Verse 1.1.23: Basically Bhagavad-gita is the narration of Krishna himself, and Srimad Bhagavatam is a narration of devotees about Krishna. In Bhagavad-gita, Krishna does not talk about Himself, but what we are supposed to do to achieve the perfection of life. He explains sankhya yoga, gyana yoga, astanga yoga and finally bhakti yoga and also tells that the highest and the most sublimes process is Bhakti yoga. Krishna explains in the Bhagavad-gita, how living entity falls down, how we can cleanse our heart and reunite with Krishna in the spiritual world. So Krishna is giving the process here without telling anything about Himself.
Whereas, in Srimad Bhagavatam, it is given how devotees apply the principles given in Bhagavad-gita and go back home back to Godhead. The culmination of that love attained is explained in the 10th Canto, the gopi's. So even ladies, vyasya's and sudra's, it is shown here that even they can become pure devotees. Another example is Narada muni. It is shown that Bhakti is not dependent on birth. Anyone can become a pure devotee by simply chanting Krishna's Holy Name, serving devotees and purifying their existence.
Ending of First Canto, First Chapter.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Captian of the Ship: Sri Suta Goswami
Verse 1.1.22: The sages of Naimisharanya are explaining how dangerous the effects of Kali is. People of this age gradually lose their memory, finer sentiments, strength and better qualities. They are in the mode of passion, and with the limited resources present, they are quarreling leading to frustration etc. In this they forget that life is meant for self-realization.
Srila Prabhupada mentions that out of madness they frankly say that there is no need for self-realization because they do not realize that this brief life is but a moment on our great journey towards self-realization. Srila Prabhupada goes on to explain that we should accept the Sri Suta Goswami or his bonafide representative as the captain of the ship that will help us cross over this difficult ocean of Kali.
Srila Prabhupada mentions that out of madness they frankly say that there is no need for self-realization because they do not realize that this brief life is but a moment on our great journey towards self-realization. Srila Prabhupada goes on to explain that we should accept the Sri Suta Goswami or his bonafide representative as the captain of the ship that will help us cross over this difficult ocean of Kali.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Chanting of Holy Name is the Yuga Dharma
Verse 1.1.21: For self-realization, the people in Satya-yuga, living a lifetime of a hundred thousand years, were able to perform prolonged meditation. And in Tretä-yuga, when the duration of life was ten thousand years, self-realization was attained by performance of great sacrifice. And in the Dväpara-yuga, when the duration of life was one thousand years, self-realization was attained by worship of the Lord. But in the Kali-yuga, the maximum duration of life being one hundred years only and that combined with various difficulties, the recommended process of self-realization is that of hearing and chanting of the holy name, fame, and pastimes of the Lord. In these days, the genuine preachers (who propagate the chanting of the Holy Name and Bhagavat Dharma) are empowered by Krishna. Because nobody is very much interested in self-realization.
Sri Caitantya Mahaprabhu has requested that the people taking birth in India, have a service to perform. We need to purify our heart and give it to others. We need to learn and let others also know of the process. So everyone has to do it. Then we will get the mercy of Sri Caitantya Mahaprabhu.
Mahaprabhu says He has a garden of fruits of Krishna Prema. He just wants to distribute it to all. He is giving us a chance to preach and do this. Then we make a lot of progress. Our time is running out. If we strictly follow the principles given by Srila Prabhupada, then Krishna will Himself help us.
He will empower us, but we should be very humble. He will test and test and test and then He makes us His instrument. To be honest, if we are really humble, then Krishna will do miracles for you.
Sri Caitantya Mahaprabhu has requested that the people taking birth in India, have a service to perform. We need to purify our heart and give it to others. We need to learn and let others also know of the process. So everyone has to do it. Then we will get the mercy of Sri Caitantya Mahaprabhu.
Mahaprabhu says He has a garden of fruits of Krishna Prema. He just wants to distribute it to all. He is giving us a chance to preach and do this. Then we make a lot of progress. Our time is running out. If we strictly follow the principles given by Srila Prabhupada, then Krishna will Himself help us.
He will empower us, but we should be very humble. He will test and test and test and then He makes us His instrument. To be honest, if we are really humble, then Krishna will do miracles for you.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Krishna's pastimes and name, ever nectarean
Verses 1.1.18 and 19: Krishna has taken so many incarnations not only to protect the devotees, but also to make the concept of God more obvious.
People in this kaliyuga, cannot perceive what is beyond mind and senses. Thats why Krishna again and again comes, and also makes his devotees to compile his pastimes. So that until He comes again, devotees will be able to read it and relish his pastimes.That is the reason why Krishna appears.
Second thing is, Krishna is called uttama shloka. Take anything material, any cinema song, it will become boring soon. But the Holy Name, Krishna's pastimes, never become boring. Svadu svadu pade pade, again and again we can relish it. Why? Krishna is fully satisfying, His name, His pastimes everything is eternally nectarean.
The conditioned living entity can never like the taste of SB. But a paramahamsa devotee can relish it and continue to relish it every time he hears it.
Understanding that Holy name is the solution and serving the Acharya's is another part of the solution.
Not only Krishna's pastimes, but also His genuine devotee's pastimes are always loved by everyone. Eg: Srila Prabhupada. We must have gratitude to Srila Prabhupada and hear his pastimes. We can show this by serving him and chanting nicely everyday.
People in this kaliyuga, cannot perceive what is beyond mind and senses. Thats why Krishna again and again comes, and also makes his devotees to compile his pastimes. So that until He comes again, devotees will be able to read it and relish his pastimes.That is the reason why Krishna appears.
Second thing is, Krishna is called uttama shloka. Take anything material, any cinema song, it will become boring soon. But the Holy Name, Krishna's pastimes, never become boring. Svadu svadu pade pade, again and again we can relish it. Why? Krishna is fully satisfying, His name, His pastimes everything is eternally nectarean.
The conditioned living entity can never like the taste of SB. But a paramahamsa devotee can relish it and continue to relish it every time he hears it.
Understanding that Holy name is the solution and serving the Acharya's is another part of the solution.
Not only Krishna's pastimes, but also His genuine devotee's pastimes are always loved by everyone. Eg: Srila Prabhupada. We must have gratitude to Srila Prabhupada and hear his pastimes. We can show this by serving him and chanting nicely everyday.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Multi-farious activities of the Lord
Verse 1.1.17: Here Srila Prabhupada is writing that the Sages headed by Shaunaka Rishi, that they are very very eager to know about the incarnations of the Supreme Lord. So Krishna is the master of the devotees, the pure liberated devotees are always eager to know what Krishna is doing in other planetary systems.
Some less-intelligent people think that God is non-moving or inactive. But such people will come down to the material platform, just doing some philanthropy. But Krishna in the spiritual world is very busy immersed in the transcendental affairs of his pure devotees. There are unlimited devotees in the spiritual world. There is unlimited variegatedness too, so Krishna is busy caring for these devotees.
To keep the same enthusiasm, we have to chant very nicely. Especially in our initial days, we need to be very very enthusiastic. The body that we have is slowly aging out and we will need to give it up sometime soon. So when it is good, we need to strengthen our sadhana very very nicely. That's why we see the appearance days of previous acharya's, they have strengthened themselves and are presenting us with the methods to do so too.
Eg: Srila Prabhupada, we cannot achieve his level of consciousness, but we should work in the same direction.
Some less-intelligent people think that God is non-moving or inactive. But such people will come down to the material platform, just doing some philanthropy. But Krishna in the spiritual world is very busy immersed in the transcendental affairs of his pure devotees. There are unlimited devotees in the spiritual world. There is unlimited variegatedness too, so Krishna is busy caring for these devotees.
To keep the same enthusiasm, we have to chant very nicely. Especially in our initial days, we need to be very very enthusiastic. The body that we have is slowly aging out and we will need to give it up sometime soon. So when it is good, we need to strengthen our sadhana very very nicely. That's why we see the appearance days of previous acharya's, they have strengthened themselves and are presenting us with the methods to do so too.
Eg: Srila Prabhupada, we cannot achieve his level of consciousness, but we should work in the same direction.
Srila Prabhupada Vyasa Puja Mahotsav ki Jay!
Aug. 25: Srila Prabhupada's transcendental pastimes and his sacrifices to establish this Krishna Consciousness movement were discussed. "GRATITUDE" is the key to developing an eternal relationship with Srila Prabhupada.
Sri Krishna Janmashtami Mahotsav ki Jay!
Aug 24: Pastimes of Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead were discussed.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Mind control leads to Sense Control
Verse 1.1.16: Two points today, from our reading in Srimad Bhagavatam. If we apply this, we will be happy always.
How many of us have our senses controlled. If mind is controlled, then the senses are also controlled. Our lives become miserable, because of the uncontrolled senses.
SB 5Canto: Without sense control, there is no proper peace. If we want to accelerate our process of sense control, become the servant of servant of the Supreme Lord. Soon you will realize that your senses are controlled. Thats why Caitanya Mahaprabhu has included the statement...amanina manadena.
Tomorrow is Sri Krishna Janmashtami. Prabhuji requests that all of us genuinely fast, without water too. 3 important festivals for us: Krishna Janmashtami, Gaura Poornima, Pandalava nirjala ekadashi.
Krishna Janmashtami is the most important festival for Gaudiya Vaishnava's.
If at home, have a midnight arati. Make nice foodstuffs for Krishna. Call your friends home.
Krishna Consciousness means doing what is pleasing to Krishna.
Prabhuji is sharing a story:
How Grhastha's in Chowpatty have a taste for the Holy Name and on their unknown services to the Vaishnava's.
How many of us have our senses controlled. If mind is controlled, then the senses are also controlled. Our lives become miserable, because of the uncontrolled senses.
SB 5Canto: Without sense control, there is no proper peace. If we want to accelerate our process of sense control, become the servant of servant of the Supreme Lord. Soon you will realize that your senses are controlled. Thats why Caitanya Mahaprabhu has included the statement...amanina manadena.
Tomorrow is Sri Krishna Janmashtami. Prabhuji requests that all of us genuinely fast, without water too. 3 important festivals for us: Krishna Janmashtami, Gaura Poornima, Pandalava nirjala ekadashi.
Krishna Janmashtami is the most important festival for Gaudiya Vaishnava's.
If at home, have a midnight arati. Make nice foodstuffs for Krishna. Call your friends home.
Krishna Consciousness means doing what is pleasing to Krishna.
Prabhuji is sharing a story:
How Grhastha's in Chowpatty have a taste for the Holy Name and on their unknown services to the Vaishnava's.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Devotee more purifying than River Ganga
Verse 1.1.15: Advancement in Krishna Consciousness without association is illusion. If someone thinks he can make progress on his own, means he has already attacked by maya. If we avoid the association of devotees, it is known that we have already attacked by maya. Bhakti is so very rare.
For one to purify himself, we need to go to River Ganga. But a devotee is so potent, that just by his association, one gets purified. If we properly take shelter of a devotee and try to follow his instructions, then we get purified.
What is very important is that we have to hold on to the lotus feet of the devotees. Always stay in the association of the devotees. Sages of Naimisharanya are saying that Kaliyuga is coming and we have the shelter of Srila Suta Goswami and we want to hear Lord Krishna's pastimes.
What is more powerful... Chanting or Association?
Without one, the other is not possible. Only in the association of devotees, we can chant. And only chanting will help us get the association of devotees. Both are required, but precedence is given to Association.
For one to purify himself, we need to go to River Ganga. But a devotee is so potent, that just by his association, one gets purified. If we properly take shelter of a devotee and try to follow his instructions, then we get purified.
What is very important is that we have to hold on to the lotus feet of the devotees. Always stay in the association of the devotees. Sages of Naimisharanya are saying that Kaliyuga is coming and we have the shelter of Srila Suta Goswami and we want to hear Lord Krishna's pastimes.
What is more powerful... Chanting or Association?
Without one, the other is not possible. Only in the association of devotees, we can chant. And only chanting will help us get the association of devotees. Both are required, but precedence is given to Association.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Chanting makes you Fearless
Verse 1.1.14: Very very nice shloka. Srimad Bhagavatam is offering a solution to the people of how to become fearless. Today everyone is so scared. With material assets, we think we become happy and secure. But if we see carefully, people who are financially well-off are also scared, are also stressed out. Because life means hankering for new things and the fear of losing it out. Basically fear means a symptom of mind, a diseased state of mind.
For a counter example Srila Prabhupada, came to America with almost nothing, just Rs. 40, but he was fearless. He was propagating this message to fanatics, but he was fearless, because he had sufficiently chanted the Holy Name, he knew Krishna will protect all the time.
Honestly, when we genuinely chant Hare Krishna Mahamantra, we will see the same quality in us. Earlier we used to be so afraid, but now there will be no fear.
So how do we become fearless. Chant the name of Krishna, then we become fearless. Even fear personified is scared of Krishna. That's why anybody who takes shelter of Krishna, they become fearless. Bajahure mana srinanda nandana abhaya caranaaravindare. O mind, please chant the glories of Krishna, and by taking shelter of Krishna's name, then there is no fear.
For example, with children, parents are always worried about them. Similarly when we are ageing we are worried that we are losing the zeal. Bodily conceptions. But when we genuinly chant, we lose all this fear. Of course we do not chant to become fearless, we want to chant to only please Krishna.
For a counter example Srila Prabhupada, came to America with almost nothing, just Rs. 40, but he was fearless. He was propagating this message to fanatics, but he was fearless, because he had sufficiently chanted the Holy Name, he knew Krishna will protect all the time.
Honestly, when we genuinely chant Hare Krishna Mahamantra, we will see the same quality in us. Earlier we used to be so afraid, but now there will be no fear.
So how do we become fearless. Chant the name of Krishna, then we become fearless. Even fear personified is scared of Krishna. That's why anybody who takes shelter of Krishna, they become fearless. Bajahure mana srinanda nandana abhaya caranaaravindare. O mind, please chant the glories of Krishna, and by taking shelter of Krishna's name, then there is no fear.
For example, with children, parents are always worried about them. Similarly when we are ageing we are worried that we are losing the zeal. Bodily conceptions. But when we genuinly chant, we lose all this fear. Of course we do not chant to become fearless, we want to chant to only please Krishna.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Conditions for hearing Srimad Bhagavatam
Verse 1.1.13: One point of Srimad Bhagavatam is described here, how do we develop attraction for Krishna? The answer is: Listen about Krishna from a bondafide spiritual master, who is from a bonafide parampara. And what should be our qualification: we need to be eager to listen to Krishna katha. If we are not eager to listen to Krishna katha, that is a sign that we are falling down.
We should not go to the programs to enjoy, for goodness. Listening is an activity in akarma. We have to listen to Srimad Bhagavatam with all attention.
Eg: HG Jananivas Prabhu in Mayapur, has been listening to Srimad Bhagavatam for the past 40 years. Even if we don't understand the language, if we are eager and if we listen from a devotee, then our heart is cleansed.
If we listen from a person who is not from a bondafide source, then it is like taking poison, since they do not have the concept of Krishna as a person.
So we should not listen from anybody else who is not in a bonafide parampara, not read others books, other than those written by our acharyas. Srila Prabhupada has written over 70 books for us. So chant nicely, listen nicely, and serve nicely. We will definitely go back home, back to Godhead. But our chanting should be genuine.
We should not go to the programs to enjoy, for goodness. Listening is an activity in akarma. We have to listen to Srimad Bhagavatam with all attention.
Eg: HG Jananivas Prabhu in Mayapur, has been listening to Srimad Bhagavatam for the past 40 years. Even if we don't understand the language, if we are eager and if we listen from a devotee, then our heart is cleansed.
If we listen from a person who is not from a bondafide source, then it is like taking poison, since they do not have the concept of Krishna as a person.
So we should not listen from anybody else who is not in a bonafide parampara, not read others books, other than those written by our acharyas. Srila Prabhupada has written over 70 books for us. So chant nicely, listen nicely, and serve nicely. We will definitely go back home, back to Godhead. But our chanting should be genuine.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Why success in Chanting is slow, Krishna's Mercy
Verse 1.1.12: Satvatam means devotees. Krishna is the master of the devotees. Suta Goswami knew that the Supreme Personality Godhead took birth through the womb of Devaki. Only devotees know the intricate details of the appearance of the Supreme Personality Godhead. Mayavadi's do not understand this and say that the devotees are sentimental.
Krishna explains different yogas in the Bhagavad-gita, but He says that of all, Bhakti yoga is the best, since it gives direct servitude to the Supreme Personality Godhead.
Mind is uncontrolled, especially while chanting. Is Astanga yoga really needed for the path of self-realization. Is controlling the body needed by different asanas to control the mind really needed.
We don't know all this, we just simply chant the Holy Name and slowly and steadily we are pulled towards the lotus feet of Krishna. After some time or millions of years, we will eventually come to His lotus feet.
Why sometimes we think that Krishna is not facilitating the complete control of mind. Because we will become proud and fall down. Thats why we need to have a genuine fight which chanting. Many times we might not feel like working, will we stop it. We pretend so much to be fine just for the money. Then how much should we fight for Krishna while chanting. Krishna, I am miserable, just to please you I am chanting.
Krishna, to make you understand how difficult it is, He is making the success really really slow. Then as we progress, we won't become proud, we will have gratitude to Guru, Krishna and Vaishnavas.
Krishna explains different yogas in the Bhagavad-gita, but He says that of all, Bhakti yoga is the best, since it gives direct servitude to the Supreme Personality Godhead.
Mind is uncontrolled, especially while chanting. Is Astanga yoga really needed for the path of self-realization. Is controlling the body needed by different asanas to control the mind really needed.
We don't know all this, we just simply chant the Holy Name and slowly and steadily we are pulled towards the lotus feet of Krishna. After some time or millions of years, we will eventually come to His lotus feet.
Why sometimes we think that Krishna is not facilitating the complete control of mind. Because we will become proud and fall down. Thats why we need to have a genuine fight which chanting. Many times we might not feel like working, will we stop it. We pretend so much to be fine just for the money. Then how much should we fight for Krishna while chanting. Krishna, I am miserable, just to please you I am chanting.
Krishna, to make you understand how difficult it is, He is making the success really really slow. Then as we progress, we won't become proud, we will have gratitude to Guru, Krishna and Vaishnavas.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Essence of all Vedic Scripture: Srimad Bhagavatam
Verse 1.1.11: Two parts in the translation of this verse
Part 1) There are so many scriptures - Vedas, Puranas, Pancharatra vidhi. They are mainly present for people in the 3 modes of material nature. When people study these scriptures, they can slowly elevate from whatever mode they were, towards higher modes, eventually coming beyond the 3 modes of material nature.
Part 2) In the previous verse, it was told how in this age, men have low intelligence, memory etc. So the sages are asking Suta Goswami to tell them about the essence of all the scriptures.
Part 3) One can be fully satisfied by listening to this scripture, Srimad Bhagavatam. The atma (soul) can be satisfied only when it relates to something beyond the modes of material nature. The Bhagavatam is that something. Eg: Srila Vyasadeva who knew the essence of all the scriptures, even after writing so many scriptures he was not satisfied. But after writing Srimad Bbhagavatam, he was totally satisfied.
This verse is establishing the importance of Srimad Bhagavatam.
Part 1) There are so many scriptures - Vedas, Puranas, Pancharatra vidhi. They are mainly present for people in the 3 modes of material nature. When people study these scriptures, they can slowly elevate from whatever mode they were, towards higher modes, eventually coming beyond the 3 modes of material nature.
Part 2) In the previous verse, it was told how in this age, men have low intelligence, memory etc. So the sages are asking Suta Goswami to tell them about the essence of all the scriptures.
Part 3) One can be fully satisfied by listening to this scripture, Srimad Bhagavatam. The atma (soul) can be satisfied only when it relates to something beyond the modes of material nature. The Bhagavatam is that something. Eg: Srila Vyasadeva who knew the essence of all the scriptures, even after writing so many scriptures he was not satisfied. But after writing Srimad Bbhagavatam, he was totally satisfied.
This verse is establishing the importance of Srimad Bhagavatam.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Characteristics of Men in Kali Yuga
Verse 1.1.10: Here the sages of Naimisharanya are feeling very compassionate towards the age of Kali. This verse of the Srimad Bhagavatam described the degradation happening as Kaliyuga is progressing.
The life span is reducing, quarrels for petty things, the people in general are misguided (leaders don't rule based on the scriptures, out of their selfish needs, people are misguided), people do not get genuine spirituality, above all mind of the people in Kaliyuga is very disturbed and with such an disturbed mind, self realization cannot happen.
But there is one very good quality of Kaliyuga: Chanting of the Holy Name of Krishna. In Satya Yuga, people had to penance for thousands of years, in Treta Yuga, big big Vedic sacrifices had to be performed to attain self realization, in Dvapara Yuga, elaborate Deity worship had to be performed, but in Kali Yuga, it was all made very very simple. Chanting is the simplest process, simply by chanting Hare Krishna, one gets to easily get out of this material world and attain to his spiritual status.
The life span is reducing, quarrels for petty things, the people in general are misguided (leaders don't rule based on the scriptures, out of their selfish needs, people are misguided), people do not get genuine spirituality, above all mind of the people in Kaliyuga is very disturbed and with such an disturbed mind, self realization cannot happen.
But there is one very good quality of Kaliyuga: Chanting of the Holy Name of Krishna. In Satya Yuga, people had to penance for thousands of years, in Treta Yuga, big big Vedic sacrifices had to be performed to attain self realization, in Dvapara Yuga, elaborate Deity worship had to be performed, but in Kali Yuga, it was all made very very simple. Chanting is the simplest process, simply by chanting Hare Krishna, one gets to easily get out of this material world and attain to his spiritual status.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Pleasing Spiritual Master is Everything
Verse 1.1.8: In this shloka, Srila Vyasadev is speaking about the importance of following the words of a spiritual master. Secret of advancing in the spiritual life is to please the spiritual master.
Krishna says in the Bhagavad-gita: vyavasayatmika budhih ekeho kuru nandanan ... such a person is resolute in purpose. Our goal therefore should be to please Guru and Krishna (Siksha guru or Diksha guru).
Examples: Srila Prabhupada strove so much towards publishing books, just to please his spiritual master Srila Bhaktisiddanta Saraswati Thakur.
Srila Rupa Goswami fulfilled almost all the wishes of his spiritual master, Caitanya Mahaprabhu. He only could not construct the temple of Sri Sri Radha Govind. He contemplated so much on that and was so saddened so much because of that. That should be our way and goal. We cannot be complacent. We should somehow or other please Guru and Krishna. Otherwise we cannot go anywhere.
Even in chanting, if we do not have good focus means we do not have good faith. If we firmly believe that Krishna is the same as His Holy Name, then how much fixed we will be?
Otherwise, shramevahi kevalam. Everything will be a waste.
We have to chant with complete attention. If we don't have anything to live for, then we have nothing to die for. Our spiritual life is completely dependent on how much we please our spiritual master.
Krishna says in the Bhagavad-gita: vyavasayatmika budhih ekeho kuru nandanan ... such a person is resolute in purpose. Our goal therefore should be to please Guru and Krishna (Siksha guru or Diksha guru).
Examples: Srila Prabhupada strove so much towards publishing books, just to please his spiritual master Srila Bhaktisiddanta Saraswati Thakur.
Srila Rupa Goswami fulfilled almost all the wishes of his spiritual master, Caitanya Mahaprabhu. He only could not construct the temple of Sri Sri Radha Govind. He contemplated so much on that and was so saddened so much because of that. That should be our way and goal. We cannot be complacent. We should somehow or other please Guru and Krishna. Otherwise we cannot go anywhere.
Even in chanting, if we do not have good focus means we do not have good faith. If we firmly believe that Krishna is the same as His Holy Name, then how much fixed we will be?
Otherwise, shramevahi kevalam. Everything will be a waste.
We have to chant with complete attention. If we don't have anything to live for, then we have nothing to die for. Our spiritual life is completely dependent on how much we please our spiritual master.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Disappearance Day of Srila Rupa Goswami
August 13: Today we read from the book, Vaishnava Saints. Reading from the life and pastimes of Srila Rupa Goswami.
Summary: Rupa Goswami is Rupa Manjari, Sanatana Goswami is Ananga Manjari, in the spiritual world. Both are sakhi's of Srimati Radharani. Caitanya Mahaprabhu made Srila Rupa Goswami the acharya for the movement. Thats why we are called Rupanuga's. He was made the head of this movement of Krishna Consciousness. He wrote the books Nectar of Instruction, Nectar of Devotion, Lalita Madhava and many more.
Srila Rupa and Sanatana Goswami, they never claim they saw Krishna or Radharani. But they did have intimate dealings with Srimati Radharani. Our parampara is so powerful. The head of the parampara is Srila Rupa Goswami.
All we have to see is when can we please Srila Rupa Goswami. Both of them relinquished their ministerial positions and rendered total service to Caitanya Mahaprabhu and Krishna Consciousness.
There are so many pastimes about Srila Rupa Goswami. He exvacated Sri Govind Deities.
Srila Prabhupada said that on special days like the appearance and disappearance day of Vaishnava Acharya's, it is very very potent. We should meditate on their pastimes and pray for their mercy!
Summary: Rupa Goswami is Rupa Manjari, Sanatana Goswami is Ananga Manjari, in the spiritual world. Both are sakhi's of Srimati Radharani. Caitanya Mahaprabhu made Srila Rupa Goswami the acharya for the movement. Thats why we are called Rupanuga's. He was made the head of this movement of Krishna Consciousness. He wrote the books Nectar of Instruction, Nectar of Devotion, Lalita Madhava and many more.
Srila Rupa and Sanatana Goswami, they never claim they saw Krishna or Radharani. But they did have intimate dealings with Srimati Radharani. Our parampara is so powerful. The head of the parampara is Srila Rupa Goswami.
All we have to see is when can we please Srila Rupa Goswami. Both of them relinquished their ministerial positions and rendered total service to Caitanya Mahaprabhu and Krishna Consciousness.
There are so many pastimes about Srila Rupa Goswami. He exvacated Sri Govind Deities.
Srila Prabhupada said that on special days like the appearance and disappearance day of Vaishnava Acharya's, it is very very potent. We should meditate on their pastimes and pray for their mercy!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Verse 1.1.7
August 12: Here Srila Prabhupada is explaining how Srimad Bhavagavatam is a natural commentary on the Vedanta Sutras. He usually quotes 2 sutras most: Athato brahma jijnasa and Janmadyasya yatah.
...
Other sampradayas, there is a commentary on vendata sutras, but in our sampradaya we accept Srimad Bhagavatam as a natural commentary on vedanta sutras. So thats why we do not have any commentary on it.
...
Other sampradayas, there is a commentary on vendata sutras, but in our sampradaya we accept Srimad Bhagavatam as a natural commentary on vedanta sutras. So thats why we do not have any commentary on it.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Meaning of Goswami
August 11: Here Suta Goswami is being asked by the sages about the purpose of life. Srila Prabhupada is explaining about the meaning of Goswami, one who has conquered the senses. He also explains about the four major vices. Prabhuji is summarizing the connection between the 4 regulative principles and these 4 major vices.
Mercy (Meat eating)
Truthfulness (Gambling)
Austerity (Intoxication)
Cleanliness (Illicit Sex)
One who is free from these 4 major vices, he is an actual Goswami. We represent Caitanya Mahaprabhu and Srila Vyasadev, we have to follow these four regulative principles thus allowing us to come out of these 4 vices and that will help us elevate ourselves.
Mercy (Meat eating)
Truthfulness (Gambling)
Austerity (Intoxication)
Cleanliness (Illicit Sex)
One who is free from these 4 major vices, he is an actual Goswami. We represent Caitanya Mahaprabhu and Srila Vyasadev, we have to follow these four regulative principles thus allowing us to come out of these 4 vices and that will help us elevate ourselves.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Importance of Disciplic Succession
August 8: Srimad Bhagavatam is exclusively meant for paramahamsa's. To understand the Supreme Personality of Godhead and His energies is not easy. We can understand by only proper disciplic succession.
Nowadays, so many people are talking on Srimad Bhagavatam, especially in India, but they have no disciplic succession. No Guru parampara exists.
Krishna is telling that this knowledge is Confidential. Why is it so, when we are distributing BG for free? It is because if the parampara is not there, the mercy is not there and therefore, the message does not go through properly. It will only infuse mayavada concepts, pride and instead of rising up, we fall down further. Thats why Srila Prabhupada was very heavy that we should not be reading books of a mayavadi. Similar to drinking milk touched by the lips of a snake. Thats why you should never listen to anybody in those lines.
This is so because, Prabhupada is a pure devotee. Srila Prabhupada says, no credit belongs to him, he just is presenting his parampara as it is. Thats why Bhagavad-gita and Srimad Bhagavatam is so convincing and understanding. Our hearts change when we read Srila Prabhupada's books. We should not read anybody else's books at all. Only Srila Prabhupada's books.
Once we have fully established ourselves in Gaudiya Viashnava siddanta for at least 16-20 years, then if required to compare, we might read other Vaishnava literatures.
To have a strength to do all this, our chanting should be very very good.
Verse 1.1.3 concludes today.
Nowadays, so many people are talking on Srimad Bhagavatam, especially in India, but they have no disciplic succession. No Guru parampara exists.
Krishna is telling that this knowledge is Confidential. Why is it so, when we are distributing BG for free? It is because if the parampara is not there, the mercy is not there and therefore, the message does not go through properly. It will only infuse mayavada concepts, pride and instead of rising up, we fall down further. Thats why Srila Prabhupada was very heavy that we should not be reading books of a mayavadi. Similar to drinking milk touched by the lips of a snake. Thats why you should never listen to anybody in those lines.
This is so because, Prabhupada is a pure devotee. Srila Prabhupada says, no credit belongs to him, he just is presenting his parampara as it is. Thats why Bhagavad-gita and Srimad Bhagavatam is so convincing and understanding. Our hearts change when we read Srila Prabhupada's books. We should not read anybody else's books at all. Only Srila Prabhupada's books.
Once we have fully established ourselves in Gaudiya Viashnava siddanta for at least 16-20 years, then if required to compare, we might read other Vaishnava literatures.
To have a strength to do all this, our chanting should be very very good.
Verse 1.1.3 concludes today.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Srimad Bhagavatam, Relished by All
August 7: Srila Vyasadev is saying that this SB is relished by everyone, even one who wishes to merge with the Supreme. As yesterday described, there are 5 primary rasas. But when these rasa's are exhibited in this material world, in a polluted state, it is exhibited as a secondary rasa like raudra (anger) etc.
Srila Prabhupada is explaining how Srimad Bhagavatam is relished by all types of people, even those who seek liberation and who want to become one with the Supreme.
Srila Prabhupada is explaining how Srimad Bhagavatam is relished by all types of people, even those who seek liberation and who want to become one with the Supreme.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
1.1.3: Ripened fruit of Vedic Literature
August 6: Text 3 Today
Here Srila Vedavyasa is encouraging the readers that Srimad Bhagavatam is the ripened fruit of Vedic Literature. Vedas have so many branches, so many... Jyotishastra, Astrology, Palmistry, everything.
And this Bhagavatam is the wish fulfilling tree and the ripened fruit of Vedic Literature.
Actually, in 1st Canto it is given that Srila Vedavyasa was unhappy after compiling the vedas. Then in His meditation, he got a vision Krishna tattva and his expansions and maya in one corner. Maya is seen just as a cloud. He got darshan of Krishna, understood the sum and substance, goal of life and then he wrote SB.
Not only Srimad Bhagavatm is summary of Vedic Literatures, but it is very tasty also. It is like a fruit tasted by a parrot. It is a fruit first of all from a wish fulfulling tree, second it was spoken by a paramahamsa Sukadeva Goswami, so it became all the more sweeter.
Srimad Bhagavatam, same message as Bhagavad-gita, but given as full of stories. Thats why it is pure nectar. So many expansions, incarnations are mentioned (Rama, Nrsimha, etc), then finally in 10th Canto about Krishna, all His activities, all his pastimes.
How fortunate are we today, we are actually reading Srimad Bhagavatam. There are 5 primary mellows (service, friendship, paternal affection, and conjugal love), and seven secondary mellows (anger, wonder, comedy, chivalry, fear, shock and so on). The sum total of all these rasas is called affection or love. That is why it is a spiritually transcendental movie.
Here Srila Vedavyasa is encouraging the readers that Srimad Bhagavatam is the ripened fruit of Vedic Literature. Vedas have so many branches, so many... Jyotishastra, Astrology, Palmistry, everything.
And this Bhagavatam is the wish fulfilling tree and the ripened fruit of Vedic Literature.
Actually, in 1st Canto it is given that Srila Vedavyasa was unhappy after compiling the vedas. Then in His meditation, he got a vision Krishna tattva and his expansions and maya in one corner. Maya is seen just as a cloud. He got darshan of Krishna, understood the sum and substance, goal of life and then he wrote SB.
Not only Srimad Bhagavatm is summary of Vedic Literatures, but it is very tasty also. It is like a fruit tasted by a parrot. It is a fruit first of all from a wish fulfulling tree, second it was spoken by a paramahamsa Sukadeva Goswami, so it became all the more sweeter.
Srimad Bhagavatam, same message as Bhagavad-gita, but given as full of stories. Thats why it is pure nectar. So many expansions, incarnations are mentioned (Rama, Nrsimha, etc), then finally in 10th Canto about Krishna, all His activities, all his pastimes.
How fortunate are we today, we are actually reading Srimad Bhagavatam. There are 5 primary mellows (service, friendship, paternal affection, and conjugal love), and seven secondary mellows (anger, wonder, comedy, chivalry, fear, shock and so on). The sum total of all these rasas is called affection or love. That is why it is a spiritually transcendental movie.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Book Bhagavat and Devotee Bhagavat
August 5: There are two types of bhagavat: book bhagavat and devotee bhagavat. We follow the book bhagavat by reading it and follow the devotee bhagavat by following his instructions.
In India, so many mayavada philosophies and demigod worship. Polytheism is prevalent everywhere. Prabhuji is recommending that please never ever leave this path of Bhakti. Whether we can change somebody or not, please maintain yourself in this path. There is nothing like Krishna Consciousness. It is so difficult being outside of Krishna Consciousness.
In India, for many people Krishna is just another God. Since they have never read Bhagavad-gita. They have some heart, they utilize it in Krishna's service, but do not completely understand that Krishna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead. They don't have faith on bhakti, they have faith on something unknown fearing that they will loose everything. So they do not understand the finer concepts of bhakti, spirit soul.
We have to develop the taste for Krishna by reading Srimad Bhagavatam. We have to develop love for Krishna... either make it or fake it. Then He will slowly get us to that pure position.
So please keep chanting, no matter what, never ever give up chanting. That is the only way we can continue to remain in this path of Bhakti.
In India, so many mayavada philosophies and demigod worship. Polytheism is prevalent everywhere. Prabhuji is recommending that please never ever leave this path of Bhakti. Whether we can change somebody or not, please maintain yourself in this path. There is nothing like Krishna Consciousness. It is so difficult being outside of Krishna Consciousness.
In India, for many people Krishna is just another God. Since they have never read Bhagavad-gita. They have some heart, they utilize it in Krishna's service, but do not completely understand that Krishna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead. They don't have faith on bhakti, they have faith on something unknown fearing that they will loose everything. So they do not understand the finer concepts of bhakti, spirit soul.
We have to develop the taste for Krishna by reading Srimad Bhagavatam. We have to develop love for Krishna... either make it or fake it. Then He will slowly get us to that pure position.
So please keep chanting, no matter what, never ever give up chanting. That is the only way we can continue to remain in this path of Bhakti.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Only Sravanam and Kirtanam
Aug 4: So vedas are full of descriptions of Karma kanda, 95% actually. Means you do this yajna, you go to this loka, heavenly planets etc.
But once we understand that Krishna is the Supreme Absolute Truth, then we can close the vedas and come to the Upanishads. The sum and substance of which is the Bhagavad-Gita. And aiding to it is the Srimad Bhagavatam. In here, we understand that God is a person, as brahman form he is pervading everywhere, as paramatma He is in everyone. And when we know we are one with Him, but simultaneously His servant, then we come to Bhagavan realization.
Today everyone is suffering, why, because we want to be Krishna. So we come under 3 modes of material nature. But when we take to bhakti, we come under the protection of yoga maya, Srimati Radharani, then there is no misery.
People think that by material sense enjoyment, they will be happy. But that is not true and ppl do not know it. So how do we attain bhakti, only sravanam and kirtanam.
Unless we enjoy, we cannot continue. We need to get Krishna's mercy. Sometime or the other we will get realizations and that will help us go forward.
When we chant Hare Krishna Mahamantra, we are calling for Krishna and we are not asking for anything else other than service. Then Krishna feels indebted and He reveals to us through the mercy of Srimati Radharani.
Just keep Krishna in the center, there is no need to do anything else. That is the only way for us to go back hom back to Godhead.
But once we understand that Krishna is the Supreme Absolute Truth, then we can close the vedas and come to the Upanishads. The sum and substance of which is the Bhagavad-Gita. And aiding to it is the Srimad Bhagavatam. In here, we understand that God is a person, as brahman form he is pervading everywhere, as paramatma He is in everyone. And when we know we are one with Him, but simultaneously His servant, then we come to Bhagavan realization.
Today everyone is suffering, why, because we want to be Krishna. So we come under 3 modes of material nature. But when we take to bhakti, we come under the protection of yoga maya, Srimati Radharani, then there is no misery.
People think that by material sense enjoyment, they will be happy. But that is not true and ppl do not know it. So how do we attain bhakti, only sravanam and kirtanam.
Unless we enjoy, we cannot continue. We need to get Krishna's mercy. Sometime or the other we will get realizations and that will help us go forward.
When we chant Hare Krishna Mahamantra, we are calling for Krishna and we are not asking for anything else other than service. Then Krishna feels indebted and He reveals to us through the mercy of Srimati Radharani.
Just keep Krishna in the center, there is no need to do anything else. That is the only way for us to go back hom back to Godhead.
Friday, August 1, 2008
SPG is fully cognizant, fully independent
Aug 1: Srila Prabhupada is explaining here that Sri Krishna is the creator. Then what about Brahma. SB explains that the elements needed for creation are supplied to Brahma by the Supreme Lord.
One day Narada muni asks Brahma that he is the Supreme Lord, creator. But Brahma replies that that no no no, I am being supplied with all these elements by the Supreme Cause of all Causes.
One quality of Supreme Lord that only He has is: abhijnah or svarat: fully cognizant or fully independent.
Our body was created for enjoyment, but Brahma is not like that. He is made of complete intelligence. He says that Vasudeva sarvam iti. He explains in the Brahma samhita about the Supreme Lord very wonderfully.
...
There is only one God. SPG. Either you are God or you are servant.
Bharat Maharaj though he had everything, he never treated himself as God. Eevryone wants liberation, but devotees don't want liberation at all. Supreme Personality of Godhead may give liberation, but He will not give bhakti to His lotus feet.
By our some fortune, we are given this chance of bhakti, which He does very easily give to anyone. Then we should see how fortunate are we!
One day Narada muni asks Brahma that he is the Supreme Lord, creator. But Brahma replies that that no no no, I am being supplied with all these elements by the Supreme Cause of all Causes.
One quality of Supreme Lord that only He has is: abhijnah or svarat: fully cognizant or fully independent.
Our body was created for enjoyment, but Brahma is not like that. He is made of complete intelligence. He says that Vasudeva sarvam iti. He explains in the Brahma samhita about the Supreme Lord very wonderfully.
...
There is only one God. SPG. Either you are God or you are servant.
Bharat Maharaj though he had everything, he never treated himself as God. Eevryone wants liberation, but devotees don't want liberation at all. Supreme Personality of Godhead may give liberation, but He will not give bhakti to His lotus feet.
By our some fortune, we are given this chance of bhakti, which He does very easily give to anyone. Then we should see how fortunate are we!
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