in our own words. 5th July. 18th June. the nondevotees also come to hear.1971) Your proposals for teaching them our philosophy are very good. If we simply remain pure and become very convinced of this Krishna philosophy. Of course Sankirtana is our most important engagement.(SPL to Advaita. So continue it wholeheartedly. Then they will become trained to reply questions from outsiders. My disciples should become all good preachers. Just see. I am very pleased that you are inclined to read and study our books with such seriousness. Also you must all become expert preachers and show the exemplary life of a devotee you must keep yourself spiritually fit by observing the regulative principles strictly. everyone of us should read this book very attentively because all conclusive statements in the Kingdom of Bhakti are contained in this transcendental valuable book. and this spiritual strength is for impressing devotional service into the hearts of the fallen souls. you are right to say that as our devotees become more devotional. and that depends on studying the books nicely so that you can arrive at the right conclusion. If preaching is strong. It is the essence of all Vedic scriptures enlightening about Krsna Consciousness.(SPL to Jananivasa. Thank you very much. 3rd December. He will provide all relief. To become advanced in spiritual life of devotional service to Krsna means to acquire spiritual strength. management will be strong. It is not that we are a dry philosophy of dogmas and slogans. Try to understand this point. under the direction of Sastra and Guru. Now do like that. 1972) And I am very much stressing nowadays that my students shall increase their reading of my books and try to understand them from different angles of vision. but the first business should be to preach to the devotees. (SPL to Suresvara dasa. and not be so much concerned with expanding ourselves widely but without any spiritual content. 21st January. we take it that everything is known by the psychological action of the mind. boil the milk. 1972) As for the difference between mental speculation and philosophical speculation. Just like boiling the milk. Also I will be very pleased if you contribute articles to BTG. It is just like this: Krishna syas in Bhagavad-gita that "I am the taste of water. so that philosophical speculation is the same as mental speculation if it is merely the random or haphazard activity of the brain to understand everything and making theories. So our philosophy is not dry. By writing regularly.(SPL to Rupanuga. especially if you are preaching and selling books to the students of Edinburgh. the philosophical process never stops and the devotee continues to increase his knowledge even though he knows everything. and so there is no limit to that understanding because Krishna is unlimited. then that philosophical speculation is not mental speculation. This is our life and soul. As much as possible read.(SPL to Tribhuvanatha. 1972) You mention you like to speak now very often. that will be a farce. 16th June. The proper function of the brain or psychological activity is to understand everything through Krishna's perspective or point-of-view. what you read will become realized. can be understood from unlimited angles of vision." Philosophical speculation in the accepted sense then means to try to understand. Each sloka can be seen from many. and even though it can be said that the devotee who knows Krishna. 1972) Now I want that we shall concentrate on making our devotees Krishna conscious and ourselves becoming Krishna conscious. and preach. and if the goal of such philosophical attempts is to achieve Visnu. so become practiced in seeing things like this.And you must all study very scrutinizingly all of the books so that when the need arises you can repeat in your own words their purport . "if's" and "maybe's. he knows everything (15th Chapter). still. It is better to maintain a devotee than to try to convince others to become 256 . it is a very good question. chant. 9th May. The points of Bhagavad-gita. If we are selling the books but we do not know what is inside the book. like mental speculation. many angles of vision . just how Krishna is the taste of water. 6th January. If we keep to this simple formula then there is no doubt that we will be victorious wherever we go and very soon we shall become the only religion in the world. 3rd February. though they are simple and complete.(SPL to Hrdayananda. it becomes thicker and sweeter.(SPL to Caturbhuj. 1972) The verses of the Gita have a specific melody but you may choose a suitable tune." But if philosophical speculation is directed by Sastra and Guru. Most important is that the melody remains very simple. and at the same time as GBC man you shall be my personal secretary for maintaining the highest level of Krishna Consciousness amongst the devotees in your zone. Your task ahead is very huge. like that. and they can go out for preaching to non-devotees and making new devotees. 1972) So first thing is to instruct all of your temple presidents and the other devotees to read daily. and that they are somehow or other absorbing the knowledge of Krishna Consciousness philosophy.. You may remember that we were reading one sloka each morning in Sanskrit and reciting it altogether and then discussing it thoroughly by seeing different new things. But if they do not have any knowledge. You must become conversant in every feature wherever it is needed throughout the society. 9th July. namely. making investments. but I am also going to the bank. keep them in the highest standard of Krishna Consciousness.devotees. that is the duty of the GBC man. What good are many. Management must be there as well. then we will succeed. very much aware of your grave responsibility to the human society for delivering them from the clutches of catastrophe. (?) better to utilize time and train the devotees. 16th June. especially the responsible officers. this Krishna Consciousness movement. and give them all good instruction. how can they go out and preach? So you GBC men are my selected few for insuring that what I am doing will be carried on very nicely for the pleasure of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu. now we must fix-up what devotees we have got in the knowledge of Krishna Consciousness.(SPL to Satsvarupa dasa. (SPL to Madhudvisa. then very easily they will perform tapasya or renunciation and that will be their advancement in Krishna Consciousness. Therefore people respect what I am saying and they listen because I do not say one thing and do another. Your first job should be to make sure that every one of the devotees in your zone of management is reading regularly our literatures and discussing the subject matter seriously from different angles of seeing. 16th June. 1972) I fully approve of your program for traveling. So you must become expert in all these matters. I am very much concerned that the devotees should be given all good instruction and knowledge of Krishna Consciousness. 1972) 257 . GBC members. and let them go out and preach for making more devotees. and be always cool-headed and utilize every moment in the best manner possible. just as I am giving you example. Don't be too much concerned for the time being with nondevotees. I am successful only because I am following strictly the orders of my Guru Maharaja. along with the other sannyasis. Bhagavatam. Out first business is to preach to the devotees and to maintain the highest standard of Vaisnava education. seeing the trial balance making letters. So now you must all my senior disciples and leaders become very. but it will be quite simple and easy if you simply do as I am doing.G. just as we have done in our morning class in Los Angeles. 1972) Now you must all three. It is the duty of the GBC to maintain the devotees. So you introduce this system and train the devotees first. and I do not deviate. So now you are doing my work and you shall be like me and be yourselves the worthy representatives of our disciplic succession. just as I am preaching daily from S. B. now you combine the sannyasi requirement for traveling extensively. many devotees if none of them are knowledgeable? (SPL to Satsvarupa dasa. and other leaders become very serious to actually give the human kind the greatest welfare. seeing how things are going on. 16th June. If they are fully educated in our philosophy and if they can get all of the knowledge and study it from every viewpoint.(SPL to Hrdayananda. It is very good that you want to become very learned in Krishna Consciousness. preaching Krsna is the same as remembering Krsna. then everything will be all right . and you have all the details of the situation. 23rd July. make life members. I have already given the order. 1973) As far as studying my books is concerned. but still he opens many schools for others to study at. no. One hour in the morning class and one hour in the evening and if there is extra time during the day it may be used for studying but we cannot expect everyone to be studious. So you have not to minimize the preaching program in order to study independently. There is no limitation.etc. but you must go also on Sankirtana party. I want to turn over now the menagement to my disciples as I am desiring to devote my time now simply for translating the books like Srimad-Bhagavatam. 1972) Your program for preaching in Delhi is very much approved by me. collect. with the help of your Godbrothers there. the result is given by Krsna.(SPL to Teyjas. I can understand if one of my students is making spiritual advancement if he is also making many life members and devotees . So the main point is simply to execute everything with complete sincerity and enthusiasm. if Krsna is at the center. no that we can independently question. Simply it requires a little common sense practically. continue as you are doing. So I have seen the news clippings and they are very nice. If you want to study. 1972) Whatever you can do to turn teh minds of the people towards Krsna consciousness. Therefore our system is to follow the authority or our superiors. You are intelligent boy. Simply studying is dry and useless without chanting. 258 . and this will be the perfect program.(SPL to Sankarsana. After all. reading the books. Whatever the activity may be. and whenever you have time read and study and never neglect to chant your sixteen rounds daily. If we push this propaganda very stronglyand at the same time remain completely pure by following all of the regulative principles very strictly. Like this. so by being submissive in this way and following the direction of the temple leaders is practicing the knowledge of Krishna Consciousness.The details simply require a little common sense. Just as some rich men have no inclination for studying. by chanting sixteen rounds. preach as much as possible. but he must always follow the principles of rising early. Disciple means discipline. whatever is going on. Now you go on making more and more propaganda for informing people of this philosophy of Krsna consciousness. without deviating from the principles that I have given you in my books. that is all right.. So my best advice to you is that without questioning you follow the instructions given to you by Visnujana and other leaders. 9th August. that is the result or practice of your studying. The main point is that Krsna is the center of all activities. and do exactly as they say. there is much time in the day for studying. then I am shure you will find out the means for applying this Krsna consciousness philosophy in oll spheres of life. but what good is so much knowledge without practice? Obedience must be there. then everything will be all right. not this is right and this is wrong. chanting 16 rounds. that is very much appreciated by me. That is not the way.In consultation woth Your Godbrothers you can decidehow to effectively run the campaign. So you are there in Dallas. etc. If someone has desired to distribute books all day he may do this. attenting mangala-arati. So if you study my books very carefully. So now.(SPL to Amarendra dasa. you decide exactly how to execute the thing. 31st January. Without discipline there cannot be any spiritual progress. (SPL to Pannalaji. Everyone should be engaged 24 hours. 1974) First of all one must become spiritually strong by following these basic principles staunchly and by learning our philosophy fully. This is preaching. You should instruct your temple presidents to preach like this . You have only to speak what Krsna has said. Actually there is no religion in the world accept Bhagavat religion. (SPL to Tamala Krsna dasa Goswami. 1974) By Krsna's mercy and the unlimited potency of Lord Visnu. 14th February. The rest of the time they may go on distribution of my books. 16th May. So I hope you will do the needful in this regard. 16th May. 7th November. One who is expert for presenting these things before the audience so they can conveniently understand. 14th February.(SPL to Jitaprana. this is a successful preacher. 15th February.(SPL to Govardhana dasa. Sometime they take it adversely and we become subject to unwanted criticism. namely surrendering to the lotus feet of the Lord. We haven't got to invent something by our fertile brain for preaching. how will they be able to preach. It is very important business. Then you become a preacher. Everything is there. that has to be decided by each individual devotee. 1975) So study my books and reproduce the purports in your own language. Anyone can be purified as and Vaisnava and elevated to the Supreme position. but I must stress again that we must have our classes one hour in the morning and one hour in the evening and the devotees must also chant regularly their sixteen rounds and follow the principles. But in preaching we cannot do without quoting the proper verses . All programs must go on but it is a fact that this book distribution program is very very important. 1975) 259 . I am also reading. 1973) I am glad to learn that you are preaching nicely.(SPL to Rupanuga.(SPL to Ramesvara. Eating and sleeping should be minimized--not a single moment shoud be misused. 1974) Regarding my books.(SPL to Sri Pannalaji. I do not know if this applies to you or the devotees under your care. 1973) So to preach Bhagavat religion sometimes we have to quote from the sastras what is not palatable to unscrupulous so called religious persons. everyone should read. How much you should read and how much you should do other types of service. 1973) It has been brought to my attention that some of my students are not studying. 9th November.(SPL to Jagadisa dasa. Then his preaching will be very potent and many many people will become attracted.all of my students may not be inclined to study but they are very much eager to give others the opportunity to read my books and this should not be discouraged. Unless one learns this philosophy thoroughly he cannot become a preacher however learned and educated he may be. That is the sum and substance. 17th December. Unless our men understand thoroughly the philosophy. arati. let people understand Krishna. unless one is very expert it is difficult for him.o. (SPL to Rupanuga. A brahmana should be pandita. for a little 260 . 5th January. Maybe one or two are interested in philosophy and for so few persons we can't spare so much valuable time. (SPL to Damodara Pandita dasa. There must be spiritual life. 11th January. That will be a mass benevolent activity.. Also you must see that the brahmanas are given sufficient time to read the books. 1976) In our Vedic Universities we will not encourage anyone to be merely a bookworm. Otherwise how will you preach? In order to remain steadily fixed in Krishna consciousness there must be a sound philosophical understanding. First of all. devotees will be expected to read and assimilate our different books.(SPL to Satsvarupa Maharaja. We do not want to become great philosophers but rather to understand the philosophy in our own books. We are doing that. taking prasadam. The man who is studying will be brahmana. prasadam. 9th January.1]. Shortly we shall be introducing the system of examinations for those students who are ready for second initiation as well as sannyasa.D. 1976) So we want to introduce this system of education for the boys who are at the kaumara age. N. Whenever you find time please read my books . To buy another farm simply for this purpose is not very practical.Yes. In the western countries many Ph. 17th July. If possible try to accommodate it on one of the farms we already have. the farmer will be vaisya. There must be life--rising early in the morning. kaumara acaret prajno dharman bhagavatan iha [SB 7. That is recommended by Prahlada Maharaja.D. I am also practically finding that if any of our students artificially try to become scholars by associating with unwanted persons they become victimized. Teach everyone by your personal example.(SPL to Tusta Krsna Maharaja. Isopanisad. 1976) Brahmin means to be very clean--inside by chanting the Lord's glories and outside by regular bathing. as a Sannyasi and GBC your first duty is to read my books. It is a very good idea. The Institute should not only stress book study but there must be equal time given to kirtana. attending mangala arati. It will be based on Bhagavad-gita. we can meet anyone else without any fear. Nectar of Instruction. etc. but they are all one in service to Krishna . So this is the practical application in life of the education mentioned in the Srimad-Bhagavatam. etc. 1976) Svarupa Damodara has written me about the Bhaktivedanta Summer Institute. 7th January.6. If we remain strong in our own literature. Better to induce everyone to chant Hare Krishna and take prasadam. and the small paperback books like Easy Journey.'s are out of employment because they did not get any service. In this way there will be divisions. Otherwise it will become only sentiment. According to the degree. then book study will have meaning. 1976) Concerning making a comparative study and critique of philosophy.(SPL to Brsakapi. Soon we shall be introducing the Bhakti-sastri examination which all brahmanas will be expected to pass. And the concept of fatherhood is to 261 . or the cows in the transcendental world are supposed to be situated in the santa-rasa . you must study my books very scrutinizingly. 1976) If you want to stay in Krsna Consciousness you will have to develop firm faith in Guru and Sastra. Don't take this movement as something cheap. Therefore. Dasya rasa. 21st March. So in the Madhura rasa. 1967) Santa-rasa means appreciation of the greatness of the Lord. affection and conjugal love. we can know our eternal relation with Krishna and as such one of the associates of Lord Krishna becomes our ideal leader. everything is complete. A person in Santa rasa or Sakhya rasa is as good as one in Madhura rasa because in the spiritual world everything is absolute. service. But from the platform of spiritual vision. The next development is Vatsalya rasa.learning is dangerous. So we shall have to teach character and spiritual understanding to the young children. hari namanukirtanam. where there is transcendental discrimination. 18th September. As spiritual beings. friendship. the plants. To study other things as a high grade scholar is secondary for us.(SPL to Satsvarupa. Do not therefore try it at present it will be automatically revealed to you in proper time. 1976) RELATIONSHIP WITH KRSNA For ourselves when we are in perfect stage of devotional service. and Madhura rasa. there is Santa rasa. But each and every one of the rasas is complete in itself. Next development is Sakhya rasa. iti nirnitam--it is decided. the trees. 30th October. The next development from santa-rasa is dasya-rasa. service as well wisher and affection. In the material world everyone wants to take from God because the conditioned soul wants to enjoy senses. Sakhya rasa. The first thing is to build up character and be experienced in the understanding of the conclusions of the SrimadBhagavatam. In the spiritual world there is no such relationship as God as the father. but there is no active service of the Lord. follow the four regulative principles very strictly and chant 16 rounds daily avoiding the ten offenses. fruits.(SPL to Srutadeva dasa. especially for the Westerners . I am practically seeing that as soon as they begin to learn a little sanskrit immediately they feel that they have become more than their guru and then the policy is kill guru and be killed himself. which means voluntary offering of some service. The land. Vatsalya rasa. the grass. The next development is Madhura rasa. there is no more need of research work. In the material world such conception is appreciated very much.(SPL to Dixit dasa. but they prefer to appreciate Krishna's greatness remaining as they are. or service in spirit of friendship and well-wisher. one can appreciate Madhurya rasa as complete as anything. This acceptance of leadership by one of the eternal associates of the Lord is not artificial. they are all conscious of Krishna. In our conditioned state of life. but in higher stage of education. Just like the student in lower stages has to study so many things as preliminary education . The Spiritual Master's duty is to train him. Sayamprakash means Balarama. To know Krishna is great. we should worship Krishna as God with respect and veneration. It is not necessary to remember or fully understand all these different forms. does one take regular dictation from one's Guru Maharaja? I know you to confirm yes. 1968) The absence of the idea of God is not very important. but still one has to learn about the greatness of Krishna. because son derives service from the Father. 262 . That is the system. ``When one has become pure enough. but how is this so? Understanding that each individual has a certain particular rasa with Krishna. The Spiritual Master's position is to train the disciples. how would one relate with another soul of a different rasa? Especially between that of the Guru and disciple?'' That doesn't matter. The relationship with the Spiritual Master must always be continued with the greatest respect and veneration . Our whole philosophy is to increase our love for Krishna. 13th November. But in the spiritual world there is no question of drawing from the Supreme. at the present. he may be a very expert mathematician. so he specializes as a mathematician or a historian. Sayamrupa means the Original Form. 13 th November. and service is rendered in 5 different rasas or transcendental humors as described above. and that way. 1968) Regarding your question. Just like a teacher..drag resources from the Supreme. He is treated as son. and great in this way and rich in this way. etc. but it is like if you simply stick to the master faithfully that is very good. Love with awe and veneration and love that is spontaneous is different. like father and son. and be cured of the disease (out of maya). history. he has got a particular taste for a special subject . To come to the stage of spontaneous love for Krishna is a very high stage. etc. math. So these topics are not to be discussed in the conditioned stage. how He is expanded into different forms. Yasoda was so much absorbed in love of Krishna that she did not care to know that He is God. And Tadekatmarupa is the purusa. just like Mahavisnu. and when we come to the liberated stage we can understand. but the sense of loving God is the most important. Krishna conscious.(SPL to Upendra. but in the lower class he is teaching English. then your veneration for your master will increase. that enhances our attachment to Krishna more rigidly . So these things are not to be discussed at the present moment. the Spiritual Master helps him to realize his relationship with the Lord. The cowherd boys and all of the residents of Vrindaban were so much absorbed in love for Krishna that naturally there was absence of the idea of God. So that special qualification reveals in the higher stage. In the beginning let us do the preliminary routine work very nicely. In the transcendental world instead of taking the Lord as father. This is useless talks in the preliminary stage. but when he comes to the perfectional stage of training. and so rich. Everything there is to serve the Lord. whereas in the material world the father maintains the conditioned souls or sons of God. without forgetting His exalted position. then he realizes his position. The relationship of the Spiritual Master and the disciple is not the same as the relationship with Krishna in Vrindaban.(SPL to Upendra. (SPL to Rupanuga. That is not a gift of the Spiritual Master. 12th March. but if you know that my master is so great. English. 1968) Your question. and it is not to be imitated. then we can know what taste you have for what particular type of food. '' that is against Krishna philosophy. but conditioned souls should not much discuss about the loving affairs between Radha and Krsna because sometimes they misunderstand Radha and Krsna as ordinary boy and girl. My Guru Maharaja claimed to be one of the subdevotee assistants of the eight Gopis. If somebody thinks that somebody is Radha or Krishna that is not sanctioned by the Vaisnava philosophy . So even though you might not have understood. 5 th February. although He was the Supreme Personality of Godhead Himself. For the present.'' or ``I am Radha. Unless one is highly elevated in spiritual understanding it is risky to discuss these Pastimes. the actual fact is that the eight Gopis are as good as Krishna and Radharani. that is our aim. Otherwise. We have so many other things to discuss. but you are always welcome to put your genuine questions for an answer. 22nd July. nobody should think or imagine somebody as Krishna. Lord Caitanya also presented Himself before Prakasananda Sarasvati as a foolish student of His Spiritual Master. 1969) Jaya Govinda was correct in his observation that Radha-Krishna Pastimes should not be discussed at the present time. not with ordinary men. According to Vaisnava principles. 16th January. 1970) Regarding your second question: what determines whether a devotee goes to a Vaikuntha planet or to Goloka Vrndavana?--Those devotees who are following viddhi marg are meant for going to Vaikuntha planets and those who are following raga marg are meant 263 . or Their associates.'' or ``I am one of the eight Gopis. but that does not mean that you should be disappointed. So this should be discussed with advanced students. Therefore. So far as I know. (SPL to Madhusudana. 1969) Regarding the eight Gopis and my Spiritual Master. no Vaisnava will claim to be one of the eight Gopis because that will tinge one with Mayavadi philosophy. 23rd November. but we should not indulge in this at present. 1969) Regarding your second question about the rasas in Narayana's Abode. what is the soul. Caitanya Mahaprabhu never discussed Radha-Krishna Lila with ordinary persons. 1st April. Madhya 13. Then there is sure to be misunderstanding .(SPL to Gargamuni. Everyone should aspire to follow the footprints of such associates. We are all students. and we are apt to commit mistakes. Radharani. If somebody says ``I am Krishna.Regarding your question about my Guru Maharaja. it is better not to discuss on these confidential things of a higher level. I do not know how you got this news. 1969) Radha Krsna topics are for both liberated and conditioned souls. (SPL to Himavati.(SPL to Sivananda. what is bhakti. you can correct it now and don't be disappointed. I never told anyone that He was one of the eight saktis. Anyway. it does not go higher than servitude and reverential friendship. I think you did not follow what I said.80]. but that does not mean that we should be disappointed. Lord Caitanya also claimed Himself as servant of the servant of the servant of Krishna [Cc. To understand Radha and Krishna's Pastimes. my Guru Maharaja's position was one of the assistants of the manjaris. how will you know things as they are?(SPL to Hamsaduta. 14th December. cowherds boys. 7th May. but if they cannot satisfy you. temple worship. and your life will be perfected and you will see Krishna. Going to girls and making them pregnant. the reply to your question about Arjuna's relationship with Krsna. 1970) Regarding your four questions. Without coming to the perfectional stage. In the beginning we have to follow the principles of devotional service rigidly. actually he came down one step below his position. Gopis are not ordinary women. We should follow in the footsteps of Lord Caitanya and the six Goswamis of Vrndavana. They never said that ``now I have seen Krishna'' or ``last night I danced with Krishna'' --No. Following in the footsteps of Gopis comes in the perfectional stage. But these things should not be asked until you have first of all asked them to the GBC men. Therefore he asked for forgiveness from Krsna. that is going on. and other advanced devotees treated Him. So. wondering when they would finally be able to see Him. the more his relationship with Krishna becomes manifest. 1975) 264 . but first thing is to become purified through devotional service. in the lower stage of devotional service Krsna is looked upon with awe and veneration. keep on helping me to spread this Krishna Consciousness movement. 1973) I am happy to know that you are feeling blissful in our Krishna Consciousness movement . following the rules and regulations very carefully. So when we understand Krishna. We should also desire intensely to see and be with Krishna.(SPL to Acyutananda Maharaja. if anyone tries to understand the Gopis he becomes a sahajiya. and therefore we forget the exalted position of Krsna. In the beginning we must treat the Lord with awe and veneration. then talking of Gopis. But. regularly following the instructions of the Spiritual Master. 21st June. They were crying where is Krishna. It is not possible otherwise. But I have answered these questions many times. And the more one become perfect at following these principles. We can simply follow foot prints of Gopi how they loved Krsna. which includes study. They were always serving Krishna in the mood of separation. sankirtana. In the beginning a devotee must follow strictly viddhi-marga or regulated principles. that is nonsense.for going to Krsnaloka. Whatever they say you should accept. in the beginning there is no such question. and they were always searching after Him. then you may ask. so on the higher platform the devotee is so intimately related that he forgets Krsna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead. So these stages are appreciated in many advanced stages of devotional life.(SPL to Tamala. There is no difference between the Vaikuntha planets and Krsnaloka. the devotee can treat Krsna on an equal level or sometimes he becomes even higher than Krsna. they are all expansions of Krishna's pleasure potency. So this is a teaching to the common man that we should not take Krsna immediately as intimately as the gopis. 1972) Regarding your two questions addressed through Tamala Krsna. why you are not learning these things? (1) So far your question about the Gopis.(SPL to Lalita Priya devi. But. we never imitate the Brijbasis from the beginning as do the sahajiyas. like that. When Arjuna saw the virata murti of Krsna. then you talk of Gopis. is that Arjuna is an eternal devotee. we treat Krsna more intimately. like chanting 16 rounds. it is a matter of personal taste only. First you come to the perfectional stage. When one is on the swarupa siddha stage. I am replying them one by one. then we shall understand Gopis.(SPL to Visvambhara. Just like Mother Yasoda treated Krsna a being completely dependent upon her. It is generally that the followers of Lord Caitanya are going to Goloka Vrndavana. 1st November. Later one when we are perfectly on the spiritual platform. PURPORT The word rahaù-sthäne. This has produced so many problems amongst our men and women who visit Vrindaban. “in a secluded place. then it will mean spoiling. In many cases. 265 . Our Jagannatha das came back from Vrindaban asking me that he had heard some babaji speaking about siddha-deha and he also was listening to these babajis. kåñëa-kathä—talks about Kåñëa. rahaù-sthäne—in a secluded place. Talks about Kåñëa and His pastimes—especially His pastimes in Våndävana and His dealings with the gopés—are all very confidential. This will create havoc in our society.” is very significant. these babajis keep 2 or 3 women. we have found that there is a group of about 40 devotees who privately meet to discuss the intimate pastimes artificially thinking that they can enter into the understanding of the gopis prematurely . So I want this immediately stopped. dui—two. If it continues. They are not subject matter for public discussion because those who have no understanding of the transcendental nature of Kåñëa’s pastimes always commit great offenses.56 namaskära kaila räya. jane—the persons. our preaching work will be greatly hampered.I have received information that some of our devotees are mixing with the babajis in Vrindaban. 7th June. kaya—discussed. prabhu kaila äliìgane dui jane kåñëa-kathä kaya rahaù-sthäne SYNONYMS namaskära—obeisances. TRANSLATION Rämänanda Räya approached Lord Çré Caitanya and offered his respectful obeisances. räya—Rämänanda Räya. and the result will be that if this is allowed to go on. this mixing with the babajis. kaila—did. Asatsanga tyagi.Madya 8. and the Lord embraced him. This premature desire to understand the lila of Krishna is due to mundane sex-life desire as we have seen amongst many of the babajis and sahajiyas in Vrindaban. 1976) CONFIDENTIALITY OF DISCUSION ABOUT RADHA – KRSNA LILA Cc. Here in Los Angeles. prabhu— Lord Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu. äliìgane—embracing. Their association is to be avoided and prohibited amongst all of our devotees who visit Vrindaban. kaila—offered.(SPL to Nitai. Then they began to discuss Kåñëa in a secluded place. However. “Among many songs. TRANSLATION Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu next asked Rämänanda Räya.” PURPORT As stated in Çrémad-Bhägavatam (10. Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu followed this principle very strictly and discussed the philosophy of the Bhagavad-gétä with learned scholars like Särvabhauma Bhaööäcärya and Prakäçänanda Sarasvaté. who never discussed the dealings between Kåñëa and the gopés publicly. He taught the principles of the bhakti cult to students like Sanätana Gosvämé and Rüpa Gosvämé. which song is to be considered the actual religion of the living entity?” Rämänanda Räya replied. Following the principle of Lord Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu. We must also follow these principles in preaching Kåñëa consciousness all over the world Cc. jévera—of the living entity. For the general public. Madya 8. If possible. For the general populace. nija—his own. saìkértana is the most effective method to awaken Kåñëa consciousness. and He discussed with Çré Rämänanda Räya the topmost devotional dealings between Kåñëa and the gopés. He performed saìkértana very vigorously. devotees in the Kåñëa consciousness movement are enjoined not to discuss the pastimes of Lord Kåñëa in Våndävana in public.250 ‘gäna-madhye kona gäna——jévera nija dharma?’ ‘rädhä-kåñëera prema-keli’——yei gétera marma SYNONYMS gäna-madhye—among songs. and He exhibits His transcendental pastimes in Våndävana so that the conditioned soul may 266 . rädhä-kåñëera prema-keli— the loving affairs of Rädhä and Kåñëa.36): anugrahäya bhaktänäà mänuñaà deham ästhitaù bhajate tädåçéù kréòä yäù çrutvä tat-paro bhavet “Lord Kåñëa descends apparently as a human being. one should discuss the principles enunciated in the Bhagavad-gétä. dharma—religion. yei—which. kona gäna—which song. gétera—of the song.33.thinking Kåñëa to be an ordinary human being and the gopés ordinary girls. “That song describing the loving affairs of Çré Rädhä and Kåñëa is superior to all other songs. marma—purport. If one simply imitates the activities of Lord Çiva and drinks poison.” PURPORT According to Çrémad-Bhägavatam (10. This is a practical example. çravaëa—topic of hearing. TRANSLATION Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu asked. Lord Çiva drank an ocean of poison. karëarasa-ayana—most pleasing to the ear. one will certainly meet with death. If one is not liberated and 267 . rädhäkåñëa-prema-keli—the loving affairs between Rädhä and Kåñëa. Unless one is liberated. Instead. “Hearing about the loving affairs between Rädhä and Kåñëa is most pleasing to the ear. but one should not imitate this. Rädhä. these conversations will have a poisonous effect.” he simply remembers a barber’s wife named Rädhä.D. kon—what. it is very dangerous to hear the songs about the pastimes of Rädhä and Kåñëa that were written by Jayadeva Gosvämé. Caëòédäsa and other exalted devotees. Unless one is a devotee.39): vikréòitaà vraja-vadhübhir idaà ca viñëoù çraddhänvito ’nuçåëuyäd atha varëayed yaù bhaktià paräà bhagavati pratilabhya kämaà håd-rogam äçv apahinoty acireëa dhéraù “He who faithfully hears about the dealings between Lord Kåñëa and the gopés in the räsa dance and he who describes these activities attain to the perfectional stage of devotional service and simultaneously lose material. he should not try to hear about the loving affairs between Rädhä and Kåñëa. One mundane rogue once said that when the Vaiñëavas chant the name “Rädhä. which is best for all living entities?” Rämänanda Räya replied. The talks between Lord Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu and Rämänanda Räya are meant for advanced devotees only. çreñöha—most important. Madya 8.” A liberated person who hears about the loving affairs of Rädhä and Kåñëa is not inclined to have lusty desires.33. jévera—of the living entity. Only then can one enjoy hearing the songs of Jayadeva and relish transcendental bliss. Cc.” Nondevotees are strictly prohibited from participating in songs celebrating the loving affairs of Rädhä and Kåñëa.255 ‘çravaëa-madhye jévera kon çreñöha çravaëa?’ ‘rädhä-kåñëa-prema-keli karëa-rasäyana’ SYNONYMS çravaëa-madhye—out of all topics for hearing. “Out of all topics people listen to. One must first become a pure devotee of Lord Kåñëa. lusty desires. Those who are on the mundane platform and who study these talks in order to put forward some thesis for a Ph.be attracted to hearing His transcendental activities . will not be able to understand them. Conjugal love with the gopés is called parakéya-rasa. and that reflection is perverted. But in Våndävana the conjugal love of the Lord is not with His married wives but with His girlfriends. parakéya-rasa. By practicing the regulative principles. PURPORT In this connection. The Lord enjoys Himself in two ways. vihära karite—to perform pastimes. Lord Jagannätha leaves the secluded place where He enjoys the company of the supreme goddess of fortune in svakéya-rasa. Çréla Bhaktisiddhänta Sarasvaté Öhäkura comments that as an ideal husband. and He goes to Våndävana. the conditioned soul should not try to hear them. where the Lord has many married queens. where He enjoys the parakéyarasa. The talks between Rämänanda Räya and Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu are conducted on the platform of liberation.24 täìhära sammati laïä bhakte sukha dite rathe caòi’ bähira haila vihära karite SYNONYMS täìhära sammati—her permission. In the material world everything is but a reflection of the spiritual world. Then and only then should one hear about rädhä-kåñëa-lélä. Madya 13. sukha dite—to please. but in the spiritual world this type of loving affair is considered the supreme enjoyment. Nonetheless. the Lord wanted to come out of seclusion to give happiness to His devotees. rathe caòi’—riding on the car. In the material world. is the most degraded relationship. We cannot understand the affairs of the spiritual world on the basis of our experience in the material 268 . The Lord’s conjugal love in the svakéya-rasa relates to the regulative principles observed in Dvärakä. TRANSLATION Having taken permission from the goddess of fortune. he may remember his own mundane activities and illicit connections with some woman whose name may also be Rädhä.listens to a relation of the räsa dance. Bhaktisiddhänta Sarasvaté Öhäkura therefore reminds us that the Lord’s pleasure in parakéya-rasa is superior to His pleasure in svakéyarasa. Cc. In the conditioned stage one should not even try to remember such things. the Lord came out to ride on the Ratha car and perform His pastimes for the pleasure of the devotees. Lord Jagannätha remained fifteen days in a secluded place with His wife. Although these affairs may be very pleasing both to conditioned and to liberated souls. laïä—taking. the supreme goddess of fortune. bähira haila—came out. bhakte—the devotees. or loving affairs with unmarried girlfriends. one should rise to the platform of spontaneous attraction for Kåñëa. the gopés. known as svakéya and parakéya. ätmani—in His own self.33. and the latter is like iron.world. Lord Kåñëa’s lusty desires and all His dealings with the gopés are on the spiritual platform . However. çaçaìka-aàçu—with rays of moonshine. one who has the proper realization can easily distinguish the transcendental activities of the spiritual world from material activities. Våndävana-dhäma is also a spiritual abode. Cc. One should never think that the gopés and Kåñëa have material bodies. viräjitäù—beautifully existing.25). The Lord’s pastimes with the gopés are therefore misunderstood by mundane scholars and word-wranglers. sarväù—all. Kåñëa. Because the difference between the two is so great. abalä-gaëaù—women. çarat—in autumn. siñeva— performed. and everything else are spiritual. enjoyed His räsa dance every night during the autumn season. One who is on the mundane 269 . they cannot actually be compared. The former is like gold. anurata—to whom are attracted. Madya 14. There is not even a trace of material contamination. just as a knowledgeable person can easily distinguish gold from iron. niçäù—nights. saù—He. TRANSLATION “‘Lord Çré Kåñëa. One has to be transcendentally realized before even considering relishing the pastimes of Kåñëa with the gopés. kävya—poetic.158 evaà çaçaìkäàçu-viräjitä niçäù sa satya-kämo ’nuratäbalä-gaëaù siñeva ätmany avaruddha-saurataù sarväù çarat-kävya-kathä-rasäçrayäù SYNONYMS evam—thus. and there the days and nights. the trees. His activities with the gopés are all spiritual and take place within the spiritual world. They have nothing to do with the material world. The gopés are all transcendental spirit souls. who is the Absolute Truth. avaruddha-saurataù—His transcendental lusty desire was checked. who is the Supreme Brahman and Supersoul. satya-kämaù—the Absolute Truth. The parakéya-rasa of the spiritual world should not be discussed except by one who is very advanced in pure devotional service. rasa-äçrayäù—full of all transcendental mellows. flowers and water. is not at all interested in anything material. kathä—words. He used poetic words and surrounded Himself with women who were very much attracted to Him? PURPORT This verse is a quotation from Çrémad-Bhägavatam (10. The parakéya-rasa in the spiritual world and that in the material world are not comparable. He performed this dance in the moonlight and with full transcendental mellows. In the premature stage it is sometimes found that a lusty. he can know his own eternal relationship with Krsna. ``When one has become pure enough. and they used to restrain coughing and laughing before the Lord. devotees who are engaged in reverential devotional service should not discuss the conjugal love affairs of Krsna.316-317 Sometimes the behavior of Krsna`s sons appears similar to the behavior of His personal servants. they never discussed Krsna`s pastimes in conjugal love. So these topics are not to be discussed in the conditioned stage. Your question. One should not artificially try to establish some relationship. For example. he may be a very expert mathematician. but when he comes to the perfectional stage of training. Therefore these descriptions do not at all pertain to material activity. and his personal character cannot be critisized. In the beginning let us do the preliminary routine work very nicely. but in the lower class he is teaching English. Krishna conscious.o. conditioned person will artificially try to establish some relationship with Krsna in conjugal love.D. etc. how would one relate with another soul of a different rasa? Especially between that of the Guru and disciple?'' That doesn't matter. Although such a person may be very anxious to establish a relationship with Krsna in conjugal love. history. so he specializes as a mathematician or a historian. So that special qualification reveals in the higher stage. That is not a gift of the Spiritual Master. Just like a teacher. the devotees have to execute the prescribed duties as recommended in the codes of devotional service. then he realizes his position.platform must first purify himself by following the regulative principles. Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu would have never even mentioned them to Svarüpa Dämodara Gosvämé. but how is this so? Understanding that each individual has a certain particular rasa with Krishna. In other words . the sons used to offer their obeisances. When present before Krsna. No one should claim his eternal relationship with Krsna unless he is liberated. In the conditioned state of life. N. A person who has actually established his relationship with Krsna can no longer act on the material plane. Just like the student in lower stages has to study so many things as preliminary education. The result of this is that one becomes prakrtasahajiya. and be cured of the disease (out of maya). Being a sannyäsé. Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu was very strict in His dealings with women. and when we come to the liberated stage we can understand. he has got a particular taste for a special subject. etc . but in higher stage of education. Also. When one is mature in devotional service and is a realized soul. submissive and gentle. math. or one who takes everything very cheaply. Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu and Svarüpa Dämodara Gosvämé are here talking about the relationship between Kåñëa and the gopés. Only then can he try to understand Kåñëa and the gopés. their conditioned life in the material world is still most abominable. then we can know what taste you have for 270 . even at the risk of life. they bowed down on the ground. does one take regular dictation from one's Guru Maharaja? I know you to confirm yes. The Spiritual Master's position is to train the disciples. the Spiritual Master helps him to realize his relationship with the Lord. English. and they were always ready to carry out Krsna`s orders. therefore the subject matter is neither mundane nor erotic.. Unless the gopés were on the spiritual platform. they were silent. The Spiritual Master's duty is to train him. They were very silent and steady. This is useless talks in the preliminary stage. It is generally that the followers of Lord Caitanya are going to Goloka Vrndavana. 22nd July. but with no 271 . 1970) SAHAJIYISM 4th June. Caitanya Mahaprabhu never discussed Radha-Krishna Lila with ordinary persons. (SPL to Himavati. 1969) Regarding your second question about the rasas in Narayana's Abode. 1976 Radhaballabha prabhu came to see Srila Prabhupada in the afternoon to express concern about two groups of devotees here. 1st April. not with ordinary men. 1970) Regarding your second question: what determines whether a devotee goes to a Vaikuntha planet or to Goloka Vrndavana?--Those devotees who are following viddhi marg are meant for going to Vaikuntha planets and those who are following raga marg are meant for going to Krsnaloka.(SPL to Sivananda. one of men and one of women. it does not go higher than servitude and reverential friendship. We have so many other things to discuss. Radhaballabha reported that their aspiration is to make this the mood of their future service.(SPL to Upendra. 1969) Jaya Govinda was correct in his observation that Radha-Krishna Pastimes should not be discussed at the present time. Then there is sure to be misunderstanding . like father and son. 13th November. 23rd November. what is the soul. but conditioned souls should not much discuss about the loving affairs between Radha and Krsna because sometimes they misunderstand Radha and Krsna as ordinary boy and girl. but we should not indulge in this at present. (SPL to Hamsaduta. So this should be discussed with advanced students. To understand Radha and Krishna's Pastimes. (SPL to Madhusudana. what is bhakti. 16th January. So these things are not to be discussed at the present moment. 1968) The relationship with the Spiritual Master must always be continued with the greatest respect and veneration. 1969) Radha Krsna topics are for both liberated and conditioned souls. 21st June. without forgetting His exalted position.what particular type of food. who meet against the objections of temple authorities. They study the lives of the gopis as described in the recently published Sri Caitanya-caitamrtna. it is a matter of personal taste only. There is no difference between the Vaikuntha planets and Krsnaloka. that is our aim.(SPL to Tamala. Ramesvara and others have tried to stop the meetings. Unless one is highly elevated in spiritual understanding it is risky to discuss these Pastimes. ) Prabhupada’s anger flared up at the very mention of it.(P.259) 7th June. The meetings are now going on in secret with these devotees accusing the temple managers of not understanding higher devotional sentiments.(P.“ Prabhupada reasserted.“ „ Their siddha-deha.“ Jagannath appeared shaken by Srila Prabhupada’s very strong reponse and he agreed not to associate with such persons again.. Tamal Krsna is returning to New York a little early because he is concerned that it might be spreading there also. Why these rascals do not take the lessons of Caitanya Mahaprabhu that we are all rascals. yes. He demanded to know why Jagannatha and Nitai had been assiciating with the „nonsense babajis who proclaim such things. This is very dangerous. and he will be ruined.“ „From Radha-kunda babajis?“ Tamal Krsna asked. 1976 Jagannatha had a question to ask. And our men are becoming polluted by such things. „ is smoking bidis and keeping three or four women.“ Ramesvara said he felt that the danger lay in their use of Prabhupada’s own books for authority. while still remaining habituated to material impulses. He said that to study the dealings of advanced devotees while one is conditioned is comparable to a young boy trying to understand sex life. „After all. that we have to take. „They have learned it fron Radha-kunde babajis. (Although this is a very elevated form of spiritual practice. then preaching will be finished. He immediately condemned it as prakrtasahajiya tendency. fools? No. Pradyumna prabhu’s ongoing investigation has discovered that the gopibhava group have been transmitting their ideas to other temple communities by some sort of unoffical newsletter. a peacock.success. But Prabhupada told him it was all right that they are taking some autority. so whatever they say. etc. a cheap imitator. the problem is that they are not taking all the instructions in this books. In this sahajiya party. That they will not take.2....D. Preaching will be finished. rascals. there is a concocted initiation rite going on under the same name being given by bogus sadhus and babajis in the Vrndavana area. As soon as he said that Srila Prabhupada cut in.“ he said.2. He said that beyond simply trying to serve Krsna and His pure devotee there must be no cultivation of such desires at our stage of advancement. Prabhupada was not at all happy to hear this. 1976 Going out in the car for his morning walk Prabhupada gave further warnings to Tamal Krsna and Ramesvara maharajas on the dangers ot the sahajiya tendency spreading in ISKCON.258) 4th June. In it a person is told what his name and original spiritual form is inGoloka Vrndavana.“ Declaring the siddhapranali process as nonsense. „Babajis.“ 272 . they’re fool. The boy must wait until he reaches maturity. The initiate then practices being a gopi. it isnot possible. „That I’ve already explained. „Then everything will be finished. Tamal Krsna told Prabhupada that one of the symptoms he has noticed about these people is that they don’t go out on sankirtana. Thus the ritual is a mockery of the authentic process or worse. They’ll take the Radharani’s bhava.D.. and thes sex desire will arise automatically. otherwise there is every chance of becoming a sahajiya. Prabhupada told us where the whole thing was coming from. When Caitanya Mahaprabhu is teaching by his practical life. So before studying the gopi’s lives we must be completely free from material desires. He wanted to know whether siddha-pranali was bona fide. degree. „That is all right. that’s all. „They quote that regulative principles are a hindrance on the path.A. be qualified. What is that nonsense?“ Ramesvara was keen to get Srila Prabhupada’s response to every possible argument.“ Prabhupada obliged him. split fairly evenly between the woman’s group and the men’s. and then immediately they come. but not for the neophytes. they take them into all the details of the gopis with Krsna. it’s a quote. there is no place for that in the temple. a big lawyer. That is their fault.“ Tamal added another. that reverential devotional service is an impediment toward developing pure love. Speaking from my own experience with Sulocana and from other inforamtion heard over the last few days.“ Ramesvara said. that the living entity can desire to have any relationship he wants with Krsna. „One has to come to that highest stage.“ I added. degrees? That they do not know. „he can desire.“ „Let them say all nonsense. degree. 273 .“ „This is one of the main ideas in their philosophy... where it says. how can you desire? You have no qualifikation. what he will know about M.Unless they follow the regulative principles. that you can treate Krsna as your lover and Krsna will reciprocate. I already explained: first deserve. „What is that answer?“ „Let me just try it anyway. even after she became a devotee. This news stretched even Prabhupada’s credulity. Where is that qualification?You are after illicit sex and bidi. and want to be associated with the gopis. „In this they’re taking your quotes out of context.“ „Then where is that highest platform?“ Prabhupada interupted. we do not.“ Ramesvara said. You are rascal.“ „Yes Prabhupada agreed. One who does not know ABCD.“ Prabhupada said. „ Prabhupada told us. „One must go through the stages. „Regarding service in a reverential mood. to keep my mind thinking.“ „Then let them. „That is their fault..A. That is a support for their debauchery.“ Tamal Krsna put their number at about fifty. I saw them.Ramesvara repeated one of the statements from their newsletter.. He said the leader of the women’s group was known to have had an abortion.. then you become High Court judge. „But they have an answer. They want to utilize the love affairs of Krsna and gopis for their debauchery. They think that they have already passed M. Sahajiya babajis. Whem Ramesvara said he thought they were following the principles.. I told Prabhupada they weren’t content to keep it to themselves.A.“ Tamal Krsna Maharaja brought up another item from the newsletter.“ „How can you try it?“ Prabhupada challenged. That may be the ideal. „First of all. „There’s another statement.. „The thing is that they’re going around and they’re soliciting for people to come and join their group.“ Prabhupada replied.“ „That’s the meaning of sahajiya.“ „They say that‘ In ISKCON. So that’s on their minds. It is not forbidden. so they have found some quote. just in Los Angeles alone. you desire to be High Curt judge. That is sahajiya. „You gave the example of trying to get an M.“ Tamal Krsna said.. Let them go out. Tamal Krsna Maharaja presented evidence to the contrary. There’s a statement somewhere in one of your books that when one attains the highest platform. then desire. „They are disqualified.“ „And they underlined the two words ‚you can treat Krsna as your lover. ‘ That`s all.. but how you can become High Court judge without qualification? That they are thinking. these babajis they were coming.You can read.‘“ „What you are purified?“ Prabhupada asked skeptically. Prabhupada agreed. young girls mix together. that is natural. they are not bhaktas. he`ll lose this taste. no rules and regulations? We shall do all nonsense. You can read. not waiting to go through the gradual process of sadhana-bhakti but rather immediately jumping to the highest perfection. The good of the Movement was more important than any individual or group of individuals.“ Prabhupada continued. they have illicit sex. keep your Movement very pure. have sex like that. krsna-katha. going to abortion and they`re High Court judge. he went to Radha-kunda for kartika-vrata.„Yes. Theirs is not a new criticism.‘“ Prabhupada knows full well how the cheating propensity acts within the realm of devotionel service.“ Prabhupada affirmed.‘ They will put that ‚Here is illicit sex between the gopis and Krsna. So that`s another reason why they want to read all these pastimes.“ „Or they should be seperated. „But why they`re making pregnant and abortion? What kind of krsna-katha? The krsna-katha test is as soon as he`ll get the taste. He`s giving some class. ‚Why should we restrict to no illicit sex. „Anyway. ‚No illicit sex.“ What he had to say next was really telling. But if they at once go to rasa-lila. You don`t mind if somebody goes away. do their own society. sometimes they feel that ISKCON we`re talking so much about the business of how to spread Krsna consciousness but we`re not talking enough about Krsna´s pastimes.‘It will purify me.‘“ „What did they want to hear?“ Tamal Krsna asked.“ Tamal Krsna recalled that Prabhupada had once said that in the battle sometimes some men may be lost. no this." „Then let them read. you become purified. be purified. after saying that the sahajiya tendency is a very easy thing to take up. But we must keep our principles pure.“ Prabhupada said. Don`t mind. putrified. In 1935.. they`ll think this rasa-lila is just like our young boys. So it is supported our. because they are not trained up neither they are liberated. But as soon as they saw that he was reading Upanisads. Prabhupada told him. not purified. Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati had come at Radha-kunda. they say. It is very good to aspire to become High Court judge. And become a gopi.“ After a few minutes Ramesvara raised another criticism they have of our Society. by reading. „That is the danger. But where is your purification?“ Again he spoke from his own experience.“ „And they`ll do that. if we give indulgence to these people. „Dasama-skandha?“ 274 . So they used to come. Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura.“ Prabhupada said. What is that nonsense?“ „Won`t it purify them? That is what they say. They saw: ‚They are jnanis. „Srila Prabhupada. „The books are there for reading. our Guru Maharaja. it will be bad example. „Anyway. He saw serious consequences for the progress of the movement unless it was stopped. He already had experience of this kind of mentality. He confirmed it would act as a justification for breaking the regulative principles. and all restrictions will be broken. „No. So first of all. „Otherwise. what is called. „then they should live seperately. „You have become. they stopped coming. some devotees.“ Tamal Krsna Maharaja gave his firm assurance. So at that time he was reading Upanisads. he again cautioned us. pregnant. They have no qualification. then this preaching work will be hampered.“ Tamal nodded in agreement.“ „If they don`t change their mentality. When I postulated that their mentality was one of impatience. „We are restricting. we`re not going to do that. „Yes. it will take millions of years. hardly one can understand Me.“ Ramesvara said. Just as they are prefering this conjugal love because here the sex is prominent. That is stated in the Bhagavatam. agreeing. Sastra says that after you have studied all nine cantos of Bhagavatam then enter into the tenth. You do not know what is Krsna. Now I am perfect. When one is impure. As we traveled back to the temple in the car he repeated what he said two days ago. these sahajiyas in Vrndavana?“ Ramesvara asked.. „Krsna`s lila is the same. They are thinking that this is the highest stage. many sahajiyas they requested me. why are you going? You are in Vrndavana. Krsna was a playboy. Prakrta-sahajiya. and out of many millions of siddhas. in the spiritual world there is such thing. within two years? What you have understood Krsna.2. 1976 275 . How you have understood Krsna? Krsna says.“ „That is good. So let me read about rasalila. Their real name is prakrta.“ Prabhupada said.D. dancing with His girls. Their thoughts are on this material platform. manusyanam sahasresu kascid yatati siddhaye / yatatam api siddhanam kascin mam vetti tattvatah. That is always true.“ Prabhupada told his GBC that they must try to rectify the situation and save the devotees involved.‘“ „So our men who go to Radha-kunda and live there. ‚To understand Me. what you said.“ Rameswara answered. why they are not attracted to other lilas?“ „They don`t want to be limited. ‚Everything is all right. then I´ll be purified. „Mostly.‘“ Ramesvara continued to paraphrase their arguments. when as a resident of Vrndavana`s Radha-Damodara temple he made plans to go abroad to fulffill his spiritual master`s order. This rasa-lila is for the person who is completely purified. but Krsna says. we have understood.“ Prabhupada said. „They think that Krsna is the krsnas tu bhagavan svayam. in the sastra does not say.“ (P.„Like that.. „You say that.“ „In this they have misunderstood.‘ And they understand Krsna immediately. but as Krsna has many other lilas. What Srila Prabhupada witnessed in 1935.“ „They don`t believe in Lord Caitanya. he should not think of. Sahajiya means they take very easily. „Before coming to the USA.. one becomes siddha. ‚They`re living in Nara-kunda. that is materially understood. That`s all. ‚Sir. Of course. You are attracted to rasa-lila means you have sex desire.‘ I heard it.“ Prabhupada gave counterpoints.281-285) 5th June. Bas. ‚Oh. „This is their business.. „They have no knowledge. So Prabhupada condemned them that ‚They are not living in Radha-kunda. Material.“ Prabhupada said. they`re taking that as the highest stage. ‚Out of many millions of people. they are finished. we have understood. „Yes.‘ so how you have understood Krsna so easily. he experienced again in the 1960`s. That is prakrta-sahajiya. because I`m feeling some attraction. continue your bhajana. What is the use of preaching?‘ They advised me like that. that one girl?“ „He said she killed her baby. That is called prakrta-sahajiya. „Otherwise. „Then why not Kuruksetra lila?“ Prabhupada said. What is the lowest stage here.“ Ramesvara said. And actually.“ Tamal ventured. „They are rascals.‘ Krsna says.“ „Krsna`s incarnation is to attract the living entities to Krsna.. So why. They`re living in Nara-kunda (hell). absolute. „If I follow the regulative principles and go on hearing about rasa-lila. as well as for several members of the study group. He said he was actually a sincere and levelheaded person and he didn`t think he had sahajiya tendencies. he thought he was simply misled. „You want to scrutinizingly study Caitanya Mahaprabhu`s instructions. then desire! There is no question of desire unless one is actually liberated. He indicated that they actually considered paternal affection inferior to the gopi-bhava platform because Lord Caitanya said that there is no higher way to serve Krsna than in the mood of the gopis. a brahmacari I had gotten to know in Mayapur during the festival. he went back into his darsana room and called for all GBC men and Sannyasis. „First deserve. as was Sulocana dasa. „Just see. They were therefore concentraiting on the gopis`lives very closely. As we awaited their arrival Hrdayananda Maharaja tried to assure Srila Prabhupada about Puranjana. for they exhibited the highest and most pleasing way to satisfy Sri Krsna. that His guru found Him to be a fool and told Him he was not fit for anything but chanting Hare Krsna? Why don`t you scrutinize that part? First become a fool like Caitanya Mahaprabhu bevore jumping over like a monkey!“ Puranjana tried to reassure him that they were not attempting to imitate the gopis` love of Krsna. He demanded to know who was involved. already set out with his silver thali of cut fruits. puffed rice and fried cashews. He had cited some verses which he interpreted to say that in each relationship with the Lord there is something lacking which is found only in the next rasa. Abandoning breakfast. Hrdayananda Maharaja told him that the head of the men`s group was Puranjana dasa. internal dealings. So long as there is any pinch of material desire there is no question of desiring on the spiritual platform!“ He said the intimate gopi-lilas were discussed by Lord Caitanya only among His three most confidential associates—Svarupa Damodara. obviously quite disturbed. Prabhupada flushed. Ramananda Raya. As I related the incident Srila Prabhupada`s anger flared. He was quoting parts of Sri Caitanya-caitamrta without. „Mother Yasoda is less than the gopis! This is their thinking. And they want siddha-deha!“ Prabhupada was furious that such things could develop within ISKCON. Prabhupada got even angrier. and Sikhi Mahiti. 276 . Until that point you simply do whatever service you are given. it seemed to me. the manager of the Spanish BBT operations. By this time the men were in his room and for almost three quaters of an hour he strongly rebuked the group. He was in no mood for being mollified. Srila Prabhupada was so disturbed by this news that the piece fruit he held in his hand never made it intohis mouth. but why just the parts about the gopis? Why don`t you scrutinizingly study where Caitanya Mahaprabhu says guru more murkha dekhi`karila sasana.“ Puranjana said their intention was to simply scrutinize the activities of the gopis and develop the same aspirations because this was recommended by Lord Caitanya. angrily refuting its reasoning. Siddha-deha is for liberated souls—no one else. He told Prabhupada one devotee was reported to have said that the gita was too bodily conscious and „external“ and that he became inspired only by reading about Krsna`s confidential. He was immediately sent for.Prabhupada had just sat down in the middle room for breakfast when Pradyumna came in. they were simply studying the descriptions so that they could develop such desires. Pradyumna began to complain about the study group Radhaballabha mentioned yesterday. I told Srila Prabhupada that Sulocana had approached me yesterday in an excited and conspirational mood to tell me about the surreptitious meetings. understanding them. especially those of the gopis in the Sri Caitanya-caitamrta.“ he declared disgustedly. Prabhupada allowed him to come up to his small table. his top lip quivering. He compared their exclusive focus on the gopis to „jumping like monkeys. and had many misinterpretations of the text. “ Prabhupada frowned a little. „So running back and forth is not. adapting modern dance steps to the rhythm. devotees kneel and press their foreheads. Srila Prabhupada? With our hands outstreched? Sometimes the devotees like to jump around.266-269) 10th July. slowly at first and melodiously. no.. „So try to save them.‘“ He read on. why are you bothering to preach? Why not just be content to stay in Vrndavana and do your bhajana?‘“ (P.D. „That is another. swaying their bodies. but they are not all to be immediately studied.“ Tamal Krsna began to read on. but artificially to do something is not good.“ Srila Prabhupada agreed with him.. ‚Hard-core devotees.3.“ he advised the GBC men.. He ordered them not to hold any more meetings and to disband the „club“. Is that all right?“ „In ecstaasy one can do anything. everything is there in his books. „In Vrndavana many sahajiyas would ask. Often the most rapid and intense chanting is done by a hard-core knot of dhoti-ed men befoore the curtains of the shrine.. „We were speaking about that the other day. He directly linked this sahajiya tendency to our ISKCON devotees meeting with the babajis in Vrndavana..“ Prabhupada said. Prabhupada told them that just because a drug store has every type of drug it does not mean that one can get them without prescription. he added.2. I think this is not good. „What way should we dance. Rupanuga prabhu spoke up. although there was one description which caused him some concern. He obviously didn`t want to squelch their enthusiasm. „ ‚The rhythm approaches that of an express train. and they were only reading his books... throwing arms upwards and.1976 Srila Prabhupada liked the whole article.“ I suggested. Tamal Krsna read out a section describing the evening arati: „ ‚The kirtana begins with the chanting of the maha-mantra.. Prabhupada explained to us that this sahajiya philosophy means the preaching will be finished. After sending them out duly chastened.Sulocana said that they had thought it was all right because it was in Prabhupada`s books. The doctor prescribes according to the disease. „that should not be an artificial (show). and then stopped again. ‚Oh Svamiji. Some of the onlookers try to keep up with the central group. He said that from the beginning stages of devotional service up to the highest rasas.“ he said. „Hmm.“ „No. clapping their hands.“ (P. it is all right?“ „Anything artificial is not required.D. Too much like the modern dancing. to something else. and the atmosphere is apt to remind a lay visitor of an old-fashioned football rally. Later the chant will speed up as the spirit of the devotion spreads.245-246) 277 . not wanting to completely condemn them.‘“ Tamal added his own comment. and he strongly criticized Jagannath dasa (although he is not one of the study group) for even leaving his ears unblocked while the man spoke to him about socalled siddha-deha. „The devotees get in the group and start. among the younger. When the shrine curtains are drawn back. It`s changed from the original dancing that you showed us.“ Prabhupada said. „Who has introduced this peculiar dancing?“ „It just envolved. Yet at the same time.“ „But if one feels like jumping . Deity worship should be practiced by everyone. and offering of 278 . It is really the custom that before entering one must be cleansed and bathe himself regularly. and everything will automatically be convenient for prosecuting our Krishna Consciousness. and Krishna will give you more and more strength. DEITY WORSHIP THE NECESSITY OF DEITY WORSHIP Regarding Deity worship: It is very much essential and in this connection you can consult Brahmananda who is doing Deity worship in New York very nicely. 19th September. and you can increase if you have got time to do so.(SPL to Hamsaduta.4. And I hope you are doing very nicely. But Mangala aratrik is essential (morning arati). The whole idea is that we must very much sincere in our activities to serve Krishna. That cleanses the contaminated body very nicely. The thing is. and how is he feeling. One after another. and Sandharatrik (evening aratri) is essential. Deity worship is compulsory. 1968) Deity worship is for such persons who have ample time. decorating the Deity with sweet-smelling flowers. so I expect each and every one of my disciples should also follow what I have given in this connection. At least you must take good care of your son until he is four years old. 3 rd November. etc. colorful and very opulent dresses. child-worship is more important than deity-worship . we observed a half-day fast. 4th November. He is so kind . These children are given to us by Krishna. I also follow this process. We do not speculate on what Krishna says but we follow whatever He says implicitly. man manah bhava mad bhakto. mad yaji mam namaskuru . And nice dress. 1974) I am glad to see that you are advancing in Krishna consciousness by this worship of the Deity. The Deity is nondifferent from Krishna Himself.1. do not neglect it or be confused. even they are also devotees. Now you finish your old birth with the fire of Krishna consciousness.D. That is the qualification for Deity worship. 14th December.168) 279 . These are not ordinary children. So now Kirtanananda Maharaja has recommended you for twice born initiation.(P. attending mangal arati. and we are very fortunate we can give them chance to advance further in Krishna Consciousness. Worship Krishna with love. to make Them very brilliant and attractive. 1975 Being Ekadasi.(SPL to Jadurani. We have also established worship of the Deity in our temple so that all day long one will automatically think of Krishna.(SPL to Vajresvari devi dasi. and if after that time you are unable any more to take care of him then I shall take care. jewels. 1968) For Spiritual life chanting Hare Krishna is sufficient but because we are habituated to unclean habits we must have temple worship. If you cannot spend time with him. they are Vaisnavas and we must be very careful to protect them. Dvija: (dvi means twice and ja means birth. In this way you can conquer Krishna. Prabhupada told me that to please Krsna. Every morning I go to the temple and see the Deity and offer obeisances. Your duty is very clear. 30th July. And if you get Krishna. 7th October. that is real Deity worship. incense. I only want that all you my disciples always think of Krishna and never forget Him for a moment. 1971) I am simply surprised that you want to give up your child to some other persons.(SPL to Visnujana dasa Maharaja. arising early. even from water. This we have to understand. yuktasya bhaktams ca niyunjato 'pi **. Sankirtana will keep everyone's mind clean and surely this quarreling will cease. they are Vaikuntha children. then stop the duties of pujari. The fast was welcome for another reason also—the meals cooked for us by our hosts are swimming in ghee. following the devotional practices and chanting 16 rounds minimum. taking bath. If you love Krishna. 1974) 28th December. then what you want more? How to think of Krishna that I have given.(SPL to Lilasakti devi dasi..Prasadam to Deity is essential. you will worship Him very nicely.(SPL to Arundhati. That is very great responsibility. we could fast completely. He becomes so attracted by pure devotion that He gives Himself to His devotee. For you. This is the practical application to what we find stated in the Bhagavad-gita. 1972) I have noted in your letter that you want to serve me. D. „Man and woman together should not worship unless they are husband and wife. and gradually it will be neglected.119-120) 22th June. Two things. even if the worked in different sections of the Deity room it should not be allowed. arca-avatara. if Deity worship was the process for self-realisation in the last yuga. it is essential to worship the Deity. So you must continue. Without being prompted he told his managers. he coupled it with a warning. „If you can contact Visnu or His devotee. do we have it now? Wasn`t sankirtana sufficient? He said that he had introduced worship of the Deity because. parallel.. Both of them should be accepted. But if we simply worship the Deity without hearing obout the Lord. sravanam kirtanam—these things are essential—then the Deity worship will be a burden. and the whole thing will be spoiled. Otherwise. deity worship.D. you are simply wasting time.“ (P.2. one without the other will be later on troublesome.“ Prabhupada smiled and added another interesting comment as a punch line. Deity worship is pancaratriki-viddhi. sravanam kirtanam of visnu must go on. That is a fact. I asked why.He wondered if it was all right if they worked on different altars. I asked about book distribution and Deity worship.98) 9th May. that is all right. So actually this life is meant for this purpose. „Besides that. it will be a burden.D. This temple means not only we shall decorate the Deity very nicely. 1976 He especially focused on arcana.“ Prabhupada emphasized.“ (P. 1976 Later.5th May. The Lord is called arca-vigraha. Prabhupada said no. Tamal Krsna asked if that meant on the same altar. This would therefore maintain the purity of the Movement. Vaisnava. Then it will be done very nicely.“ 280 .1976 Speaking on the gullibility of women made Prabhupada reflect on the letter he had received yesterday from the sannyasi`s widow and the danger of having unprotected women freely mixing with men. More specifically he stated. at the same time. then you shall remain unclean... on the point of deity worship there was only one standard on which all must agree.(P. man and woman should not worship together. how you can be perfect? So this arca-vigraha is the Lord`s incarnation to give facilities to people like us who cannot see God everywhere. „Now there should be one rule that unless they are husband-wife. alone with Prabhupaha. Strictiy prohibited. Another incarnation.“ „On the altar?“ Pusta Krsna asked. while there may arise differences of opinion about the distribution of books. For the neophyte devotees.2. „So both things should continue: bhagavata-marga and pancaratriki-marga. As he explained the value of it. He`s giving facility to the devotees to handle Him. Otherwise. and bhagavata-marga is hearing.10-11) 20th July. cleanse the temple. chanting. At a certain point. if you do not take to Deity worship. He is also incarnation. „Yes. 1976 „Yes. parallel line. If you do not get the opportunity to serve the Lord.3. like that. Tamal Krsna Maharaja wanted to get it very clear.“ (P. So at least you be engaged in that way. who was taking care of it? So one by one.“ As a longtime GBC Tamal Krsna Maharaja knew the situation in the temples. „In most temples that is not the system right now. Where is that boy Jaya Rama.“ Prabhupada told his GBC`s. Krishna is sure to give you all facilities to perfect your life in full Krishna Consciousness. 18th January..They must be married to each other.3. The woman means her husband must be there. „Never be alone. we are contaminated. 1969) 281 . that is some protection. I thank you very much for appreciating this secret of worshiping the Lord. but you can minimize according to your convenience. along with chanting the required number of rounds of Hare Krishna. „The husband is there.“ Prabhupada said. But I am so glad to learn that this engagement makes one developing the Brahminical qualities. This is very spiritually beneficial engagement and. There is no harm. one should be engaged in that ``Arcana vidhi'' so that one may be fixed up in his Brahminical qualification. that is not. The husband-wife can go. 1968) I am glad to hear that you are helping out in tending the Deities.(SPL to Brahmananda. „They must be together. the man and the woman. but also some other brahmacaris are also worshiping?“ „Still. „What about a situation like this. we in the conditioned state.(SPL to Syama dasi. this worshiping system called ``Arcana vidhi'' cleanses the polluted heart and one becomes actually fit for becoming qualified Brahmin. „The husband-wife together can go to worship the Deity. But.356-357) THE RESULT OF PERFORMING DEITY WORSHIP Regarding my Deity worship: I can understand that the regulative principles are taking much of your time. that should be introduced. they should not go.“ Prabhupada confirmed that his understanding was correct.“ Pusta Krsna Swami thought of another possible scenario. 15th September. not others. Generally..“ „No. If they are not related as husband..D. So just because they are married to someone else. where the husband and wife are worshiping. powder them. If we see the Deities in very pleasing mood. so long as the ingredients are within this group. That will be the attractive feature and people will come to see for that reason. either a man is vegetarian or non-vegetarian. that is the test of standard service. but prepared in various ways by the intelligence of the devotees . As soon as we see the Deities in a different mood we must immediately understand our discrepancies. The foodstuffs in the modes of goodness are wheat. flowers. So in the material world. So everywhere we shall see the Deities in such pleasing mood.You have described Their Lordships Sri Sri Radha Krsna at London Temple as wonderful. 1972) PRASADAM THE IMPORTANCE OF PRASADAM Anyone who is cooking for himself. peas). This foods group is stated by Krishna in the Bhagavad-gita. rice. 1970) Your proposal is very nice to make the atmosphere of the Deities very. butter and all milk preparations. or whatever way they are combined or cooked. and they will have to suffer the consequence. fruits. grains. whether you fry them. this healthy and non-healthy is a material 282 . that will certify our service unto the Lord. and the temple must be kept always very nice. vegetables. Yes. sugar. The ingredients are always the same as above. and we follow accordingly. and regarding your question about the Prasadam recipes. What is their authority? Actually.(SPL to Tamala. honey. 27th May.(SPL to Kirtanananda. they're eating simply sin. boil them. Krishna is offered foodstuff in goodness.(SPL to Nandarani. 17th October. So these foods can be offered in any shape. very opulent. Now the thing is that you must consider by whom you are being taught what is healthy and what is not healthy. bake them. 1968) I have noted your questions carefully. 25th June. the idea is that they must come from this group of foodstuffs. pulse (beans. So you can make your own recipe if you like. he is eating simply volumes of sin. And He asks for food preparations from within this group. and we are simply interested in what Krishna wants. Therefore. But anyway. (SPL to Rukmini. it may be offered. Mushrooms are generally not offered. so there is no harm. We must offer to Krishna only first class prepared foodstuff. which we should not offer.(SPL to Harer Nama. We can accept from them raw fruits. we can offer. I have listed the ingredients which may use for preparing prasadam but these various varieties of foodstuffs may be prepared either in the given recipes or if you like you may invent nice new formulas for offering. provided we can supply foodstuff unlimitedly. 19th December. 1968) PURCHASING BHOGA Brijbasi Co. but there is no prohibition. So their pictures aren't poisonous. These food manufacturers do not take proper precautions in cleanliness nor do they have devotion to Krishna in their labors so it is not very acceptable offering. I hope this will clarify the questions about Prasadam preparations for you to understand. But one thing is that whatever you make routine work to offer Him food stuff. ice cream purchased from the market may not be offered. they are devotees. Do not change it.(SPL to Syama dasi. there is no harm in them. (SPL to Jadurani. if you can increase the offerings it is very nice. that should be continued. Because such ice cream contains sometimes undesirable things. because He is unlimited. especially made at home. you can introduce that system. but because we are purchasing them. it becomes ineffective. 15th February. grains or 283 . Because Krishna can eat as many times as you give Him to eat. 1st December. 1968) Regarding your questions. so we offer to Him to eat whatever He wants. 21st October. 1968) So far as explaining my letter to Kris. because we are paying for their goods. Just like we are buying so many things at the market which are not fit for offering to Krishna. this can be done only if it is prepared by devotees. therefore if poison is there. 13 th November. But that is not possible for us. 1968) So far the cucumber pickles: As far as possible we should not offer to the Deity things which are prepared by nondevotees. are not ordinary businessmen. If you can make this preparation yourself then it will be alright. we limit the supply. 1968) So far as offering to Krishna apple cider. So if you can continue to offer foodstuff like fruits and milk in the evening. He can eat unlimitedly. Even it is poison. you want to offer something in the evening to Krishna besides fruit and milk. You have asked me about sassafras and yes.consideration.(SPL to Kris. The important thing is that your preparations be palatable for Lord Krishna and that the ingredients be within the groups of ingredients already listed. There is no harm. Your second question. We shall try to avoid as far as possible goods purchased from the market and offer to Krishna. Now. What is the wrong? It is sugar. So I think we shall not accept this pickles. Concerning the use of sour cream in the temple. so sell the stock at any cost. So far cooking and preparing. It is for this reason that in our Vedic culture the people used to keep a number of cows without any expenditure. Just like here we can offer sweets purchased from the market place. so it can be offered to the Deity. vinegar is not good. It is something attractive I can understand.k. Boil the milk at night. But unknowingly if something is purchased. 1969) Regarding purchasing things in the market. it should be stopped immediately . Who is the rascal who has purchased without permission?(SPL to Puru dasa. (SPL to Madhusudana. 1974) I am in due receipt of your letter dated February 7. Yogurt can be prepared in the temple. Ice cream. Things produced by the karmis should not be offered to Radha-Krishna. Nothing should be offered to the Deities which is purchased in the stores. 25th December. Things which are suspicious. an introduction of friendship.(SPL to Jagadisa dasa. nasty food. But you should not smell for other purposes.(SPL to Kirtanananda. Yes. At Vrindaban. 1976) COOKING AND KITCHEN RULES We should offer foodstuffs to the Deity and allow enough time to eat them. we should avoid it. and next morning you will find it full of yogurt. put a little yogurt in it. 11 th February. the Deities are offered foodstuffs and time is allowed as in the case of others.(SPL to Harer Nama. very. (SPL to Krsna dasa. These are all transcendental sentiments. and the milk drawn out of them was utilized for so many purposes. you have such a big stock of this sour cream. 1970) Regarding the lollipops. 1967) 284 . very useful in life. however. is o.. but when we know something is adulterated. The whole idea is that devotional service should always be immune from sense gratification. they are practically preparing all these things. 1976 addressed to Hrdayananda Maharaja. And aside from this. 28th December.similar raw things. before offering anything to the Deity you must be satisfied that it is a first class offering and there is no objection if you taste it by smelling. That is the general instruction. that should be strictly limited to the initiated devotees. 12th November. there is nothing wrong. You can ask New Vrindaban. 24 th March. if you can prepare. it is not very difficult. it is tamasic. these items are considered as purified when we pay the price for them. but not otherwise. in the darkness. Lord Krishna in His early Childhood life is the vivid example of this way of social life. that is not our fault. 6th April. it is purified even if there is some fault in it. 1969) Any foodstuff suspected to contain untouchable ingredients should never be used in the temple. It is stated in the sastras that if you pay something for it. should be avoided . That is very nice. if it is raw and can be washed nicely. So the direction which you are giving to the willing girls to help with the kitchen affairs is not objectionable. and if there is a separate refrigerator. smelling and tasting of foods being prepared for the Lord should never be done. If there is any food extra. He is hungry and satisfied simultaneously.(SPL to Jadurani. I know this is a practice in your country. then 285 . So the purport is that everything should be offered very cleanly and pure things should be given. 1968) Yes. and dirty dishes (those taken from kitchen and eaten from) should not be brought back into the kitchen (but if there is no other place to wash them. then you may have such special refrigerator for leftover prasadam. milk. and nobody should wear shoes in the kitchen.(SPL to Mahapurusa. I have noted your questions about the serving of prasadam. But it cannot be kept within the same refrigerator as the unoffered. the Lord eats 56 times. in the cooking process.(SPL to Rayarama. (He is neither hungry nor poor. that should be kept separately. but He accepts everything. 3rd March. You should prepare as much as can be consumed. (Everything should be prepared very carefully and cleanly within the groups of foods listed. or brought back into the kitchen. The main thing is that whenever prasadam is offered to the Lord. and after offering. therefore. flours. He is absolute. sugar and grains are all cooked together. then offer all together. 28th March. And nothing should ever be eaten before offering to the Lord. Best thing is to prepare separately each preparation. fruits. there is ample place to eat so why should one eat in the kitchen? Kitchen should be considered as good as the Lord's room. but in the temples or at homes of any Krishna Consciousness persons. 1968) Yes. the sugar and the cereal should be offered separately. nothing should be put back in the refrigerator. But if it is prepared and cannot be washed. but uninitiated members can work under the guidance of another initiated member when there is great need. Refrigerator should always be very cleansed and pure. then the milk.) If a preparation is cooked all together. food which has been offered should never be put back into the refrigerator with the unoffered foods. But if the milk. But if it is prepared separately. food falls on the floor. unprepared foods. as a rule those who are not initiated may not enter into the kitchen affairs. So the Lord can eat as many times as you can offer. a non-initiate can work under the direction of a devotee in the kitchen. or about the Lord. is offered to Him with love and devotion. all contradictory points coincide in Him. Everyone should be careful to make only as much as they can eat. a person should not indulge in such unclean habits. then it can be offered. talking within the kitchen should be only what is necessary for preparing the prasadam. and that makes Him hungry for eating as many times as you may offer. So Eric can certainly work under your direction in the kitchen for distribution of prasadam. that can be done. then it is not to be offered. That cannot be. In Jagannatha Puri. but can be eaten rather than be wasted. when such eatable is within the groups of vegetables. No. everything should be very respectfully and cleanly presented and prepared. not within the kitchen and not having in it any unoffered foods. or kitchen.If. 15th February. One should never eat within the kitchen. etc. He wants our love only. nor unable to eat. they cannot keep any leftovers in refrigerator. But only thing is whatever is offered must be with respect and devotion. 1968) Regarding kitchen affairs. and faith. You can go on doing that. water. He wants to remain with us independently. non-initiated devotees may not enter the kitchen or Deity area. But you should try to prepare it yourself. I think it is purchased from some Indian shop. Only initiated devotees may tend the Deity or cook for Him. 16th June. They can help from outside. If you can actually grow this Tulasi plant. 4th April.What is the difficulty of enforcing these rules? They are rules. Otherwise where is the proof that he loves Krishna. 1968) When we cook foodstuffs in the kitchen for eating ourselves. everything shall be prepared very cleanly and purely. but he can help you in translating and other activities. he cannot help you either in the kitchen or with Deity worship.they should be put into sink and washed immediately. I think he is lacking in that spirit.(SPL to Sukadeva. 1971) So far as Deity worship is concerned. 1970) I thank you very much for sending me the Jagannatha Prasadam pera. 1971) As far as possible. 27th January. 1970) Bruce has not yet taken his initiation. (SPL to Aniruddha. 22nd March. hands should always be washed when preparing prasadam. for the present you can have a Guru-Gauranga altar and later on when there are more devotees there and you have facility. Lord Jagannatha or Radha Krishna Deity may be installed. it is a different thing from the foodstuff which is prepared and offered to Krishna. 1971) TULASI Yes. then you must know it for certain that your devotion for Krsna is testified. and the most pure devotee. And they are not very difficult to follow. and they are simple rules. and in this way. Sri Tulasi is the eternal consort of Krishna. so you learn the art how to prepare it.(SPL to Yamuna. (SPL to Bhagavan dasa. This is a very nice sweetmeat.). 7th July. Our whole process in on the basis of surrender. the Tulasi plant is worshiped by Vaisnavas. rice is material for one purpose but the same thing becomes spiritual when it is dovetailed with Krishna. So I have given my permission for him to return to Japan. One must be prepared to follow the rules for Krishna.(SPL to Balai. Try to train him to the right path. The same dahl. and must be followed. 10th January. (SPL to Sudama. I have no objection for such conclusion but unless he is properly initiated. so for the present you can set up a very attractive Guru-Gauranga altar and that will be very nice. 1968) I am so very glad to learn that Srimati Tulasi Devi has favored you so much. 22nd January.(SPL to Nayanabhirama. and therefore. I was very much anxious to introduce this worship of 286 . and I am sure you will do it. my pleasure does not have any bounds. 7th April. 1970) 287 . Tulsi leaves mixed with sandalwood pulp and placed on the lotus feet of the Lord is the topmost worship. the following mantra should be chanted: Tulasy amrta janmasi sada tvam kesava-priya kesavartham cinomi tvam barada bhava sobhine Then the mantra for circumambulating the Tulasi tree. Lord Visnu likes garland of Tulasi leaves. So you follow and practice these Tulasi affairs and you try to distribute your experience to all the other centers. however. However. yani kani ca papani brahma-hatyadikani ca tani tani pranasyanti pradaksinah pade pade So there are three mantras.* and one for collecting the leaves. Simply all the devotees may offer a little water every morning and in the evening offer obeisances and ghee lamp (one wick) and circumambulating three times repeating the mantras that I have given you. The plant may remain in the garden. I am giving you herewith three mantras for Tulasi Devi as follows: vrindaai tulasi devyai priyaai kesavasya ca visnubhaktiprade devi satyavatyai namo namah This is offering obeisances. The collecting of leaves should be done once in the morning for worshiping and for putting on the plates of foodstuff to be offered. But we must be very careful that Tulasi leaves cannot be placed on the feet of anyone else except Lord Visnu and His different forms. it is not very much important. therefore. Tulasi leaves cannot be placed even on the lotus feet of Radharani or on the lotus feet of the Spiritual Master. one for bowing down. 29th November. as you have seen on the Govinda Album. 30th November. All Visnu-tattva Deities require profusely Tulasi leaves. But the consciousness of the pure devotee is not limited by the influence of maya and so it is never to be speculated in that way. And when collecting leaves from the plant.(…) Tulasi leaf is very. 1970) Regarding worship of Tulasi. That is most auspicious . that will be a new chapter in the history of Krsna Consciousness Movement. On each bowl or plate there should be at lest one leaf.Tulasi plant amongst our Society members.(SPL to Govinda dasi. It is entirely reserved for being placed on the lotus feet of Krsna.(SPL to Karandhara. you should not try to speculate on the "level of consciousness" of the pure devotee of the Lord. We can place. but it has not become successful til now. In the material condition of life the consciousness of the living entity is covered over in varying degrees by the material energy in the form of sensuous body and subtle mind. Tulasi leaves in the hands of Radharani for being placed on the lotus feet of Krsna. bowing down (pancanga pranam). 1970) I am very much happy that you have added worship of Srimati Tulasi devi to your Temple activities. when I hear that you have got this opportunity. very dear to Visnu. (SPL to Damodara. one for circumambulating. In the evening a lamp should be offered to the Tulasi plant and in the morning each devotee should offer a little water and offer obeisances. There is a saying. In the Nectar of Devotion I have given two verses from the Skanda Purana. then it becomes very easy. If there is any impediment in growing Tulsi. That is a sign that you are a great devotee because Tulasi Devi thrives on devotion. Please offer Her all respects and carefully tend and Srimati Tulasi will be pleased upon you in gaining the auspicious favor of the Lord.'' So from this verse we can understand how pure is the service which Tulasi offers to Sri Krishna. Simply by worshiping her faithfully. 9th August. simply by hearing about. simply by touching. and therefore she becomes worshipable just like Krishna. unless you are the friend of his son or daughter. Anyone who comes in touch with the Tulasi tree in the above mentioned ways lives eternally in the Vaikuntha world. there is always auspiciousness. or simply by sowing the tree. (SPL to Indira. 1971) I am so glad to hear how nicely Tulsi is growing. love my dog. So worship of Tulsidevi and other of Lord Krishna's Entourage is part of the total devotional attitude of pleasing Krishna.You are doing one of the best of services by cultivating Srimati Tulasi Devi so nicely. 1970) Yes. Krishna is providing everything. 17 th November. 9th July. simply by remembering. Anyone who even desires to serve Krishna is liberated. It is like that. he provides it. and in this pure state she has all the qualities of Krishna.I am very glad to learn that you have begun worship of Tulasi in your Toronto Temple. 31st August. 1971) Tulsidevi is part of Krishna's entourage.(SPL to Jagadisa. simply by bowing before.(SPL to Krsnakanti. Simply by seeing. a devotee can get himself free of from all material miseries. 1971) I have noted the contents with great interest and especially the very encouraging photographs of your Tulasi Devi garden.(SPL to Ekajani. that means that devotional service is defective. 11th April. So we should always endeavor after becoming servant of Tulasi 288 . love me. And she is growing so profusely. (SPL to Gaura Hari. what to speak of one who is actually engaged in devotional service. To approach the President is very difficult. That is the sign of substantial devotional service. simply by praying to. The presence of Tulasi is proof of true devotional atmosphere there. As you require something for His service.(SPL to Patty Dorgan. 1971) I am very glad to know that you are seriously taking to Srimati Tulasi Devi worship. 1971) Tulasi plants are liberated souls who want to serve Krishna in that way. And Tulasi Devi is growing so nicely there. one of which is: ``Tulasi is auspicious in all respects. Every center should be encouraged to grow Tulsi. Tend Tulasi very nicely and your devotion towards Krishna will increase. Thank you very much. Tulasi Devi is a pure devotee of Krishna and she should be treated with the same respect given to all Krishna's pure devotees. 29th December. Krishna is so kind. she is Krishna-ised or Krishna Conscious. and chant. so you must always care for her very lovingly and attentively. Srimati Tulsi Devi is very dear to Lord Krishna. 1972) The picture of tulasi is especially indicative. Real Ekadasi means fasting and chanting and no other business. If one is fortunate enough to receive such holy prasadam then all sinful reactions are immediately purified within the heart and pure devotional service is very easily obtained. the prayer you have enclosed is bona fide . because if tulasi grows luxuriantly that proves the sincere devotional service of the place. 6th December. Tulasi Devi never goes back to Godhead. the chanting becomes 289 .Devi. 1st February. 1974) EKADASI Ekadasi is observed for increasing the strength of devotion. I understand that you are especially devoted to the care of Tulasi devi. (SPL to Kirtida Kanyaka. I do not know who has taught you that part of a Tulasi plant may be cut off and then replanted? From the Tulasi plant you can cut off only leaves for offering them to Krishna. So you continue to your best. The manjaris (seeds) can be offered in water and it makes the water fragrant and tasteful. namely the Ekadasi days. And the manjaris can be planted for growing new Tulasi plants. and in this way Krishna will be pleased. 6th January.(SPL to Nityananda. she is always with Godhead. and you will automatically advance more and more in Krishna consciousness. But tulsi devi is not pleased by the nice tune of singing but by the nice devotion. 12th April. 1973) Thank you very much for the Tulasi leaves offered to Lord Caitanya's lotus feet. (SPL to Radhaballabha dasa.(SPL to Anutama. 1972) Thank you for the Tulsi leaves you have sent me. It is a very good idea and you can follow this principle rigidly two days in a month. 1968) I am glad to learn also that you sometimes fast the whole day. 13th July. Yes. 1973) I am very glad to hear that you are engaged in the service of tulsi devi. never for cutting and planting. (SPL to Christopher. Tulsi leaves are very important for satisfying Lord Krishna. 20th July. When one observes fasting. 1968) Why just 25 rounds? You should chant as many as possible. She is a pure devotee and thus she has appeared on this planet to render service to Krishna by being offered in all temples throughout the world by being offered up to the lotus feet of Krishna. (SPL to Madhusudana. (SPL to Sarada devi dasi. 25th November. That is an offense. Yes. kñäntiù—tolerance.(SPL to Jadurani.g. 1971) COMING ON BRAHMINICAL LEVEL B. wisdom and religiousness—these are the natural qualities by which the brähmaëas work. self-control. These are the most important duties for the brahmacarinis--namely cleansing . ästikyam—religiousness. I am glad to learn that the brahmacarinis are engaged in assisting work and cleaning. vijïänam—wisdom.easier. brahma —of a brähmaëa. So on Ekadasi other business can be suspended as far as possible unless there is some urgent business. 9th July. karma—duty. purity. austerity. TRANSLATION Peacefulness.18. tapaù—austerity. honesty. ärjavam—honesty. jïänam—knowledge. knowledge. svabhäva-jam—born of his own nature.42 çamo damas tapaù çaucaà kñäntir ärjavam eva ca jïänaà vijïänam ästikyaà brahma-karma svabhäva-jam SYNONYMS çamaù—peacefulness. eva—certainly. tolerance. 290 . çaucam— purity. ca—and. damaù—self-control. That is the same procedure followed with Deity worship. Cleanliness is next to Godliness.(SPL to Laksmi Narayana. to strengthen whatever devotees we have got in spiritual life. 5 th August. not to others. 1970) I am so pleased to know that you have been recommended by Sriman Bhagavan das Prabhu for gayatri mantra initiation. 1971) Yes. they don't wash after eating. Actually that is what I am trying to do in your country is to establish a brahminical society. 22nd July. Otherwise they will not be able to perform the other practices of brahminical life. of course we may do anything for Krishna. If we simply stick to describing how wonderful is Krishna. We are trying to create a brahminical society. such as early rising. etc. they will buy. In the toilet room wash with water and wash your hands with soap.Caitanya Mahaprabhu personally used to inspect temple cleaning and if He would see a little particle of dust He would remark. And the place that you eat at must be washed off immediately also. he would be highly criticized. Go on in this way and your rapid advancement in Krishna Consciousness will be certain. Keep yourself clean outside by bathing. For example. So all the devotees under your care there in Cleveland should be trained up in that light. (SPL to Sri Govinda dasa. So even if you eat a little. that will not be lie! But other things. that is the right idea. Your cloth must be washed daily. In this way. Convince them to give by 291 . etc. Then wash feet. A brahmana does not do like that. (SPL to Jagadisa. A brahmana's name is suci. and clean inside by chanting Hare Krishna Mantra. then whatever we may lie or exaggerate. you have not done very nice. I become very much pleased and my Guru Maharaja becomes pleased also. still you must wash immediately. that is not a good philosophy. So you must live up to the rules and regulations of brahminical life. not art of lying. Then our potency will increase and we may recruit dozens of new devotees easily. So when I see that these young American boys are becoming eligible by qualification to take second initiation and become qualified Brahmins. 1971) So far brahminical rules for cleanliness. That art you must develop. those I have already described in the letter mentioned by you. 26th July. fix them beyond any doubts. Brahminical means cleanliness. By nicely cleansing one can get promotion in the spiritual kingdom in some of the Vaikuntha planets--it is so nice. face and mouth. Lie to some.'' So try to follow His footsteps in the matter of cleansing. especially any cloth used to sleep in. There is sufficient merit in our books that if you simply describe them sincerely to anyone. Rather the brahmanas are always truthful. So it is not very much advisable to make lies just to sell book.(SPL to Yamuna. they will not help us to train ourselves in truthfulness. or one who is clean. If he did so in India. cleanliness. Main thing is to make sure everyone is chanting minimum sixteen rounds daily of Hare Krishna Mantra. even to their enemies. lies. others may assist. First and foremost is cleanliness. 1972) So far this making some false story for collecting money or selling book. things should be kept spotless and cooking should only be done by brahmanas. 8th July. So these are some of the points to note in Brahminical life. In your country they have so many filthy habits. In the kitchen also. but that is supposed to be reserved for very advanced experts in Krishna Consciousness--they know how to catch the big fish without themselves getting wet. ``O. now hold a fire ceremony and have the students hear the Gayatri mantra chanted by me and the tape recording through the right ear. You may chant on the beads of the first initiates. attending mangala arati. I hope you can understand the importance of this. that is more mature stage of development of Krishna Consciousness. tolerance. but never less than once. Instruct them all these things. that is very important for brahminical life . but not to spoil and squander. their first duty is to maintain cleanliness and truthfulness. 1975) Brahminical life means to be very very clean. etc. and they must chant at least 16 rounds daily. 1975) I have chanted on the sacred threads and they are enclosed herewith. There must be life--rising early in the morning. Inside by chanting the glories of the Lord. and keep everything purified . 25th December. 19th December. truthfulness and cleanliness.(SPL to Sri Govinda. and also spend wealth more. self-control. The qualifications of the Brahmanans are described in the 18th Chapter 42nd verse of the Bhagavad gita. and practical application of knowledge. not by tricking. These are the first qualifications. inside and outside. 7th December. Gradually they will all appreciate very much.your preaching the Absolute Truth. taking bath each time after passing stool. the farmer will be vaisya. The man who is studying will be brahmana. The qualifications of the Brahmanas are described in the 18th Chapter of Bhagavad gita verse 42 ``Peacefulness.(SPL to Kurusrestha dasa. example is better than precept. In this way there 292 . 8th December. and outside by bathing regularly. and outside by bathing three times daily. if not possible at least two times. 26th September. knowledge and religiousness--these are the qualities by which the brahmanas work. You can get wealth more. full knowledge. and do it yourself.'' So see that these instructions are being followed nicely. That the City was paying you means that they are appreciating. satyam and saucam. taking bath three time daily. austerity. 1972) So now do everything nicely and cooperate together. taking prasadam. 7th December. Those who are initiated by the brahminical thread. Then controlling the mind and the senses.(SPL to Madhudvisa Maharaja. That is the brahminical qualification. Instruct the newly initiated Brahmins about cleanliness. honesty. 1975) The newly initiated brahmanas should hear the mantra from the tape recording through the right ear.(SPL to Bhagavan dasa.(SPL to Radhaballabha dasa. that will keep them strong. Washing hands and mouth after eating.(SPL to Sivarama. simplicity. This is brahmanaism. wisdom. purity. and faith in the Vedas and the spiritual master. 1975) In our Vedic Universities we will not encourage anyone to be merely a bookworm. This example should be shown to others. inside and out. Get and spend. Cleanliness within and without. 1974) There is no need of accumulating wealth more. Inside by chanting and hearing. Bathing after passing stool. Brahmin initiation means to be very clean. may also be given at the fire yajna. 1976) I have also accepted the brahmanas who you have recommended: Sukalina Devi Dasi. The brahmana must be clean inside and out by bathing with water and mantra. All initiated disciples must chant 16 rounds a day without fail and observe the four regulative principles very strictly. the verse concerning Arca Vigraha is like this: ``arcasiladhir gurusu naramati vaisnave jati budhi. AND DEITY WORSHIP Yes. One should not take it cheaply. The brahmana thread and gayatri mantra which must be heard through the right ear. (SPL to Sukadeva dasa. wood.will be divisions. 9th January.(SPL to Ajita dasa. or doesn't preach Krishna Consciousness for the benefit of the general public. ``Archaiam Evam Paria Ja Pujan Sadraya Hatay. one for each of them. Another verse is. 20th August. may be given at a fire yajna. he is in the lower stage of devotional service. (SPL to Madhusudana. and Aravinda Dasa. This initiation is very serious and one should endeavor to follow the orders of the spiritual master with great determination. The local GBC man may chant on the beads. Vedapriya Devi Dasi. Enclosed please find a sacred thread duly chanted on for Aravinda Dasa. They must become fixed up in the sastra so that they may overcome the bondage of maya with the sword of knowledge. After putting on the sacred thread he may be allowed to hear from the tape the Gayatri Mantra in the right ear. A brahmana must be fixed up in understanding of brahmana. etc. All initiates must practice chanting 16 rounds daily and strictly follow the four regulative principles which must be stressed with great care so that they are very familiar with them.'' The meaning is that one who worships the Deity with great devotion but doesn't show any devotion to the devotees of the Lord. Now teach them to be good brahmanas by keeping clean internally by always chanting Hare Krsna and externally by always bathing. but they are all one in service to Krishna. (SPL to Tusta Krsna Maharaja. (SPL to Kuladri dasa. In any case there are enclosed three mantra sheets. CHANTING. Since there is no sacred thread for the women. 1976) The names and beads duly chanted upon by your local GBC man. 28th April.'' The meaning is that one should not think of the Deity as made of stone. The brahmanas must become learned in the sastras and very clean internally and externally by regularly bathing with water and the holy name. 1976) The newly initiated brahmanas may hear the mantra by tape in the right ear. 1st February. 1977) PREACHING. Daksina should also be offered when one presents oneself for initiation. 1968) 293 . they may have already heard the mantra. 11th September. (SPL to Gurudasa. we shall prefer to accept chanting of Hare Krishna Mantra first. and thus make your lives happy and successful. Not that we should do one thing at the sacrifice of another . namely the path of Srimad-Bhagavatam and the path of Pancaratriki. these things must be done very nicely and at the same time. This is our main business. So. Factually. we should be engaged 24 hours in Krishna's 294 . nice arati. Deity worship or lecturing in the colleges is just as important as book distribution. book distribution should be done. 1970) I am glad to learn that you are continuing your mahasankirtana. is very nice. and preaching of this Hare Krishna Mantra by outdoor Sankirtana and propagation of literature is our more important business. 5th September. Side by side. deity worship.In this age. So we shall always keep these principles in view and maintain our centers on this standard. but when there is a question of accepting one of them. The service of the Lord should be so nicely executed that Radharani will bestow upon you blessings. 1970) As I have already said many times that we have to maintain two lines parallel. So both husband and wife combined together please see that the Temple service is being executed regularly and nicely. The example can be given that women by nature do not forget to dress very nicely although always engaged in household affairs. 15th March. a devotee and intelligent. that is very nice. and Pancaratriki Bidhi is Temple worship of the Deities. 1970) When our routine work. The pictures of London Temple immediately get me there. I must thank you very much for your slides and the viewer. (SPL to Damodara.. Side by side. Your class schedule is also very nice. You have got a very nice wife. The Bhagavata Bidhi is preaching work. and I enjoy your company. Srimad-Bhagavatam is the path for Paramahamsas. 1969) At first. 12th December. which I enjoy whenever I find some time. both of you should train your junior brothers and sisters in the service of the Lord. then our preaching will have effect. raising Her right hand palm. So I can understand that everything is going on well in London Temple. We should follow two important lines. reading books.. 28th May. chanting of Hare Krishna Mantra is the prime business of the devotee. namely the Pancaratriki Bidhi as well as Bhagavata Bidhi. 1st July. pure heart. Deity worship is recommended. Temple worship is not so important as Sankirtana on the public roads and selling our literatures.(SPL to Hamsaduta. so that in case both of you go for preaching work. So we have to follow the two parallel lines simultaneously for successful execution of Devotional service. ansd Pancaratra path is for the neophytes.(SPL to Satsvarupa. and when we shall preach in sanctified. etc. That is the secret. the scheduled program of the Temple may not be hampered. the preaching will be immediately effective. we should have a little common sense in all activities. That requires a little common sense. So the Temple worship is necessary for the beginners so that by following the regulative principles such devotees become more and more purified and thus gradually come on the platform to understand Srimad-Bhagavatam. (SPL to Kirtanananda Maharaja. 1971) The thing is. The Temple worship will keep us sanctified. like chanting. and Sankirtana. thus to develop the idea within the members. This Deity worship is very important. village to village. 28th December. I am very pleased. 5th January. 1975) Gaura Nitai deities should not be taken into university classrooms. Do this and be happy. and humanity at large. Another temple opened. The professors and students will think we are fanatics. (SPL to Kurusrestha dasa. rather than taking deities into a classroom. 295 . the prime entity. that is the success of this Movement. As soon as you get sufficient initiated brahmanas try to open another center. 2 nd January. Therefore both of them should go side by side . (b)To propagate a consciousness of Krsna. that each soul is part and parcel of the quality of Godhead (Krsna). (d)To teach and encourage the sankirtan movenent. as it is revealed in the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam. another book published. congregational chanting of the holy name of God as revealed in the teachings of Lord Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Town to town. It appears to be very nicely done. (c)To bring the members of the Society together with each other and nearer to Krsna. 1976) I have seen the pictures of the Deity installation you have sent. All the brahmana devotees appear to be very nice. Stick to the principles. (SPL to Satsvarupa Maharaja.service and everything should be done very nicely and perfectly. Without book distribution the temple worship standard will also diminish. I can see in the pictures so many outsiders offering respect with awe and veneration.(SPL to Adi Kesava dasa. 1976) 5. It is better to keep a big picture of Gaura Nitai which can be seen by everyone. In your country hundreds of temples like this must be opened. LIVING ON THE HOLY PLACE STRUCTURE OF ISKCON Seven Purposes of the International Society for Krsna Consciousness: (a)To systematically propagate spiritual knowledge to society at large and to educate all peoples in the techniques of spiritual life in order to check the imbalance of values and to achieve real unity and peace in the world. As present he is living at the gosala. (S. he good humoredly said Brahmananda Swami. He asked about Srila Prabhupada`s health and he inquired about Prabhupada`s arrangements for perpetuating his work. anyway. books and other writings. because then the men will not become lazy. (P. magazines. (g)With a view towards achieving the aforementioned Purposes. But Prabhupada condemned his idea.-Lilamrta.(P.. Disturbed by the misbehavior and poor standards there. a holy place of transcendental pastimes. He complained that he was being disturbed because devotees coming to see him interrupted his chanting. an American devotee who came here after serving in Africa.P. 1976 As far as the dept in Africa was concerned. „We will not hang him. Recently he came to see Srila Prabhupada to get permission to build a tree hut to live in.“ Prabhupada said that his Guru Maharaja had continually started big projects and kept the whole Gaudiya Matha in debt in order to keep his men active and busy. which he said was „living like a monkey. chanting one hundred and fifty rounds a day and eating only the remnants of foodstuffs left by the devotees. The disciple is always indebted to the spiritual master. even if it was only a small display of it.D. 132-133) 25th February. saying he only wanted to chant Hare Krsna. (f)To bring the members closer together for the purpose of teaching a simpler and more natural way of life. to publish and distribute periodicals.1. dedicated to the Personality of Krsna. to be indebt is not such a bad thing.. so that he could avoidseeing anyone. „Is there anyone who is designated to succeed you as the primary teacher of the Movement?“ 296 .390) GOVERNING BODY COMMISSION 7th June.D. 1976 The conversation turned to Sharma dasa.380) 27th February.“ He said that Sharma`s so-called renunciation was actually another form of sense gratification. Prabhupada allowed him to come here to Mayapur. It was also based on selfish interest. but he will have to work to pay off his debt. He said that. 1976 The reporter was also interested in the future of our Movement.1.(e)To erect for the members and for society at large. he came to Vrndavana to see Srila Prabhupada late last year. and the committee may elect one person as chief. 13th September. Unfortunately. I have made them GBC. This one wanted to know whether Srila Prabhupada could continue with such a rigoros travel schedule. „so that they may be very easily take up the charge. (P. 1970) 297 . As other things are managed. Please counteract this contamination which has been spread throughout our Society.“ „Do you expect to name one person as your successor or have you already?“ „That I am not contemplaining now.. so keep the GBC very vigilant.2. I have already given you full directions in my books. he can glorify the whole family and similarly if there is bad boy he can turn the whole family into ashes. that one tree can burn into ashes the whole forest. Similarly if there is one tree in whose cavity there is a little fire. „But there is no need of one person. Similarly in this institution if there is a bad disciple he can burn the whole institution into ashes. 1976 Srila Prabhupada`s age seems to be of particular interest to reporters. that one tree can glorify the whole forest by the flavor of its flower.“ Prabhupada replied. so this can also be managed.D. then still there is hope of making our progress uninterruptedly.“ Srila Prabhupada told him. so if may be I may nominate or they can nominate. As before. I mean to say. In a family if there is one good boy. They are under my direct training.1970) Now I have invested the GBC for maintaining the standard of our Krsna Consciousness Society. He also wanted to know if there would be a single appointed successor to him. So this simile is applicable anywhere. As. I hope the GBC in cooperation with the Sannyasis in their touring program will be able to keep vigilance systematically in order to keep the Society as pure as possible. attempt has been made lately in our Society to shake this formula. but by committee. Prabhupada said he was training GBC`s and they would continue to guide the Movement. I hope Krsna will help us. This mischievous attempt has done a great harm. That is the way of understanding the secret of Krsna Consciousness.2. 25th August.(SPL to Satsvarupa. The Governing Body Commission's duty is therefore to see that every member is following the rules and regulations and chanting sixteen round regularly on the beads.„I am training some. The Canakya Pandit says that if there is one tree in the forest producing nice aromatic flower.325-326) SPIRITUAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE GBC One should have unflinching faith in Krsna and similarly in the Spiritual Master. and I think they will be able to conduct this Movement.(SPL to Bali Mardan. but if you the members of the Governing Body Commission can rectify this mischievous attempt. advanced students.289) 10th June. and indicated how he expected things to go on.D..“ (P. just like in the democracy there are senators and there is president. There are two verses in the Canakya Sloka how a family or an institution can be glorified or burned into ashes by one person. to keep the devotional standards at the highest level and at the same time to manage a world-wide organization. In this way. Suchi means purest. The world is divided into twelve zones. we should become more regulated and strict for following the rules and regulations. The zonal secretaries duty is to see that the spiritual principles are being upheld very nicely in all the Temples of his zone. Even after drinking water we should wash hands. All the presidents of our centers should see that all the members are strictly observing the brahminical standards. (SPL to Rupanuga.(SPL to Bagavan dasa. 19th September. 1972) I think it is best thing if the GBC members always travel on Sankirtana Party in their zone and go from one village to another and visit the temples to see how the students are learning and do my work. like that. We need a class of men purely brahmanas. attending arati.(SPL to Jagadisa. 22nd April. 1972) Your idea to recruit many brahmacaris is nice.(SPL to Rupanuga. I am very glad that you are travelling there and preaching and thus feeling enlivened. will give you the deserved reputation of being the topmost members of the society. 1970) So far the overseeing of the temples in your Zone. signed by Srila Prabhupada and Karandhara.(SPL to Karandhara. 1970) I have formed this GBC for that purpose. cleansing at least twice daily. everything will be all right. reading profusely. We have got such a nice process that even from the base sudras we can create brahmanas of highest calibre. Please continue to travel among the centers and preach as much as possible. Keep the Montreal and Vancouver Centers carefully in cooperation and in general see that things are going well with the help of your Godbrothers and other Governing Body Commissioners. That is the main work of GBC. That is suci. The Krishna Consciousness movement is meant for reestablishing the system of four varnas and asramas. Otherwise we shall fall down. 18th December. For each zone there is one zonal secretary appointed by Srila Prabhupada. The whole world is full of sudras. 4th November.So if our GBC members remain strong. That is very much wanted so that we may hope to change the society as a whole. Gradually. they will avoid the propensity to sit down and plot 298 . 1970) Please see that the highest standards are maintained in all the Temples in your jurisdiction as well as your own. 1970) The formula for ISKCON organization is very simple and can be understood by everyone. Everyone should join the mangal arati. 3 rd May. strictly following the regulative principles. So our program if it is kept pure according to my many instructions. (SPL to all the temple presidents. You begin immediately this process. then there will be progress of civilization. Sometimes we see that even they do not wash hands after eating. We are now attracting the attention of the public in general and very influential persons as well. such as rising early. 14th November. Just see that the standard of purity is strictly maintained and the standard of enthusiasm for spreading Lord Caitanya's Movement is increased. (SPL to Karandhara. That must be rectified at once. And GBC and Sannyasis will travel and see the officers are doing this. and if they observe anything lowering of the standard. and they can go out for preaching to nondevotees and making new devotees. 16th June. many devotees if none of them are knowledgeable? (SPL to Satsvarupa dasa. You may remember that we were reading one sloka each morning in Sanskrit and reciting it altogether and then discussing it thoroughly by seeing different new things. or if there is some discrepancy I shall remove it. and at the same time as GBC man you shall be my personal secretary for maintaining the highest level of Krishna Consciousness amongst the devotees in your zone. that's all right. It is better to maintain a devotee than to try to convince others to become devotees. So you introduce this system and train the devotees first. 16th June. So you can advise them all to travel extensively on Sankirtana all over their zone. then we will succeed. 1972) So I do not think the leaders are themselves following. and let them go out and preach for making more devotees. and giving them good instruction so they may understand nicely why this tapasya is necessary. 1972) I fully approve of your program for traveling. now we must fix-up what devotees we have got in the knowledge of Krishna Consciousness. but the first business should be to preach to the devotees. If they are fully educated in our philosophy and if they can get all of the knowledge and study it from every viewpoint. and that they are somehow or other absorbing the knowledge of Krishna Consciousness philosophy. keep them in the highest standard of Krishna Consciousness. What good are many. just as we have done in our morning class in Los Angeles. that is the duty of the GBC man. Each centre remain independent. GBC should not be so much concerned for preaching to nondevotees. and give them all good instruction.(SPL to Karandhara. Don't be too much concerned for the time being with nondevotees. 22nd December. 1972) 299 . how can they go out and preach? So you GBC men are my selected few for insuring that what I am doing will be carried on very nicely for the pleasure of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu. they must reform and advise.and scheme how to eat and sleep. But if they do not have any knowledge. but the president and other officers must themselves follow and see the others are following the regulative principles carefully. I am very much concerned that the devotees should be given all good instruction and knowledge of Krishna Consciousness. 1972) You mention you like to speak now very often. 4th May. then very easily they will perform tapasya or renunciation and that will be their advancement in Krishna Consciousness. 16th June. nor they are seeing the others are following strictly. It is the duty of the GBC to maintain the devotees.(SPL to Madhudvisa. now you combine the sannyasi requirement for traveling extensively. especially the responsible officers. better to utilize time and train the devotees.(SPL to Satsvarupa dasa. Your first job should be to make sure that every one of the devotees in your zone of management is reading regularly our literatures and discussing the subject matter seriously from different angles of seeing. 1972) So first thing is to instruct all of your temple presidents and the other devotees to read daily. So you have a very wide range of area to cover and many things to look after.(SPL to Madhudvisa Swami. 24th March. In your travelling from centre to centre. This is your main responsibility. If they are doing this.So now I am seeing more and more that my senior disciples must take and active role in continuing the high standard of purity which has been established in our Vaisnava line. Therefore I have established that the duty of the president of each temple and also the GBC is to see that each devotee is following the rules and regulations. 1974) Chanting offenselessly is the remedy for all of these diseases. rising early for Mangala Arati. and that they remain enthusiastic about improving their devotional service in that way. 1974) GBC means that one must be ideal Vaisnava. to see that one may not be taken away by maya. This is preaching. So you may please do the needful in this regard. please do it very soberly. 1974) Regarding Sydney.. 1975) So study my books and reproduce the purports in your own language. if one does not follow the regulative principles. that the President has left. participating in the morning and evening classes. That is a fact. then he will leave. 4th June. You should instruct your temple presidents to preach like this . you must be very careful to see that the leaders are observing the principles of chanting 16 rounds. chanting 16 rounds so that they may be spiritually fit. One who is expert for 300 . Within these Vaisnava standards which I have put forward lies the spiritual strength of our movement. (SPL to Hrdayananda Maharaja. This I want. (SPL to Jagadisa dasa. 1974) As GBC your first responsibility is to keep yourself spiritually fit and see that all the devotees in your zone of management are chanting 16 rounds. Of course I am encouraged to hear that in each center you have stressed the distribution of my books and you are seeing that devotees daily go out for sankirtana as a primary devotional item. observing the four regulative principles etc. Be sure they are aware of the ten offenses to chanting. and you should be the instructor guru by teaching what I am teaching and doing what I am doing. then management will be at your finger's end. Has somebody else been elected ? This is the function of the GBC. 19th August. 4th August. That means there must be strict observance in following all the rules and regulations. 16th February. consulting when necessary with your GBC Godbrothers. 1973) As GBC you must see that they and all the devotees in the temples are first of all chanting at least 16 rounds on beads. Everything is there. This is not a title. rising early and strictly avoiding the sinful activities. Then everything will be all right. We haven't got to invent something by our fertile brain for preaching. The GBC should all be the instructor gurus. I am in the initiator guru. and then to see that all others are following strictly. but you must actually come to this platform.(SPL to Vidarbha Kanya dasi.(SPL to Bhagavan dasa. 6th September. and if there is any deviation from this standard then it is the responsibility of you and the local GBC representative to rectify it immediately.(SPL to Sudama. the sannyasis are now devoted fully to travelling and preaching work.(SPL to Jagadisa dasa. 6th August. 1970) Now I have set up the Governing Body Commission to handle management. That is what I wish to see from the GBC members. 4th November. 1975) Yes. (SPL to Upendra. Otherwise how will you preach? In order to remain steadily fixed in Krishna consciousness there must be a sound philosophical understanding. and personal problems. You have only to speak what Krsna has said.(SPL to Satsvarupa Maharaja. 1970) I'm glad that you and Bali Mardan Prabhu have had a chance to be together and have planned jointly one center in Hong Kong. this is a successful preacher. questions of philosophy.(SPL to Upendra. as a Sannyasi and GBC your first duty is to read my books. 9th November. I simply want time to write books to satisfy my Guru Maharaja. 4th August. These things are too much botheration for me. I am very hopeful for this GBC that you will work in such a way that I may be completely relieved from all management of this society.presenting these things before the audience so they can conveniently understand. Then you become a preacher. 5th January. management is left to the local Temple Presidents and the members of the Governing Body Commission. that they work combinedly to open as many centers as possible all over the world. 1970) 301 . 1976) MANAGERIAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE GBC Regarding your questions. (SPL to Sudama. Otherwise it will become only sentiment. Whenever you find time please read my books. 4th November. So please always work cooperatively for this end. seeing the statements of accounts. Now we are increasing in volume.I have formed this GBC for that purpose. The future hope of solid standing of our mission is on the proper management of our Governing Body Commission. But I am at the same time managing everything. like that.(SPL to Bhagavan dasa. The area of our activity is expanding. But if we do not take time to understand how the financial matters are going on. because pure devotional service means: anya avhilasita sunya. you should try to keep yourself always informed how the financial matters are improving and keep your watchful eye on every feature of our Krishna Consciousness activity. 25th November. that will be our success. etc. That is also part of preaching work. This is most important. but now things are being rectified. 1972) You mention that you are no longer much occupied with seeing that the rent and mortgage is paid and that the incense is sold. That is the meaning of secretary . Neglect of following the regulative activities and so-called advancement on the basis of self-motivation are both offensive.1970) I am very glad that you are trying with all the other GBC members to maintain all the various functions of our very large organization up to the standard as I have set for you. 1970) It is good that you GBC members are meeting and conjointly discussing such things as life membership. No. Such status quo can be maintained only on our being freed from any kind of sense gratifying attitude. Therefore. 16th February. going to the bank. if our management goes on nicely to maintain our prestige and good name. then at any moment we may experience some calamity due to our inattention to these matters. So because we are engaged in many fields of activity I am especially relying upon that knowledge of my GBC assistants and secretaries to manage everything properly. One should sincerely try to bring himself to the stage of devotional service motivated by pure love of Krsna. (SPL to Rupanuga. So you find out some teachers from your zone and send there. to keep the devotional standards at the highest level and at the same time to manage a world-wide organization. You will not be too much involved with local temple management. but GBC means to be occupied with everything in the zone. 16th June. temple and very soon we shall invest in similar properties. you can send from your jurisdiction as GBC man Central USA zone. . So practically there is no question of my 302 . but for management which will require the larger interests. book distribution. You are right to say that the example and kindly guidance of our elder members in the Society is the most profound force for motivating our students both new and old towards advanced Krsna Consciousness.A. 1971) If you require more men and women to teach there at Gurukula. and our personal example must set a guide for them. the GBC member is supposed to know everything and anything about the condition and situation of all matters within his jurisdiction. or without any other desire than to satisfy Krishna. Just now I have purchased one apartment house with seven apartments just adjacent to the L.(SPL to Satsvarupa. Under the circumstances. giving advice on every topic. I know that there has been a great disturbance amongst the devotees caused recently. I am also preaching daily. It is not that now we are preachers we can neglect all other points.(SPL to Satsvarupa. that will be your responsibility as GBC. and if he gets gradually understanding from the class. and similarly. should be done locally by local men. things must be in order and lawfully done. but that should be each temple's concern. corporate status. The whole problem is they are not following the regulative principles. you shall do as I am doing. like rising early. everything. chanting gayatri. There must be always individual striving and work and responsibility. So I do not think the leaders are themselves following. Otherwise. that's all right. etc. That is your real business. Anyone who lives in the temple must agree to follow the rules and regulations without fail. Once there is bureaucracy the whole thing will be spoiled.. 1st July. Each temple must remain independent and self-sufficient. And GBC and Sannyasis will travel and see the officers are doing this. become separate corporations in each state. Never mind there may be botheration to register each centre. therefore I appointed you and Bali Mardan to do it. competitive spirit. Do not centralize anything. monies. Therefore we should not be so anxious to induce them to live in the temple. Therefore let them live outside and become gradually convinced in the class why they should accept some austerity. That will train men how to do these things. nor they are seeing the others are following strictly. chanting 16 rounds. That must be rectified at once. but if one simply sticks strictly to the rules and regulations. Even mechanically following. first with chanting. Each centre remain independent. and giving them good instruction so they may understand nicely why this tapasya is necessary. dissatisfied? That is not a very good sign. if such devotees go 303 . not for making bureaucracy. corporate status. like that. if new men are coming. and if there is also patience and determination. All of this I have told you in Nectar of Devotion. I do not at all approve of such plan. and they shall develop reliability and responsibility. credit. then they will live with us out of their own accord and follow nicely everything. and if they observe anything lowering of the standard. No. take tax certificate each. so educate them gradually. why you are thinking otherwise? Once before you wanted to do something centralizing with your GBC meeting. that I can detect. and do not be so much anxious to count up so many numbers of new devotees. Otherwise.neglecting the financial matters of the society. Accounts must be kept. Of course. he will come to the point of spontaneous enthusiasm. that our men are losing their enthusiasm for spreading on our programmes of Krishna Consciousness movement. keeping always clean--then his enthusiasm will grow more and more. then his life will be perfect. that is the point. Only thing I wanted was that books printing and distribution should be centralized. I have heard from Jayatirtha you want to make big plan for centralization of management.(SPL to Satsvarupa. 1972) Regarding your points about taxation. not that one shall dominate and distribute benefits to the others and they do nothing but beg from you and you provide. and if I did not interfere the whole thing would have been killed. not yours. bookkeeping. I am little observing now. Krishna Consciousness Movement is for training men to be independently thoughtful and competent in all types of departments of knowledge and action. Do not think in this way of big corporation. one day he will come to the platform of spontaneous devotion. That was my plan from the very beginning. So if some new man moves in with us he may become discouraged if he is forced in this way. This spontaneous loving devotional service is not so easy matter. but the president and other officers must themselves follow and see the others are following the regulative principles carefully. they may not be expected immediately to take to our regulative principles cent per cent. especially in your country. taxes. why so many letters of problems are coming. It is very difficult to give up very quickly so many bad habits as you have got in your country. or if there is some discrepancy I shall remove it. big credits. they must reform and advise. Without this. management. enthusiasm will be lacking. centralization--these are all nonsense proposals. and that will keep it healthy. We should not be very much after comforts and become complacent or self-contented. we are now expanding and so our interests should be carefully guarded. so the background is good will. Special care should be taken that no property can be sold or mortgaged by local managers as was done by Gaurasundara. you say that you will be tactful and respectful in your dealings. not many false devotees or pretenders. but being so engaged in doing something very much satisfying to the devotee that he remains always enthusiastic. but the management should be entrusted to the Brahmacaris and next the Grhasthas. so that they will agree enthusiastically to rise and meet it. strictly observing the regulative principles--Krishna Consciousness movement must be always a challenge. very carefully. never mind what is that job. 1974) Regarding your trip to U. So my point is that the regulative principles must be followed by everyone. The point is to be engaged in doing something for Krishna. and so many problems are there. which is individual and spontaneous and voluntary. But where are so many expert managers? All of us should become expert managers and preachers. So you big managers now try to train up more and more some competent preachers and managers like yourselves. rectify it. He will automatically follow the regulative principles because they are part of his occupational duty--by applying them practically as his occupational duty. 7th September. This is my only concern.S. (SPL to Karandhara. and I think in every document my name as FounderAcarya should be mentioned. and if there is any deficiency. so long the managers remain vigilant that 16 rounds are being chanted by everyone without fail. There is some symptom of missing the point. that they are all rising before four morning. Otherwise their enthusiasm dwindles and they again think of sex and become restless. There must be always some tapasya. 22nd December. 1972) Regarding the International Trust Board. Certainly the 12 GBC members are being trained up strictly under my guidance so that they will protect the interest of the society very. All our property should be well protected.(SPL to Bali Mardan. (SPL to Hamsaduta dasa. a great achievement to be gained by voluntary desire to do it.A.away later being too early forced. That should be the motto of all GBC. So everything should be done on the basis of good will. attending mangal arati--Our leaders shall be careful not to kill the spirit of enthusiastic service. Be tolerant. All our men have volunteered good service. That is the art of management: to draw out spontaneous loving spirit of sacrificing some energy for Krishna. he realizes the happy result of regulative principles. Forget this centralizing and bureaucracy. He should not directly 304 . I want to see a few sincere devotees. 5th September. So the future of this Krishna Consciousness movement is very bright. They should try always to generate some atmosphere of fresh challenge to the devotees. 1974) GBC AND THE TEMPLE PRESIDENT He may be the supreme authority for the New Vrindaban center. But that investment should be in proportion to food and salt. For each zone there is one zonal secretary appointed by Srila Prabhupada.7]. and you can supervise. The individual presidents should be more managerial. all energy should be diverted to start a nice press for our publication work. So there is no extra money for the society to invest in New Vrindaban. They must look forward to the common development. as your countrymen are more or less independent spirited and lovers of democracy. According to Sanskrit moral principles. For the present. 30th August. I think the local president's permission is sufficient. I have also advised Brahmananda to ask for monthly reports. but also. So in every action we should always pray to Krishna for His help so that we may act it nicely. Whatever you possess now in funds. That will be unmanageable in the near future. rising early. Lord Krishna advised Arjuna yudhyasva mam anusmara [Bg. and similarly you may ask for monthly reports. and similarly. The world is divided into twelve zones.(SPL to Brahmananda. The zonal secretaries duty is to see that the spiritual principles are being 305 . Then He will give you all intelligence. you can make suggestions how to correct it. 1969) As GBC you must see to it that the highest standards of routine work are maintained throughout all the centers. To make it more tasteful. 1969) Regarding movement of the members from one temple to another. So everything should be done very carefully so that their sentiments may not be hurt. 13 th October. audience and time. Neither you can spare any money to anyone without my permission. taking consideration of the place. more individual. As far as possible the centers should act freely. and that chanting. every center should be independently developed by supplying the food. 1969) So far as investment of the society's money for New Vrindaban is concerned. One thing should be followed. however. This is nice.(SPL to Hayagriva. what is the point?(SPL to Hamsaduta. 1969) I have seen the agenda of your president's meeting. one adds salt to his food. simply supervise and see that the standards are maintained. You are all intelligent boys. will supply the salt. if need be. any center will invest money.interfere with the management--he can simply give direction and the Brahmacaris and Grhasthas can carry out the management. I have also instructed Brahmananda in this way. Don't take too much load of individual administration. But if we lose individuality and simply become mechanical. and the society. 8.(SPL to Tamala Krsna. that is not your personal money. 18th October. 1972) The formula for ISKCON organization is very simple and can be understood by everyone. and at the same time we should remember Krishna always. We should use all our intellect as well as possible. That will be easier. and you should be engaged in Krishna's service. 14th February. and all other aspects of our regular program may not be neglected. 18th March. That should be our principle. cleansing. certainly it will be done in New Vrindaban. if required. and not only the money which Kirtanananda Maharaja collects. That should be the principle. GBC men should not dictate very much. but conjointly. so how can you execute the request of Kirtanananda at the present moment? I think you will understand the matter rightly and do the needful. That is our first business . everything has to be acted. (SPL to Tamala Krsna. and if some defect is detected. that is required. 24th April. The devotees who do not like to work with Tejas should immediately go away from the temple. the Presidents may handle and take advice and assistance from their GBC representative . That is our main business.11th January. The more you distribute our books and magazines. and the presidents by their ideal character must teach the others then automatically all members of the whole institution will be ideal to the human society. the temple presidents and GBC men especially. 22nd April. He is an outsider. In the absence of competent leaders we may take the post. but your first concern should be book and magazine distribution. Then we can dictate to administrators or sometimes take hold of the administration. 1972) This program to make each and every center spiritually strong should be the duty of the GBC. Devotees come from the outside and interfere. signed by Srila Prabhupada and Karandhara dasa. Otherwise each Temple shall be independent and self-supporting.upheld very nicely in all the Temples of his zone. that Tejas is the most sincere worker of the lot.1974) The GBC must be vigilant by following the regulative principles and teach by ideal character the presidents of the centers. Who sent Janmanjoya there? Why is he taking to politics? So you opinion is also mine. So far the practical management is concerned. they cannot change the president. No. We have to increase our preaching propensity. so whatever organization needs to be done.31st Januar. Your reports of book distribution are very. In this way let the Societies work go on and everyone increase their service at their own creative rate. Stop this. Subala left India now why has he returned without permission? This removal of the president is very unconstitutional. But he may not. This is the history. So far we are concerned we shall keep ourselves in ideal brahminical position and if need be 306 . Let every Temple President work according to his own capacity to improve the Krishna Consciousness of his center. at least once in a month what you are doing (SPL to Citsukhananda . So far financing. Parasaram was a Brahmin but when he found the ksatriyas were mismanaging he killed them twenty one times and some of them fled to European countries.1973) Regarding the agitation to remove Tejas: No. Tejas must not be removed. 1972) I think Gaurasundara in Hawaii is the GBC man for South American Zone.1972) I am desiring now to turn over the management of the society to my disciples.(SPL to Gunagrahi dasa . but not that we should become too much absorbed in fancy organization. along with Hanuman. why are they interfering. But we must be very careful in the flow of the political movement we may not forget our ideal life.11th December. very encouraging. and you can simply advise them . Don't bother too much about financial matters. I don't want this. For example. Please stop this(SPL to Tamal Krsna Maharaja. This is a clique.(SPL to Hamsaduta. so cooperatively you may work out the management details.(SPL to temple presidents. Those who feel against him can go away. that is solid work. Our business is spiritual life. let them do in their own way. so you should also write to him in this connection and take his advice and make report to him. Why has Subala Maharaja gone there. 1974) Regarding the election at Bhaktivedanta Manor. But these four divisions are imperative. The women are doing nicely. and you should not interfere .A. there are sudras and less than that. Neither Hamsaduta can change the president whimsically or can anybody else change the president. and I am giving the casting vote for him. All our men have volunteered good service. if he received the vote. Be tolerant. rectify it. 12th September. and Madhavananda should be president. My recommendation is that he must be the president. and I have already asked Bhagavan das to be present. may be the president. Everything must go on. following the regulative principles. 28 th April. so he must be the president. (SPL to Madhavananda dasa. It should be the choice of Madhavananda who should be the pujari. and if there is any deficiency. He is doing things very nicely there. 1st October. At the present moment in the world state. 307 . so why are they being changed from the pujari to the Sankirtana? These things should be done by the President. 1974) Regarding the election I have already suggested that you hold another election in the presence of Hamsaduta and Bhagavan dasa with all members present. He has been chosen by the vote. as you have suggested an election of all members present should be held to make a final selection. then the president cannot be changed. Another meeting should be held. Out of the two candidates whoever is elected by the majority vote. There are no ideal brahmanas or ksatriyas. Persons who are not fit for being advanced by training are sudras or less than that. There are so many contradictory statements in this matter. 1974) Regarding your trip to U. 2nd and 3rd classes of social constitution. (SPL to Hamsaduta dasa. Prabha Visnu should go on Sankirtana. Training is required for the 1st. why you have opposed? You must be impartial. So everything should be done on the basis of good will. 1974) Regarding the election of President. a president can only be changed by vote. According the ``Direction of Management'' the GBC cannot change the President but only by vote can it be done. and to take that decision as final. That should be the motto of all GBC. you say that you will be tactful and respectful in your dealings. These are internal things. If we are not ideal we cannot create others as ideal.(SPL to Rupanuga Maharaja. If no vote was taken.(SPL to Hamsaduta dasa. Our business is to create ideal ksatriyas and vaisyas but beyond that our real business is to keep ourselves as ideal Brahmins. I have already suggested this to Mukunda. so the background is good will. 1st October. 7th September. so there will be two GBC's and all members present. So our business is to keep fit as brahmanas and to train others to be ideal ksatriyas and vaisyas for advancing the whole society. and chanting 16 rounds and that other things are going on nicely.S. The GBC's business is to see that the President and the members are doing nicely. 1974) Regarding Madhavananda being the president. (SPL to Hamsaduta dasa. I do not approve of your changing the women.if no ksatriya or Vaisya is here we can take up their work as emergency. If the GBC undermines the efforts of the temple presidents how will things go on smoothly. That is the principle. Without authority Hamsaduta cannot change the election. then Hamsaduta cannot whimsically change the vote. I have to choose each word very soberly and if I have to think of management then I cannot do this. On the whole I understand there are so many contradictions. Sannyasis are meant for preaching only. if by vote he was authorized to select the president. 1976) My dear GBC disciples. temple presidents. so in the presence of all members you may take the vote again and decide finally. they are undoubtedly rendering a valuable service and are worthy of respect and encouragement(SPL to Gurukrpa Maharaja. It appears that because you had made some derogatory racial remarks against him in the presence of other devotees here in the temple. How one man can manage the whole world affairs? This is my concern. That is the process. 18th May. I have chosen my best men to be GBC and I do not want that the GBC should be disrespectful to the temple presidents.(SPL to Jayatirtha dasa. there is a resolution to this effect. If the vote was in favor of Madhavananda. I was not informed by my secretary that Hamsaduta was authorized by vote to make the selection. 1976) What happened to Jagat Purusa in Bombay? He is an experienced man in Bombay so why he should be changed to Delhi? This change of Presidents is to be made in the GBC meeting. why was Hamsaduta authorized if the vote was already taken? This I do not know. It is document. but if the basic principle is weak. Why have you threatened to remove him and unnecessarily created this situation? Please be very sober in your dealings with these temple presidents. 16th October.If it was decided by vote that Hamsaduta would select the president then Hamsaduta is right. So this task will not be finished without the cooperation of my appointed assistants. so why complaints are there I do not know. and sannyasis . then I cannot do my work on the books. But. If I am always having to manage. the Honolulu Temple President.(SPL to all Governing Board Commissioners. the GBC. 19th May. So far I know you are approved manager. how will things go on? So please assist me in the management so that I can be free to finish the Srimad-Bhagavatam which will be our lasting contribution to the world. So I request you to relieve me of management responsibilities more and more so that I can complete the Srimad-Bhagavatam translation. In the middle of the year there is no question of change. 1975) I have spoken with Sukadeva das Adhikari. it has become difficult to manage and win the respect of this devotees. I do not want that Sukadeva be removed from his position as I can see that he is sincerely following the principles at present. Tejyas can continue as 308 . The GBC can not whimsically change the temple president. But.(SPL to Mukunda dasa. contrary to the principle if things are being embezzled then how can I save them. You can naturally consult me. I cannot be like these rascals who present something mental concoction to cheat the public. and if there are any discrepancies that will be discussed at the GBC meeting in Mayapur. GBC should see whether management is going on nicely. This situation could have been avoided by sober dealings in a Krsna Conscious manner. 1974) The local management has to be done by temple president. then whomever he selects is right. But. 29th September. kindly maintain your behavior to the standard so that others will follow and the whole thing may go on nicely. It was said about Lord Caitanya: APANI ACARI PRABHU JIVERE SIKHAYA. please institute these most important points of attending mangal arati and chanting 16 rounds. As GBC you should see the standard is perfectly maintained. 1972) 309 . Tamala should not do like that. So you are one of the chief men of this Institution.. The president.(SPL to Gopala Krsna dasa. these are the most important points of Krishna Consciousness process. 1971) Yes. Then Krishna will give us all protection. 1971) GBC does not mean to control a center.President. 9th July. But make it so that people may not think too repressive so they will not go away--impressive but not repressive. that is the system. The GBC men cannot impose anything on the men of a center without consulting all of the GBC members first. But if you live separately with your wife and earn only for yourself and your wife. That is our principle: Unless one is perfectly behaved person.And most GBC members are householders.(SPL to Hayagriva. 1976) AUTHORITY OF THE GBC GBC members are simply to see that things are going on. He personally used to practice Himself the injunctions and then He used to teach others. But it is a fact that the local president is not under the control of the GBC. Three times changing president is not good. Kindly do that and advise your co-workers to do that. Then our centers will be wellmanaged. if they are not respected then we fall down from the standard and the whole thing is finished. It should first be conjointly considered by the GBC. We are in the experimental stage but in the next meeting of the GBC members they should form a constitution how the GBC members manage the whole affair.. 13 th February. My only request is that all the GBC members should be strictly to the standard of life. etc. and see that others are also following them. then how you expect to have a good position with the society? (SPL to Umapati. So how is it that the GBC are the final authority? They are simply to examine that things are going on nicely. I do not know why Tamala is exercising his absolute authority. for improvement of situations such as this I must be informed of everything. treasurer and secretary are responsible for managing the center. Neglecting the principles means neglecting Krishna's order. That is not the business of GBC. These regulative principles are our life. Yes. The position is open to all grhasthas.(SPL to Giriraja. 12th August. That is not in the power of GBC. he cannot teach others. GBC is to see that things are going nicely but not to exert absolute authority. that is. secretary. You also may be elected. 11th July. That is the formula. GBC means to see that the activities of a center go on nicely. as in the case of Ranadhira. and that deity worship is perfectly done. Other centers have got president. A GBC member cannot go beyond the jurisdiction of his power. and they are managing separately. that is all. . 1971) 310 . In most cases it will be yes unless it is grievously against our principles. and above the GBC I am there. 1971) Out of the nine responses you got from GBC members for your proposal to reduce the price of BTG to the temples to 10 cents.So far your question. So how I can say your question from here? I do not know what you are trying to do by such question. So the temple president is responsible to the GBC and the GBC is responsible to me. So whatever you want to do or whatever ideas you want to introduce in the management of our society. 1972) In connection with our ISKCON project in Fiji . Therefore I say yes. 20 th August. 26 th August. the answer is that they must always be followed exactly as he says. secretary. even some of the important men are doing like that. In this way we are managing. This question-begging is going on. my opinion will be yes or no. Then collect the opinions of each and every GBC member and if the majority supports the idea then it should be taken as a fact for being carried out in our society. 1976) MAYAPUR ANNUAL MEETING You happen to be a member of the GBC. So much money will be spent unnecessarily for travel and big big plans will be made only. etc. I can make adjustment later.(SPL to Karandhara. Of course. By this system of taking a majority vote on any given proposal and then submitting the final decision to me for approval there is no necessity for holding a GBC meeting. there are seven in favor. how far should the orders of my duly appointed officers like GBC. But first of all you must without hesitation obey. treasurer in every centre. We have got about 20 GBC's looking after the whole world affair. If there is complaint. my authorities and so-called officers.(SPL to Jagadisa. be obeyed and followed. 30th June. that I know. they sometimes also order in such a way that everything becomes topsy-turvy.(SPL to Jayadharma. It is something like the appealing to the higher court if one is not satisfied by decision of the lower court. So you may write to me your grievance-what can I do?--but meanwhile you must follow him exactly whatever he says. please write in a letter and distribute the copies to all the GBC members along with one copy to me also . GBC . Below the GBC there are the temple president. The majority vote and my opinion should be taken. So what is the use? Simply go on as you have done in this case and that will be best. 13th December.(SPL to Vasudeva. So many questions. it's not good at all. I beg to inform you that we are managing our Krishna Consciousness Movement by the Governing Body Commission. Have you not heard me on this point? Why these questions are repeated again and again? This individual begging must be stopped. When the majority opinion is present. If we are bunched up. and remember the story in Aesop's Fables of the father of many children with the bundle of sticks. So this is the strength in unity.1974). In the meantime work peacefully without disturbing the situation(SPL to Ramesvara dasa 15th Semptember . as you have begun this program should be regularly followed once a year: meet in Mayapur and chalk out activities for the year. But. That will make our movement successful. The meeting is very valuable and must be carried out regularly every year. . Then. next year meet and see how far things are being done and if necessary make changes for responsible GBC and presidents etc.A. then it is simply the material platform. Not only GBC shall meet but many devotees from all parts of the world. My request is that until I am able to return to the USA you all please work peacefully. They cannot come into agreement with varieties. then we can become broken very easily. When the father asked his children to break the bundle of sticks wrapped in a bag.28th April. In the material world there are varieties. But. With all GBC and senior men present we should discuss how to make unity in diversity. Now Karandhara has written asking to come back and I have called him to come to Bombay and if possible he can be engaged as GBC for India. That is the difference. but why wasn't their discussion of the meeting.18th October. our Tamala Krsna Goswami never proposed to go to the USA at the meeting but now he has decided to go back to the U.1973) Regarding Mayapur. 311 . when they removed the sticks from the bag. we can never be broken. It is not difficult for me. But. therefore we must be very careful to maintain unity in diversity. At our next annual meeting at Mayapur all complaints and counter complaints will be heard in the presence of all GBC and I will also be present. There are all marble floors and there is always natural ventilation. then there will be agreement in varieties. The materialist without being able to adjust the varieties and the disagreements makes everything zero. Please try to maintain the philosophy of unity in diversity. Now this replacement I have to bother. then a GBC vote could be taken and they could have selected a replacement. In the spiritual world there are varieties. but there is no agreement. For example. the sticks were easily broken. At least next March we must meet together(SPL to Hamsaduta . and tried one by one. but if the matter is discussed at the meeting.29th June. but there is agreement. In Mayapur we now have facilities to accommodate more than a thousand people. even though there are varieties of engagements. One section of men have already gone out.As far as the GBC meeting is concerned I must be there wherever they meet. But one thing is that at Mayapur last time most of the time was spent discussing but no program was made firm for the year. but when divided.1974) I am hearing so many things about management. Of course you can go back. We have a four story building and enough space so that even on the balcony we can accommodate thousands apart from the rooms.(SPL to Kirtananda Maharaja .(SPL to Rupanuga Maharaja . especially in this Kali yuga. therefore we must meet at least once a year in Mayapur. if we fight on account of diversity. I am therefore suggesting that all our men meet in Mayapur every year during the birth anniversary of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu. none of them could do it. but if we keep Krsna in the center.S.1973) Material nature means dissension and disagreement. for this Krsna consciousness movement its success will depend on agreement. This is called unity in diversity. on the contrary.(SPL to Hamsaduta dasa .4th December .Regarding the temples being mismanaged.1976) 312 . complaints and counter-complaints are coming to me. So far I know you are approved manager. Then how my brain can be peaceful. Therefore. Naturally.(SPL to Jayatirtha dasa . Yearly once or twice there should be a GBC meeting held to discuss all these intricate questions.(SPL to Cyavana Maharaja .16th January.(SPL to Atreya Rishi . How one man can manage the whole world affairs? This is my concern. We shall sit together in Mayapur if there is any complaint against one another. At Mayapur each year a program is chalked out for the entire year. In your letter to Ramesvara you call for a meeting of GBC to develop a system of management and communications which will eliminate chances of recurrences. conjointly. This meeting can be held once in India and once in Europe or America in my presence. Sannyasis are meant for preaching only.16th October. (SPL to Atreya Rsi dasa . At the Mayapur meeting. and if there are any discrepancies that will be discussed at the GBC meeting in Mayapur. then it will be five years vacant. so try to make some formula so our institution may go on without any difficulty.1975) There is no question of removal at the present moment. so why complaints are there I do not know.15th November 1974) The local management has to be done by temple president. the installment plan is better. That is the principle. contrary to the principle if things are being embezzled then how can I save them. That is the process.1975) The program you have suggested can be discussed at the Mayapur GBC meeting. you must give it some practical shape . whatever we have decided that is good for one year. So if anything has to be done it will be decided by majority decision of the GBC. I am asking all GBC members to come to Mayapur early and hold the meeting in my presence beginning the morning of March 6th.1975) It has come to my attention that the GBC have not been able to fully participate in the Mayapur festivities due to the annual meeting. My only grievance is that I appointed GBC to give me relief from the management but. so is it not possible to mitigate the differences of opinion and work smoothly.29th September 1974) Now you are a practical business manager.25th February.16th October. I would have liked they come all at least once in a year. so let the other trustees consider.1976) Regarding the devotees coming to Mayapur-Vrindaban.(SPL to Ramesvara. If they come once every five years. so we are expanding by Krishna's grace. I do not wish to give any decision without the GBC's verdict. So best thing is that we wait for the Mayapur meeting and decide there combinedly what to do. so when we next meet together. these things will be discussed at the GBC meeting here. But.(SPL to Jayatirtha . and that is to be executed till the GBC meets again. This is a good suggestion you have made. GBC should see whether management is going on nicely. I want to see that all of my centres are going nicely. 8) The recommended means of attaining the mature stage of Love of God in the present age of ``Kali.ISKON’S HISTORY AND OBJECTIVES The International Society for Krishna Consciousness is a bona fide religious society strictly following the principles described in the Vedic scriptures and practiced in India for thousands of years. by sincere cultivation of bona fide spiritual science attain to the state of pure. 3) Man is actually NOT his body. should be done as an offering unto Me. and good character means avoiding the following sinful activities: intoxication.'' or quarrel. the seed-giving Father of man and all living entities. 7) We can. He is the sustaining energy of all life. We have already seen practically how by this process many. unending blissful consciousness. But this transcendental vibration of Sankirtana will knock at the door of their hearts for spiritual awakening. They are working hard day and night simply for sense gratification. Koran. many boys and girls of America and Europe have been saved from the immoral practices of this age and have now dedicated their lives to the service of Krishna. the Bible. illicit sex life. Rama Rama Hare Hare. but is eternal spirit soul. Our duty and religious obligation is to go out into the streets where the people in general can hear the chanting and see the dancing. etc. most notably the BHAGAVAD GITA which is the literal record of God's actual Words. 2) God. IX. The easiest method for most people is to chant the Hare Krishna mantra: Hare Krishna Hare Krishna. Our basic Mission is to propagate the Sankirtana Movement (chanting of the Holy Names of God) all around the world as was recommended by the Incarnation of the Lord. or KRISHNA is eternal. 4) That all men are brothers can be practiced only when we realize God as our common ultimate Father. Torah. is to chant the Holy Name of the Lord. . gambling 313 . and therefore eternal. the oldest known Revealed Scriptures in existence are the Vedic literatures. It is not recommended that a Krishna Conscious devotee go into seclusion for chanting by himself and thereby gaining salvation for himself alone. Therefore. all-knowing. omnipresent. all that you eat. Our basic beliefs are as follows: 1) The Absolute Truth is contained in all the great Scriptures of the world. . People in this age are reluctant very much to understand about God consciousness on account of their unfortunate condition of life. all-powerful and all attractive. nature and the cosmic situation. However. free from anxiety in this very lifetime. In this way He becomes the Offering. part and parcel of God. Krishna Krishna Hare Hare. they should be given the chance for this opportunity. all that you offer and give away. The state laws are specifically meant for making citizens men of good character. and such eating purifies us. Hare Rama Hare Rama. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu.'' (Bhagavad-gita. 27) 6) The food that sustains us should always be offered to the Lord before eating. ``all that you do. as well as all austerities that you may perform. 5) All our actions should be performed as a sacrifice to the Supreme Lord . Germany. by the original author of Vedic literature. he started 64 main centers all over the world. dance. creed. 1969) It is hoped that the government authorities will cooperate with our Sankirtana parties in enabling us to perform Sankirtana on the streets.(SPL to unknown. up to 1936. intelligence. it was organizedly recorded in the great voluminous literature. about 500 years ago. RAMA. Recently. with a view that we shall be able to attract the attention of the United Nations for spreading this important movement throughout the whole world for actual benefit of the human race. but this movement has been existing for a very long time. and since 1965. This is the aim and destination of human life. and London. HARE RAMA. and Nimbarka. So if there is any possibility of uniting the whole human race under one religion. HARE RAMA. Sri Krishna Dvaipayana Vyasa. I am a humble disciple of His Divine Grace. creed. So far I am concerned. under one mantra. Later on. under one scripture. and on occasion. HARE HARE. KRISHNA KRISHNA. request donations. and they are teaching others to follow the same principles. sell our society's journal. and one activity. this movement was started from the Battlefield of Kuruksetra. HARE HARE. 1 st February. there are millions of supporters for Krishna Consciousness in India. then this movement will be active . supported by great Acaryas like Ramanuja. All of our students are applying these principles practically in their lives. Madhva. Without tracing the history of this movement. we can safely say that at least 5000 years ago. started a few months or a few years ago. Later on. This Krishna Consciousness movement is still supported by conferences. I am trying in my humble way to spread this movement in this part of the world. The certificates enclosed herewith are signed by my God-brothers. and since that time. As devotees of Lord Krishna it is our duty to teach the people how to love God and worship Him in their daily life. in several parts of India.and meat-eating. Since that time. We are checking people from practicing these sinful activities. who have now different branches of the same Gaudiya Math Institution which I am now spreading in this 314 . wealth. To do this it is necessary that we be able to chant the Names of Krishna. and Visnu Swami. Sri Krishna. 1st October. play the mrdanga drum. HARE KRISHNA. it is the duty of the government to help us in our missionary work rather than to hinder us. including centers in Berlin. RAMA. one mantra. England. but it is a necessary movement for all humanity irrespective of caste. as will be evidenced by the enclosed copies of different branches of the Gaudiya Math institutions. Bhagavad-gita. (SPL to unknown. Om Visnupad Sri Srimad Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Goswami Maharaja. 1st October. known world over as the Srimad-Bhagavatam. Our mission is one God. or color. I am recognized Acarya of this movement. 1969) You will be glad to know that we draw no distinction of caste.(SPL to Sri Hare-krsna Aggarwal. who was the original pioneer of spreading this movement in the Western world. seminars. His Divine Grace entrusted me to spread this movement in the Western countries. we have started this movement in America. one scripture. sit down with the mrdanga drum. During his lifetime. or nationality . HARE KRISHNA. and so forth. It is not a sectarian movement meant for a certain class of men. namely to serve Lord Krishna with life. making New York as our center. 1968) I may inform you that this Krishna Consciousness movement is not a recent movement. and the very famous Bhagavad-gita. and words. dating back to the Vedic Age. this movement is current in India. Therefore. under one activity. it received great impetus from Lord Caitanya. country. Members of ISKCON may retain their own respective religious faiths. my disciples have taken to this principle unhesitatingly although they belong to different faiths and cultures. practical common formulation of the common ideal of all theists. and to defeat the unnecessary dogmatic wranglings that now divide and invalidate the theistic camp. playing devotional music. The sum and substance of this teaching is that the living entity is eternally the subordinate servant of God. dancing. We are following in the footsteps of Lord Caitanya to invoke the dormant love of Godhead. 3.00 (four hundred thousand dollars). If Your Excellency would kindly consider my activities as very essential for the 315 .000. ISKCON (the International Society of Krishna Consciousness) is a non-lucrative organization. Jewish and Moslem as well as Hindu faiths. everyone in the human society is trying to predominate over others without accepting the Supreme Predominator. and our members include people from Christian. 2. but to invoke the living entity's dormant love of God. and is scheduled to appear by the end of October. Please see also enclosed photo of the late President L. but unfortunately. Training preachers. Establishing a press to publish books and magazines. being sophisticated by illusion. Shastri of India accepting my SrimadBhagavatam. I cannot pay the whole amount at once. whose purpose is to promote the well-being of human society by drawing its attention to God. I have found one at 722 Sherbrooke Street West. 5. ISKCON is trying to train people to be situated in that pure condition of life by simple methods. 1968) His Excellency the Right Honorable Roland Michener Governor-General of Canada Government House Ottawa. Exley. there are thousands of centers all over India for spreading this Krishna Consciousness philosophy. 1968. I was in search of a nice place in the city. We are a non-sectarian society. 21 st February. So. desiring to stay here. but I can accept whatever terms Your Excellency may be pleased to think proper. each year in advance. Crown Assets Disposal Corporation of Ottawa.000. So far I am concerned. A case in point is the recent Russian invasion of Czechoslovakia. encouraging them to associate always in the matters of God consciousness or Krishna Consciousness. I can take the responsibility of paying $12. The aim of ISKCON is not to found a new religious sect. If by suitable arrangement. I wish to make Montreal my headquarters for this cultural or religious propaganda in the Western world. Holding classes in the philosophy of God realization. I can very nicely organize its activities as follows: 1. 4. fortunately. and one Bhagavad-gita as it is is being published by Mssrs. MacMillan and Co. as ISKCON is meant to establish a clear.B.(SPL to Mr. Feasting and distributing spiritually prepared food. and I understand that they have fixed the price of the house at about $400. I came to Montreal in the month of June. This common ideal of theism is to develop love of God. and actually I have good results in the sense that since I have come to the Western countries to preach this cult. Many of my books are already published. Chanting. So I think this propagation of love of Godhead can be pushed forward more and more with good results. But as I am a missionary worker. As such. and it is understood that Your Excellency is the ultimate disposer of this property. Canada Your Excellency. David J.. I enquired from Mssrs. this property is handed over to my society. Ontario. originating from Caitanya Mahaprabhu. and thus provide the human society of all faiths with a common platform of clear theistic knowledge and practice . and your Immigration department has kindly accepted me as a landed immigrant.00 (twelve thousand dollars) per year. D. I remain. This favor will be a great deal of help to the cause of human society. 24th August. A. „We cannot hire outsiders. The only way we can be sure of our leaders is if they follow the instructions of the spiritual master. A bad man cannot do good management. or what? With resignation in his voice. and good name and fame for the Government of Canada. If not.. if there is not sufficient space. Prabhupada replied. Unless a man is Krsna conscious. you can do something by which I can make proper utilization of the house as above mentioned. I asked how we could avoid bad management. Bhaktivedanta Swami (SPL to Roland Michener. 1968) ISKON TEMPLE MANAGEMENT ORGANISATION HOW TO MANAGE A TEMPLE 3rd March. (SPL to Hayagriva. 1969) 316 . then all the girls can stay in a place and all the boys can stay in a place.1976 Kneeling before him. Everything must be done by our own men. Should we simply pray to Krsna to reveal the faults. 18th March.1. Thanking Your Excellency in anticipation of your kind reply. But their living should be seperate. the grhasthas should be given chance to live together as husband and wife.“ (P. So far the brahmacaris.C. Yours truly.405) So far the living arrangement is concerned.human society at large. he cannot manage nicely. you cannot chek the association with householders. actually I am the only superior controller. Or you you may follow your other plan. but as the boys are getting experienced I shall very soon transfer the administration to them. how this 317 .(SPL to Madhudvisa. if they rigidly stick to the routine work chalked out by me. 2nd April. work may not suffer but go on continuously.(SPL to Satsvarupa. observing the regulative principles. and the position is that management should be done in such a way that people may not break away. That is the process.(SPL to Nevatiaji. 1969) I understand from a letter from Gurudasa that you have elections for officers for your temple. 28th July. 27th October. 19th July. that is all right. 13th March. simply keeping myself as an overseer guide. 1970) If you and Tamala both are present at the opening of a new center that will be nice. is very experienced. 1970) So far as him taking over the management of Boston temple. 16th July. 14th April. but however you do it. I think that for management it is better to have two heads than one. 1969) My students who are so kindly cooperating with me.I am glad to learn that you are trying to work out things with Hayagriva. All department heads should train an assistant so that in their absence. attending temple lectures and going out with Sankirtana Party. (SPL to Rayarama. In your previous letter you wanted that the final words in the management of Back To Godhead will rest on one person. then without any fail our movement will go ahead. 1917) I am also glad to note that a meeting of all the presidents was held just recently in order to unify the temples. Another thing is that before opening a branch we must have able men also to conduct. HariVilasa. We want a good administration--that is one side of our propaganda work.(SPL to Brahmananda. do it jointly by combined consultation. 11th July. namely chanting the prescribed rounds. 1970) Up to date. Unless we work cooperatively. 1970) I understand that the new boy.(SPL to Umapati. otherwise how we can open branches?(SPL to Hamsaduta.(SPL to Mukunda. either on you or on Hayagriva. 1969) You have asked about the management of our society. and the men filling the posts are all very well suited for their position. If you do it jointly in this way you will get strength to decide the right thing. I have advised him that he may come also as co-editor. That is the first business of management. so if he is going to be president that is nice. Now all of you please make quickly the march towards the goal of Krishna Consciousness Movement being very successful. A similar report has just come from Hamsaduta in Hamburg. 1972) Simply become more concerned with increasing the spiritual content of our lives. and they have only made things worse. and to preach to others how they can also take advantage and come to the perfectional stage of life. 1971) I am very glad to hear that a new devotee has given $6. 1971) Yes.(SPL to Rudra dasa and Radhika devi dasa. 1971) Preaching is our real business. that is the proof of your powerful preaching work. If your preaching work is strong. which work nicely if the head is healthy. the hand will move. Just because you are preaching nicely and distributing so much prasadam. and the guiding principle is to do whatever is practical for preaching KC and at the same time maintaining our high standards of routine KC practices for making ourselves progress on the Spiritual path. but both must be there if the whole body is to operate nicely. If the hands are removed. 2nd May. 3rd December. then your management of temple affairs will also become automatically very strong.(SPL to Satsvarupa. 1972) I have no objection to any of the points mentioned therein by you. If preaching is strong. 1971) My only point is that simultaneously we must increase our literature production and build Mayapur Temple. plans. 17th July. advance in spiritual life. If we simply remain pure and become very convinced of this Krishna philosophy. We should not follow their example. So preaching is more important than management. Only thing is . management will be strong. preaching and distributing books . Preaching is like the head of our KC Society--if the head is removed. And if we are determined to please Krishna with our routine work despite all kinds of economic handicaps. preaching is more important than managing.(SPL to Jagadisa. not that they can be solved by making some legal formula and having big big meetings and talks. Our business is to ourselves become Krishna conscious.(SPL to Patita Uddharana. That is the rule. namely. we must try to avoid becoming too much overly organized like the material businessmen. He will provide all relief. but it will be crippled. (SPL to Tribhuvanata. But it is not that we have to stop everything else for one thing .(SPL to Damodara. and in this way all other problems like management will be easily solved . any sane man will agree with us when we speak. 20th February. The politicians have been holding such meetings and talks for some time now and the world is no better place for it. Managing is the hands.movement will go on? So my request to you all is that you maintain that spirit of cooperation always and help me to deliver Lord Caitanya's message all over the globe. 21st November. The art of managing is to do all things at once in a nice manner . 8th December.500 to your temple. So it is a very good sign that people are coming and of their own accord giving everything. these things become too much cumbersome for our spiritual growth. vouchers. Too much business or paperwork. Just see. the whole body dies. they take us away from our real emphasis of work. the body will not die. Just like if the head wills it. the management will follow like a shadow and Krishna will send you no end of help. Germany. to go back to 318 . That will be a nice standard. 1973) Regarding incorporation of our ISKCON centers. I have no objection as it has the approval of Karandhara prabhu and he is there for you all to take advice from . 19th July. Gradually it will become a mundane institution.Home. But now you must do it very nicely and complete it. 26 th November. 1973) As far as your grhastha community committee. then do not complete it. and for my American and European followers it was a rarely given privilege for which they are fully appreciative. back to Godhead. But I think your plan is not like that. What happened to that plan?(SPL to Jananda. so far I can see. 1974) I wish to express my heart-felt gratitude for the kind treatment given me and my disciples.Trai. 14th May. as in the ultimate capacity our chanting is the only thing that will save us. 4th January. 1972) So utilize every opportunity that Krsna gives you for preaching His message. We should be careful about power politics. and Rsabhadeva. One thing is though that we should not take such meetings and committees too seriously. If everyone is strictly chanting at least 16 rounds daily and reading the books and observing the regulative principles then management will be at our finger's end. Our only aim should be that each and every devotee is full dedicated to Krsna.(SPL to Jagadisa. then this of course I have no objection to. The centers should remain spiritually fit and independent. again change. Democracy in spiritual affairs is not at all good but breeds power politics. and there will be no difficulty in maintaining Krsna Consciousness. we want to run all our centers as nonprofit religious organizations. That is very good qualification for manager.(SPL to Karandhara. that is the main point. However. We all left Tirupati feeling very much inspired by the darsana and by your excellent management.(SPL to Umapati. The special excess we were given for darsana before Balaji is something we will always remember favorably. that is real meaning of temple management. Too much control means so many vouchers. It is practical and to the point. 1973) You must work hard to absolve the debts you have massed so we will not lose our standing there. (SPL to Puranjana. Some control must be there as is now. then things will go on nicely. that way--no. Keeping this point in view too much official control is not good in spiritual life. if sometimes devotees should like to come together and chant Hare Krsna and discuss. 14th May. 7th April. change things. Not that we make some plan. members of the Hare Krishna Movement on our recent two day visit in Tirumala. There was some plan by Kesava to purchase a new San Francisco temple in a better part of the city. and we hope to return when we are able 319 . just as we instituted our Istagosthi program. this way. 1972) I am very much encouraged by your increase in literature distribution for Canada zone.(SPL to Sama and Samita dasi. and I can understand that you are very methodical and careful to keep proper accounts. All our managers should be spiritually advanced simple and honest in carrying out the orders of the spiritual master and Krsna. 18th October. A change of management that is not good. and I was saved from any implication. This is my only concern. Please advise us on the availability of such land. 1974) Regarding the art of management. that can be corrected. 11th October. We have worked very hard and established a great institution.(SPL to Karandhara dasa.(SPL to The Managemant. Again thanking you for your excellent hospitality. 7th October. and whoever receives the majority vote. 4th May. I shall do everything in my power to fulfill your personal ambitions. Even if there is some fault in management it should be corrected. you can come home at night and take prasadam sumptuously. I pray to Krishna that you all may use your intelligence for Krishna's service and not for any personal ambition. (SPL to Batu Gopala dasa. Now I am trying to carry out his instructions strictly. he shall be the president. Everyone should consider himself the servant of the other. 1974) There have been many letters coming from different quarters regarding the election.(SPL to Sri Govinda dasa. Besides that. (SPL to Cyavana Swami. Once eating sumptuously is enough to maintain body and soul together. constant changing is not good. we would be interested in constructing a cottage for the exclusive use of members of our society when they make pilgrimage to Tirupati. so you should judge the desire of my guru maharaj and help me in that way. And.If there is any land available. 1974) Any discrepancy. The Gaudiya Math institution has become smashed. but that will be done in due course of time when you are fully trained up and following the regulative principles and chanting 16 rounds. not changed.again. intelligent. therefore I have called for a re-election in the presence of all members and two GBC men. 1974) I wanted you all my experienced disciples should manage the whole institution very cleverly without any personal ambition like ordinary materialistic men. or master. So whatever is done is done. and it has come out successful. Regarding the temple management. Tirupati-Tirumala-Devasthanam. In the daytime you may not take. That will make management very nice. at least stopped its program of preaching work on account of personal ambitions. while the others go out. and hard working. All faults shall be corrected. to take care of the Deity. and at night you can take. I was simply thinking how to fulfill the order of my guru maharaj. I shall request you all not to be personally ambitious. but if we think for our personal benefit then it will become ruined. Vaisnava philosophy is that everyone is addressed as prabhu. 16th August.(SPL to Gangamayi devi dasi. You are right that politics should be avoided. 1st November. 1974) So you are all intelligent boys. either for purchase or donation. 1974) All my disciples they are good boys. You can have a written ballot. a 320 . As a matter of fact. one man can be left behind. In my personal life I did not participate in the political diplomacy of my god-brothers. He gave me his blessings. 21st August. if he is qualified for preaching he can be replaced for routine work of order execution. 1974) I am in due receipt of your letter addressed to Rupanuga das dated September 16.devotee may take only once in a day either in the day or night. Things should be developed in such a way.(SPL to Krsnadevi. and whenever you eat. In the Gaudiya Math the politics is still going on. but that should not be continued. 15th August. As soon as politics come. In case of emergency. The British government was conducting the management of 600 million people with just 200 Britishers. 1976) EVERY CENTER SHOULD BE INDEPENDENT I am a little disturbed to learn about your financial position as serious. So Kirtiraja. and this will maintain their health properly. one man can remain. This is management. This is Kali-yuga. 1967) I do not want that a branch should be continually maintained by other branches. for all the time.(SPL to Gurukrpa Swami. 1975) So far Kirtiraja is concerned. so after 40 years the litigation is still going on.(SPL to Sri Govinda dasa. that there may not be any racial feelings. as every center should be independent. and now it is 1976. (SPL to Brahmananda. 6th December. then six hours of sound sleep. then the preaching will be stopped. We cannot expect all foreigners to come and manage Mayapur affairs. Every branch should be self-dependent. Why is there this politics? This is not good. but preaching requires special qualification. you must first offer. (SPL to Subala. But. My Guru Maharaja left in 1936. 1975 and have noted the contents.21st August. 30th September. Very easily racial feelings are awakened on the material platform. 23 rd October. I think you don't have to pay anything to Boston. 1968) The idea is that local devotees must manage the local temple. But I do not mean you should neglect temple life. preaching is our first business and ordering is routine work. 1968) 321 .(SPL to Jayapataka. If politics come. 1975) Your description of how you are managing is nice. based on devotional service. Anyone can learn and manage the ordering department. Do not misunderstand this. That is the difficulty. they can eat once in the day or night. but on the spiritual platform there is no such thing. The best management is to turn the local men into devotees. and so far the other devotees are concerned.(SPL to Ramasvara dasa. the other temples may help. after having kirtana. Do not come to this. 16th October. everything is spoiled. Make the management perfect in this way. become separate corporations in each state. therefore I appointed you and Bali Mardan to do it. Keeping this point in view too much official control is not good in spiritual life. We must learn how to do all kinds of varieties of engagements on Krsna's service. Accounts must be kept. not that one shall dominate and distribute benefits to the others and they do nothing but beg from you and you provide. not to make them into specialists or to minimize their responsibility by centralizing everything. No. Only thing I wanted was that books printing and distribution should be centralized. that is up to you to decide. it is better if they must have to struggle a little while to establish themselves in their cities. elicit support from all quarters of the city. Our purpose of Krsna consciousness movement is to create first class servants of Krsna. The centers should remain spiritually fit and 322 .C. Rather. if that were left for each temple to manage. So you big managers now try to train up more and more some competent preachers and managers like yourselves. credit. but that should be each temple's concern. bookkeeping. that means they know how to do everything. But for reasons of spreading Krsna Consciousness movement.. Each temple must remain independent and self-sufficient. there would be great difficulty and the books would get neither printed nor paid for nor distributed widely. should be done locally by local men. not that we shall expect anyone else to act for us and thus avoid something ourselves. I have heard from Jayatirtha you want to make big plan for centralization of management. things must be in order and lawfully done. otherwise these things will be neglected and there will be false dependency upon the outside supplies. This will deteriorate everything. Forget this centralizing and bureaucracy.. become familiar with the local city officials and leading citizens. that is the point. but so far I am concerned. taxes. that will be better training ground for the devotees. 22nd December. like that. and they shall develop reliability and responsibility. and if I did not interfere the whole thing would have been killed. If each center must rely upon its own strength to stand. like that. Once there is bureaucracy the whole thing will be spoiled. etc. I never wanted that any of my temples shall be dependent upon the other temples.Regarding your points about taxation. management. centralization--these are all nonsense proposals. That will train men how to do these things. corporate status. But in the case of new temples. competitive spirit. why you are thinking otherwise? Once before you wanted to do something centralizing with your GBC meeting. centralized management is preferable. Krishna Consciousness Movement is for training men to be independently thoughtful and competent in all types of departments of knowledge and action. I have not got much stock in such centralized management or organization.(SPL to Karandhara. for more than one man to be dealing with Dai Nippon. There must be always individual striving and work and responsibility. just like the books and money for BBT are managed by Karandhara in Los Angles. we may sometimes centralize. Otherwise. In that case. I do not at all approve of such plan. our main business is to train up men to be self sufficient and competent in many ways to carry on the preaching work. Do not think in this way of big corporation. monies.(SPL to Damodara. 9th January. 1973) Regarding incorporation of our ISKCON centers. corporate status.. So in that case.. everything. not for making bureaucracy. not yours. big credits. take tax certificate each. that is the main point. Do not centralize anything. Never mind there may be botheration to register each centre. we want to run all our centers as nonprofit religious organizations. 1972) Regarding the several smaller temples being dependent upon the central temple of Washington D. That was my plan from the very beginning. overseeing the general production and financial condition of the books. All our managers should be spiritually advanced simple and honest in carrying out the orders of the spiritual master and Krsna. facilities are available. ( S. Some control must be there as is now. When the brahmacarini asrama is established then you should consider going. but if.He must never attempt to increase material opulences unnecessarily. lazy fellows should be strictly disallowed. In spiritual life attraction of man & woman in the understanding of material body hampers very much. no intoxication. Otherwise such temples and monasteries are not needed. Our only aim should be that each and every devotee is full dedicated to Krsna. When I am there I shall see if your presence is actually required there. The butter melts in the pot while in contact with fire. 7. In your country association of man and woman is very common without restriction. which means „attempts to construct temples and monasteries“.independent. That will be a nice standard. These are lucrative allurements for unintelligent men.B. The temples and monasteries should be used exclusively by devotees who are serious about spiritual advancement in Krsna consciousness. thus the result is known to you better than I am able to explain. We should be careful about power politics. rejected. Temples and monasteries should be strictly off limits to worthless clubs of crazy men. but actually such endeavors should be avoided. Too much control means so many vouchers. A sannyasi is prohibited from making disciples through such material allurements. therefore. The first business of the sannyasi is to preach Krsna consciousness. some sort of restrictions 323 . 19th July. Most probably I also will go to San Francisco directly from India. then he may construct temples and monasteries to give shelter to the serious students of Krsna consciousness. In the temples and monasteries. You should not bother about it at the present moment. Temples and monasteries should be constructed for the preaching of spiritual consciousness or Krsna consciousness. not to provide free hotels for persons who are useful for neither material nor spiritual purposes. Srila Visvanatha Cakravarti Thakura explains the word arambhan as meaning mathadi-vyaparan. nor should he unnecessarily read many books or give discourses as a means of livelihood.8) The brahmacarini asrama is not yet started. There are many so-called gurus who attract disciples by promising to cure their diseases or increase their material opulence by manufacturing gold. Gradually it will become a mundane institution. In the Scriptures it is said that a woman is just like fire & a man is just like a butter pot. 1973) RULES AND POLICIES A sannyasi must not present allurements of material benefits to gather many disciples. In the Krsna consciousness movement we welcome everyone who agrees at least to follow the movement´s regulative principles – no illicit sex. then things will go on nicely. Sannyasis sometimes indulge in material opulence by unnecessarily constructing many temples and monasteries.13. Purport: So-called svamis and yogis generally make disciples by alluring them with material benefits. Democracy in spiritual affairs is not at all good but breeds power politics.(SPL to Karandhara. In the meantime you can continue with your painting as usual & enjoy the spiritual life. gatherings of unnecessary. by the grace of Krsna. no meat-eating and no gambling. 1968) Our policy should be to keep members as much as possible.'' this cannot go on in our temples of Krishna Consciousness. 26th October. 12th August. We should always remember that sex life in spiritual advancement is great impediment.(SPL to Satsvarupa. 1969) Regarding the persons who have been ``throwing the I-Ching. Unless one agrees to follow all of our principles. Someway or other. The whole principle is especially for the Brahmacaris to avoid causes which may give impetus to the sex desire.are necessary to check this hampering problem .(SPL to Jdurani. and it must be strictly prohibited. Marriage is a concession for a person who cannot control his sex desires. So even the guests should also wash their dishes. 1969) I do not think that Hamsaduta is pressing you for marriage. I am pleased to learn of your spirit of protest.Jadurani--I am very glad that you want to kill the non-devotees. So keeping this point of view in front. 1968) Brahmacaris and Brahmacarinis can live in the temple provided there is separate arrangement. but sometimes we have to tolerate. we should intelligently manage things with great care. 21st November. Satsvarupa. and the Brahmacarinis all together at another place. If he comes to Los Angeles to see me. (SPL to Pradyumna. not leave one man to do it. 16th August. The restriction is there because if they live together there might be sex impulses agitated. 1967) For dishes. should come immediately to Los Angeles to be trained up nicely in Krishna Consciousness. 1967) Killing proposal is not good. one man has to do so many dishes. This is to be considered as gambling.‘You must leave. Otherwise. But in your country it is very difficult to make aloof the boys and girls because they are accustomed to mix together. You should. if you are intelligent boy. Of course it is a difficult job for the boys in this country because they have free access to intermingling with the girls. that is the system in the Temple. I shall speak with him to find out what is his difficulty. In spiritual life there is no allowance of association of man and woman without being married. because they are trained differently. he may not be allowed to live at the temple. 9th April. however.(SPL to Jayapataka. Under the circumstances. We have to kill them with arguments and reasons not with sticks and weapons. So both of these boys. (SPL to Upendra. So it is not possible for me to introduce this new system very strictly. Jadurani. you should make arrangement for the boys and girls to live separately. leave the matter to your good God-brothers who will take care of it. they may not cause this disturbance in our temples. So if these boys will come to Los Angeles to follow the discipline as it is practiced here. We should not flatly say.‘ That is not our policy. that will be the best thing. Brahmacaris at one place all together. This must be our policy. whoever they are. 16 th June. So that our aim of life may not be missed. it is my open order for everyone that everyone can marry without any artificial 324 . (SPL to Aniruddha. Otherwise. best thing is everyone who is eating Prasadam should wash his plate. say between 20-25 years. We are respected everywhere on our purity platform. Teach them how to remain neat and clean. (SPL to Gaura Hari. say 65-70 years. 1970) Now there are so many devotees there in Philadelphia. So better not to display such prints or paintings. but simply he acts as a matter of duty for Krsna. As far as possible. without being attracted by the result--should be followed by us. then in action positively. 1970) I think Krsna is giving you good intelligence to manage everything in Paris.That is your duty. we should not open new centers. Krsna accepts equally the service given to Him by a little calf and that given by Srimati Radharani. That is the sign of substantial devotional service. at a certain stage. Married life does not mean that one should continue to live with wife throughout the whole life. this principle of working for Krsna as a matter of our duty. are being trained up for constant engagement in Krsna Consciousness service without any personal interest. non-initiated devotees may not enter the kitchen or Deity area. not even in our temples. Everyone should be kept fully engaged one hundred per cent of the time in Krsna’s service without a vacant moment so that maya will never have a chance to act. (SPL to Visnujana dasa Maharaja. 9th July. they are bona fide but for the ordinary man they appear sensual. This is perfect order of Sannyas. and then there should be no more sex relationship--stringently. 4th April. They should be engaged always in cleansing the temple. all of us are Sannyasis in all circumstances. 1971) Regarding keeping our temples clean. 1971) 325 . This is explained in the Bhagavad-gita that anyone who is not after the result of any action. It does not matter what one’s engagement in Krsna’s service may be. everyone should separate from wife. 21 st September. that means that devotional service is defective. 1971) I am so glad to hear how nicely Tulsi is growing. this is essential. everyone must accept the renounced order of Sannyas.(SPL to Harivilasa. So whatever status of life we may accept. 7th March. he is a factual Sannyasi and Yogi. If there is any impediment in growing Tulsi. This should be maintained. They can help from outside. And at the mature old age. But at the mature age say after 50 years old age. 4th November. if not in dress. live with her to the maximum age of 50 years. 1971) So far the prints you have sent photos of. Every center should be encouraged to grow Tulsi. one may accept a wife. 4th November.(SPL to Jadurani. So we should all be very much appreciate of our Godbrothers‘ and Godsisters‘ service.(SPL to Nayanabhirama. But if somebody is able to remain a Brahmacari.(SPL to Trivikrama. Please take care of them. Unless we can maintain the temples we presently have superexcellently clean. there should not be any causing for his marriage.pose. Our students. Just take care of them so that they become pure devotees. So if everyone is trained up in this line of action. Cleansing is urgently required. either Brahmacari or Householder. if you live in the temple itself. but unnecessarily changing and redecorating is also not good. nor the grhasthas are disturbed by brahmacaris. 15th November. This is the best system. If this is not possible they should live together close to the temple and attend temple arati etc . So once you have established a very nice standard. It is best to do the most ideal thing but whatever mode of living you chose the most important thing is to always remain one hundred percent in service of Radha-Krishna. 25th January.(SPL to Kirtika dasi. 8th December. and you should live separately. But in the temple husband and wife should live seperately. 1971) I am encouraged that you are improving your temple quarters by decorating them nicely. (SPL to Patita Uddharana. This will help to attract guests and interested people. Whether with child or without child. that is very good proposal.It will be a good idea in the future if our devotees take lesson from this unfortunate incident and take precaution not to drive late at night for any reason--no gain can come from such driving at night which will ever compensate for much great losses. 1971) Regarding householders living in the temple . and if you and your good husband require to live together to advance nicely in Krishna Consciousness. avoid too much changing it again and again. (SPL to Patita Uddharana. householders should not live together in the Temple. . 1972) I am so much disgusted by this troublesome business of marriage. ideally the husband and wife can live separately in the temple. But for our preaching work I have permitted woman to stay in the temple. There are many young brahmacaris and Sannyasis in the temple and men and women living together is simply a source of agitation. but in India no woman is allowed to stay in the temple at night. and in this way no one is disturbed. so therefore this is my order. and practically this is not my business as 326 . Bali Mardan is correct in this point. but you should try to model the arrangement after the Los Angeles temple. It does not give a good impression for brahmacaris and sannyasis. what will the Brahmacaris and Sannyasis think? So this should be discouraged. It is better if the grhasthas have a separate asrama. according to temple rules they should not live together in the temple. men and women. That is wasting Krishna's money unnecessarily.(SPL to Ravindra Svarupa.16 th Februar. 1972) Regarding your question whether husband and wife should live together in the temple. . neither the brahmacaris are disturbed by householder life. just like in Los Angeles the married disciples rent rooms together in one apartment house near the temple and live there separately.(SPL to Rupanuga. because nearly every day I receive some complaint from husband or wife. Otherwise. I want that a high standard should be maintained. 30th December. and if this is not possible the last alternative is to live away from the Temple and conduct your own deity worship etc. Please advise your GBC zonal secretary that in future great precaution must be taken. 1971) It is a fact that householders should not live in the Temple together. I have never introduced these things. 1973) As far as separation of men and women in Bhaktivedanta Manor. otherwise you are inviting rats. Ramanujacarya. 28th February. no one is qualified to live in our temples . like that. Without such voluntary understanding of the principles and agreement to obey them. then let the brahmacaris go to the forest. Of course if there are one or two instances of falling down. so henceforward I am not sanctioning any more marriages. and in the temple husband and wife shall live separately. and offer his foodstuffs always to Krsna. otherwise he may be asked kindly to leave the temple and live outside. then they may go to the forest. that may be excused. that the brahmacaris living in the temple shall not disobey the orders of the spiritual master. Who has introduced these things. but how can I encourage something which has proven to be so much trouble?(SPL to Kitriraja. Be careful. If someone wants to become devotee but he is little weak. never mind he is living outside. and those who want to marry must know in advance and be prepared to make outside income to support wife and home separately from the temple. That is our only business. Whether grhasthas.(SPL to Cyavana. so how they can avoid seeing? Best thing is to go to the forest for not seeing any women. plus the other regulative principles. they cannot perform the arati and so many things? If they become agitated. 1972) I do not know why these things inventions are going on. 1972) You should keep everything very clean. six Gosvamis. for me. if anyone agrees to live with us in the temple he must without any exception follow the four rules and regulations. The householders may continue stay as they are in the cottage house. to invent something new programme? We have already got our Vaisnava standard. That is the first business. That is sufficient for Madhvacarya. living peacefully as grhasthas.sannyasi to be marriage counsellor. we are not so overly critical. The point is that we should not be over anxious just to recruit men if they will not be of the best quality. but we must remain also always firm on this point. Or he may not be invited to live in the temple until he has agreed and has proven his ability to obey the regulative idea.(SPL to Mukunda dasa.3rd December. because in New York there are so many women. not remaining in New York City. for all big big saints and acaryas in our line--why it shall be inadequate for my disciples so they must manufacture something? That is not possible. and gradually he will develop the surrendering attitude and accept voluntarily the life of austerity or tapasya which must be practiced in the temple living. that should be strictly observed in the main temple building. chant at home and at his work. If the brahmacaris cannot remain in the presence of women in the temple. otherwise who would be qualified of any of us to become devotee? So that tolerant attitude must be there to a certain extent. for Bhaktivinode Thakura. between single men and women there must be strict division and strict observance of no illicit sex. The prasadam room should be immediately cleaned after taking prasadam. Every room should be as clean as a mirror. that women cannot have chanting japa in the temple. it was sufficient for Lord Caitanya. he may come regularly to the temple. 20th October. for my Guru Maharaja Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati. if they become so easily agitated. but then no one will either see them and how our preaching work will go on?(SPL to Ekayani. that must be or what is the meaning of spiritual society like ours? I made a concession. 29th December. sannyasa or 327 . 1972) Yes. Keep yourself always fixed in Krsna's service. they may live outside. They should be forbidden to come here. 28th December. 1974) In regards to your question about how the relationship between a sannyasi and the temple president should be. So I will follow this policy. Don't let even a spit moment go by being engaged in the service of maya. 1976 „Now I have received your letter stating that only educated and cultured men should be allowed to stay in our temple.. that instead of filling with bad cows. Please continue your programs there with great enthusiasm and try to strictly follow all of my regulations without any deviation. And ask from the origin that “Those who cannot strictly follow the rules and regulations.brahmacari everyone has to be completely engaged all the time in devotional service. 1974) No.1975.“ He also wrote directly to Nitai. 1976 Prabhupada told him that the temple is meant for rendering service to Lord Krsna.. etc. Stictly no one should go 328 . Then such person is not required at all. By mistake. they should not come here. The temple president is in charge and the sannyasi should not contradict the instructions. and not sleeping unnecessarily or talking idly. they should not come at all. Where are the arrangements for a ramp? Neither you should make it. without removing shoes nobody can visit the temple. „But not for sense gratification. Not that he will try to over-ride the temple president's authority.Nairobi) 21st June.“ (P.2. So. But not willingly he should neglect. That is another thing. keep the atmosphere very peacefully. „I have heard reports that you have been developing the habit of going outside the temple to hear lectures by others like Nrsimhaballabha. I want that you all work together cooperatively.D. he should be regretful and he should rectify. they should not come here.(SPL to Mukunda dasa. That’s it. 10th January. 23rd November. Those who cannot strictly follow our principles. And then work it out in a Krsna Conscious way. 1974) Impure atmosphere can be counteracted by having kirtanas twice and thrice daily with dancing. better keep the cowshed vacant.. my hope is that you will all be able to cooperate together . to see that everyone is engaged 24 hours a day. 1975) Prabhupäda: Yes.(SPL to Sukadeva.(Morning Walk Nov2. So those who cannot follow.(SPL to Mukunda. 27th March. therefore anyone performing such service can live within it.(SPL toPatita Uddharana dasa. That is the meaning of good management. Those grhasthas who still have desire for sense gratification. It will set a bad example. Go on chanting and hold classes in Bhagavatam.. if somebody does. It is bad example. Although if he does see something wrong or if he sees a fault or defect he should bring it out directly to the temple president.466) 13th July. That I was speaking.” That I was speaking. Don't allow anyone to engage in eating and sleeping alone or the devil's workshop will develop. Also I have heard now that even some of the Indian devotees are doing likewise. 28th March. are very sincere souls & I am much obliged to you because you have opened a nice center in L. It doesn't matter what he is. But even though a woman is less intelligent. 1960) Regarding the Teachings in the temple. Personally I know both yourself & your husband. If you are not satisfied by the calibre of the classes at the Krsna Balarama Mandir. so she will deliver nice lectures. If we open a pavilion I shall take Jadurani also at that time. As soon as one deviates from this principle one is no longer a teacher.(SPL to Mahapurusa. then you should give another class. In the absolute plane there is no such gradation of higher and lower. the man should be given first preference . I do not know how Subala das speaks but if there is any deviation you can point it out & adjust things between yourselves. I have report from Satsvarupa that she gives lectures very nicely. but you cannot go outside for hearing other`s lectures. In the Bhagavad-gita. 8 th February. everyone of my disciples may become a teacher strictly following my instructions. 18th September.A.. the Lord especially mentions that even a woman who has taken seriously is also destined to reach Him.“ (P. 1968) 329 . That is our philosophy. that is the only qualification of a person speaking. but spiritually there is no such distinction. color. Materially a woman may be less intelligent than a man. 1967) Regarding lecturing by woman devotees: I have informed you that in the service of the Lord there is no distinction of caste or creed. (SPL to Nandarani. Those who are actually engaged in the service of the Lord Deity.D.outside to hear lectures by others. Temples are not meant for ordinary householders engaged simply in the matters of animal propensities. can only be allowed to remain in the temple. Dayananda. I am a bona fide teacher as long as I follow the instructions of my spiritual master . All this activity is very encouraging to my mission & I believe sincerely that you are doing the best to serve the cause of ISKCON. both men and women.(SPL to Jaya Govinda. Because spiritually everyone is pure soul. because we want so many preachers. 29th October. Similarly. otherwise not. the predominator of the temple. a sincere soul should be given proper chance to speak.(SPL in visitor’s book. Subala das also opened a center at Santa Fe.3. But if a man can speak better than a woman. If a woman can lecture nicely and to the point. That is the only one qualification for becoming a teacher. 1968) Jadurani has now become a nice preacher. we should hear her carefully. Kindly stop this habit immediately. or sex. We require a person who is in the knowledge of Krishna.280) TEMPLE PROGRAMS In my opinion temples are centers for educating the public in spiritual values and I have a mission to organize all temples for that spiritual education. 1968) Regarding your third question. there is no need of increasing the number. As such. Lilavati was always present with her child. similarly morning lecture can also be delivered. The child's comfort and discomfort depends on the mother's attention . And 330 . 7 or 8 years old. better reduce it to five just like rice. 1968) Regarding the child problem: I may inform you that all our children born of the Krishna conscious parents. male or female.(SPL to Krsna devi. So far as girls or boys lecturing in the morning. So the best solution is that we should train our all first-day small babies in such a way that they are always satisfied and there will be no disturbance in the meeting. and I am not going to sanction any such rule. little sweet rice and a nice vegetable. In New York . That is not possible. when I was present I was giving lectures in morning also. can be admitted and no other children can be admitted. morning lecture is also allowed. they are welcome and I want hundreds of children like that. Whatever voluntary contribution you receive that is all right. please decorate the temple with as many pictures as possible. Anyway. when people come to your temple you may explain to them the principles of yoga as they are described in the Bhagavad-gita. She is never tired of painting. concentrating the eyesight on the tip of the nose. so that the transcendental vibration may enter into its ear. on the teachings of Bhagavad-gita. But there cannot be any hard and fast rules that only children who are grown up. Either girl or boy devotees may deliver lecture if they choose to do. that doesn't make any difference. Because in future we expect to change the face of the whole world. and so as morning kirtana is there. So far items of foodstuff (bhoga) and distribution of prasada are concerned. as is explained in Bhagavad-gita As It Is. I approve of your scheme not to charge money for the love feast. 29th December. can deliver lecture. it becomes purified. The concentration should be on Lord Krishna or Lord Visnu.(SPL to Syama dasi. 21st August. or even in San Francisco. 1968) I understand from your letter that there is very good prospect of spreading our movement in London. 1968) In distributing the ``perfection in yoga'' leaflet. you may show them how to sit. I have seen Malati is nursing her child so nicely that she attended my meeting every day and the child was playing and she never cried. dal. The child cries only when it feels uncomfortable.Yes. etc. Similarly. because child is the father of man. But of course. If they are interested. 21st October. and from the very beginning of its life.June.(SPL to Satsvarupa. capati or puri. Lecture is also kirtana. following in this line of disciplic succession. anyone who is a devotee of the Lord. Krishna Consciousness is on the spiritual platform. that is all. and that makes her increased in Krsna consciousness. Lilavati's child also never cries or disturbs the meeting. Srimad-Bhagavatam. How to keep the child comfortable. so it depends on the mother. Such instructions by you may be preceded and followed by Krishna kirtana . and that is the mother's responsibility to keep them comfortable. and not to disturb the meeting. the children cannot be allowed to disturb in the meeting by crying. So if they come to know about hatha yoga you can show them in the authoritative scriptures how it cannot be successfully practiced in this present age of kali. so that it will not cry. and there will be no complaint.(SPL to Rupanuga. And Jadurani is very kind and liberal to supply us pictures. We have no such distinction of bodily designations. Rather I shall welcome a baby from the very beginning. on Sunday you can increase the items up to ten. This is no harm in this mantra you have heard.. it should be mainly for this purpose. In our temple. and see that all the devotees remain steady in their execution of daily chanting of sixteen rounds of beads and strict adherence to the four principles of spiritual life and all other regulative principles. that is only possible in a very large center such as L. and the devotee becomes fully absorbed in Krsna activities. if possible. Please see that the program for studying our literatures is also undertaken very seriously by all the devotees there.. the special stress should be given to chanting the mantras in our books. Please push our Sankirtana movement and improve the program of Deity worship as the centers of your activities. 1969) Regarding the Radha-Syama chanting which you have heard it is not very good. Are they outsiders? My point is anyone who will attend the Sanskrit class must be interested for chanting the mantras (in our books Isopanisad. To become a scholar of Sanskrit is not our business. and the program is very encouraging to all the devotees. And you may note that when these regulative duties are performed. Of course. The best arrangement is to honor Prasadam in a separate room for the purpose. (SPL to Yamuna. We should simply expend our time for development of Krishna Consciousness. There is no harm if the devotees chant in the temple during the time when the Deities are resting. but make everything very nicely.A. Temple. Krsna as Supersoul will dictate from within the answers to all questions and will give the needed intelligence to progress more and more in Krsna Consciousness. 16th January. 28th January. and always remember that Hare Krishna is the prime authorized mantra. This is very encouraging. I have given specific instructions in this connection to your husband. About holding Sanskrit classes. 27 th February. this will keep them strong in Spiritual power. strictly Hare Krishna chanting should be given more importance. the curtains may be drawn before the Deities while the devotees are taking Prasadam. you should ask her why she does not do so. and if she does not chant the Hare Krishna Mantra. so that our preaching work may be carried out nicely. Everyone of us must become thoroughly acquainted with our philosophy.(SPL to Malati. I am not familiar with her Spiritual Master. then he also is not authorized. Srimad-Bhagavatam) and 331 . You say that 15 to 40 students are attending. 1969) If Prasadam is to be honored in the Temple room. and if Sanskrit class is to be held.(SPL to Tamala. but it is not very important. Regarding this Syama-Mataji Dasi from Vrindaban. You may have heard that here at L.A.(SPL to Jagadisa. 12th January. Gaurangidas. does she sing Hare Krishna Mantra or not? If she chants Hare Krishna it is all right. they are holding Kirtana and chanting 24 hours in the temple. But our principle is to stick to the authorities. 1970) I am also glad to learn that already you have got a temple and enthusiastic and eager devotees there. Bhagavad-gita. 1970) These classes of Bhagavad-gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam as you are now holding must be continued very rigidly. There are many such common songs composed by common devotees out of sentiment. but if he has taught her to sing this Radha-Syama song. it is completely impersonal.(SPL to Yamuna. Chanting. very nice to our purpose. 14th October. such as jiva jago. (SPL to Yamuna and Gurudasa. If time permits there are other songs that can be sung. I am very much pleased what you are doing. It is understood that he is introducing something new in the name of teaching Devanagari script. If we keep both systems in a regular way that will help us solidly in our advancement in Krishna Consciousness.(SPL to Drsthaketu dasa. this is what I want.000 people. We are transliterating all our books--Srimad-Bhagavatam. 8th August. Deity worship is pancaratriki system and preaching is Bhagavata system. Brahma Samhita. Both things should go on simultaneously. 1970) Your proposal for a grhastha travelling Sankirtana party is a very good one but the temple work should not be neglected. Actually it is very. 1970) I am so pleased to learn that you are satisfied to see the Los Angeles Temple situation. The prayer of the Spiritual Master as he has quoted has no use for us. This prayer immediately must be stopped.not for any other purpose.(SPL to Makhanal and Tilaka devi. 17th May. And before and after the class there must be Mahamantra chanting. Please let me know what is the necessity of learning Devanagari script. The roaring kirtana. This means that he gradually wants to introduce Aurobindo philosophy.. and there is no special other program. 1971) Regarding the morning kirtana songs. and that is our festival. 9th May. Thank you very much. Give the people nice prasadam. prasadam. what you have given is all right. etc.(SPL to Satsvarupa. udilo aruna ``There is now sunrise on the Eastern horizon and Lord Caitanya accompanied by His devotees have started the morning Sankirtana party. This is what is temple--life. (SPL to Giriraja dasa.--in Roman type. 1974) 332 . this is standard. the copy of which is enclosed herewith. 28th May. Parikh wants to introduce something in my absence which is completely against Krsna Consciousness. offering feast to the Deities with special preparations is our simple mode of celebration..(SPL to Gurudasa. Our process is to work on Bhagavata and Pancaratriki systems simultaneously. Bhagavad-gita. All these things do not sound very nice. dancing. 24th September. 16th April. I hope you will understand me right and reply this letter by return mail what is the actual situation. and if we can maintain the standard of the Temple atmosphere certainly anyone who will come here will be influenced by the spiritual effect. Another thing is he asked me about Aurobindo's estimation. 1970) I am so glad to learn that you are regularly observing the listed holidays in our Caitanya almanac. it is very good. 1970) I have received one letter from Balmukund Parikh. 1973) Regarding your Janmastami program expectation of 10. So why you should waste your time in learning Devanagari script? So I am very much anxious to know what is the actual situation because I can scent that Mr. The guru should be treated as good as God. begin at once. immediately the cooks prepare another twenty servings and store it. Such things are items for sense gratification. 29th January. 1976) Now you must arrange in each temple there must be sufficient stock of prasadam for distribution. Whenever any guest comes. Please follow this principle. As the twenty servings are being distributed. he must be served. that the cooks prepare ten-twenty servings at a time. All Temples can have this Deity if they like . we can feed them. so why should there be want? Our philosophy is. so there is no loss. Laksmiji. 1976) Any sitar player or tabla player or any other musician invited in the temple cannot play anything except Hare Krsna.(SPL to Karandhara. then why should we be misers? This means losing faith in Krsna. There is no difficulty. The temple is managed by Srimati Radharani. The difference is that God is master-God and guru is servantGod. he must get prasada. Whenever a gentleman comes. so why we should deny them? This should be done at any cost. if anyone comes. No one is working as a paid servant so if the dealings are not friendly everyone will decide to leave. of puris and subji. Everything is being supplied by Krsna. and thinking that we are the doers and suppliers. uktas tatha bhavyata eva sadbhih/kintu prabhor yah priya eva tasya **. chant Hare Krsna and be happy. Krsna is not poor. This arrangement must be made. The leader of the temple must try always to be 333 .'' ``there is no supply for cooking'' etc. If we believe that Krsna is providing and maintaining everyone. 13th May. our own men will take. You can keep first class cooks. let him take prasada.(SPL All temple presidents. So the installation ceremony for such a murti should be similar to that done for other Deities. it simply requires nice management.The photos of my murti are very nice. This must be enforced rigidly. So please do this nicely. and the visitors must be supplied immediately. if no one comes. ``it is finished. At the end of the day you may sell or give away. and you can add halava and pakoras.'' ``it is not cooked yet. We are confident Krsna will supply! Let the whole world come. and they should be always engaged. At the end of the day.(SPL to Mukunda. he is welcome otherwise not. The murti of the Spiritual Master should be treated as good as the Deity. 1977) LABOR TEMPLE PRESIDENT’S RESPONSIBILITIES AND QUALIFICATIONS We must always remember that the leader in charge of a temple must learn to successfully deal with the other persons there. Saksad-dharitvena samasta-sastrair.18th January. This is stated in all the sastras. two or three. Neither anyone can use the temple for musical demonstration. You cannot say. If someone comes in the temple to chant Hare Krsna by his musical talents. and be ready to tolerate all kind of setbacks and disappointments. 1972) 334 . as President. regularly chant 16 rounds daily without fail. Then they will not go away. That is your duty. 13th April. Any breakage in the performance of one's duties will surely be a hindrance in one's advancement. Take care of them and see to it that they all become pure devotees. and in every way become the perfect KC example of angel.(SPL to Bhakta dasa. 1970) I have received their very kind letters of appreciation and I am very much grateful. 26th November. Follow the regulative principles very strictly. and we may lose our enthusiasm to do something--but these things come and go and you should not bother very much with them. They should follow the regulative principles strictly. you must now become very convinced of our Krishna philosophy and very enthusiastically and soberly maintain temple routine standards. read all our literatures and attend classes. you should see that everyone stays engaged 24 hours a day in Krishna's service. 18th November. etc. 20th November. and temple worship. Even we may not like to do the work. 1971) I am very encouraged to hear how San Diego center is flourishing under your supervision. The difference between a devotee and a nondevotee is this. So.sober and tolerant and at the same time manage everything nicely. 1971) As president . So just try to help them by giving them Krishna Consciousness and the best way to do this is to set the example by being very enthusiastic to do anything and everything to please Krishna. so sometimes there may be something. They are voluntarily giving their lives to Krishna. 1971) Regarding your second point.(SPL to Vrndavana Candra. That is a very good sign. Just be attached to Krishna and try always to think how to please Him. 1968) The important thing is to see that everyone is following a regulated schedule of chanting 16 rounds. and as long as at least 16 offenseless rounds daily are being chanted. so as president you must see that they are always happy and satisfied in Krishna Consciousness. Of course we are not ourselves perfect.(SPL to Badrnarayana dasa. Sankirtana.10th January. know it for certain that our anxieties will disappear very soon.(SPL to Mukunda. Now you must take care to train them very nicely. and be happy in Krishna Consciousness. The test is that so many new devotees are coming. and He will personally rescue His devotee from all kinds of unfavorable situations. He is friend to everyone and in this way he finds his life sublime. satisfy the devotees.(SPL to Upendra. increase book distribution. 9th November. So the devotee is only attracted by the good qualities in other people and does not see their faults.(SPL to Makhanal. I am pleased to hear that you are concerned for the development of your neophyte godbrothers and godsisters. if we work very hard for Krishna soon we lose our attachment and become satisfied just to be serving Krishna. Please continue to try and cultivate this talent and I know you will be given all intelligence to do this. just like the bee and the fly: the bee always is attracted by the honey and flies go to the open sores. even we may have to make sacrifice. reading. Suchi means purest. 4th February. So kindly utilize their energies and at the same time keep them satisfied . now they don't want to serve so there is some excuse.(SPL to Jagajivana dasa. If spiritual potency and strength is there. 1972) Regarding your other points. if there is need for stronger president in Montreal. 1972) Actually. such as rising early. cleansing at least twice daily.So as President.(SPL to Jagadisa. if one man is appointed as leader. That is leadership.(SPL to Amogha. 9th January. I hope you will understand this point. That is the main work of GBC. 3rd May. now you will be forced to advance in Krishna Consciousness because you must always set the highest example yourself. ``Obedience is the first law of discipline. 1973) This constantly changing the head man and whimsically dividing the attention is not good. I have no objection if Sripati leaves that place. attending arati.(SPL to Rupanuga. 1972) We have got so much to do. reading profusely. We have to deal with so many men with different personalities. Sometimes we see that even they do not wash hands after eating. automatically there will be enthusiasm and increase of preaching results. 1972) All the presidents of our centers should see that all the members are strictly observing the brahminical standards. Main thing is to have always one strong leader at each temple who can maintain the preaching standard to the highest degree . because they have a natural propensity to manage. The workers should not suggest irregularities. 1972) So the future of this Krishna Consciousness movement is very bright. You begin immediately this process. Otherwise we shall fall down. In this way. then material intelligence will automatically follow. so long the managers remain vigilant that 16 rounds are being chanted by everyone without fail. (SPL to Karandhara.(SPL to Cyavana. 1974) 335 . Everyone should join the mangal arati. Someone must be there who will stick tightly to the temple and develop it gradually to the highest standard. 5th January. 6th September. let me go away. That is suci. (SPL to Hrdayananda. irregularity. 15th February. Even after drinking water we should wash hands. that they are all rising before four morning and attending mangal arati.(SPL to Giriraja.'' They are pointing out irregularities. we should become more regulated and strict for following the rules and regulations. so they are pointing out the irregularities in others. 15th May. Then one is fit to lead others. They came to serve. but they themselves are not doing their duty. like that. 1973) So far as being leader is concerned. 22nd December. Oh. if our standard program is maintained just to the standard. all must follow him and be obedient. most of my best managers are grhasthas. Gradually. We must have a solid foundation of chanting and following the regulative principles. This you should understand very clearly. leader means spiritually not materially. 1968) Please continue your very good service. if there are no men available then what can be done?(SPL to Batu Gopala. 16th January. 5th May. Any one who does not accept these things staunchly will have to fall down. 1976) HOW TO MANAGE AND ENGAGE DEVOTEES I have learned that in the temple there are sometimes men with no work. If you are loose in your habits. Like father. On the transcendental plane. It is true that Krishna has given some the opportunity to serve Him by nice writing. and follow the four regulative principles strictly. Everywhere service to Krishna is the same. one service is as good as another. So. 18th March.Regarding having your wife do the management. and so we cannot really do very 336 . attend class. 1976) He may not live off temple funds.(SPL to Caitya Guru dasa. but if you are feeling some inconvenience. We are very tiny. then there is no question of spiritual life.(SPL to Mukunda. tell Brahmananda to give you some other engagement. be strong. don't create any awkward situation that may be criticized. Everyone must rise early. Do not deviate and you will be blessed.(SPL to Devananda. as one of my elder disciples. like son. but a grhastha may be if he is restrained. then you may inform Brahmananda. Idleness is not Krishna Consciousness. Up to now as I have got respectable situation. 1975) So do everything conscientiously and my blessings are always with you. take bath attend mangala arati. I wish that all my disciples will have similar respectable position in society. but these various services are all accepted equally by Krishna. Please take care of this omission I shall be glad to hear from you about this. 7th September.(SPL to Rupanuga. Caesar's wife must be above criticism. But it doesn't look well if you change from one center to another for some convenience. some by good business ability. and do not feel any feeling of uselessness. then everyone in your temple will also be loose in their habits. 11th July. If these things are lax. some by nice cooking. That will keep my name good. However.(SPL to Abhirama dasa. There is no question of higher or lower. Temple president is generally meant for sannyasi. chant at least 16 good rounds. and get some relaxation by change of duty. Every one must be busy with some work in Krishna Consciousness.8th November. 1967) If you are not satisfied with your cooking engagement. and so on. You must teach them by your own personal example otherwise how will they learn. 1974) You must make sure that all of these devotees are following the regulative principles very nicely. This should not be allowed. 1968) The more we struggle for advancing our Krishna Consciousness movement. Simply we can engage our time and energy. 1969) Gradually this meeting should develop into a committee. Therefore the management should be done very cautiously so that everyone is satisfied in their autonomous managing capacity. and that is all Krishna sees. as your countrymen are more or less independent spirited and lovers of democracy.(SOL to Tamala Krsna. Every living being is important in Krishna Conscious service. and I am very glad that you are trying to give importance to this aspect of management. No one is working as a paid servant so if the dealings are not friendly everyone will decide to leave. Gargamuni. of the West Coast presidents. 26th November. The leader of the temple must try always to be sober and tolerant and at the same time manage everything nicely.much. One thing should be followed. I am very glad to inform you that Tamala Krishna and Madhudvisa are managing so nicely in Los Angeles that they are making all men useful for Sankirtana Party purposes. (SPL to Hamsaduta and Himavati. and then success is sure. I hope you are both well. I am always afraid of this crack. 12th July. You have to make them useful by your arrangement. but the best means is that one has to apply his energy as far as possible. So everything should be done very carefully so that their sentiments may not be hurt. That means serve Krishna and the Spiritual Master simultaneously with equal faith and serious vow. and 337 . that will be our success. so in the future we can form a central governing body for the whole institution. Please continue to try and cultivate this talent and I know you will be given all intelligence to do this. Really. because different persons have got different type of energies . 3rd March. 24th August. This is still going on for the last 40 years without any proper settlement. and He is pleased. devotional service means that we have to employ our energies for the purpose of Krishna Consciousness. You can't expect that all men and women who will be going there will be very useful. The difficulty is sometimes things are interpreted in a manner dovetailing one's own sense gratification. it all depends on proper management. He sees this boy or girl is spending his time in My Service. the more we become advanced on the path. and similarly there should be one for the East Coast. and it does not matter what is the volume of such energy. Brahmananda and the others are intelligent . 13th October. 1969) I have seen the agenda of your president's meeting. This is nice. but I am sure if our aim is to serve Krishna sincerely and the Spiritual Master simultaneously.(SPL to Aniruddha. Yourself. Different Godbrothers took the words of Guru Maharaja in different interpretations for sense gratification and the whole mission disrupted. the central point is the order of the Spiritual Master. (SPL to Upendra. 1968) We must always remember that the leader in charge of a temple must learn to successfully deal with the other persons there.(SPL to Hayagriva. Of course. 1968) Regarding the usefulness or uselessness of the inmates. I have got this personal experience in my Guru Maharaja's institution. however. that is the secret of success in Krishna Consciousness. You should always deal things so tactfully that people may not fall away. Everyone should be kept fully engaged one hunderd percent of the time in Krsba’s service without a vacant moment so that maya will never have a chance to act. attending classes and studying our philosophy as well as going on Sankirtana.(SPL to Harivilasa.000. if it is used for the service of Krishna. It does not matter what one’s engagement in Krsna’s service may be. 1st April. he used to 338 . He does not require anyone's service. 1969) I am so glad that Dayananda is doing everything so nicely.(SPL to Tamala Krsna. it is a mistake to give it up. This means that we have to adjust things in favor of circumstances in the matter of pushing Krsna Consciousness Movement forward. Karandhara has just informed me that our Spiritual Sky incense business is making now $1. but still the more we render service unto Him the more we become happy. So we should all be very much appreciative of our Godbrother’s and Godsister’s service. this is a very nice arrangement. chanting the rounds. Krsna is Selfsufficient. ``Anything material. it has my approval. The girls should manage internally and the boys should manage externally. So all of you have my hearty blessings for your kind service to Lord Krsna.(SPL to Candanacarya and Baradraja. (SPL to Gargamuni. But always remember that Nandarani is also a very nice devotee girl. 21 st September. 9th May. but women and children cannot. 1970) We do not require to qualify very extraordinarily to serve Krsna. Because he is family man. A brahmacari can tolerate any inconvenience. and whatever you do conjointly. They will have difficulty. Be always engaged in this way and become happy. 1969) My Guru Maharaja created some Brahmacaris and Sannyasis for preaching work. He is intelligent. responsible boy. 15th December.(SPL to Bhagavan dasa. (SPL to Yamuna. 1970) I think Krsna is giving you good intlligence to manage everything in Paris. 1970) Regarding your question about incense. he should have some special consideration. 18 thOctober. and their whole family is coming out nice.000 a year to spend for Krishna.we must take all precautions that one may not fall away. 26th May. 16th September. etc. (SPL to Hamsaduta. You may note it. 1970) Regarding your program of duties for the brahmacaris and brahmacarinis and grhastha men and women. and I am creating all Grhasthas. Krsna accepts equally the service given to Him by a little calf and that given by Srimaati Radharani.'' Because I have understood this principle. How can that be Maya? My Guru Maharaja used to say. so you should see always that they are not in inconvenience in any way. 1970) Please continue to see that these two nice boys and all the other devotees there are following rigidly the scheduled program of regulated activities in devotional service. you are making the thing less important. then they will advance rapidly . Now you know everything how to be a Vaisnava brahmana. Their service is voluntary. now you must practice these thing or the whole thing will be a show only. Everyone must be encouraged to do what he likes to do for Krishna. Bhaktin if she is a girl. Now is the time for us to begin the boiling process. Better you devote your full time to one thing only. 1972) Good manager means he is able to satisfy everyone and live in cooperative manner with all the devotees. so if you manage things nicely he can do tremendous work. if he is a male. Just you become very serious and thoughtful and learn this art how to engage everyone very nicely. It is not that we should change to accommodate the public. 1972) So far your management of different centers in Eastern Zone. so we should see they are always happy. (SPL to Giriraja. You can thin milk by adding water and you can make it thick by boiling.(SPL to Nityananda. so if someone likes to do business for Krishna. They are voluntarily giving their lives to Krishna .SPL to Ypgesvara. By showing KC in this way. It is not that we can force anyone to do anything.(SPL to Hamsaduta. but that we shoud change the public to accommodate us.000 for Krishna. But one test is that all the devotees should be satisfied. Not that we should be whimsical. 17th December. 20th November. Better to develop the small number of devotees we have. The test is that so many new devotees are coming. That is a very good sign. They have given their lives to Krishna. according to time and place. Now you must take the full responsibility to give them all guidance and facility for perfecting their lives in Krishna Consciousness.appreciate me in front of my godbrothers. 1971) Upon your recommendation. not as others want to see it. 1971) I am very encouraged to hear how San Diego center is flourishing under your supervision. The trick is to keep everyone always engaged happily in Krishna's service. 1971) So long as a devotee is not initiated he should have Bhakta before his name. Then they will not go away. 1971) Our process is to show Krishna Consciousness as it is. I have already advised Rupanuga to do the needful. If we do they will go away and that is a great loss. 28th December. if there is waste then you can merge various centres. 16th January. let them make $1. 2nd May. I have given this idea all along--why you big leaders do not understand it? You should take it to heart as a guiding principle that somehow or other we always please Krishna by doing what is practical and necessary. (SPL to Bhakta dasa.000. 20th November. That way your enthusiasm and talents will have big effect by being concentrated.(SPL to Bhakta dasa. I am gladly accepting them as my duly initiated disciples and their letter follows. not many things . Now you must take care to train them very nicely. make them truly Krishna conscious boys and girls 339 . so as president you must see that they are always happy and satisfied in Krishna Consciousness. Main thing is to make sure everyone is chanting minimum sixteen rounds daily of Hare Krishna Mantra. These two places will be reserved for those who cannot collect. let me go away.than to go on getting many followers who do not understand and practice the real principles. 340 . I have sent many men from U. Then our potency will increase and we may recruit dozens of new devotees easily.(SPL to Damodara. etc. So kindly utilize their energies and at the same time keep them satisfied. 1972) Yes. and others at Mayapur and Vrindaban. so what need there is for some special instruction from me? But if you want.(SPL to Tamala Krsna. 1972) We have got so much to do. 15th May. cleanliness.(SPL to Giriraja. fix them beyond any doubts. to attract some educated men to join us. sleeping members. Better one moon that many stars. 11th May. I must give. they should go to Mayapur and live there and simply eat and sleep. they shall live in Mayapur. 9th May. women.A. that is the right idea. (SPL to Jagadisa. So if you are not able to earn in Calcutta. But in cities. experienced men to manage things just to the highest standard. like women and widows. The idea is that they will only agree to join us if we ourselves conduct ourselves intelligently by the preaching approach. now they don't want to serve so there is some excuse.S. better all go to Mayapur and eat and sleep and I shall accommodate all widows. by Krishna's grace. The secret will be to engage them as they like to be engaged. such as early rising. and it appears that everything is improving more and more. how to engage everyone in their respective duties and properly utilize their energy. The workers should not suggest irregularities. but they themselves are not doing their duty. namely. irregularity.(SPL to Bhavananda. that's all. For them I am making provision. they eat and sleep at others' expense. I like this idea of distributing books and preaching. They came to serve. so they are pointing out the irregularities in others. they shall live in the city. Otherwise why should we maintain such large establishment in Calcutta simply for eating and sleeping and spending. utilize them. We have to deal with so many men with different personalities. 22nd July. 14th July. 1972) Anyone who cannot collect money. to strengthen whatever devotees we have got in spiritual life. so in that case my request to you is that you enter into the universities and colleges wherever possible and preach there with a view to recruiting some first-class devotees for helping me manage and push on this movement all over the world. to help you. Only the active members who can collect. as you are doing. Therefore I am calling upon you the big leaders to push this idea forward. because you are serving Krishna so nicely. all must follow him and be obedient. that is leadership. The widows are not earning in Hindu society. and because you are doing it so nicely you are already making the greatest contribution. now you engage them properly. Overall there is shortage of first-class. ``Obedience is the first law of discipline. Eating. That is leadership. 1972) I am so glad to receive your report after such long time. if one man is appointed as leader. Otherwise they will not be able to perform the other practices of brahminical life. Oh. that is Lord Caitanya's plan. I shall arrange for their eating and sleeping.'' They are pointing out irregularities. those should live who can collect and earn. 1972) As you requested me. that will spoil everything. so I will like to utilize these things for Krishna only if I am encouraged in a certain way. so do not lose enthusiasm out of frustration. so we become very liberal and tolerant of all kinds of seeing others' sinful activities. That is the art of management: to draw out spontaneous loving spirit of sacrificing some energy for Krishna. 1972) I am very much disturbed to hear from you that you have become disturbed in your mind. if too much endeavour is there. We should not be very much after comforts and become complacent or self-contented. So you know this art. 22nd December. like that. and then because we are unhappy by so much trouble we lose enthusiasm altogether and give up all hope. we do not eliminate anyone. In this way. They should try always to generate some atmosphere of fresh challenge to the devotees. no. not the mass. a great achievement to be gained by voluntary desire to do it. going for street sankirtana. I am typist or musician or something like that. (SPL to Sukadeva. that is to be avoided. let me come gradually. we have no more any anxiety. appeal yourself to the high class of men. That will be the best contribution. Gradually I may get some taste for these other things and agree to do them voluntarily and intelligently. So you big managers now try to train up more and more some competent preachers and managers like yourselves. No. so aim yourself at the top-class of men and give them every opportunity and facility to become convinced of our philosophy and engage themselves to their satisfaction. and then I shall be very glad to come there at next opportunity to give them all my personal instruction. You are doing your best to serve Krishna. supposing I have got some education. let me study also Krishna Consciousness and see how it is practical and sublime. that--no. By all means we must preserve our spiritual status. and that will keep it healthy. 13th December. mass will follow later.that is. not that we must work something impossible. We are servants of Krishna. and we try to help them understand what is the real position of life. There must be always some tapasya. this. too. Forget this centralizing and bureaucracy. that is the point. 1972) 341 . and we see them innocent victims of maya. Mass. which is individual and spontaneous and voluntary . life-members. rising very early. I am business student. There is no cause for anxiety. Do not be disturbed. But where are so many expert managers? All of us should become expert managers and preachers. So now I do not think there will be any difficulty for you to fill your Seattle centre with the best devotees in our Movement. not that we are mad after big buildings. that means because we understand that Krishna is our Protector under all circumstances. and I must not be discouraged by too much forcing me at first to accept everything of shaving the head. becoming overburdened. 1972) Our leaders shall be careful not to kill the spirit of enthusiastic service. that is very much appreciated. We are not dogma or like army-camp. these are only ways to engage the devotees so that they may apply the principles of devotional living to some kind of work for practical realization of these principles. strictly observing the regulative principles--Krishna Consciousness movement must be always a challenge. 19th December. No. but if best men are there to run on things.(SPL to Karandhara. or I have got some skill or talent. (SPL to Tejyas. how to attract and engage men. many devotees. so that they will agree enthusiastically to rise and meet it. very tactfully. Now spread this idea also to the other leaders. Krishna Consciousness means we should always be satisfied and happy. Without such voluntary understanding of the principles and agreement to obey them. (SPL to Kirtanananda. 7. if anyone agrees to live with us in the temple he must without any exception follow the four rules and regulations. that may be excused. so we shall not be too much hasty to drive anyone out. our intelligence. let them all be used in Krsna's service. by that attempt Krsna will extend his mercy and deliver the fallen soul despite his so many disqualifications. [Bg. They may be thinking that these people are slaves of their strict principles. twice. but we must remain also always firm on this point. plus the other regulative principles. The art of preaching is to engage that propensity in the service of Krsna. no one is qualified to live in our temples . our energies. and even some devotees misbehave. that the brahmacaris living in the temple shall not disobey the orders of the spiritual master. otherwise who would be qualified of any of us to become devotee? So that tolerant attitude must be there to a certain extent. If someone wants to become devotee but he is little weak. 1972) Everyone has got some propensity. only seeing that due to maya they have temporarily forgotten their real position. like that. Therefore we may forgive once. never mind he is living outside. 1973) 342 . but more than that we must take other steps. 31st December. 1972) Of course we work very very hard just to get someone to come to the platform of devotee of Krsna. our mind.(SPL to Cyavana. Whatever we have got. this will be the success of your preaching work. and gradually he will develop the surrendering attitude and accept voluntarily the life of austerity or tapasya which must be practiced in the temple living. we are not so overly critical. Of course if there are one or two instances of falling down. our possessions. he is always very tolerant and understanding. Such a great soul is very rare. seeing everyone as the part and parcel of Krsna and the pure devotee of Krsna. rather we are strictly adhering to our devotional principles only so that we may make advancement in Krsna consciousness and be protected from the attack of maya consciousness. And such person or aspiring devotee. the devotee is always very liberal-minded and tolerant towards everyone. The point is that no one is actually qualified in this material world to approach Krsna. So a devotee is always very understanding if there is some discrepancy behavior on the part of nondevotees. chant at home and at his work. he is to be considered the most exalted of men because he has given his life to Krsna: bahunam janmanam ante jnanavan mam prapadyate vasudevah sarvam iti sa mahatma sudurlabhah After many births and deaths. 28th January. Let him understand that it is not an arbitrary or whimsical decision on our parts to become like military camp. our time. Or he may not be invited to live in the temple until he has agreed and has proven his ability to obey the regulative idea. he may come regularly to the temple. he who is actually in knowledge surrenders to Me. The point is that we should not be over anxious just to recruit men if they will not be of the best quality. So by training people in this way. otherwise he may be asked kindly to leave the temple and live outside.Yes. but we are thinking that the strict principles are slaves to us. knowing Me to be the cause of all causes and all that is. So if any new candidate for devotee comes forward you may test him very thoroughly to understand from him if he is ready to fully accept our strict standard of temple living. but if he makes the attempt through our inducing him gradually to give his energy to Krsna.19] (SPL to Dhananjaya. Of course. 29th December. and offer his foodstuffs always to Krsna. Simply grhastha means that he lives outside the temple with wife. Now Tamala Krsna Goswami has just had a successful hernia operation which was arranged free of charge at one of the most modern hospitals. Although it is a Vedic institution still there are so many legal implications. If they become angry and leave then our work is defeated. 1973) The temple is a place not for eating and sleeping. (SPL to Ramesvara. for proper medical treatment. Fight with maya means to drop thousand and millions of books into the lap of the conditioned souls. 343 . Women are looking for husbands because they feel unprotected so it is up to the senior members to give all protection to the women. Who has been ostracized? One of the symptoms of a devotee is that he is kind. 29th January. Otherwise. 1973) We have to manage our men in such a way that they may bend to our will but not break. 14th February. It should be our definite policy that nobody is ill treated that he may go away. Everyone comes for reformation.S. that is the only difference. After all. Just like during war time the Bombs are raining from the sky like anything. 1973) First of all. The policy should be that all the women are given the utmost protection. nor do I think this is being widely practiced. grhastha must follow the same regulative principles and remain fully engaged in the temple activities. there is not question of a devotee becoming ostracized because he has become ill. and was able to recuperate comfortably. (SPL to Rupanuga. rather it is our duty to make everyone perfect as far as possible. and sannyasi. our only tie is Love of Godhead. So we shall be very much cautious and careful in this connection.There is no difference between brahmacari. Polygamy will simply increase the sex life and our philosophy is to gradually decrease the sex life till eventually there is no sex life. he was given his own room.(SPL to Tamala Krsna. There. We recruit a person to join us after spending gallons of blood.(SPL to Ksirodakasayi. Recently our Giriraja became chronically ill in India and had to return to the U. but as a base from which we send out our soldiers to fight with maya. grhastha. 1973) I have received one complaint from Indian devotee at Mayapur Prabharupa Das Brahmacari that he is mal treated by our American devotees. and there is also a girl devotee undergoing operation there also. and now he has returned to his full duties in Bombay. 31st December. Kindly inquire into this matter and do the needful. vanaprastha. So you are the expert in this field. Tamala Krsna is now living in a room at our temple. 1973) After conferring with my various GBC representatives I have concluded that polygamy must be strictly prohibited in our society. Either Indian or foreign whoever joins us they are not under any obligation. you cannot expect everyone to be perfect. so if our Godbrother becomes ill it is our duty to help him get the proper medicine and treatment so that he can recover. in our Los Angeles center.(SPL to Tamala Krsna Goswami. Neither are many of our men fixed up enough to tend for more than one wife. our work is purely voluntary. the devotees see that he gets all facility. 3rd August. 23rd August. (SPL to Haihaya. even without pressure. you should get it. One thing is that they must be fully engaged.'' Sometimes devotees are promised a plate of maha-prasadam for the biggest distributer. it is required that nobody should sit idle. Please continue in this kind of management. 1974) Regarding engaging the men. Don't make a hotel for free boarding and lodging. Actually one should try to serve Krishna to his or her full capacity without thought of reward--service is itself the reward. but we have to remain on the transcendental platform nevertheless. 28th Decenber. It sounds as if you are taking care of your men very nicely. 1976) This business of sleeping devotees should stop. simply increasing the expenditures.(SPL to Sukadeva. otherwise there may be some bad taste. Books are the basis of our Movement. Just like a child by pressure goes to school and is made to read.a hospital bed. We can rent the unused space. 1976) 344 . Of course it has to be applied properly. sometimes pressure is required. lazy attitude which will only end in fall down. (SPL to Giriraja dasa. 5th April. Eating should be minimized. Everyone must be full-time engaged and the best engagement for them is to sell books. So long we have this material body there will be sickness. Too much eating leads to too much sleeping. So far devotees being hesitant to distribute books on account of pressure. That will be very nice. What is the use of such sleeping devotees. proper prasadam. Then after some time he wants to read. and personal care and visiting. and then sex desire. There is no harm. 16th August. 1974) Yes. This is first class management. Don't allow anyone to simply eat and sleep. especially when one is not so advanced. But spontaneous service can only be expected from advanced devotees . We are not writing something whimsical. Whatever appreciation we are getting on account of our books. try to encourage book distribution as much as possible. But this takes time to actually realize and until that platform is achieved some pressure or inducement is required. So there is no question of ill treating of our own Godbrothers simply because they are sick. So. 1974) Regarding the new building. 29th May. All should attend classes 2 or 3 times daily. it is because we are following the path chalked out by exalted devotees. 9th January. nor should you allow such neglect to go on. 1974) I am also glad to hear that in your temple no one misses mangala arati and that everyone is becoming steady and peaceful in their service. chant 16 rounds. It is vaidhi bhakti--vaidhi means ``must. 9th January.(SPL to Rupanuga dasa. management should be done very carefully to see that there is not easy-going. All of them must be engaged. and go out for street sankirtana. We have all got experience of this.(SPL to Tusta Krsna Maharaja.(SPL to Kurusrestha. never mind if it is a little more or less. if it is suitable. and the householders can live in the building as long as they have separate floors. (SPL to Mukunda. according to Caitanya-caritamrta a man is famous who is known as a great devotee of Krsna. she could better paint for Krsna.The man supplied the brahmana with a little foodstuff. „Oh. there must be proper remuneration.“ the man replied. Prabhupada wrote back assuring the disciple that there was no offenc.“ said the brahmana. sometimes there is risk in the matter of direct service. that alone can make us much more advanced in Krishna Consciousness. 1967) I am very concerned that due to your sincerity and service mood you have improved in Krishna Consciousness excellently. If she insisted on becoming a great artist. His use of the story about the brahmana who lost his caste illustrates this nicely. The hungry man lamented. it is stated that for the fixed up devotee there is one duty. So forget this incident. I might gather some money in this way. but one brahmana was very hungry. Whatever allocation of duty there may be. In India there is a custom that Hindus never take their meal in the house of a Mohammedan or Christian. but still his hunger was not satisfied. „ The idea is that if we have to ask some service. The maya is very strong and as soon as there is opportunity the Maya will come and attack.2.p 76-77 The devotees of the temple must keep themselves engaged otherwise they cannot make progress in Krishna consciousness. and so many other things. „Oh. In the Bhagavad-gita. So I thought that since I required some money for my book found.“ Prabhupada Nectar Vol. He related the story about the cast brahmana.artist. When the brahmana asked the man for more food. which caste do you belong to?“ „I am Mohammedan. 13th May. she would be like the brahmana who lost his caste but his belly remained unfilled. „Sir. tried to get Prabhupada a teaching position on a college faculty.HOW DEVOTEES SHOULD EXECUTE THEIR DUTIES SRILA PRABHUPADA TELLS A STORY Srila Prabhupada would speak from a large repertoire of traditional stories and apply them in different ways. if we try to execute such specific duty sincerely. or anyone other than a Hindu brahmana. As for fame. Kirtanananda was giving me direct service by massaging. Then he asked. For example. The salary they offered to him was very low. She had suggested to Prabhupada that she should improve her artistic craftsmanship by painting and selling nondevotional pictures. Prabhupada said. cooking for me. Therefore every one should be very careful against the attack of Maya. at Prabhupada’s suggestion. and he went to a little known acquaintance and asked for some food. Another time Prabhupada applied the same story when a devotee. so Prabhupada rejected it. he became puffed up. the man said that he was sorry but he had no more. then commented. The devotee then thought that he had insultes Prbhupada by even asking such a thing. This duty is understood through the transparent medium via media of the Spiritual Master. but that the offer was useless. but later on by dictation of Maya. and then after becoming talented and famous. so much so that he thought his Spiritual Master a 345 . It is better service to Krishna and Spiritual Master in a feeling of separation. I have lost my caste and I am still hungry!“ Srila Prabhupada told this story on the occasion to a devotee. but this does not satisfy my hunger. And the only effective defense is remain Krishna consciousness always. disappointed. 16th December. A Krishna Conscious person is never tired of working and the symptoms I can see in you as you want to be overloaded with work. without any endeavor by Arjuna. instead of realizing I was giving him opportunity to do me some service.(SPL to Brahmananda. that will make us happy and successful. he should be accepted as spiritually the strongest man. and work being completely in Krishna Consciousness. with certainty for its success. 1967) I understand that there are only three persons at Boston. 30 th December. should be on the principle as Arjuna followed: the principle is. Nobody becomes tired but wants to work more and more. Similarly. Govinda dasi and Gaurasundara also want to be overloaded with work. Our principle should be therefore.(SPL to Jadurani. 8. So your examples are great encouragement for an old man like me. Krishna Consciousness is difficult job for less intelligent persons. and by Krishna's Grace.(SPL to Madhusudana. 1968) Regarding your question. Of course. we should try our best to our best capacity. but physically I am not as strong as you are all young boys and girls. This sort of help from Krishna is transcendental happiness. 20th February. neither Arjuna followed it. they take direct service as an opportunity. I have got the same spirit of being overloaded with Krishna Conscious work. Serving Krsna does not mean that we sit idly and say that Krsna will take care of all our business. and victory will come from Krishna. that Krishna was Arjuna's most intimate friend. As a military man. those who are sincere devotee. but each of you can work for 300 persons. This mentality at once pushed him down. Kirtanananda was thinking I was existing on his service. and was existing only on account of his service.(SOL to Satsvarupa. and patiently follow the regulative principles. This is the test of how one is advancing in Krishna Consciousness. In the Caitanya Caritamrta it is said that persons who take to Krishna Consciousness are supposed to be the most intelligent man. neither was that principle advised by Krishna. Your God-brother Satsvarupa also told me the same thing that he may be overloaded with typewriting work. That is not depending on the Lord. but the victory was brought him by Krishna. rather it is laziness. 1967) I understand that some of our students are in Boston. He could have brought victory to Arjuna. we must utilize our intelligence fully for serving Krsna. but it is Krishna Consciousness that works. Depending on Krsna 346 . so it is not the numerical strength that works. Similarly. But one who understands Krishna Consciousness and acts accordingly. After all.'' So ordinarily. and associate ourselves with pure devotees. 30 th January. 1968) Regarding Krishna's being very kind upon us. Arjuna fought to his best. all of a sudden we shall see everything is there. It is clearly said in the Gita: ``Yuddhasya ca mam anusmara [Bg. we have to try our best to our best capacity to achieve something. that we should work for the mission with great enthusiasm. and they are not attending the Temple or cooperating with you. This means they are under the clutches of Maya more or less.7]. That is the teachings of the Bhagavad-gita.common man. We should never sit idly and ask Krishna to do everything. You can pray to Krishna that I may get your strength to serve the cause of Krishna Consciousness. but the illusory energy is so strong that it acts on this doctrine of familiarity breeds contempt. nobody can become free from the unhappiness of this material world. Just like a small child can only eat such things which are sanctioned by his parents. I hope you understand this properly. If there is lack of obedience then there cannot be discipline. 1970) Our process is to show Krishna Consciousness as it is. that means surrender.(SPL to Yajnesvara. 28th December. I have decided to follow Your order. Mahamsa. not by his own discretion.(SPL to Jadurani. therefore. 1969) Regarding your consideration of management. That way your enthusiasm and talents will have big effect by being concentrated. So it is imperative that all our students be exemplary in their execution of devotional service and naturally Krsna will bless you all more and more. You have got the power to not do: iti te jnanam akhyatam guhyad guhyataram maya vimrsyaited asesena yathecchasi tatha kuru ``Thus I have explained to you the most confidential of all knowledge. 2nd January.(SPL to Jogesvara. 1972) 347 . one cannot make any tangible progress in Krsna Consciousness and without strictly following the regulative principles and chanting the prescribed number of rounds on the beads. Free will is that when the controller says do this. (SPL to Hamsaduta. This mentality to chant in a solitary place without any responsibility of preaching work is not approved by Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Maharaja. you can use your free will to do it or not to do it.means to act always in Krsna consciousness. abide by the direction of the man in charge of the center. But when he is trained up then automatically he gets his freedom.(SPL to Bhagavan dasa. No. (SPL to Gargamuni. then all decisions shall be sanctioned by the spiritual master. no free will. realizing that Krsna is the ultimatecontroller of all results. we should take all risks for Krsna. 22nd June. and without discipline we cannot manage a huge world organization. 16th November. 18. but that we shoud change the public to accommodate us.G. Without being jolly. By showing KC in this way.65) Krishna asks. 19th June. and then do what you wish to do. 1971) Your next question was about the free will. I am getting such happy reports from all our centers and actually that is the way of advancing in spiritual life. not many things. 1970) I am very glad that you and all the others are finding that your Krishna Consciousness is increased by following our new schedule of regular activities in the Temple. Naranaranayana and Giriraja. One of our Godbrothers was doing like that and my Spiritual Master was not very satisfied with him.'' (B. Neophyte means no independent decisions.'' This is free will. Deliberate on this fully. 22nd September. It is not that we should change to accommodate the public. you are making the thing less important. 1972) Kindly. whether we have it or not ? If one is not intelligent enough for making for making decisions. not as others want to see it. Better you devote your full time to one thing only. ``Have you decided to fight?'' ``Yes. Vaisnava devotee means give me simply a place to lay down. all sorts of difficulties and discrepancies of life are easily withstood. If you want to study. That position of confusion is not very much desirable. there is much time in the day for studying. tottering and precarious. So stop this dreaming state. No. Therefore our system is to follow the authority or our superiors. 1972) I am so much happy to hear from you all the good news of our Mayapur centre! No . But first you have to agree to understand the process and follow it scrupulously. these thoughts are material. that's all. 23rd July. not this is right and this is wrong. that is not to my liking. So my best advice to you is that without questioning you follow the instructions given to you by Visnujana and other leaders. that is Krishna's work. and do exactly as they say. He wants only a place to lay down. and be happy. and it can be immediately rejected at any time. so you are a Vaisnava. for Krishna or for maya. under any conditions.(SPL to Jayapataka. rather it is your qualification for pleasing your spiritual master. that is the result or practice of your studying. a little prasadam. and that is almost spiritual. so Krishna appreciates very much when His devotee becomes attached to Him in this way. otherwise I shall go away. so that all sorts of fluctuations of the material nature. if it is followed with determination and enthusiasm. your liking of engagement there is not at all an inappropriate attachment. I can understand you are confused in your mind. and if your are sincere in this way. little 348 . so by being submissive in this way and following the direction of the temple leaders is practicing the knowledge of Krishna Consciousness. That is wanting. but you must go also on Sankirtana party. 19th December. or if I adjust things a certain way everything will be better. Disciple means discipline. gladly let me do it for Krishna. Vaisnava means one who is able to sit down anywhere. Without discipline there cannot be any spiritual progress. Try to understand things with the light of your intelligence. but only if it is understood by the intelligence. without a doubt Krishna will give you full facility to understand Him and become freed of the bondage of ignorance. our process of Krishna Consciousness. From your letter. So you have become attached to developing the Mayapur centre. That is not the way. and if there's a little service he can do. you might like another. As long as we are thinking I want this. 1972) It is very good that you want to become very learned in Krishna Consciousness. body. that is mental platform of accept/reject. now rid yourself of such misunderstanding of things. Simply studying is dry and useless without chanting. because you do not want this. If I only think I know something. to the Lotus Feet of Lord Krishna.(SPL to Bhagavatananda.One thing is. and any knowledge gathered from the mental platform is like that. no that we can independently question. like that. Attachment must be there. Devotional service is not conditional. then everything will be all right.(SPL to Sankarsana. 8th July. Something understood by the intelligence is fixed forever and cannot waver. you do not want that. automatically it has the effect of fixing us. mind and soul. 1972) Not that I must have a very nice place. I must serve like this or like that. Krishna Consciousness has great potency to deliver us to the highest platform of perfection. but what good is so much knowledge without practice? Obedience must be there. . 16th March. „So far the devotees being hesitant to distribute books on account of pressure. 1972) Such surrendered devotee sees that everything is part of Krishna's plan. 1976 When he spoke with Kirtiraja the other day. Prabhupada sent a long letter in reply.1. That is advanced stage of understanding devotional service or Krishna Consciousness. otherwise there may be some bad taste. dealing with the report point by point. (P.D. whatever little service you have got please give me. Prabhupada had approved certain plans for preaching in Poland. 16th August. let me become absorbed in such service. And if there is no discipline you cannot manage anything.549) RECRUITING DEVOTEES 349 .prasadam.(SPL to Jayapataka.395) 14th April. Unless we are constantly engaged then there will be sickness and illicit sex automatically. it is all right that you devote your time to painting instead of street sankirtana.. 19th December. I am doing that. (P.D. 1972) Yes. (P.1. it is required that nobody should sit idle. (SPL to Dhrstaketu. That is not possible.D. Thank you very much for your kindly coming to the point. The main thing is that you be engaged in some worthwhile work for Krsna without wasting even a moment. but let all other considerations be forgotten and only my desire to do the thing best for Krishna's alone pleasure be my motive. he canceled his own suggestions. But upon hearing that Hansaduta had already formulated another strategy. and if you are seriously painting I have no objection to your proposal. He told Kirtiraja simply to follow the GBC`s instructions. 1974) 9th January. (SPL to Gurudasa and Yamuna. 1976 Obedience is the first law of discipline. He especially stressed the importance of book distribution. So there is a good need for pictures in our preaching work. so let me do it with my full attention to every detail. 19th December. that the students should be very disciplined .1. 1974) Regarding engaging the men. never mind what it is . especially when one is not so advanced.246) 28th February. that's all. Therefore this is very essential. If there is no obedience there cannot be any discipline.. 1976 Pleased with their preaching efforts. Of course it has to be applied properly. that whatever is meant to be. sometimes pressure is required. (SPL to Giriraja. especially in illustrating our books. 1968) I have very much appreciated your discussion in the Istagosthi and so also Rayarama's. A Vaisnava is expected to be humbler than the blade of grass. and gradually he will come to understand. But later on. I have already advised Jayananda in this connection that we cannot make the society an asylum for crazy people. and we do not expect our audience or candidates completely respondent to our call. For the time being. but I am sure that the best medicine is chanting the HARE KRISHNA mantra. but a person who is willing to hear us submissively must be given chance to understand the philosophy of Krishna Conciousness. he related about his past life. and it is clear that he is crazy. Immediately if he cannot give up the medicine as he is taking. a new man may commit blunders in the beginning. It is not our business. 24th February. we found him completely free from all intoxication--even he was not even smoking and was quite fit to work for Krishna Consciousness. 22nd September. 11th January. Let him chant HARE KRISHNA very seriously and he will gradually be able to give up everything. that he was addicted to all kinds of intoxication. so when you train some new man you should not get agitated with him. After all. 1969) 350 . (SPL to Advaita. 6th October. I have got experience--one of my God-brothers. 1968) Yes. let him take the substitute medicine as he is taking. but that does not mean we may be too impatient with him. but a non-devotee who is already poisoned by the serpent of the demon class swami or yogi is very difficult to be dealt with. 1969) Training is not imposition. we are preachers. After all. In the Srimad-Bhagavatam it is stated that if somebody is not too much addicted. and he is taking some medicine to give it up. I understand that he is addicted to heroin intoxication. 6th October. (SPL to Syamasundara. so you should train him nicely.(SPL to Gargamuni. 11th March. but tactfully we shall try to teach him in our ways. (SPL to Guru dasa. If everyone is trained then what is the use of our preaching?(SPL to Upendra. so the best thing is to reject them and not waste time for their elevation.I am in due receipt of your statement regarding Jivanuga.(SPL to Purusottama. We have to collect men for Krishna Consciousness & therefore we may not be harsh to them. (SPL to Kirtananandana. And I hope he will be able to give up that substitute medicine also. It is voluntary accept by the trainee. 1968) So if you find a non-devotee eager to listen submissively you can show your mercy to elevate him to Krishna Conciousness. training means the man does not know. that doesn't matter. and he was distilling wine in his village without any license--he was such a great intoxicant. So everything is possible provided one is serious. 3rd June. neither he is completely powerful to give up some bad habits. 1968) We should not disturb the newcomers immediately with opposite proposals. 1968) Regarding Randy. and at the same time let him seriously chant HARE KRISHNA. this via media stage is favorable. those who are not so interested may advance themselves and make perfection of their life. 12th July. those who are already interested may finish up there Krishna Consciousness business in this life. and eating Krishna prasadam. 1969) 351 . So throughout the material universes there are many such spiritually inclined souls. and they will automatically be attracted. attending our temple activities with association with devotees. But I wish that you should also attract new devotees from your quarters. then in future lifetimes he will automatically become attracted again to spiritual life. and he will begin his progress from the point where he had previously left off. some of them may go either to open new branches or where they are required. Krishna informs Arjuna that if in previous lifetimes one has begun the path of spiritual perfection but was unable to complete it for one reason or another. simply by hearing our Sankirtana Party.(SPL to Jaya Gopala. 15 th July. So propagate our processes of Sankirtana.(SPL to Pradyumna. then the spiritual instincts of the more advanced souls he comes into contact with will be awakened.I am so much encouraged to learn that one very nice German boy has come to live in your temple. So the program is after being trained up here. You mention that you are fixing up your temple for nice Love feast program and this is cent per cent approved by me. sumptuous Love feasts. and our mission is to present to everyone right knowledge of spiritual life. and automatically some intelligent boys and girls will become interested to associate with our movement. 1969) I have no objection to sending you some men from Los Angeles. and you will see how Krishna provides everything nicely for your center. In the Bhagavad-gita. 1969) Now Tamala Krishna will be the supplying agent of devotees to many temples. because if someone partakes of the remnants of offerings to Lord Krishna. Try to have very nice Love feasts. Instead of importing devotees. And the basic principle for doing this is Sankirtana Party. Actually. so go on increasing your enthusiasm. and surely many persons will be attracted to join this sublime movement. and the Love feast program is one of the very strong attracting influences. Simply let them hear our chanting. and reading literatures of Krishna Consciousness. because he is attracting many new devotees in the Los Angeles temple.(SPL to Upendra. invite them to our temple Love Feasts. but you also should try to recruit some men from amongst the residents of Columbus. if one true Vaisnava goes any place in the world. That is the best plan. then he is sure to come back to Krishna Consciousness again at one time or another. that he is also coming to join you. You are a very sincere worker. it is better to attract devotees from your own area. 5th July. and this is a symptom that you are all executing your Krishna Conscious duties nicely. This program of offering grand scale quantities of prasadam amongst the general people was encouraged by Lord Caitanya. 15th June. This is clear evidence that you are all working sincerely to serve Krishna. and now one sincere soul has been so attracted by this.(SPL to Sivananda. 1969) I am pleased to note that everything is going on very harmoniously in your temple. and similarly. because here in Los Angeles they are constantly attracting more and more members to join them. In this way. should come immediately to Los Angeles to be trained up nicely in Krishna Consciousness. It is very encouraging . 1969) I have also heard that during his absence 3 devotees have left the temple. 16th August. (SPL to Upendra. To send a man is a very expensive job. and it must be strictly prohibited. especially in the beginning because she is new and not accustomed to our Temple habits. So things should be managed so nicely that our devotees may not leave us. for the time being let only one man go. we shall consider. That is not a good policy that for preaching work one has to get men from another country. came here. they may not cause this disturbance in our temples. my Godbrother. ____. then there will be the greatest all-around benefit. Hare Hare. One has to create manpower from the local environment. then the fire within will come in blazing light. and we must train such devotee in a nice way so that he may not go back and be at large in the clutches of Maya. 2nd December. and that is a good sign.(SPL to Satsvarupa.(SPL to Subala. So both of these boys.I am very pleased to learn that you have been nicely assisting Rupanuga. 1969) Regarding the persons who have been ``throwing the I-Ching. This is to be considered as gambling. It is a fact that wherever we go. Please give her satisfactory care. This is because Krishna Consciousness is lying dormant in every living entity. and now the Buffalo center is gradually becoming very successful. 1969) Regarding Japan. and to save a living entity from such clutches is the greatest service to the humanity. 15th October. Otherwise. that will be the best thing. and if we try to remember Him always and spread His message of Bhagavad-gita. This must be our policy. he may not be allowed to live at the temple. Krishna immediately recognizes the service . 19th August.(SPL to Prahladananda.'' this cannot go on in our temples of Krishna Consciousness. he complained of getting some manpower from India. Krishna Krishna. Please take care of these boys and keep them fixed up in Krishna Consciousness . if we simply let the people hear our chanting and if we repeat what we have heard from the bona fide Spiritual Master. 29th July. So if you let all the residents of Buffalo hear the sound of Hare Krishna and read our literatures. Our method of striking the match is Hare Krishna. If they require more men later on. Unless one agrees to follow all of our principles. This vibration is sufficient to awaken the sleeping spirit soul to the fact that Krishna is there. (SPL to Brahmananda. Forty years ago when Bon Maharaja. 1969) You have got some good souls assisting you. He will give you all assistance. then our life becomes perfect and we are perfectly executing our position as part and parcel of the Lord. If we simply strike the match. Hare Krishna. So if these boys will come to Los Angeles to follow the discipline as it is practiced here. just like fire is dormant within a match. In our lifetime. whoever they are. then surely many. Please go on with your work with enthusiasm and faith in Krishna. 352 . 1969) Krishna has sent one nice German scholar. We get a devotee after great endeavour. That is success of preaching. The spell of Maya is very strong. The principle is that they should recruit men locally. many sincere souls will become attracted to our movement . if we can fix up at least one soul in Krishna Consciousness. If they can follow all these 353 .(SPL to Muralidhara. What is the cause of it?(SPL to Sudama. not a single Japanese has been initiated. 1970) So a rascal may be accepted provided he agrees to stop his nonsenses. This process is called gosthananda which means pleasure by seeing increase of followers. We cannot devote separate time for them.(SPL to Tamala. So far I know. So if spiritual strength is not strong now. he must agree to the reforming process. 22nd June. 1970) So try to attract the students. take prasadam only. Our strength is not material strength.(SPL to Satsvarupa. 1971) So far as helping youth cases. he must live with us. But intelligence or no intelligence. then our movement may advance swiftly.(SPL to Jaya Govinda. This is encouraging. how can one expect to be reformed if he does not agree or like to be reformed. (SPL to Ekayani. how it is possible? Our policy is to have shaven head. try to make Sripati and the others stronger by spiritual means by following the regulative principles and chanting sixteen rounds. And after some time when he is accustomed to our principle.1969) Anyone who is a newcomer should be allowed some concession. and they will take up this matter very quickly because the students are not very contaminated. To be reformed.(SPL to Gurudasa. Preaching work means increasing the number of our family members. we must see that he is not a mad man and will not create a disturbance. If some intelligent persons join us. Yes. 1970) Take care of the new devotees so that they may read our literatures carefully and come to the real standard of understanding. 3rd February. 1970) So far as recruiting men is concerned. 3rd May. then we can make the scrwe tight. 20th February. wear robes. they should live with us. I am very glad that temple arrangement in Boston is nicely being carried out and new devotees are joining--this is the success of preaching work. but spiritual strength. 9th March. follow the regulative principles. 1970) I am so glad to hear that many new boys are coming to London temple and they are of good calibre intelligence and seriousness. That is not possible. they are our great future hope. Preaching means to recruite more and more men. etc. if the prisoners can give up their sinful activities. we can allow them to live with us. 22nd January. 13th March. we have to create men. Otherwise.(SPL to Jagadisa. chant 16 rounds of beads. 1971) Yes. I think this point will be sufficient hint to deal with him. Before admitting him. 1970) Yes. this is a nice sign. 4th June. If anyone desires to be treated. Otherwise.(SPL to Rudra. if some way or other somebody comes and sticks to the principles automatically he becomes intelligent. 29th September. We recruit devotees with great difficulty. If he just follows in part. We are servants of Krishna. No. So it is our duty to help them as far as possible. no. That is the sign of our progress. That is our method. So all these principles must be followed in order to derive spiritual benefit. 1971) I am so glad to hear that there are many new devotees there and they are doing so nicely. experienced men to manage things just to the highest standard. like that. Therefore I am calling upon you the big leaders to push this idea forward. that is one of our activities. 1971) Now more devotees are coming also. so I will like to utilize these things for Krishna only if I am encouraged in a certain way. If a doctor prescribes a medicine and a diet and if the patient follows both. very tactfully. 4th April. Overall there is shortage of first-class. rising very early. by Krishna's grace.principles then only it is all right. they should open a branch--in every village and town all over the world. let me come gradually. supposing I have got some education. namely. then he may not. as you are doing. In the beginning they may be treated leniently and gradually they will learn. and it appears that everything is improving more and more. 1971) I am so glad to receive your report after such long time. The more sincere you are in pushing this movement forward. so Krishna will reciprocate and send you many new devotees. So give them protection and instruct them so that they may not go away. Just like the tiger is trained in the circus and later on they are dancing to the tune of the master.(SPL to Nayanabhirama. We are not dogma or like army-camp.(SPL to Gaura Hari. going for street sankirtana.(SPL to Bhagavan dasa. that is Lord Caitanya's plan. All newcomers should be welcomed and well treated. that is. So they must be well-treated. or I have got some skill or talent. 1971) And it is very encouraging to hear that so many new devotees are coming. A preacher should always be tolerant. to attract some educated men to join us. New men may not always behave so nicely but we must be tolerant. I am typist or musician or something like that. 21st April. because you are serving Krishna so nicely. let me study also Krishna Consciousness and see how it is practical and sublime. and I must not be discouraged by too much forcing me at first to accept everything of shaving the head. The idea is that they will only agree to join us if we ourselves conduct ourselves intelligently by the preaching approach. The secret will be to engage them as they like to be engaged. he will get well. I am business student. so in that case my request to you is that you enter into the universities and colleges wherever possible and preach there with a view to recruiting some first-class devotees for helping me manage and push on this movement all over the world. To train a new man is like training a wild animal to be a pet. As soon as they are nicely trained up. Thank you very much. In each and every center we must get new devotees more and more and train them up. So the point being stressed is training. I like this idea of distributing books and preaching. 9 th July. that means because we understand 354 . so what need there is for some special instruction from me? But if you want.(SPL to Damodara. That is an indication of your sincerity. 3rd October. Gradually I may get some taste for these other things and agree to do them voluntarily and intelligently. and because you are doing it so nicely you are already making the greatest contribution. So out of many thousands of people on comes to become Krishna Conscious. I must give. and do not be so much anxious to count up so many numbers of new devotees. chant at home and at his work. and I think that Krsna will send you some very qualified men to take instruction from you. It is very difficult to give up very quickly so many bad habits as you have got in your country. So now I do not think there will be any difficulty for you to fill your Seattle centre with the best devotees in our Movement. if anyone agrees to live with us in the temple he must without any exception follow the four rules and regulations. Without such voluntary understanding of the principles and agreement to obey them. So if some new man moves in with us he may become discouraged if he is forced in this way. mass will follow later. Of course if there are one or two instances of falling down. he may come regularly to the temple. otherwise he may be asked kindly to leave the temple and live outside. 13 th December. try to recruit some men from the student class of men for joining us as future leaders of our Society.(SPL to Sukadeva. that the brahmacaris living in the temple shall not disobey the orders of the spiritual master. we are not so overly critical. Anyone who lives in the temple must agree to follow the rules and regulations without fail. so we become very liberal and tolerant of all kinds of seeing others' sinful activities. no one is qualified to live in our temples . and give them factual Krsna Consciousness. The point is that we should not be over anxious just to recruit men if they will not be of the best quality. that may be excused. In this way. if such devotees go away later being too early forced. like that. and we try to help them understand what is the real position of life.that Krishna is our Protector under all circumstances.(SPL to Cyavana. too. Or he may not be invited to live in the temple until he has agreed and has proven his ability to obey the regulative idea. and gradually he will develop the surrendering attitude and accept voluntarily the life of austerity or tapasya which must be practiced in the temple living. then everything will be spoiled eventually. so educate them gradually. but we must remain also always firm on this point. I want to see a few sincere devotees. 29th December. not the mass. Therefore let them live outside and become gradually convinced in the class why they should accept some austerity. But one thing is. plus the other regulative principles. Now spread this idea also to the other leaders. 1972) Therefore we should not be so anxious to induce them to live in the temple. and offer his foodstuffs always to Krsna. then they will live with us out of their own accord and follow nicely everything. and then I shall be very glad to come there at next opportunity to give them all my personal instruction. So you know this art. not many false devotees or pretenders. In this way. how to attract and engage men. do not spend much time for topics that are not concerned with Krsna Consciousness. first with chanting. appeal yourself to the high class of men. 1972) Yes. So you have got the best opportunity for this great service to Krsna. but if best men are there to run on things. Mass. If someone wants to become devotee but he is little weak. otherwise who would be qualified of any of us to become devotee? So that tolerant attitude must be there to a certain extent.(SPL to Karandhara. so aim yourself at the top-class of men and give them every opportunity and facility to become convinced of our philosophy and engage themselves to their satisfaction. whatever is palatable to the student class. If we simply go on expanding and there are no qualified men to lead. 22nd December. 1972) So preach in this way. never mind he is living outside. neither try to speculate about history 355 . and we see them innocent victims of maya. we do not eliminate anyone. That will be the best contribution. we have no more any anxiety. they may go and live in one of our centers. but they should all be on the basis of our books. 26th January. no. In this way.and other things. so that you may remain some time longer and concentrate on recruiting two or three good men. Of course we shall not expect them immediately to come into the temple. That is the Krishna Conscious system. 5th January. let them accept gradually by their intelligence. (SPL to Danavir dasa. now go on developing it more and more to perfection. and that will impress them greatly. like that. so try to impress this aspect of offering the perfect scientific understanding of everything as it is. like that. But the way you have described it. that they may make further programs for you in their homes. following the rules strictly and co-operating with authority. they will assist me in the leading posts to spread on Lord Caitanya's message all over the world. After your lecture in the college you may request if there are any interested students.(SPL to Gandharva dasa. but if someone repeatedly causes a disturbance then he may be asked to leave. then he may be admitted again. whoever appears to be the most interested. at least one week. Try to recruit some of such men to become our devotees. and learn further. In this way. the highest knowledge of educational experience. they will voluntarily accept the life of tapasya or austerity of Krsna Consciousness movement. it will be difficult to make very much impression upon these students. or as long as the students are interested. Do not force. give them all help and facility. 1975) It is good to hold more classes with the bhaktas. then we are forced to do the necessary. that is your real work for Krsna. and try to sell as many books as possible. 1973) We are very eager to give everyone a chance to become Krishna Conscious. 9th January. and by your diligent preaching to them you may be able to persuade some of them to become our devotees. 1973) I very much appreciated your publicity material for the Bhagavata-dharma program. not the temporary and unsatisfactory and incomplete understanding of things. but if at least the seed is planted and they begin chanting rounds and following the principles while continuing their studies at school.(SPL to ravindra Svarupa. If we simply go to the college on one night and leave immediately for another place. You should not go beyond the jurisdiction of our teaching. So if anyone students are serious to learn Krsna Consciousness from you. try to recruit some of the intelligent class of student class to take up this Krsna Consciousness philosophy and study it carefully. If someone who has been asked to leave sincerely wants to be given another chance. 18th March. Try to present everything very logically and always quoting our Sanskrit authorities in connection with the main points. but if gradually they understand. I am very much satisfied by this activity. And if they like. your program is nice. by their voluntary agreement to join and follow strictly. Krsna Consciousness is the topmost philosophy also. There is need for intelligent young men to train them up as future leaders and preachers to go all over the world for spreading the message of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu. that is our great victory. That is not our business to ask people to leave our association but if they are actually causing too much disturbance by not co-operating with authorities or by not following the rules properly (especially the four regulative principles). wherever they like. or in some club or hall. 1977) 356 .(SPL to Satsvarupa and Hrdayananda. I think it is better to stay at one place for some time. But we shall not present Krsna Consciousness as anything dry or like set of rules and regulations only. common men follow. itaraù—common. TRANSLATION Whatever action a great man performs. çreñöhaù—a respectable leader.We are planning to construct a temple here in Puri and I was instructing the GBC that we can invite anyone to come and stay with us for three days and we shall supply room and board.(SPL to Danavir dasa. Yes. anuvartate—follows in the footsteps. tat—that. 26th January. saù—he. become shaven headed.3. äcarati—he does. lokaù—all the world.21 yad yad äcarati çreñöhas tat tad evetaro janaù sa yat pramäëaà kurute lokas tad anuvartate SYNONYMS yat yat—whatever. After three days if he likes he can stay with us permanently. janaù— person. he should rise early and attend our programs. engage as we request him. In that time. tat—and that alone. your plan to have all temple presidents report the scores on new men recruited is approved by me. tat —that. yat—whichever. kurute—does perform.g. and we shall take care of all his necessities. just as they keep count of the book distribution. pramäëam—example. eva—certainly. 1977) PREACHING PREACHING – IMPORTANCE AND GUIDELINES B. You can keep count which temple is recruiting the most men. And whatever standards he sets by exemplary acts. 357 . however. all the world pursues. mat—of Mine. asaàçayaù—without doubt. kaçcit— anyone. mäm—unto Me. samäcaran—practicing. me—to Me. karmäëi—work. idam—this. 358 . paramam—most. sarva—all. TRANSLATION So as not to disrupt the minds of ignorant men attached to the fruitive results of prescribed duties. mayi—unto Me. bhaktim—devotional service. pure devotional service is guaranteed. vidvän—a learned person. bhakteñu—amongst devotees. priya-kåt-tamaù—more dear.26 na buddhi-bhedaà janayed ajïänäà karma-saìginäm joñayet sarva-karmäëi vidvän yuktaù samäcaran SYNONYMS na—not. Rather. a learned person should not induce them to stop work. bhavitä—will become. abhidhäsyati— explains. ajïänäm—of the foolish. kåtvä—doing. by working in the spirit of devotion. and at the end he will come back to Me . eñyati— comes.g.69 na ca tasmän manuñyeñu kaçcin me priya-kåttamaù bhavitä na ca me tasmäd anyaù priyataro bhuvi SYNONYMS na—never.18. TRANSLATION For one who explains this supreme secret to the devotees. buddhi-bhedam—disruption of intelligence. joñayet—he should dovetail. yuktaù—engaged. manuñyeñu—among men. eva—certainly. he should engage them in all sorts of activities [for the gradual development of Kåñëa consciousness]. guhyam—confidential secret. B. ca—and. B.18. tasmät—than him. karma-saìginäm—who are attached to fruitive work.B.g.68 ya idaà paramaà guhyaà mad-bhakteñv abhidhäsyati bhaktià mayi paräà kåtvä mäm evaiñyaty asaàçayaù SYNONYMS yaù—anyone who. paräm— transcendental.g. janayet—he should cause.3. täre kaha ‘kåñëa’-upadeça ämära äjïäya guru haïä tära’ ei deça SYNONYMS yäre—whomever.Adi 9. In this way become a spiritual master and try to liberate everyone in this land. särthaka —fulfillment. bhuvi—in this world. guru haïä—becoming a spiritual master. which advises one to worship Çré Kåñëa. priyataraù—dearer.41 bhärata-bhümite haila manuñya janma yära janma särthaka kari’ kara para-upakära SYNONYMS bhärata—of India. haila—has become.na—nor.” Cc.Antya 7. kara—do. kari’—doing so. Cc. upakära—benefit. janma—birth. TRANSLATION “One who has taken his birth as a human being in the land of India [Bhärata-varña] should make his life successful and work for the benefit of all other people. manuñya— human being. anyaù—another. dharma—the duty. ei deça—this country. kåñëa-näma-saìkértana —chanting the holy name of Lord Kåñëa. me—to Me. TRANSLATION “Instruct everyone to follow the orders of Lord Çré Kåñëa as they are given in the Bhagavad-gétä and Çrémad-Bhägavatam. dekha—you meet. tasmät—than him. kåñëa-çakti vinä—without being 359 . täre—him. kaha—tell. nor will there ever be one more dear. 128 yäre dekha. tära’— deliver. bhümite—in the land. Madya 7. kåñëa-upadeça —the instruction of the Bhagavad-gétä as it is spoken by the Lord or of Çrémad-Bhägavatam. yära—anyone. ca—and.11 kali-kälera dharma—kåñëa-näma-saìkértana kåñëa-çakti vinä nahe tära pravartana SYNONYMS kali-kälera—of this age of Kali. TRANSLATION There is no servant in this world more dear to Me than he. janma—such a birth. Cc. ämära äjïäya—under My order. para—others. 1967) My only request is that you all sincere boys and girls. TRANSLATION “The fundamental religious system in the Age of Kali is the chanting of the holy name of Kåñëa. Be sincere servant of Krishna and Krishna gives you everything. 1968) Caitanya Mahaprabhu wanted that this Hare Krishna Mantra be sung and chanted in every village and town of the globe.(SPL to Rayarama. By the Grace of Krishna you are now engaged in some good work. pravartana— propagation. 1967) Without education we cannot preach because a preacher has to meet many kinds of opposite elements. but a non-devotee who is already poisoned by the serpent of the demon class swami or yogi is very difficult to be dealt with. December.(SPL to Himavati. so the best thing is to reject them and not waste time for their elevation. 16th March. To a sincere heart Krishna gives all intelligence to combat such dialogues. The more one can meet opposite elements successfully the more one is supposed to be advanced in Krishna consciousness. 26th February. 1967) The basic principle of Krishna Consciousness is to receive one and all as our Master. 17th February.(SPL to Hayagriva. tära—of that. (SPL to Andrea Temple. and serve them with prasadam as diet and Krishna Kirtana as medicine for being free from materially diseased condition. nahe—is not.(SPL to Gurudasa. Do it sincerely and help the organization to your best.(SPL to Lilasukha. and to take this mission very seriously. 24th February. and I am simply trying to carry out the order of my Guru Maharaja to give this Divine Message to the people of the Western world. So we shall follow this principle and Krishna will help us on our onward march. 17th March. 1968) 360 . but a person who is willing to hear us submissively must be given chance to understand the philosophy of Krishna Conciousness. to spread this Krishna Consciousness to every home. I am pleased to learn that you are conducting classes very nicely and Krishna is supplying you intelligence to answer some critical questions by the audience.(SPL to Hamsaduta. Unless empowered by Kåñëa. 7th June. It is very good news. one cannot propagate the saìkértana movement. 1968) So if you find a non-devotee eager to listen submissively you can show your mercy to elevate him to Krishna Conciousness. to every village and town. 1968) So I am very much hopeful that this movement can be spread all over the whole world if we organize simply the performance of Kirtana and a little lecture on the principles of Krishna Consciousness.empowered by Lord Kåñëa. To chant Hare Krishna. 21st June. and offers everything with devotion to the Deity. and as you do it seriously and sincerely. and so we have to divide them into these different groups and behave differently with each of the groups. 9th April. (SPL to Yamuna. to make friendship with devotees. but when one is demoniac or atheistic. He was so powerful that He could convert even a tiger to dance. 1968) My mission is to establish that Krishna Stu Bhagavan Swayam. the behavior should be as stated above. with musical instruments and mrdanga. very nicely. there is no such distinction. But we are giving chance for everyone and it is up to him. Best thing is to remain in the via media of middle class position . but practically. But so far as we are concerned. as they have not got the ability to understand. to make friendship with devotees. So our devotees of the society should not remain in the neophyte position. as you have adopted. one scripture. but at the same time. He had no distinction between a tiger and a man. we have to behave in the proper way. Please try to do it very nicely. A preacher's business is to love God. This principle we shall follow. He simply goes to the temple. (SPL to Hari Vilasa.(SPL to Hamsaduta. But in higher devotional life. Krishna gives you more and more strength for this noble missionary work. (SPL to Satsvarupa. to enlighten the innocent. neither should they try to imitate the topmost devotee. It is true that we should not be attached to the differences of material bodies. you can understand that these talks are not for the public. These differences of body according to Karma are there. we should not imitate and go to some tiger and try to make him dance! But still. 1968) Regarding preaching work: If you simply reproduce verbatim the purports which I have given in the Srimad-Bhagavatam. in practical field. that will be sufficient for your preaching work. and to avoid the demons. This is the right way. and Krishna in everything. we have no distinction between black or white. or demon or demigod. The International Society for Krishna Consciousness wants to establish that one God. That process will make our mission successful. 7th June. speak the philosophy of Bhagavad-gita. and to avoid the demons. and sell our literatures like books and magazines. 10th June. Generally. Basically we have not got hatred for anyone. Just like Caitanya Mahaprabhu. but a devotee divides them into the above groups. because only the most pious and fortunate living entities can join this movement. So. we are middle class devotees. namely to love God. Neophyte devotee does not know how to preach. tiger is equally eligible like a man. So we should not remain as neophyte devotee. as preachers. and to enlighten the innocent. and chant Hare Krishna with ecstasy. The topmost devotee sees everything in Krishna. so long as one is demon or demigod. and he doesn't know anything else. 1968) We can not expect that everyone shall become Krishna Consciousness.Certainly we are not going to say these things about the negro people publicly. one 361 . we should try to avoid their company. 1968) I think Krishna is giving you the required intelligence how to spread our transcendental movement. to take advantage or not. These monied men and women have to be very cautiously dealt with in spiritual life. give some talk on Bhagavad-gita As It Is. One who can reproduce the sound vibration heard from the Spiritual Master. he is monied man.'' and if it is convenient. (SPL to Gaurasundara. Hare Krishna. one mantra is Hare Krishna. 28th June. (SPL to Vinode Patel. chanting and speaking of Krishna. 26 th September. is the sure and certain method of propagating Krishna Consciousness. and we can do these activities anywhere. it will be very nice impetus. one scripture is Bhagavad-gita. it becomes a great asset. 1969) So if this boy cooperates with our movement.1969) There is a proveb in Sanskrit literature that enthusiastic persons achieve the favor of the Goddess of Fortune. he will be a good preacher. That is our only business. 1968) For service of Krishna sometimes we may agree to act in a way which may not be very agreeable to us. it doesn't matter on the street or in some ``World Brotherhood Conference. 1969) I was very glad to learn from Upendra's letter that you have lectured nicely.(SPL to Krsna devi and Dinesh Candra dasa. you may go there with your Sankirtana Party. please do not agree to accept meat. and one service means everything for the Lord. and one service. 17th August.(SPL to Tamala Krsna. 1968) This kirtana.'' (SPL to Jayapataka. otherwise Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu has strictly restricted to mix with them for the Krishna Conscious people. 1969) You have mentioned that you have been invited to attend some ``World Brotherhood Conference. In the Western part of the world there is tangible example of this 362 . One God is Krishna. and distribute Prasadam. for after all. But in all cases. Avoid such undesirable action very tactfully. Kirtana means whatever we hear from the Spiritual Master we repeat it again nicely. but when people offer something out of love and sympathy for our mission. and we already have so much experience in all of our centers that if we simply chant Hare Krishna with karatalas and mrdanga and if we speak from Bhagavad-gita just as we have heard it coming down from the disciplic succession. 1st August. and improve this preaching habit. 22nd August. chant Hare Krishna. But we get instruction from Rupa Goswami that whatever opportunity is favorable for pushing on Krishna Consciousness we should accept.mantra.1968) We are not after collecting money. 19 th September. (SPL to Mahapurusa. We have to sometimes deal with them on account of preaching work. (SPL to Satsvarupa. 27th September. then automatically the people become attracted. (SPL to Krsna dasa. whatever I have achieved so far with your cooperation. 1970) Regarding your tendency to become angry in public. to present simply the philosophy as we have received it directly and realized it by practical experience. People in this part of the world are very much enthusiastic in material advancement and they have got it. Otherwise we do not wish to create any unnecessary enemies and you should curb your anger by your advanced intelligence in Krsna consciousness. but we should endeavor. 1969) Your statement in the letter. I came to your country in ripe old age. Prasadam and Srimad-Bhagavatam has been successful in all the centers. 15th Octobre. ``All glories to Sankirtana. 1970) To sit down in a corner without preaching risk and to make a show of chanting Hare Krishna Mantra is condemned by my Spiritual Master and He has written a very nice song in this connection. We have to better correct the faulty habits of the conditional example without stop… My Guru Maharaja has declared that the real life of a man is preaching. Similarly. 1969) Simply propagate this chanting.(SPL to Rupanuga. feasting and following the regulative principles.(SPL to Jayagovinda. it hampers the natural flow of the speech and makes it not very much impressive. one has to translate into German. even if we do not fully understand from our present platform. 27th January. but I had one asset: enthusiasm and faith in my Spiritual Master. 1969) Regarding my going there. 1970) Regarding your consideration of management.(SPL to Dinesh.(SPL to Upendra. if we become enthusiastic in spiritual matters. 4th January. Please always remember this and you will be successful. One of our Godbrothers was 363 . we should take all risks for Krsna. If one has at all got any life in him then he will preach. Take for example. This mentality to chant in a solitary place without any responsibility of preaching work is not approved by Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Maharaja. then we also get success in that way. 22nd January. These are the four pillars of our success. the first thing is that if I speak. dancing. No. The substance is that to become very dear to Krishna or Balarama or in other words to Lord Caitanya and Nityananda is to take the task of preaching work very seriously at all risk. 1970) We should not make any addition or subtraction of mental speculation. That does not make any good speech. that is all right provided there is a positive reaction. 25th December. Prasadam and SrimadBhagavatam'' is very welcome… I think this policy of Sankirtana. according to the instructions of Srila Rupa Goswami.(SPL to Gajendra. which I am recording. 2nd January. 7th November. I think these assets only are giving me some lights of hope.slogan.(SPL to Krsna dasa. So it appears that your preaching is going on nicely. 13th November. 4th January. 4th June. We are not after making initiated members very many but our concern is that people understand this philosophy in wider circles .(SPL to Nayanabhirama. 11th April.(SPL to Muralidhara.(SPL to Karandhara. you will gain the respect of the whole world and our preaching work will be successful. Preaching work means increasing the numbers of our family members. You can give this lecture simply by repeating different chapters from our books. We should tax our brains as to what is the best way to present Krishna Consciousness to particular people at a particular time and place. That is the basic principle of our philosophy in preaching work. 4th April. The standard of purity which I have introduced in the Krsna Consciousness movement will give you the real spiritual strength needed to preach. let them hear our philosophy and dance and chant. but our program is to invite people to our feasts. It doesn't matter whether they are initiated or not. If they are coming in large number. so try to increase this activity. 1970) I do not think it is necessary for you to spend time unnecessarily at this time of your life to learn some foreign languages. 1970) Yes. 1971) 364 . 1970) My Guru Maharaja has declared that the real life of a man is preaching. Distribute prasadam there also. 22nd June. If you will simply stick to your principles. I´m very glad that temple arrangement in Boston is nicely being carried out and new devotees are joining – this is the success of preaching work. Preaching at these and other big institutions is solid work.doing like that and my Spiritual Master was not very satisfied with him.(SPL to Upendra. 21st November.(SPL to Sudama. 13th November. This is the best system and do not be hopeless because you are sure to find such a helper very soon. 1971) For the time being you can go to the jail and lecture about Krishna Consciousness and the values of life. 1970) The test of preaching ability is whether one is making some disciples or not. (SPL to Upendra. 1971) That there have been no newly initiated devotees from Japan is all right. And the same can be done in the mental hospital as well. (SPL to Hamsaduta. but the program as we have followed with good success is to find out some local boy who is well acquainted with the English language and train him to preach to the general less educated public. 1970) The opportunities for expanding the Sankirtana Movement are unlimited. Initiated members are for managing the temples and preaching work. (SPL to Tirthapada. If one has at all got any life in him then he will preach. that is the success of our mission. (SPL to Sri Galim. so we are not afraid to challenge anyone and everyone to defeat their philosophy on the basis of that authority. 1971)) You are learning Japanese language. 1972) 365 .(SPL to Govinda dasi. then success will be there. That is not very difficult. the test of the strength of our preaching work is that we sell many books and magazines. Wonderful means simply you chant loudly and distribute prasadam. 17th December. 25th March. 2nd May. He was preaching himself. that will change the world. but it will be better for our preaching and translating work if the local boys and girls can perform such work. 1972) ``Who God is'' can be summed up in only five words. 23rd July. we can do it. How a preacher can stop? The whole world is nondevotees. So what is the difficulty? Simply preach very sincerely to anyone and everyone. 1971) Our method is very simple. (SPL to Karandhara. 20th November. sincere. and go on in this way preaching more and more. success is assured.(SPL to Upendra. 1971) One thing. that`s all right. instead of us wasting so much time by learning difficult languages. actually. (SPL to Vrndavana Candra. That is all right. you say that literature distribution is low. Lord Caitanya never said stop mixing with nondevotees. chanting 16 rounds and following the restrictive rules. to distribute solid information about Krishna. It is very easy. Simply if you do it enthusiastically and sincerely.So do something wonderful there in Gainesville. So that should be avoided. This is the best activity. Krishna appreciates such strong preachers as His dearmost servants. Our preaching stands solid on these books. and preach it enthusiastically. 8th December. and He will help you. so let us work very enthusiastically to drive away rascal philosophy and establish the real religion of Bhagavad-gita As It Is. and the demand for our books will increase. 29th June. The preacher should also be ideal. 1971) If only 1% become devotees. No other movement or cult has such vast background of authority.(SPL to Danavir. (SPL to Bill. If you become convinced of this. But simply for jobs sake. So you continue more and more to serve Krsna. we cannot. (SPL to Patita Uddharan. 1971) The best news is that you are increasing nicely the distribution of my books and literature. serious and strictly adhering to our principles. and you will be doing the greatest service for all living entities. To mix with them intimately is not good. 1971) So far as mixing with society. Krsna is the Supreme controller. 5th May. This movement is eternal. In Caitanya Mahaprabhu's Movement. Whatever we have got. One thing.(SPL to Karandhara. 1974) 366 . our Subala Maharaja is preaching alone in Kanpur and I do not very much approve of alone preaching. (SPL to Kirtanananda. There is no cessation.(SPL to Govinda dasa. our energies. Rather sankirtana movement will expand.(SPL to Tamala Krsna. 1973) So far as the woman distributers who have left New York and Boston Temples and have gone to New Vrindaban. continuing so long as we are sincere. 28th June) Try to present everything very logically and always quoting our Sanskrit authorities in connection with the main points. 28th January. I do not know why Kirtanananda Maharaja is encouraging our woman devotees not to go out on Sankirtana for book distribution. Whoever told you that is a rascal. Lord Caitanya. if you have got sincerity. When I came in the beginning I began to expand it and it is now going on and there is no question of it stopping.(SPL to Makhanal. this will be the success of your preaching work. saying it in my name. 22nd June. let them all be used in Krsna's service. so if you like you can request him to join with your party. our intelligence. 16th June. (SPL to Satsvarupa and Hrdayananda. 1973) You have asked about whether nuclear devastation on this planet would effect the Sankirtana Movement. 8th May. and that will impress them greatly. Therefore go on with your life time plans making secure in distributing of books. 1973) Thank you very much for your endeavors in book distribution and please offer your good wife my blessings for her service in this connection. our mind. 1973) Everyone has got some propensity. The art of preaching is to engage that propensity in the service of Krsna. our possessions. 9th January. but you will become bold. Everyone should go out. 11th December. 6th October.(SPL to Satsvarupa. 1972) Your touring party has done a very excellent job of spreading Krishna Consciousness in Bihar state as I have seen from the newsclippings and other enclosures which you have sent. they should return immediately and resume their original service. our time. 1973) This rumor that within a few years there will be police repression and people will have no more money to buy books and sankirtana will stop is completely bogus. Our preaching work will be measured by the quantity of books we distribute so continue ever-increasingly. everyone is preacher. (SPL to Makhanal. No. whether man or woman it doesn't matter. that His Holy Name be heard in every town and village.You mentioned that you are not yet a very bold preacher. there is nothing that can stop the Sankirtana Movement because it is the will of God Himself. So by training people in this way. I never said that. That you have to see. This is a very good idea. We do not bring in imperfect analogy. 1st December. 6th December. That will save them from the degradations of sense gratification. that is preaching. 1975) Of course we have to speak the truth but very palatably. adhikavaye'' . Somehow or other inject the bhakti yoga. 1974) Anyway I know the people of Tehran they like hatha yoga very much. 21st November. but the general public will take Krishna as an ordinary man. I have put you in charge how to do it. Give her prasadam. (SPL to Sri Rameshji Mahalingam. Vyasadeva while giving the history of creation says ``Janmadyasya . This is wanted. Do not bother my brain how to do it. that's nice. 1974) Regarding your question. 17th July. 4th December. . very good. and after all she is woman. and by selling these pictures will affirm their sinful activities in the name of Krishna. flatter her. but gradually they are learning. it is a fact that Krishna will supply everything else required. not analogy. Our authority is on the basis of Sastra. If you do this sincerely. 1974) Regarding the interest of Miss Thakura. 31st August. So. (SPL to Hamsaduta dasa. 1974) Regarding the preaching there in Japan. (SPL to Artreya Risi dasa. .It is all right. I hope you can understand this. Keep friendship with her and introduce our books. so He impregnated the heart of Brahma with all the designs of creation. Then she will remain pleased.(SPL to Gopala Krsna dasa. Somehow or other they are giving service to the Lord. . Nothing should be spent extravagantly. He has spoken the right thing. but expenditure must also be stabilized and srutinized. This collecting is also preaching. so keep her as friend. then what is the difficulty? This is the 367 . Every picture is with the gopis.(SPL to Gurukrpa Swami. Book distribution must be given stress always.(SPL to Govinda dasa. People are generally inclined to man and women connection. actually it is a fact that ultimately everyone should preach and distribute books if they want to please me in the best way. 1975) Concerning our use of analogy. I understand Parivrajakacarya Swami is teaching a course combining both hatha and bhakti yoga to attract the people. and he does it. 1974) So it is all right that Aksayananda Swami travels and collects provided that the management of Vrindaban does not suffer. . These are not meant for the common man but for advanced devotees. These neophyte devotees have not yet learned how to speak the truth palatably. 4th December.(SPL to Kirtiraja dasa. If we would distribute them. even more than America. but we follow the instructions of the Sastras strictly. So what is wrong there? If I instruct someone you do like this. But not only collection. This will deteriorate from the standard. they would misuse it. the Japanese people are giving money. The little more that we advance. those who give time to listen to us are innocent. he is a very good preacher. So focusing on the nearby object helps us to focus on the far-away object. Foolish people cannot understand or accept. The basic principle is authority.(SPL to Acyutanandana Swami and Yasodanandana Swami. The process is simply to read the books and learn the purports and then speak to them in your own words . This is the use of analogy. Analogy is not proof. 1975) I am glad to see that your preaching programs are going on. we use authority. 22nd September. but the spiritual master is very much pleased by such an attitude by the disciple. 1976) If you feel at all indebted to me then you should preach vigorously like me. or directly. So you can focus more easily on the moon because 2 points joined make a straight line. we have got new and sufficient number of books and if we read them carefully and reproduce the purports in our own language. 14th August. 8th July. There is no logic. but when we practically use it we see that it is correct. because we are the only ones talking about God. We don't use a combination of logic and authority. so we use analogy.(SPL to Jayapataka Maharaja. and you say that it is just through the branches. He took the position of Radharani to understand Himself as Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. So there is no question of stagnation in Krishna Consciousness. 1975) Concerning the distinction between the innocent and the atheists. The more we advance in Krishna Consciousness. Those who naturally oppose us and have no time are atheists. Even Krishna couldn't understand His position in relationship to Radharani. 1975) This is Caitanya Mahaprabhu's blessings that everyone of us should become a sadhu and preach Krsna consciousness. So far Krsna consciousness is concerned. The logic of using analogy is called in the sastra ``sakha candra nyaya. 1976) We should not criticize the Ramakrishna Mission by name. That is the proper way to repay me. therefore. Krishna is unlimited.'' It is easier to focus on the moon through the branches of a tree. no one can repay the debt to the spiritual master. So carefully avoid this type of preaching. the more we understand about Him. I think Acyutananda Swami. (SPL toTripurari Swami. We don't talk anything about politics. 9th November. (SPL to Residents of new Dvaraka. Our authority is sastra. Vedas say that cowdung is pure and we accept it. Logic we use to convince someone who doesn't accept the authority.(SPL to Satsvarupa dasa Goswami. that is perfect preaching. The conclusion is not drawn from the analogy but from the sastra. We give analogy for the general mass of people who have no faith in sastra.system. sastra is proof. We cannot finish the process of understanding Him. 21st November. 21st October.(SPL to Balavanta. etc. Of course. for they have become somehow or other popular and people are against us for it. 1976) 368 . we see still that He is far away. The moon is great distance away. Yes. You have an intense desire to preach. reading of the literature and hearing of the chanting is the medicine. We want to see even a snake not fasting. to hear so many people are hearing the chanting. holding Kirtana at Central Park every day. you are already engaged as pujari. You'll be spoiled as Nitai has spoiled himself. 27th June. Krsna. but if we pin our faith in Krishna.(SPL to Purnapraja dasa. but our idea is expanding. This is very much encouraging to me. therefore I am requesting all my younger disciples to preach all over the world. and injecting our Hare Krishna medicine within the ear. 11st December.(SPL to Satsvarupa. 1976) PREACHING WITH PURITY AND CONVICTION I am very much pleased to hear of your good success in the park on Sunday. they will like it. following strictly the rules and regulations and chanting regularly in the temple. The communists have an idea for feeding human society. I am a little hopeful that if we preach in the communist countries. so do that and whenever you get time preach Bhagavad gita. But the physician must be always healthy. According to our Vaisnava philosophy even a snake or lizard is in the house shall not go without eating. I have no objection to your coming to Vrndavana. So far as your engagement is concerned. I think it is more profitable to preach about the Master of Vrndavana. That means the preachers must be of highly elevated character. I have no objection. and you please continue with this sort of program! This system should be followed and you will be successful. and also taking nice prasadam as well. There are many sahajiyas who imitate Rupa Goswami not to go out of Vrndavana. This is actually our successful propaganda. and he is collecting in the same way. what to speak of other living entities. People may not say. 18th November. A devotee of Krsna can create Vrndavana everywhere by preaching the glories of Krsna. So. So. everything will come out successful in due course. physician is ill thyself. As soon as you become a bhajananandi you'll be spoiled. We want to distribute our literature and books within as well as our prasadam. Because in New York also Hamsaduta is following this system. 1968) 369 .(SPL to Gurudasa. but as you have accepted the sannyasa order.So. and prasadam is the diet. it is very good. outside of Vrndavana. it is more important to preach about Vrndavana rather than to come to Vrndavana. Otherwise. but Caitanya Mahaprabhu remained always outside Vrndavana for preaching purposes. 1976) Don't be a bhajananandi. I am getting older and older and it is getting difficult for me. so do that. There may be so many odds in the progressive march of Krishna Consciousness. if diet and medicine are properly administered the disease of maya will be cured. All together he is collecting 50 to 70 dollars by contribution and by selling Back To Godhead. and philosophy. you are always welcome in Vrndavana. although He is is the master of Vrndavana personally. the Bhagavad-gita As It Is. it is needed that you should be thoroughly conversant with the truth. you were proposing me to become lecturer in some University. husband and wife. Please always remain submissive in spirit to Krishna and Spiritual Master.I am so pleased to learn that you are lecturing in the Boston University class in mysticism. But in this case and in many other cases also.(SPL to Devananda. accompanied by Nityananda Prabhu. and by their Grace you will get all strength to speak and satisfy your audience. namely. So I am very glad that you both. presented by our humble self. This is a new thing in the history of the Sankirtana Movement. Visnupriya. 20th December. because you are on the field work. Teachings of Lord Caitanya. Please therefore carry on these missionary activities. that instead of me. are executing the mission of Lord Caitanya so nicely and faithfully. you are speaking there as my representative. all these books are the ultimate source of knowledge. Their wives were at home because that is the system from old times that women are not required to go out. But one thing I may inform you. When Lord Caitanya delivered Jagai and Madhai He was also a householder. But it is important that our students must be able to answer all questions for becoming preachers. 27 th Sepember. And we have simply to present them without any adulteration. you have to meet so many opposite elements. That is the secret of success. and prove it by practical example that there is no bar for anyone in the matter of preaching work for Krishna Consciousness. Who was formerly the Son of Nanda Maharaja. and they are appreciating your versions. husband and wife. and as such. This is all Krishna's Grace.1969) 370 . but when Jagai and Madhai were actually reclaimed. and Srimad-Bhagavatam. (SPL to Hayagriva. Who was formerly Sri Balarama. And your honest desire has been fulfilled by Krishna.(SPL to Himavati. and Srimad-Bhagavatam. Please continue to act like that and certainly Lord Caitanya will bestow all His blessings and power upon you. So the strength is not in us. but the strength is in the Supreme Lord. If you simply reproduce what I have tried to explain in those books. are doing this preaching work so nicely. that He has given sufficient strength unto you. and only in rare cases approach me. The description given in these books. during the time of Jagai and Madhai. even in the midst of so many great mundane scholars. 1968) Sri Narottama das Thakura says all sinful persons and suffering persons were delivered by the Sankirtana Movement inaugurated by Lord Caitanya. I remember when you were walking with me on the New York street. then chanting by us of the Holy Names of Krishna will descend as powerfully as He acted previously. 29th September. 1968) Now. Personally I am so much engladdened that the pairs of young boys and girls whom I have placed in householder life are doing so nicely in the Western world. are not mundane speculations. in humble service spirit. And you have to satisfy them or fight with them with conclusive statements from Bhagavad-gita. 18th November. His wife. surely you will come out victorious.(SPL to Gurudasa. I find that my disciples combined together. If we keep ourselves purely on the standard of Lord Caitanya's order.1968) You should all read very carefully Srimad-Bhagavatam and Bhagavad-gita. In India all the acaryas and their descendants later on acted only from the man's side. But in Bhagavad-gita we find that women are also equally competent like the men in the matter of Krishna Consciousness Movement. and you should be able to answer all questions like this. was not there. that the three books which I have already prepared. So I am especially proud how my householder disciples are preaching Lord Caitanya's Mission. but they are authorized versions of liberated souls. 1970) I beg to acknowledge receipt of your kind letter dated 30th Sept. 1971) I am so pleased to see you and your good wife in every picture in different poses of preaching work. We need so many preachers who are soundly versed in the scriptures to convince the world to take to Krishna Consciousness. Please always remember this and you will be successful. with increased vogor and may Krsna bless your sincere efforts to serve Him faithfully. The substance is that to become very dear to Krishna or Balarama or in other words to Lord Caitanya and Nityananda is to take the task of preaching work very seriously at all risk. 1970) The test of preaching ability is whether one is making some disciples or not. 24th January. That is real Krsna consciousness service to preach the message of the Holy Name to all 371 . 17th January. which I am recording. so I would also like all my students to do this and I am very encouraged by this nice program you have initiated. Please execute your program for distribution of literatures and Sankirtana. Please continue to do this .(SPL to Damodara. All of our previous acaryas on our line have written substantially on the science of God-consciousness.(SPL to Gajendra. 9 th November.Amongst all our duties surely we must not forget to complete our sixteen rounds. then we can deal adequately with all facilities offered by the Lord for expediting His Holy Mission. I am confident that all our sincere intelligent young devotees like your good self will carry this program to fruitful conclusion namely the delivery of the Holy Name to all the fallen souls suffering in varieties of conditional misery and material happiness. and automatically all questions will be answered. So it appears that your preaching is going on nicely. you will gain the respect of the whole world and our preaching work will be successful. 1970) It is my firm conviction that this Krsna Consciousness Movement of Lord Caitanya's will be successful in all parts of the world if our students kindly continue in their enthusiastic endeavors to distribute this message freely to all persons. 13th November. That is parampara. so it is incumbent upon us to keep our spiritual strength by rigidly following the regulative principles. 1970) To sit down in a corner without preaching risk and to make a show of chanting Hare Krishna Mantra is condemned by my Spiritual Master and He has written a very nice song in this connection. We should not be carried away simply by the Krishna duties which is also regarded as good as chanting. The standard of purity which I have introduced in the Krsna Consciousness movement will give you the real spiritual strength needed to preach. 1970 and I am glad to see how nicely you are reading my books. 27th January. I am glad that you and the others are each writing one hour daily essays. therefore.(SPL to Vrndavana Candra. Our Movement is now appreciated all over the world and it is gradually coming to the attention of the important leaders of the present society. If you will simply stick to your principles. but in all circumstances we shall not forget this duty…Every one of you must regularly read our books at least twice--in the morning and evening.(SPL to Ranadhira. (SPL to Tirthapada. If you want to preach Bible you can tell them why there will be misinterpretation. When I shall go to Mayapura then upon hearing from you of my proposal as mentioned above. 1971) Philosophy is the highest. So when your students apply Krishna philosophy to their lives. follow the regulative principles. and this will please me very much.(SPL to Upendra. Just like you add hydrogen and oxygen and get water. I am successful in my teaching work because I have not deviated one inch from my Spiritual Master's instruction. simply you have to master the words and deliver them purely. But those who push must be pure.'' This means that Lord Caitanya wanted that one should preach by behaving himself exactly what he preaches. 1971) So our movement should be very vigorously pushed on. your 372 . let them follow strictly to the principles of the Bible. If you want to preach the gospel of Lord Jesus Christ on the principles of Bhagavad-gita you will find so many differences. And they appear to be all responding very enthusiastically to your preaching. that is very good sign. this is my only qualification. Our philosophy has the full potency to deliver anyone from the darkest realms of ignorance to the enlightened realm of complete cognizance. In N. Now they say ``Thou shall not murder. ``Thou shalt not kill'' is now being misinterpreted by Christian priests. 22nd October.(SPL to Rayarama. and then in fact you can edit our books and papers. depends on personal behavior.'' This means trying to save themselves from the crime of animal killing. but if you keep your independence either in Mayapura or N. So our Krsna consciousness movement. Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu said that ``apani acari prabhu jivare sikhaya.Y. So you cannot teach such unscrupled followers the message of Bhagavad-gita. and this will make your teaching work very easy. So if you simply remain pure. there is a big press that prints ``Watchtower. 24th March. If you want to do that I cannot check you but I cannot allow you to do such things from within our society.. 1971) Your approaching schools and colleges is very tactful because these students are the most eligible candidates for receiving this transcendental knowledge of Krishna philosophy. That will not help me or you.(SPL to Lalita Kumara. So these things are going on. 27th January. then it will be effective. your position is the same. but even higher than philosophy is practice of philosophy. I read that one Christian priest allowed a marriage between two men--homosex. You have to understand our philosophy perfectly. So your proposal for preaching the gospel on the basis of Bhagavad-gita will not be successful. 15th November. If you remain pure and enthusiastic.(SPL to Bhagavan dasa. Those who are following Jesus Christ. you will have the spiritual strength to enthuse others with the chanting of Hare Krsna Mahamantra and devotional service to the Lord. First of all you have to decide yourself whether you are prepared to surrender to our principles. 1971) I am so glad to learn that you are eager to preach but we should know it that we cannot preach without being solid in our standing as devotee.Y. preaching. To associate with me you are always welcome but not with your independence.persons. The potential is there. they will feel the beneficial result. Simply by repeating what I have said--first you must yourself become fully convinced of this philosophy--your preaching will meet with all success .'' They are forcefully criticizing Christian behavior. So let them chant and learn Bhagavad-gita and they will get Krishna's mercy. I shall arrange for your coming to India. We can challenge any nonsense philosophy. and this will be your success in Germany. so they cannot have any real authority. through His representatives. back to Godhead. Plato. nice arati. this is the solid basis for our work. 1971) One thing is that all the students on the party must strictly follow the rules and regulations. When our routine work. If we are very much convinced to preach in this way. then our preaching will have effect.(SPL to Kirtanananda Maharaja. It is not that because we are travelling that we can neglect our routine work and become irregular in our habits . what is the benefit of engaging in the second-class activity when there is so much preaching work to be done? Practically speaking. rising early. 8th December.(SPL to Brhaspati dasa. Krishna. reading books. that by your sincerely working in this way you shall very soon go back to Home. Germany. 24th November. Become yourself very convinced and learned in our Krishna philosophy and take it into such university and contaminate everything with it. etc.(SPL to Locanata dasa. That is our best field. so that the people may appreciate the real philosophy.preaching will have effect. that is a fact. Cleanliness is most essential. I know that there are many students in that city. is very nice. so just attract them to our Krishna Consciousness Movement by giving them prasadam and our Krishna philosophy. the intelligent class of men will respect and join us. flawless science. 17th November. know it for certain. No. But because we are hearing from the Source of all knowledge. Socrates. back to Godhead. We are not afraid to challenge every mundane philosopher and defeat them. 1971) I have heard that you may be going to Heidelberg. If a Marx can change so many men's minds to follow his imperfect philosophy. Kindly push on this college program--only the most intelligent persons can understand Krishna philosophy. so it is very important that we spread this message to the intelligent class of men. the saints and acaryas in disciplic succession.(SPL to Vamanadeva and Indira dasi. commentaries on your Western philosophers. taking bath. 373 . And try to sell as many books as possible at all the schools and colleges. Kindly assist me in this great work.1971) I am very pleased that you have accepted the responsibility of managing such an important center as Berkeley. deity worship. So now you just become convinced yourselves of this fact and help me spread this Movement for saving the world with all conviction and attention. Darwin--all of them--so many mental speculators and word jugglers who have misled so many people. and know it for certain. because they are simply operating on the mental platform which is constantly changing. Kant. I have no objection if you keep home deities. our Krishna philosophy will save the whole world from the most dangerous condition. what can Krishna. where there is a very large and important university. like chanting. we must make every effort to remain regulated and clean. etc. So become very convinced yourself of our philosophy and then your preaching will act. This is scholarly information. 1971) But yourselves being such qualified and experienced preachers. We must become now very serious to save the people of the world from this very dangerous situation. That is the secret. Soon I shall be printing my latest book.. and with this instruction you will be able to defeat all of the mental speculators and so-called scientists who are simply misleading everyone. and in this way you will be performing the highest type of activity and very soon you will go back to Home. Now it is your task to find them out and expose them. we have got solid basis for understanding. 12th December. will go on increasing more and more to have effect by saving others. and if just a few men can perfect the art. then we will achieve all success and the whole world listen to us and be delivered from their very dangerous condition. 1971) You must all study very scrutinizingly all of the books so that when the need arises you can repeat in your own words their purport. In this way. what you read will become realized. 1971) As long as we keep ourselves pure for preaching. Also I will be very pleased if you contribute articles to BTG. 1972) Our business is simply to plant the seed of devotional service wherever we go and to give everyone a taste of this transcendentally relishable activity of life. because you are responsible leader. chant. that you will attract the attention of Krishna who will give you all opportunity. If we keep to this simple formula then there is no doubt that we will be victorious wherever we go and very soon we shall become the only religion in the world. rising early. then we shall have all good results --of that there is no doubt. Wales. 26th December. As much as possible read.(SPL to Kulasekhara. etc.--then all other programs will be successful.(SPL to Sivananda. and preach. and then we shall qualify to associate with the Lord by becoming very pure. it will gradually become mechanical and fade away like every other so-called religious movement. otherwise. cleansing. and they should be given all encouragement and facility to hear from Srimad-Bhagavatam and chant Hare Krishna. If we are very much convinced ourselves of Krishna philosophy. then we shall be able to inject this seed of devotional service into the hearts of persons. know if for certain. accomplish! If we remain pure and teach others purely. because this world is so full of degrading elements of life for dragging everyone down and down. 6th January. In this way. So you can understand that I am very much depending on you to become very much convinced yourself of our Krishna philosophy 374 . they can save the rest of all the people from the greatest dangers. make certain that your routine work is going on nicely-chanting 16 rounds. and in this way the seed will come out and the creeper will come out by such watering process. back to Godhead. We should always cling to the Lotus Feet of the Supreme Personality of Godhead by following very strictly the routine work of devotional service. By writing regularly. If routine work becomes slack or neglected. 10th January. This is our life and soul . So you may know it that you are very much favored by Krishna. Thank you very much for assisting me in this great endeavor. Krishna will force you to advance in Krishna Consciousness. So I count you and your godbrothers among those few men who are treading seriously on the path back to Home.(SPL to Hrdayananda.(SPL to Cyavana. One thing. the pure love for Godhead process of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu. then all other attempts will fail. what I have introduced into your Western countries. 1972) We must become so responsible for seriously practicing this art of of Krishna Consciousness.the Supreme Perfect. So now you have taken great responsibility to plant the seed of Krishna Consciousness in Cardiff. and that is our real happiness. I think you are convinced that it is the highest and most exalted activity of all. and now we must maintain such exalted position and not fall back by neglecting our highest standards of devotional practices. street Sankirtana. so I think that if you take the matter very seriously and remain cool-headed. 12 th December. now you take the right course and utilize the opportunity given to you by Krishna to actually inject the human society with that same determination to serve the Lord. If you continue in this manner you will grow up to be a first class preacher of Krsna consciousness. 1972) Your program for preaching in Delhi is very much approved by me.1972) Especially I am very much pleased to hear that the University of Buffalo has given to you more than $1200. preaching Krsna is the same as remembering Krsna. I am absolutely certain that anyone who challenges me I can defeat you. that it must be like some fairy-tale. 3rd February. that some few of you will come to the understanding that by serving the Lord with my full energy that this will be my happy position of life and that no other occupation will give me any. make life members. This is very much wanted throughout the society of men. collect.00 in grant. then these doubts will be killed. preach as much as possible. Our thoughts are always changing.(SPL to Satyabhama. 1972) I am very pleased that you are keeping to a very strict schedule and are reading my literature daily. I can understand by your enthusiastic preparations for Rathayatra in Buffalo that you are very sincere boy and capable devotee. willing being the stage of putting the thoughts into action. (SPL to Ranadhira. Krishna makes promise to one who is striving to serve Him sincerely that He will give such devotee the intelligence by which he may come to Him. In this way we are able very easily to defeat all challengers to our philosophy and everything becomes very clear as it is revealed from different angles of vision. 28th February. not even an ounce of pleasure.and to take full responsibility for teaching others purely. continue as you are doing. and because He understands the heart of His sincere devotee. To clear up these things the best remedy is to discuss amongst yourselves all members regularly all our books in classes. But after thinking there is feeling and willing. Such persons like yourself who are thinking in this way are getting all intelligence and facility by how to do the things properly. but because we are so much inclined to enjoy something unintelligently. but is sufficient to change the entire course of history. no. (SPL to Ekendra dasa. Without reading books it becomes hackneyed and such obnoxious ideas trouble us. for example. For my part. and whenever you 375 . Only a handful of you are there who are convinced beyond any doubt about this Krsna consciousness movement. then we kill the thoughts before they become manifest in activity. that is the nature of the mind. Therefore we should always pray that Krishna may kindly provide me the intelligence to kill all demons of doubt. I can understand if one of my students is making spiritual advancement if he is also making many life members and devotees. 17th January. So if we are able to employ our intelligence. Why is that? Because Krishna gives me the intelligence.(SPL to Gunagrahi. So you have not to minimize the preaching program in order to study independently. immediately He gives assistance. so you cannot expect that even the great saintly persons are free from thoughts coming and going. and that Krishna is helping you with intelligence and ability. 3rd July. 1972) You are experiencing some doubts. we have to therefore daily sharpen our intelligence faculty by reading and discussing and preaching to others. that you cannot believe that the Krishna from Krishna Book can be the Supreme Personality of Godhead. And this is the highest service that you can perform. 1972. that is the highest service to humanity. they are at once struck by seeing them and therefore they appreciate and purchase. and with great happiness I have read your figures of amount of books sold during three-day period. you may know it that by utilizing our energy in this way to give everyone access to the Absolute Truth. By giving people knowledge. and practical application of that understanding is another. Hospitals. 9th August. remaining always stuck up very tightly to the footsteps of Rupa Gosvami. So we shall not like to take the credit in that case.1972) I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated December 27. my advanced disciples. by selling books. who they are. All decent men want to give service to humanity. the highest realization. So I am so much pleased upon all of the boys and girls in Los Angeles and all over the world who are understanding and appreciating this unique quality of our transcendental literature and voluntarily they are going out to distribute despite all circumstances of difficulty. Otherwise. that is our real mission. but even higher realization. being engaged in the practical work of spreading Krsna consciousness. 1972. It is scarcely believable that more than 17. by making publicity. So we are performing the actual welfare work of society by informing everyone through our literatures who is God. 1973) 376 . GBC men. without any falldown. 29 th December. and this will be the perfect program. therefore I am praying simply that all of you. not avoiding anything which may have to be done for pushing on Krsna's movement. why they should buy our books? But they can see that our boys and girls. so many ways there are to spread Krsna consciousness information. that is the real understanding of desire to serve humanity. jnana. Service to humanity means jnana. to deliver the world by preaching Krsna's message to others. is to save oneself. first thing is to educate them. But as devotees of Krsna. In this way everyone who hears our message gets the opportunity to fulfill his actual position as human entity and become delivered from the clutches of maya. and what is the relationship. In order to change this materialistic society and prevent them from gliding to hell. not to the man. Understanding is one thing. these are service to the bodies only.(SPL to Ramesvara. 1972) If you yourself remain always pure. 9th January.100 books could have been sold by one temple in three days! That indicates to me that people are at last becoming little serious about this Krsna Consciousness movement in your country. If you simply do as I am doing. are so much sincere and serious to distribute the message of Krsna consciousness. December 22-24.(SPL to Tejyas. that is already the highest realization.(SPL to Pusta Krsna. That's all right. This is unique in the world. that all of you will become soberminded and feeling always very much responsible how the things will go on as I have given them. temple officers. feeding the poor. back to Godhead. By this effort alone they are assured to go back to home. As soon as there is little impurity. television. Red Cross. then your preaching will have effect. devotees. like that. At least our books are not to be seen anywhere else. So you may understand it that by disseminating our Krsna consciousness propaganda anywhere and everywhere. then without any doubt you will remain always fresh and enthusiastic for working very energetically on Krsna's behalf.have time read and study and never neglect to chant your sixteen rounds daily. Perhaps we are the only sincere persons on this whole planet. only thing is they do not have information really what is that service. the whole thing will deteriorate and go to hell . newspapers. sannyasis. Therefore my recommendation to you is that you should associate yourself with my disciples in one of our Krishna Consciousness centers. We do not allow anyone become a preacher unless he is strictly following the Vaisnava principles of no eating meat. So the first preaching work is that yourself should become an ideal devotee . There is no point in telling another man to stop smoking if you yourself are smoking cigarettes. Unless our men understand thoroughly the philosophy. no gambling. no sex outside of marriage. The references are there. Sharma. you must strictly refrain from the four prohibitive sinful activities. you can practice these things within our association for some time. Lord Caitanya said that one should first make himself perfect and then attempt to instruct others. or eggs. Anyone can be purified as and Vaisnava and elevated to the Supreme position. 377 . 23rd April.(SPL to Mr. practice our regulative principles. everyone will be pleased with your speaking. Unless one learns this philosophy thoroughly he cannot become a preacher however learned and educated he may be.N. Then we shall consider you for preaching work. (SPL to Pannalalji.(SPL to Hamsaduta. You must also chant 16 rounds Hare Krishna on the japa beads. 1974) To join our mission first of all you have to become a pure Vaisnava. fish. 1974) By Krsna's mercy and the unlimited potency of Lord Visnu. 16th May. 1974) Everyone can become a first class speaker. People will inquire from you and you can tell them about Krsna Consciousness and sell them books also. and as an initiated student you must not let a day pass when you do not chant at least 16 rounds of Hare Krsna Mantra. If you can follow just these things nicely that in itself will be strong preaching by behavior. 19th September.S. So if you are interested. 8th June.(SPL to Gopijanavallabha dasa. 1974) But before saving others we must first see that we ourselves are protected from the dangerous effects of maya. Simply cram the purports of my books. the philosophy is there. So if you do it. 1973) You are asking what should your preaching work be now that you are attending the university. Even though you are mixing with all kinds of the student class at the university. For this purpose you have to remain with us and live the techniques in your life.I am glad to learn that you are preaching nicely. (SPL to Tamala Krsna Goswami. after thoroughly assimilating it yourself. Then you can be trained up as a preacher. Everything is there. It is very important business. how will they be able to preach. 7th November. You should also always wear Kunti beads around the neck and wear the marking of tilak. and no taking any kind of intoxication whatsoever. 1974) So try to spread and encourage this philosophy of thinking of Krsna. and study my books very carefully. 18 th September.(SPL to Niranjana. philosophically. Better read these books thoroughly and be firmly convinced yourself before going to these demons for convincing them. So please continue your service with great enthusiasm and follow strictly all of our principles and regulations. The kanistha adhikari can also achieve perfection. we are presenting Krishna in so many ways. 1974) You go to those rascals and they will convert you. (BG/15/15). and religiously. socially.(SPL to Tarksya dasa. 12th October. Try to make some literature in Polish and Russian. We are describing Him in 75 books of 400 pages each. Muckerheide. vedais ca sarvair aham eva vedyo. If we sincerely try to serve Krsna then He will give you the ability and the facilities. it does not mean that he is fallen. It is distinctly said in the Bhagavadgita that the purpose of Vedic knowledge is to understand Krishna. 1976) One has to be qualified to preach.You are now living very near to our Los Angeles center. (SPL to Kirtiraja dasa. 17th December. 20th May. Then his preaching will be very potent and many many people will become attracted. 1974) Your desire for leading a sankirtana party. So you have this good qualification for preaching and now do it very nicely. 20th August. Chant 16 rounds daily. If one does not preach. (SPL to Jitaprana.(SPL to Mr. condemned. So. economically.(SPL to Srutadeva dasa. In this way your intelligence will become more and more purified and in consultation with the others there Krishna will give you the proper idea of how to spread Krishna consciousness. preaching and travelling is a very good one and I suggest that you talk to your temple president or GBC and try to arrange such a program if it is possible. 1976) 378 . 16th October. If you are weak yourself. 1975) As soon as someone is trained then go to preach very nicely in Poland. Don't become very big preacher immediately. while trying to convert them. politically. It is a gradual process that one becomes sense controlled and a personal example.(SPL to Madhava dasa. It is not artificial. In the beginning one should worship the Deity and follow the basic practices. It is a comparative study. This is the way to spread our Krsna Consciousness movement. You are not so strong that you can convince them and convert them from their foolishness. But in order to preach one must become firmly fixed in the spiritual practices otherwise his words will not act. Don't try any hard task before you are very strong. Preaching is our life. the mission of Caitanya Mahaprabhu. and read our books. The kanistha adhikari is not condemned. Preaching is not an easy thing . 30th October. you will be converted by them. Anyone can be trained to execute orders in sending out the books but preaching requires special qualification. etc. When one becomes advanced he can preach. follow the rules and regulations. 1975) Kindly take up the mission of spreading the message of the Lord all over the world with greater and greater enthusiasm. It is the duty of every initiated disciple to try and please the spiritual master by rendering service and inquiring submissively. one gradually becomes perfect by association. First of all one must become spiritually strong by following these basic principles staunchly and by learning our philosophy fully. so please take advantage of this and participate fully in the program there. but if we think only of Krsna we will have spiritual strength. The author questioned who the heater was for.“ he said. As always.‘ First of all you become really preacher. he told us: by strictly following the principles and not giving any consideration whatsoever to maya`s allurements. What would God want with a heater? He concluded that it must have been for the devotee`s comfort.“ Citing the example of one of his leading Godbrothers in the Gaudiya Matha.“ he said. Srila Prabhupada emphasized that we must remain strictil regulated and chant all our rounds every day.“ (P. As he ralaxed behind his desk waiting for breakfast he told them our preaching will go on only if we have spiritual strength. he may go to prach. noting a certain amount of cynism on the part of the writer .D. janma sarthaka kari`kara para-upakara: ‚Go to do good to others.1. Then go to preach. 1976 This morning`s newspaper carried a feature story on our Mayapur Candrodaya Mandir. 1976 „What if sometimes a disciple. He is compelled to question who it is for. 1976 After the morning walk the sannyasis have been coming into Prabhupada`s room for a few minutes. and He appreciates the heater. since he had been told that everything we did was for God`s pleasure and not our own. First of all do good to yourself. mathas. whereas a devotee knows that it is for the Lord.264) 2nd May.D. etc. but Krsna can eat unlimited coconuts. or else what will you preach? (SPL to Gurudasa. Preaching also means reading and writing. In their experience personality means „having limited senses.. he pointed out that he had all kinds of material facility—money. Caitanya 379 .1. „Therefore he is not to preach. eager to get as much association with him as they can get. We can keep our spiritual strength by being very strict Vaisnavas. but it is spoiled. „How do we keep our spiritual strength?“ Prabhupada asked. „We may have external strength. 18th February. I allow it. why not heat? This inability to understand that God has senses is impersonalism. The man had noticed the pujari offering bhoga to Sri Sri Radha-Madhava in a Deity room warmed by a heater. if we think of something else then we will have no transcendental potency. If the Deities can enjoy bhoga. 1977) 5th January. After breakfast prasadam Jayapataka Swami read the whole article to Srila Prabhupada.. Preaching programs will work only if there is purity. nor does it signify success. But what had he done for spreading Krsna consciousness? He explained that simply amassing material wealth will not bring spiritual success.If you like to stay in my rooms at Radha Damodara then you may stay there. Prabhupada said that is the atheistic mentality.(P. „Actually. Krsna has senses.215) 16th January. but he`s not preaching in the exact same spirit of his spiritual master?“ Gurukrpa wanted to know.“ Srila Prabhupada said. he said. „Caitanya Mahaprabhu says. He gave the example of milk tuched by a serpent: It looks like milk.“ Therefore God must be impersonal in order to be unlimited. Maya is always trying to weaken us. „but success will only come if we have spiritual strength. „unlimited means you can eat six rasag-ullas. Mahaprabhu never sent neophyte to go to preach. For neophyte the preaching is not their business. For neophyte, one should stick to the worship of Deity in the temple. „And those who have understood the philosophy, applied the philosophy in his life, he should go for preaching. Otherwise he`ll preach wrongly, like Carana dasa Babaji. And it will stop. He wanted to preach but he did not know how to preach, and therefore after his life it is finished. So Caitanya Mahaprabhu does not say like that, that ‚You remain rascal and go to preach.‘ No. janma sarthaka kari`. ‚Your first business is that you make your life perfect. Then go to preach. Perfect means you learn how to obey My orders.‘ That is perfection. Amara ajnaya. So if you are actually, perfectly, carrying out the orders of Caitanya Mahaprabhu, then you are preaching. Otherwise you will do wrongly, mislead. Don`t do that. Andha yathandhair upaniya-manah. If you remain blind, don`t try to lead other blind men. That is misleading. First of all open your eyes. Everything is there. Nobody can do anything whimsically. If you do whimsically, comcoctedly, that will be failure. It will not be effective.“(P.D.,2,68-69) 4th May, 1976 However, he said that even for a rascal there was one hope. „If peacefully you can introduce, ‚All right, you will do. You are wonderful men, so kindly if you read some pages of this book, it is not very costly. You can keep. At leisure hour you can read.‘ In this way, imploring, then they will be benefited. That much we can do to any rascal. Let them become puffed up by their false notions. But if they keep some books, sometimes they will read or their sons will read. That`s all. Therefore I am stressing so much on books, that if the puffed-up rascals take some book and sometimes, if they read, he`ll be benefited, perfectly benefited. So distribute these books anywhere possible. It doesn`t matter where it is.“ (P.D.,2,90-91) 21st May, 1976 He informed us that the real purpose of the brahmana is to educate others and this is the essence of Caitanya Mahaprabhu`s movement. „He says that ‚Every one of you become guru.‘ He wants not rascal imitation guru, but real guru. That He wants. Because people are in darkness, we require many millions of gurus to enlighten them...Every one is very anxious to become guru, but rascal does not know how to become guru, a simple thing. So many gurus come from India in this country, all rascal, but they will not speak what Krsna has instructed. Maybe for the first time this has begun in Krsna consciousness. Otherwise all rascals, they instructed something else, some meditation, this, that, all cheating. Real guru is he who instructs what Krsna has said. „If I say the simple truth, that ‚Krsna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead. He is the proprietor of everything. He is to be worshiped,‘ then where is the difficulty? So that is our mission. All of you who have come to Krsna consciousness movement, that is your request, that you, all of you, become guru, but not speak nonsesnse. That is request. Simply speak what Krsna has said. Then you become brahmana. You`ll be guru.“ (P.D.,2,175-176) 18th June, 1976 380 Finally he added a few words on his preaching to the local people. „Let them chant Hare Krsna mantra, nothing else, and dance and take prasadam. There is no need of teaching them philosophy in the beginning. In America also, neither white nor black like each other, but in our society they are chanting and dancing. This is the basis of Hare Krsna; everyone can join.“ And he also suggested a correction for the leaflet. „On the small invitation it should read: Singing the names of Krsna (God).“ (P.D.,2,431) 21st June,1976 Although it was a ninety minute drive to New Vrndaban, the ride was comfortable and as we progressed smoothly along the highway Prabhupada kept un a running conversation. He reflected on the fallen condition of modern men, telling Kirtanananda Maharaja his comparison of the dog`s running on four legs and man`s running on four wheels. He said that the only way to save them was to start with the basics and then after some time, when they become a little purified, give sone philosophy. He reminded Kirtanananda that this had been his program right from the beginning. „You have all got this experience. This is the only way. I started this movement on this determination: I`ll give then prasadam, nice chanting, and they will not come? They must come. This was my determination. And I began with this. So this is the only way. Give them chance ‚No talk, please come. Chant and dance with us and take Krsna prasadam and go home.” (P.D.,3,1-2) 24th June, 1976 Prabhupada retorted, „So what is not practical for you, our system, your system is also not practical for us. We cannot live in this way. Anyway, if you can maintain a perfect community of plain living, high thinking, that is sufficient. We do not canvass but naturally they`ll see that this is convenient. After all, they are human being. They are learning. So that is part of our business—to preach. But to practice personally, that is our main business. Not that everyone will be preacher, but at least his own life is perfect.“ (P.D.,3,49-50) 4th July, 1976 Thinking of the report we received previously from Adikesava Swami describing the positive reception of their kirtana party which travels around New York on the back of a flatbed truck, I observed that a similar arrangement here would be a big success in the slow moving traffic. This prompted an immediate request from Prabhupada for the devotees to do kirtana. The message was passed to the lead vehicle, a large van packed with devotees. They had instruments, and as the devotees burst into a song, everyone on the roadside turned to look, many of them waving, chanting and dancing. Srila Prabhupada enjoied the favorable response. He said that people actually want to chant and dance, but are artificially suppressing it or are being artificially suppressed . „So far I have observed, people here and in the communist countries are not different. The general people are very nice, but they are not allowed.“ (P.D.,3,149-150) 5th July, 1976 Sadaputa prabhu outlined the Institute`s preaching strategy. „We were trying to see how we could explain these fossils that geologists speak of, and it seems like one way of looking at them.“ Prabhupada spoke the real issue. „But their calculating mind, in whatever you 381 explain you have to give reference to the sastra, and they will say it is mythology. They`ll refuse immediately that thing. But you have no other source to explain. Now you try to argue, but they will take everything we propose as mythology, and we will take, ‚Because you are rascal, whatever you say, it is all rascaidom.‘ That`s all. This is the position. Then how you`ll meet? This is the difference.“ (P.D.,3, 163-164) 11th July, 1976 Gopala had spoken of developing Delhi into a big project, but Prabhupada was more cautious in sharing his enthusiasm. „Let us continue in the rented house and see how things develop. If local people come and join and take initiation, then we can consider developing. Simply lipsympathy will not do. They must be regular disciple, follow the regulative principles, and they will develop themselves. Besides that book distribution and preaching is our most important activity. Opening temples is subordinate. We have to see how books are being distributed and how people are joining wholeheartly. That is actual development.“ (P.D.,3,256-257) 17th July, 1976 He told him that comparison of philosophy was a difficult task unless one was expert. Prabhupada doubted its necessity for general preaching. „First of all, let people understand Krsna. We are doing that. Maybe one or two are interested in philosophy and for so few persons we can`t spare so much valuable time. Better to induce everyone to chant Hare Krsna and take prasadam. This will be a mass benevolent activity. In the western countries many Ph.D.`s are out of employment because they do not get any service. We do not want to become great philosophers but rather to understand the philosophy in our own books. If we remain strong in our own literature, we can meet anyone else without any fear.“ (P.D.,3,329-330) 26th July, 1976 „So now you have books and temples,“ Bhagavan said. Prabhupada smiled. „Yes, temple is automatically. I never stessed on temple. I was engaged in publishing the Back to Godhead. Whatever I could do, I did it because I took it very seriously that he is very sorry that these things were not done. He said that, ‚There will be fire in this Gaudiya Math.‘ Agun jvalbe, he said. Amari taci loka kichui boi kakrayebo: ‚If I can go, I shall sell these marbles of this temple and convert them into books.‘ That was his ambition. He started a very nice press and this Tirtha Maharaja sold it.“ „Sold it?“ Jayatirtha asked in surprise. „Yes,“ Prabhupada said. „He`s not representing guru...‘Better let`s have money for fight in the court.‘“ (P.D.,3,405-406) 31st July, 1976 Prabhupada cut in. „Bhakti is not acheved by studying; bhakti stage is achieved by practice. That is the special significance of our institution, that we are engaging our men in practicing. Therefore they are getting knowledge—not by reading.“ (P.D.,3,449) 382 BOOK DISTRIBUTION THE IMPORTANCE AND RESULTS OF BOOK DISTRIBUTION As you may have heard, our Bhagavad-gita As It Is is now published and can be ordered from the New York temple by writing to Brahmananda. Please try to popularize this book throughout England as much as possible. Because if these books are read, there is no doubt that many sincere souls shall be attracted and will join you in your work for Krishna. So please try for selling these books, it shall be considered as the greatest service. (SPL to Guradasa, 1st December, 1968) So we should now organize in such a way that there shall be nice kirtana and attempt for selling our publications. My Guru Maharaja indicated that the mrdanga and the press are the mediums of our missionary propaganda activities, and we shall follow His path in the same way. We must have large quantities of mrdangas for vibrating in different parts of the world and we must distribute our literature also. (SPL to Brahmananda, 30th January, 1969) My Spiritual Master, Om Visnupada Sri Srimad Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Goswami Maharaja Prabhupada, sometimes used to say that if after selling all of my property I can convert one person to Krishna Consciousness factually, then I shall think my mission is successful. Similarly, I am also thinking like that after reading your letter that if I could induce even one person to Krishna Consciousness through my publication, Bhagavadgita As It Is, then I shall think my labor is successful . So I am very much encouraged to 383 read your letter, and I have received many such letters from others also, so I am very hopeful. (SPL to R. Chalson, 12th June, 1969) I remember that my Guru Maharaja would often send young boys out to sell literature of Krishna Consciousness, and if they would come back having sold only a few issues, Guru Maharaja was very, very pleased.(SPL to Subala, 31th July, 1969) Now that our press is ready in Boston, we have more than one dozen books which are ready to be printed, so with your help I wish to overflood the marketplaces with our literatures. Now people are reading all kinds of nonsense books, and thus their reading capacity is helping to pave their way through the circles of birth and death . If they will simply take to reading this transcendental literature we are presenting, the same reading capacity will elevate them to the highest perfection of spiritual life. So this is very important task we are doing, and all of you push forward in Colorado with increased enthusiasm. (SPL to Harer Nama, 6 th November, 1969) ...we shall overflood the market with Krishna Conscious literature. That will create our prestige, and being cheap distribution, many people will learn our philosophy. (SPL to Brahmananda, 30th March, 1970) Also, book distribution is a very important program and you should give much attention to developing it. If anyone simply reads our KRSNA book, TLC, NOD, Bhagavad-gita As It Is, he is sure to become a Krishna Conscious person. So somehow or other, either through the schools or colleges, libraries, life membership program or ordinary sales, we must push on this literature distribution program. It is so important and a most valuable service to Krishna.(SPL to Vamanadeva, 5th March, 1971) But in my heart I want that KRSNA book in small or large form, should be distributed in every home who are English-speaking people.(SPL to Karandhara, 17th May, 1971) I am so glad to hear that your program is going on so nicely there in New Orleans and especially that Sankirtana and BTG distribution are so successful. That is very encouraging. This Sankirtana and BTG distribution is our main business and you should give as much energy in this direction as possible. Also your travelling Sankirtana party to various universities in the Southern cities is wholly approved by me. (SPL to Nityananda and Kanya, 26th August, 1971) You state that you will be the largest distributer of BTG in the world. This statement is very pleasing to me, because more than anything I want that my students should distribute my books and literatures profusely all over the world, and this should be our formost concern, how to do it properly. But one thing, now you must try very hard to live up to your promise of becoming largest distributer! (SPL to Sridhama dasa, 17th November, 1971) 384 I'm especially pleased to hear that your distribution of our books and magazines has increased. Go on in this way, increasing more and more. Each time someone reads some solid information about Krishna his life becomes changed in some way. These literatures are the solid ground upon which our preaching stands, so I want that they should be available to everyone, as many as possible. So please try for this.(SPL to Damodara,3rd December, 1971) One thing, you say that literature distribution is low; actually, the test of the strength of our preaching work is that we sell many books and magazines. So what is the difficulty? Simply preach very sincerely to anyone and everyone, and go on in this way preaching more and more, and the demand for our books will increase. (SPL to Sri Galim, 17th December, 1971) Distribution of books and magazines is our most important activity. Without books, our preaching has no solid basis. Especially the Africans want our books. (SPL to Cyavana, 26th December, 1971) If there are amply books, everything else will succeed. Practically our Society is built on books.(SPL to Yogesvara, 28th December, 1971) I am glad to hear that you are distributing nicely books and magazines. The more we sell books, the more we advance in KC, and the more we help others to have solid information how they may take advantage of their human form of life and achieve the supreme perfection. So I want that you should now increase very greatly this selling of books and literatures. I have heard that in San Francisco they are selling daily not less than 75 Krsna Books. So I am very much encouraged to hear this. Now take this spirit of transcendental rivalry and consult with Dayananda and the others there in England to be the first-rate booksellers.(SPL to Kulasekhara, 10th January, 1972) My first concern is that my books shall be published and distributed profusely all over the world. Practically, books are the basis of our Movement. Without our books, our preaching will have no effect.(SPL to Mandali Bhandara, 20th January, 1972) I especially appreciate your attitude toward increasing more and more the ___ of our books, that will sanctify all other activities of preaching because preaching means selling books.(SPL to Bhakta dasa, 21th February, 1972) If we have regular plan of selling books, then there will be no scarcity of money... (SPL to Giriraja, 12th April, 1972) 385 Yes, that is a good proposal, print many many books in African language and distribute widely, that is real preaching work. If you sell a book to someone, that is better than your speaking to them--what will your three minutes' preaching do? But if they read a book it may turn their life. Go on preaching, that is the highest perfection of activity, and do not worry for anything, Krishna is so much appreciative of this preaching work that He will give you every facility, as much as you have ambition.(SPL to Brahmananda, 3rd November, 1972) Anyway, print books, distribute profusely, and that will be the best preaching work. What will your three minutes' preaching do?--but if they buy one book, it may turn their life. So make this your important task, to print our books in French language and other languages, and distribute widely, and that will please my Guru Maharaja. Never mind it takes little time to make progress, our process is slow but sure, and we are confident that if we continue in this way we shall go one day back to home, back to Godhead.(SPL to Bhagavan, 5th November, 1972) I am especially happy to hear from you about the huge distribution of books in the Canada Zone. That is the most auspicious sign. You are making good progress, that I can understand. As soon as I see that there is such increased book distribution figures, I take that to mean that all other programs are successful as well. I am especially encouraged to note that you have sold 268 of our Bhagavad-gita As It Is in only three weeks' time. That is very very satisfying to me.(SPL to Jagadisa, 5th January, 1973) All programs must go on but it is a fact that this book distribution program is very very important. It is real preaching work...(SPL to Rupanuga, 14th February, 1973) Your plans for increasing book distribution are very good. If so many books are being sold then very soon we will be finished the second edition. Distribution of all these books is making a firm basis for our movement.(SPL to Trai dasa, 4th March, 1973) It is very encouraging to note that the work on our BTG and other Books is going on. Actually producing and distributing books is our most important engagement, all other engagements culminate in this one end--distribution of books. (SPL to Tamala Krsna Maharaja, 27th July, 1973) There is no doubt about it, to distribute books is our most important activity. The temple is a place not for eating and sleeping, but as a base from which we send out our soldiers to fight with maya. Fight with maya means to drop thousand and millions of books into the lap of the conditioned souls. Just like during war time the Bombs are raining from the sky like anything. So you are the expert in this field. I like also your programme of sending out your best men to teach the others . That is the actual process of Krishna Consciousness. To train others continue this programme so that in the future every devotee in our movement will know the art of distributing books. This is approved by me.(SPL to Ramesvara, 3rd August, 1973) 386 I like very much to receive the report of my book sales. Everyone should go out. 28th August. and that was the foundation stone of our Krsna consciousness movement.(SPL to Karandhara dasa. 1973) I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated September 12.. 1974) The book sales are very encouraging.(SPL to Nandalal. there is not any harm. 1973) Yes. is the correct understanding. So by His mercy we are printing books and constructing temples. Thank you.(SPL to Prahladananda. When there is time I go on reading my own books. they should return immediately and resume their original service. He personally advised me to print books if I have got some money. whether man or woman it doesn't matter. (SPL to Karandhara. . which he compares to the gopies trying to engage others in Krsna's service. everyone is preacher. I thought that our men were becoming like hippies. 1973 and am so glad to learn that you have again ordered to Dai Nippon Printing Co. So I want all our centers should give very much importance in the matter of book distribution. 9th June.1st October. or buildings or anything else.Yes that is nice that you are distributing many books. Record selling is temporary. a book sold becomes a permanent matter for enjoyment. you can go on with your book distribution as you were doing before. I do not want money. It is very good news. I simply want to see that my books are being distributed and because you are doing that I am quite happy. This was the subject matter of my Guru Maharaja's satisfaction. Even George Harrison's record sales do not continue for a long time. 1974) Regarding sales figures. So far as the woman distributers who have left New York and Boston Temples and have gone to New Vrindaban. for so many books This engladdens me when I see our literature very widely distributed. But. When I hear that my books are selling so nicely. It is very good report that the printers are surprised at our sales figures. I do not know why Kirtanananda Maharaja is encouraging our woman devotees not to go out on Sankirtana for book distribution. The sales figures--this is the only solace in my life. 1974) These statistics are very nice. It was selling for only a few paise. Here at Mayapur my guru maharaj was printing one paper. In Caitanya Mahaprabhu's Movement.(SPL to Hamsaduta. 6th October. but still I brought some books from India. So I have no objection.(SPL to Ramesvara. I become energetic like a young man. 27 th September. increasing. increasing. as well. Our main business is to distribute books. 13th August. I think it also gives encouragement to the devotees who distribute the books. the progress is very encouraging. I want this. Sometimes whenever 387 . He liked to distribute books more than constructing temples. but now I understand from you that that is not the case. Although in the beginning we had no such opportunity. 1973) The explanation given by Ramesvara that sankirtana is Lord Caitanya's lila. and from the reports I am receiving from all over the world. please endeavor in this way. We read the scriptures again and again and it is still fresh. my guru maharaj would become very. So I am always emphasizing book distribution. Of course chanting should not stop. Does it mean you are Brahma? But. So if it possible for ordinary third class mundane literature. As far as possible both should go on in parallel lines but still bhagavata marga is more important than the other. why not should our transcendental literature create devotees all over the world. It is the better kirtana. 6th December. it is a fact that Krishna will supply everything else required.one brahmacari would go to Navadvipa and sell even a few copies. all over the world. Keep distributing as many as possible in huge quantities. (SPL to Sri Govinda dasa. So there is good potency for pushing on these literatures very vigorously. Our men our envious over who will live in which room.(SPL to Sri Govinda dasa. He told me this personally. At Radha Kunda he told me that since constructing the big marble temple at Bhag Bazar. I would see my guru maharaj become very much pleased. So you say that your men are like the four Kumaras disobeying Lord Brahma. It is better than chanting.(SPL to Srutadeva dasa. actually it is a fact that ultimately everyone should preach and distribute books if they want to please me in the best way. but by distributing literature in every language they get a pretty good number of followers. Book distribution must be given stress always. If you do this sincerely. We must make a large propoganda program for Krsna Consciousness by distributing these books everywhere. The Russians never came to India. So organize this propaganda work very carefully and our movement will be very much successful by introducing literature from village to village. He personally instructed me that books are more important than big temples. apart from our books. but book distribution is the best kirtana. it is a fact. I know in Calcutta the Communist agents were inviting friends and reading their literature. 21st November. 6th December. 1974) Regarding the book distribution. their propoganda. He has spoken the right thing. This is my pleasure. 1974) Distribution definitely doubling in USA. 24th October. 388 . very pleased with him. there have been so many difficulties.(SPL to Tamala Krsna Goswami. That is my immediate program. Both are important for cultivating Vaisnavism but comparatively speaking bhagavata marga is more important than pancaratriki viddhi. Lord Caitanya wants this. I do not know what is the result. I blindly follow my guru maharaj. Even if the brahmacari was not a very important member. I think this is the first time in history that ever before so many religious books have sold so popularly. I see practically how our books and magazines are becoming popular in your country. so carry out His order. 1974) Book distribution is bhagavata marga and temple worship is pancaratriki viddhi. Just like the communists they are very expert in distributing their literature.1974) Regarding your question. He told me this personally. the Communist Party has become popular simply by distributing their literatures. Hare Krsna. Ramesvara'' This kind of wonderful news is very pleasing to my heart and I thank you all again and again . I think it would be better to take off all the marbles and sell them and print books. Here in India we are not arranging for publishing Hindi books and other languages for profuse distribution in India. Four thousand books in one day is a very unique figure. So I am stressing on this point of book distribution. If we can get the masses in the Western countries like Europe and America to become Krsna Conscious.(SPL to Satsvarupa Maharaja. then all the rest of the world will follow. 1976) In the six day book distribution. 1976) 389 . Any one of the nine processes is as good as the other.(SPL to Rdhaballabha dasa. 1975) Do not worry. continue distributing my books in this way and Krsna will pour His blessings upon you all. So. This is childish. As mentioned in the Bhagavatam. 19th January. 1975) Our first business is this book distribution. Deity worship is just as important as book distribution. Srimad-Bhagavatam will be distributed. Please keep me informed from time to time of the book sales statistics. 5th January. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu while instructing Srila Rupa Gosvami. The next item is smaranam. Eastern zone was first. That is also as good as the others. Our preaching business will go on. If somebody simply remembers the Supreme Lord. I have always said that if we simply rely on book distribution all our needs will be met. We don't care for war. 21st August. Then there is arcanam. 1974) Regarding your question about the controversial talks going on. has said how the seed of devotional service sprouts and increases by watering the root by the process of sravanam kirtanam. If this book distribution is managed properly. This is our most important work. That is a fact. his position becomes in the material field. In Krishna's service. There is no need of any other business.(SPL to Ramesvara. 21st December. sravanam kirtanam visno smaranam pada-sevanam arcanam vandanam dasyam sakhyam atma-nivedanam Sravanam kirtanam is the beginning--to chant and hear. Srila Jiva Gosvami has stressed kirtanam especially in the age of Kali. but one who simply becomes engaged in arcanam and does nothing of sravanam kirtanam. 11th January. that is also as good as sravanam kirtanam. But out of all of them sravanam kirtanam is very important. It is not material. Therefore we must print hundreds and thousands of books and distribute them at the same speed and thus we will have a great effect on the mass population of Europe and America.(SPL to Satsvarupa Maharaja. then the whole world will become Krishna conscious. Book distribution is under this category of sravanam kirtanam. There is no question of inferior or superior. this kind of talk is not befitting my advanced students. there is no inferior and superior. (SPL to Rupanuga. in spite of war. So please. All the leaders should tax their brains for increasing the sales of our books. these two items are very important in devotional service. but that does not mean that the other items are inferior.At the present moment they are distributing their literature here in India in nine different languages and it is quite effective. it must be accompanied by sravanam kirtanam. pushed on with great enthusiasm and determination and at the same time if our men keep spiritually strong. I beg you. Even if there is arcanam for sanctifying the contaminated mind. 1976) I am very glad to hear how the book distribution is increasing more and more. 1976) The results show that there is no limit to our book distribution. We are working for heart and soul. they are selling magazines and books successfully. 1969) 390 . it is not possible. not on the material platform. The process experienced now is that after holding kirtana. It is a fact that no expert booksalesmen can compete with our men. not for money. 18th January. That means if the had as many men as our Library Party they would have to pay at least $15. They are working in trance. especially in your country.That so many people are purchasing our literature in Los Angeles indicated that it is being advertised: Oh. 1976) BOOK DISTRTBUTION AND STREET CHANTING Our propaganda should be focused on spreading kirtana and distributing literature. ``Jiv jago. 29th December. Then their acquaintances want the book also . 4th October. No common man can work so hard.(SPL to Ramesvara. 1976) Whether it is more important to organize the women's book distribution or to work on College preaching? The book distribution is more important.(SPL to Ramesvara. but they have no substance.(SPL to Balavanta dasa. Introduce Rathayatra very nicely and distribute books . 12th January.'' Your book distribution is really intoxication. Such expert salesmen would have to be paid at least $1000 per month. Sleeping is dead condition. The books distribution in Los Angeles during the six day period is transcendental samadhi. the more the ignorance of the Age of Kali will be smashed. We have to increase this book distribution work more and more to firmly establish this Movement. This is our greatest weapon. 1976) The main thing is to distribute books--the communist idea is spread practically all over the world on account of distributing huge amounts of literature. The Librarian has noted the difference between our men and other publisher's men. Working without sleep means no death. gauracanda bole. We are not fiction writers .(SPL to Brahmananda. I have got a very nice book.000 per month. jiva jago.(SPL to Balavanta. Our books are qualified to be distributed unlimitedly. 23th November. The more the books are distributed. books and magazines. which is the only hope for the suffering living entities. kota nidra yao maya-pisacira kole. The world is feeling the weight of this Hare Krishna Movement. (SPL to Sukadeva dasa. 30th January. A purchased book goes into a person's home and will be read by others. Sankirtana Party and distribution of our magazines and books is our real program. The reason book distribution is greater than chanting is because the effect is wider. but it means we should be much more careful than someone who is performing activities simply for sense gratification. not mine. Attention diverted to incense business is not a very good sign. So book distribution is also chanting. whereas street kirtana only benefits those in the vicinity who hear. There have been two letters from GBC men to Srila Prabhupada regarding street chanting and book distribution. 16th July. 19th October. so everything should be done very carefully and in remembrance that this is Krishna's business that we are executing. We should give all our energy for distributing BTG . who is only 11 years old.(SPL to Brahmananda. Book distribution is also kirtana.(SPL to Satsvarupa. very important. my order still stands.21st June. Anyone who reads the books that is also chanting and hearing . and they are transcribed.1969) Yes. Because we are doing Krishna's business does not mean that we should be less careful. Other things are secondary. they are our right and left hands. 1971) Regarding Sankirtana and book distribution. In Tokyo airport one boy had come up to me asking if he could speak with me. has become a devotee. But the effect is there. These are not ordinary books. but book distribution is more important. Why distinguish between chanting and book distribution? These books I have recorded and chanted.23rd October.(SPL to Tamala Krsna Goswami. In Portugal one boy. and then he asked me ``Swamiji. or recorded chanting. Srila Prabhupada has said that book distribution is more important that street chanting. but still he has become a devotee. Please organize BTG distribution and do it nicely. (SPL to Rupanuga dasa. 1974) Please accept my humble obeisances. I said yes. So for _ kirtana book distribution is better. Then in Tokyo airport Prabhupada tells how one Japanese youth approached Srila Prabhupada and asked if he could speak with Srila 391 . So instruct the boys in that way. If things deteriorate that is another thing. but it is not the fault of book distribution. It is spoken kirtanas. He got several of our books at a bookstore in Lisbon and has asked his father who is just now coming to USA to get him all available Srimad-Bhagavatams. he is hearing. 1974) Regarding Sankirtana and book distribution.This Sankirtana Party and our Book Department are very. It is brihat kirtana. and there seems to be some discussion about the two. So during the summer time you should utilize this program of Sankirtana and book distribution vigorously. book distribution is also chanting. So book distribution is also kirtana and should not be considered less than kirtana. Prabhupada remarks that our books went there to Portugal but we did not. Book distribution is brihat kirtana. Two cases are cited. It is literally kirtana in the sense that the books are spoken and therefore anyone who reads a book is hearing. It is recorded chanting. Because his books are recorded and transcribed Srila Prabhupada calls his books spoken kirtanas. He offers prasadam and is translating Bhagavad-gita As It Is into Portuguese with the help of his mother. Anyone who reads. Book distribution must not be neglected. both should go on. where do you get all that knowledge in your books?'' Of course it is Krishna's knowledge. Also in India.B. Regarding the claim that devotees have difficulties maintaining Krishna consciousness by only doing book selling with not enough street chanting.B. which is of course book distribution. By exact coincidence Prabhupada is finishing C. 5. but it is not the fault of book distribution. Therefore there is mostly Life Membership preaching in India.43]" so by comparative study book selling is more important. 4:2. not including the index volumes! Prabhupada's translation of Caitanya Caritamrta is almost finished. he said that was a good system. When I mentioned to Srila Prabhupada that when in L. Srila Prabhupada also pointed out that is the West sometimes the street chanting is considered as a farce. When I mentioned to Srila Prabhupada that when in L.B. Book distribution must not be neglected. This was Srila Prabhupada's reason for taking up C. that was piling up. there was the system of book distribution all week long and on weekend nights full street kirtanas. just as they have finished publishing all of S. The chanting can go on for a little while and when a crowd is drawn books can be distributed. as well as for the Fourth Canto which will have a separate volume index. 3:4 which was printed in the USA in five weeks with the quality practically as good as Japan. "Where do you get all the knowledge that is in your books?" So by comparative study book selling is more important. Prabhupada was also informed that the index of the Third Canto will be a separate volume. Srila Prabhupada gave further impetus to the main temple project.C. It will be a 30 story skyscraper temple based on the following verse of Brahma-samhita: "Goloka-namni nija-dhamni tale ca tasya [Bs.C. Also in India. Srila Prabhupada received an advance copy of S. Here at Sridhama Mayapur.B. 25th October. Book distribution must not be neglected.B. Then he will resume S. Now as Srila Prabhupada resumes S. At first street chanting was tried but was met with mostly derogatory reaction. the Press was given time to publish all the backlog of S. the boy asked.B. last. but it is not the fault of book distribution. But on no account should street chanting be stopped..C. 3:3. When we mentioned to His Divine Grace that this is the system of encyclopedias to publish separate volumes for the index he said that we could advertise his Srimad-Bhagavatam as "The Encyclopedia of Spiritual Life.B. last.Prabhupada.A. Prabhupada has never said that street chanting should be stopped. only two more chapters left in the whole book. When Prabhupada said yes. 4:4 has also been given to the American printer and three remaining volumes of S. This is another example how the book distribution is better than the Street Sankirtana 392 .B. 1974) So it is a good thing that you have distributed books to the son and daughter of the President. he said that was a good system. Prabhupada remarked that if things deteriorate that is another thing. But on no account should street chanting be stopped." S. Prabhupada remarked that if things deteriorate that is another thing. At first street chanting was tried but was met with mostly derogatory reaction. which is of course book distribution. through the Fourth Canto. starting with Canto Five. there was the system of book distribution all week long and on weekend nights full street kirtanas. Therefore there is mostly Life Membership preaching in India. and 4:3 have already been printed in Japan.(SPL to Ramesvara Prabhu. by working on C. Regarding the claim that devotees have difficulties maintaining Krishna consciousness by only doing book selling with not enough street chanting. Prabhupada has never said that street chanting should be stopped.C. That makes 13 volumes of S. they can publish the C. The chanting can go on for a little while and when a crowd is drawn books can be distributed. Srila Prabhupada also pointed out that is the West sometimes the street chanting is considered as a farce.A. he is in the lower stage of devotional service. etc. 25th November. ``Archaiam Evam Paria Ja Pujan Sadraya Hatay. the daughter would say see what I have purchased today. For the time being these new Deities may be put away nicely until I personally install Them and instruct you very nicely how to tend for Them correctly. Deity worship is recommended. 5th September. but by your chanting you could never approach the President's house. That is the definition given in Srimad-Bhagavatam. I have already mentioned in a previous letter that I shall teach you these things when I arrive in London. 12th August. or doesn't preach Krishna Consciousness for the benefit of the general public. wood. Actually. The advanced devotee should be very much enthusiastic in preaching the transcendental message of Lord Caitanya.'' The meaning is that one who worships the Deity with great devotion but doesn't show any devotion to the devotees of the Lord. For the present you may join Sankirtana Party because I know that your presence will enliven everyone.(SPL to Yamuna dasi. (SPL to Madhusudana. temple worship is for the neophyte devotee. Another verse is. and temple worship should be entrusted to the newcomers. chanting of Hare Krishna Mantra is the prime business of the devotee. 1974) BOOK DISTRIBUTION AND TEMPLE WORSHIP Yes. and preaching of this Hare Krishna Mantra by outdoor Sankirtana and propagation of literature is our more important business. Side by side. but when there is a question of accepting one of them. the verse concerning Arca Vigraha is like this: ``arcasiladhir gurusu naramati vaisnave jati budhi. That the body guards allowed our devotee to sell them the books.1st February. 1969) In this age.(SPL to Ramesvara dasa. 1968) Regarding your questions about details for Deity worship.alone. Now the books are in the President's house. means that they accept us as good people who do not cause harm. 1969) 393 . we shall prefer to accept chanting of Hare Krishna Mantra first. or neophytes. In the meantime there is no necessity for you to increase Deity worshiping. and the preacher is in a higher position than the neophyte.(SPL to Hamsaduta. Most probably when entering the house and seeing the father.'' The meaning is that one should not think of the Deity as made of stone. and I saw it was so fine and satisfactory. very nice. very nicely. still to keep ourselves pure and sanctified. 15th December. 1969) That is a fact. how will people come to see us and talk with us? So try to distribute and publish as much as possible. 1970) Your proposal for a grhastha travelling Sankirtana party is a very good one but the temple work should not be neglected. they are our primary engagements and next Temple worship. the general mass of people will be benefited. does that mean that everything else is not important? No. I went to see our men chanting in Hollywood Boulevard. Deity worship helps to keep us externally purified and Sankirtana helps to keep us internally purified. Our process is to work on Bhagavata and Pancaratriki systems simultaneously. this plan of Sankirtana is the only way. Everything must go on. People are invited to come to the temple to see the behavior of the devotees specifically in the matter of purification. external and internal. (SPL toTrivikrama Swami. we must observe the rules and regulations of Pancaratriki Biddhi.(SPL to Jyotiganesvara dasa.(SPL to Hamsaduta. Sankirtana is more important for drawing the attention of the people in general. The Pancaratriki Biddhi is Arcana or Temple worship. 8th January. Although chanting is quite sufficient to cover all the Biddhis.(SPL to Sudama. One Chinese literature is 1000 times better preaching than worshiping in the temple. Deity worship is pancaratriki system and preaching is Bhagavata system. and the Bhagavat Biddhi is to preach by chanting and distributing literature . So as far as possible we shall execute both of these processes simultaneously. keeping both sides in balance. Last night. Temple worship is secondary. namely the Pancaratriki Biddhi and Bhagavat Biddhi. There are two kinds of purification methods. how much they are careful about Deity worship. so please arrange for it. In the beginning. Sankirtana. Please consult with your temple president or your GBC for direction as to what is your best engagement there in San Diego.(SPL to Citananda. Our London Deities are certainly very. Our hearts in material condition are filled with all dirty things. In our Krishna Consciousness Movement. And by your exemplary character.1974) Because I am stressing one thing (book distribution) especially. 2nd December. 1971) I received today also the Chinese literature On the Way to Krsna. 12th March. 1970) Now work with great enthusiasm and ask Himavati to take care of the Deities very.Sankirtana and distributing BTG and our other literatures is the fieldwork of this movement. 16th December. I am coming there very soon. and this Krishna Consciousness Movement is the cleansing process. the only way for our success.1975) 394 . It is very enchanting. If we keep both systems in a regular way that will help us solidly in our advancement in Krishna Consciousness.(SPL to Makhanal and Tilaka. Love Feast and selling BTG. 24th September.A. Both of you have seen in L. We have to make our steady progress. But we have to have a place and the worship must go on. Without having a sitting place. and everyone is captivated by seeing the smiling face of the Lord. Both things should go on simultaneously. Temple worship is needed for the inner section . I am very pleased . In your country hundreds of temples like this must be opened. Another temple opened. that is the success of this Movement. Town to town. I can see in the pictures so many outsiders offering respect with awe and veneration. It appears to be very nicely done. another book published. As soon as you get sufficient initiated brahmanas try to open another center. Without book distribution the temple worship standard will also diminish.I have seen the pictures of the Deity installation you have sent. Do this and be happy. 28th December. Therefore both of them should go side by side . village to village. (SPL to Kurusrestha dasa. 1976) 395 . This Deity worship is very important. Stick to the principles. All the brahmana devotees appear to be very nice.