tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27735597667668105872024-03-18T22:32:14.485-05:00Servant of the Servantanandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.comBlogger1000125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-5836605817640335792018-12-31T10:24:00.000-06:002018-12-31T10:24:19.486-06:00Happy New Year 2019Wishing everyone a Happy New Year 2019. A devotee always tries to see everything through the vision of Krishna's teachings. Below is Srila Prabhupada's vision of the new year;<br />
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<i>So far as we are concerned, our new year is every day because Krishna belongs to the nitya lila. Nitya lila means that all of His Pastimes are going on in either of the so many universes. It is just like the rising of the sun. In your country the sun is supposed to rise at 6:30 at the present moment, but at any time you can inquire in some part of the world and there it is the same 6:30 and sunrise. While you are in this meridian, in another country it may be 6:30 AM, and the sun is rising.</i><br />
- Srila Prabhupada, 1969<br />
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If also cultivate a vision that every day is like a new year by meditating on the nitya lila of Krishna, our life certainly will be fresh and new every day thus giving us joy!<br />
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I started writing this blog 11 years ago and now this is my 1000th post. I extend the readers of this blog my gratitude.<br />
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Hare Krishna.<br />
<br />anandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-67487924218672600702018-12-26T10:19:00.002-06:002018-12-26T10:19:41.529-06:00Framework for ascertaining non-sectarian dharmaSteps to understand that the process of Bhagavad dharma is non-sectarian.<br />
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For example, let us say I am sick. Below are the steps I would take;<br />
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<ol>
<li>I have fever, headache and body-ache</li>
<li>I will go to the doctor </li>
<li>Take the medicine as prescribed by the doctor</li>
<li>No fever, headache or body-ache (healthy)</li>
</ol>
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The above is a real world example every one of us have experienced. It is the same for a muslim, christian, hindu or atheist. </div>
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The above steps can be categorized as follows;</div>
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<ol>
<li>Problem</li>
<li>Method or process</li>
<li>Solution</li>
<li>Problem solved</li>
</ol>
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Using this four-step framework, we can apply this to Bhagavad dharma;</div>
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<ol>
<li>Problem - Human's false identification with the body and mind (experiences duality/birth&death or samsara)</li>
<li>Method/process - logical deduction, instructions of the sages, and vedic literature</li>
<li>Solution - Surrender to Lord Sri Krishna who is seated within the heart</li>
<li>Problem solved - No false identification with body and mind, hence does not experience duality/birth&death or samsara.</li>
</ol>
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Now, people in general (majority) do not even accept they have the problem of mis-identification. However, we simply have to be sober and introspect our own self to ascertain that it is a problem. There is ample evidence from scientists also suggesting the same (if we have the will to research, we will find evidence). Through some personal effort, certainly we can ascertain the problem. </div>
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The method or process requires faith. This faith is not blind. When we see self-realized sages who are not attached to their body and mind, we want that. We want a state where we are not attached to enjoyment or renunciation (duality) like the sages. We can gather that evidence by simply studying the sages. If a sage is not interested in the duality of enjoyment or renunciation, then we can conclude he or she is not attached to the body and mind. We approach them like we go to the doctor and inquire from them as to how they reached that stage. According to great sages like Ramanuja and Madhwa, we learn that by taking shelter of Krishna and surrendering unto Him we will also reach that state of existence non-duality (advaitam).</div>
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We practice with due diligence and realize the truth for our self.</div>
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Anyone regardless of their political, economical, and religious biases, if they take to this process, they will realize the truth and this is the essence of non-sectarianism. Anybody regardless of background will get the same results. </div>
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Hare Krishna</div>
anandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-8703715430799983342018-12-21T08:59:00.003-06:002018-12-21T08:59:51.962-06:00How to have a peaceful mind?In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna many times talks about the equanimity of the mind. He says we have to treat success/failure, honor/dishonor, pain/pleasure equally and such equanimity of mind is called yoga or mind control or mindfulness. <div>
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To do this, </div>
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<ol>
<li>We have to learn to tolerate both good and bad. If we become too happy then naturally we will also not react well when things go wrong.</li>
<li>We also have to refrain from interpreting incidents in our life as gain or loss. When we qualify something or someone as favorable (gain) or unfavorable (loss), then invariably we will fall in the trap of duality of happiness or sadness. </li>
<li>We have to spend time understanding that my life, my family, my job and my assets is a result of something more than just me or my efforts. No doubt, because of our hard work, we reach a certain socio-economic status but it is incorrect to think that I am the sole reason for my success or failure. There are other moving parts that we do not control and those parts either assist or desist our progress. So having a broader vision for life is necessary to understand our own progress.</li>
<li>We have to be grateful not as a matter of political correctness but genuinely from the heart understanding truly the assistance we received. In this way, we must be grateful to mother nature as she is providing our needs, great sages who have given us spiritual wisdom,other beings such as animals who help us with our needs,family and friends,other humans who participate in our life,and parents/grand-parents/fore-fathers without whom we cannot be where we are. We have to acknowledge and be anxious to return the favor we receive.</li>
<li>Finally, like it or not, this creation exists due to a super intelligent being whom many call God or universe etc. Whatever superlative we want to use, we have to accept there is a grand design in this universe and without that we cannot do anything. To the ultimate designer, with a pinch of affection and love, we doff our hat!</li>
</ol>
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By having an all-encompassing thought process (aka mature) about life with all its variety, we will only be centered and not skewed one way or other. This centeredness or equanimity is essential for having a peaceful mind. </div>
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Hare Krishna</div>
anandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-54810042155732183642018-12-20T16:03:00.000-06:002018-12-19T20:13:22.165-06:00How I got my first Bhagavad GitaIt was late spring of 1998 and i was traveling south in the state of Tamilnadu with my parents on a road trip. A road trip inspired by the journey of the four great nayanmars. They were called the 'naalvar' or 'the four'. These great saints lived more than thousand years ago in south India and traveled extensively in Tamilnadu state spreading the glories of Lord Siva. Their songs and poetry are still sung today in devotional forums.<br />
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I am writing this as a way to recollect my memory and appreciate the moment I received the sacred book Bhagavad Gita. Unfortunately, I do not remember the details but I will recollect in brief what I remember. My father rented a car and we started our trip south from Chennai. I was having an illness and despite the illness, i have to say looking back, the spiritual journey visiting Lord Siva temples prevented my illness from getting worse. The illness was rather serious and I was hoping it wouldn't get any worse. By Siva's mercy I did not get any more issues than I had.<br />
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Our itinerary went something like this, we would drive to a famous temple in a city. Book a hotel room, stay for the night. Wake up in the morning, visit the temples in that city and in the vicinity before noon. Then check out from the hotel and head to the next destination. Like this, we were in one Siva temple called 1000 linga temple (cannot remember where). I entered the temple and the priest welcomed us and performed the pooja. He was very confident in that anyone who sees the 1000 lingas will immediately be cleared of any bad karma of the past. Being the cynic that i was, i internally scoffed the idea. I finished my perfunctory prayers and headed off to the next temple.<br />
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There, I took darshan of the Lord and was returning to the car when my father stopped at a rather insignificant shopkeeper who was sitting on the floor with some books from different authors. My father perused the different titles and pointed to a red colored hard bound book entitled "Bhagavad Gita As it is". My first thought was one of curiosity - why is he buying this book? He murmured "for his library". If my memory serves me right, the rather poor shopkeeper had just one Bhagavad Gita. My father handed me the book and off we went to the car.<br />
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Sitting in the back seat, I opened the book expecting some "ananda" name to popup because that was my only exposure to spirituality - some chinmayananda or vivekananda type personality. Instead, I stammered through the name "P..r..a...b..h...u...p...a..d..a" and thought his name is so hard to pronounce and that I have never heard of such a spiritual name. Like this I thought who is this man? Thankfully, I did not criticize him. However I was intrigued by the paintings. I turned the pages admiring the different colors and pictures. The book was made of high quality glossy paper as it was the centennial edition. After flipping through few pictures, I closed the book and distinctly remember saying to myself "I will never touch this book again" and put the book in the back of the car.<br />
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Of course, Krishna had other plans. On this auspicious day of Gita Jayanti, I want to thank Lord Siva for allowing me to come to His 1000 linga temple and help me remove my previous karmas upon where I got some merit to touch the great and sacred book Bhagavad Gita! I should also thank the shopkeeper for having the book. I want to thank my dad (despite our theological differences) for buying Krishna's book and thus unknowingly becoming an instrument in my journey to Srila Prabhupada and Krishna.<br />
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My entry into Krishna consciousness in this life began by studying this centennial edition of the Bhagavad Gita few months later, after my father bought the book somewhere in an ancient Siva temple in south Tamilnadu.<br />
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Hare Krishna<br />
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<br />anandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-57066371754986993252018-12-17T08:51:00.001-06:002018-12-17T08:51:35.023-06:00God of Abrahamic faith?In the Bible (old and new testament) and Koran, we find that God volunteers to talk to man. The stories begin with God talking to Abraham in the old testament and an angel talking on behalf of God to Mohammed in the Koran. There are similar stories connected to Moses as well. In all of this, God takes the first step or at least that is the impression we get reading the Abrahamic scriptures.<br />
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In the Srimad Bhagavata purana, we find the opposite. For God to appear, the great devotees of the Lord undergo severe austerities. Devotees like Dhruva, Kardama muni, Prahlada,Prshni & Sutapa etc undergo tapasya (austerity) to see Krishna face to face. We all know the caliber and quality of such exalted souls. They were in full control of their body and mind, were peaceful and completely focused in the service of the Lord for many many years.<br />
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If it takes such austere practices and conditions to see the Lord, then how come Abraham or Moses or Mohammed had contact with the Lord without tapasya? We do not have information that they practiced severe austerities. In fact we learn that they were just regular householders. Krishna Himself proclaims in the Gita (BG 7.3) that even amongst perfected beings, rarely one can know Him. Certainly, I do not think Abarham or Moses or Mohammed were perfected beings at the time they were contacted by God.<br />
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Considering all of these points, it is difficult to comprehend for me that Krishna is the God mentioned in the Abrahamic faith that He would have contacted the patriarchs of the Abrahamic faith. So if the God of the Abrahamic faith is not Krishna, then perhaps it may be some demigod giving instructions to elevate the consciousness of the people outside Bharata khanda?<br />
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Hare Krishnaanandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-59409727271490874162018-12-13T09:13:00.002-06:002018-12-13T09:13:17.237-06:00State of today's religionThe common and prevalent understanding is that religion is the cause of wars, bigotry and sectarianism. Therefore religion is not discussed in a public forum. Actually, people in general think God and religion is primitive especially in view of modern science. But this sort of awareness amongst people exist because religious leaders and their followers have made religion on the physical and mundane platform without any knowledge of the identity of God. What we see today as religion is simply another form of materialism. Real religion is something else. Below are some thoughts by Srila Prabhupada on this point. <br />
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<i>Real religion should be taken. Simply because religion has not been properly executed by the so-called priests, that does not mean religion should be rejected. If my eye is giving me some kind of trouble on account of a cataract, that doesn’t mean my eye should be plucked out. The cataract should be removed. So that is the idea of the Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement – to remove the cataract from people’s religious vision. Generally, modern so-called religious leaders have no conception of God, and yet they are preaching religion. What good is that religion? People are simply being misled. Real religion means God’s order: dharmaṁ tu sākṣād bhagavat-praṇītam [SB 6.3.19]. If your religion has no conception of God, where is the question of religion? Still, without any conception of God, they are professing some religion. How long will it go on artificially? It will deteriorate. That ignorance about God has resulted in the present condition.</i><br />
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Real religion is the source of true happiness and as humans we have the ability to understand God who is all-pervading, within and without. We should not waste this opportunity of human existence!<br />
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Hare Krishnaanandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-64818599497943461832018-12-11T08:50:00.000-06:002018-12-11T08:50:00.121-06:00Lessons from the pastime of Mohini MurtiLord Siva got bewildered by the female form of Lord Vishnu. Some lessons from this pastime;<br />
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<ul>
<li>Great sages and rishis worship Lord Siva as their master. Thus although they are great sages and saintly persons, they should not think themselves free, but should remain extremely cautious about beautiful women. No one should think himself liberated in the presence of a beautiful woman.</li>
<li>If one can remain a brahmacārī, he saves himself so much trouble in material existence.</li>
<li>Although Lord Śiva is never defeated by anyone, when defeated by Lord Viṣṇu he felt proud that he had such an exalted and powerful master.</li>
<li>Because of his full faith in the Supreme Personality of Godhead, a devotee is never agitated, even in the greatest trials. This pridelessness is possible only for the first-class devotees, of whom Lord Śambhu is one.</li>
</ul>
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Hare Krishna</div>
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anandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-69844595558373605562018-12-07T08:43:00.001-06:002018-12-07T08:43:14.554-06:00Words of encouragementToday is HH Radhanath Swami Maharaja's birthday so I would like to copy his words to his disciples in Sri Radha Gopinath Mandir, something for all of us to meditate upon.<br />
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Hare Krishna<br />
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<i>To the Worshipable Devotees of Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Brahmacari Ashram and Congregation, </i><br />
<i>Please accept my respectful obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.</i><br />
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<i>I am very grateful to receive the very kind letters, which many of you have sent to me. Thank you very much. I have been traveling quite extensively. At present I am at Purandara Misra Prabhu's home near Viareggio in Italy. Last night we had a program on a high mountain in a dense forest of olive trees. We were gathered amidst large ancient rocks and beautiful caves. I was very much remembering Gahvarvan in Vrajadham. In that natural, austere atmosphere everyone was very pleased to worship Sri Radha Vrajasundara by hearing Their glories and chanting Their Sacred names. </i><br />
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<i>I cannot properly express to you the major impact that all of you are having on thousands of peoples lives all over the world. It is certainly difficult to believe how Srila Prabhupada is allowing you to be so very instrumental in inspiring faith and hope in devotees hearts. I beg of you, be very careful to protect the sacred service, which you are being blessed with. Please remain humble and united under all circumstances. Kali will present every possible reason for you to disagree and feel enmity for each other. We must take shelter of the higher principle of bhakti. The root cause of all of our problems is that we want to be the enjoyer. We must humbly surrender to the precious jewel that Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu has blessed us with. The divine consciousness of being the sincere servant of the servant of the servant. </i><br />
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<i>While performing japa, bhajan and kirtan strive to be enthusiastic and attentive. Carefully guard against the ten offences. They are like highway robbers always waiting to plunder you of all the fruits of your devotional service. Seek shelter of the Holy Names from the core of your hearts. Desperately beg for humility, honesty and a deep desire for pure bhakti. Continuously, allow the nectarean Ganga of the Holy Name to wash away all sins and water the seed of Divine Love. May your sincere chanting of the Maha Mantra attract the most precious mercy of Sri Radharani. Hari Katha will nourish your heart with the unlimited mercy of Sri Guru and Gauranga. Each day bathe your consciousness in Srila Prabhupada’s books and our Vaisnava Sastras. Earnestly pray for genuine eagerness to hear and chant the divine messages of our Worshipable Parampara. Absorb your consciousness for Krishna's pleasure in everything you do at every moment of your lives. Be enthusiastic to perform each and every service you are given with sincere gratitude. </i><br />
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<i>Complaining is the pastime of the mind immersed in petty selfishness. Meditate upon the humility of our beloved Acaryas. Although they are eternally immersed in the sweetest rasas of Vrindaban’s Lila, they consider themselves lower than the worm in stool, paying their heartfelt dandavats to every devotee, feeling themselves to be the most fallen, praying with the heart of an insignificant beggar. Without sincerely striving to imbibe this sacred mood of humility, our knowledge will remain theoretical and will expect to be worshipped while seated on the ornamented throne of the material intelligence. </i><br />
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<i>Please, never forget the infinite causeless mercy that Srila Prabhupada has bestowed upon you. He is your eternal well wisher. His mercy is all that we are made of. As the preeminent Guru of your life, Srila Prabhupada is eager to shower His Divine Grace upon you. Always remain faithful to his Divine Mission. Never lend your ears to those who try to delude you by the propaganda that they possess the key to something higher. Dance and chant together in great joy. Study together. Preach together. Honor prasadam together. Worship the mood of being a servant and see all others as your master. Honor all vaisnavas and vaisnavis with great care and from the heart. </i><br />
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<i>In a hundred year old building in Chowpatty, Bombay, Srila Prabhupada is miraculously revealing the transcendental abode of Sri Sri Radha Gopinath. Please, remain united, faithful, humble and pure. Throughout the world; many are depending upon you. With whatever insignificant sincerity I have, I place my lowly head at your holy feet and beg you to take these words as your life and soul. I pray that Sri Sri Radha Gopinath may forever bless you with Their causeless mercy. I hope this letter meets you in the best of health. </i><br />
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<i>Your servant, </i><br />
<i>Radhanath Swami</i><br />
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anandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-80289435670198491272018-11-30T12:59:00.000-06:002018-11-30T12:59:02.981-06:00Story of stuff<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9GorqroigqM" width="560"></iframe><br />
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We should be a good steward of the resources of this world. Srila Prabhupada was adamant in not wasting anything as he saw everything as Krishna's energy. This video can inspire us to reduce waste and live a more natural life.<br />
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Hare Krishnaanandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-9728873000342429802018-11-29T14:15:00.000-06:002018-11-29T14:18:08.186-06:00Srila Prabhupada and Narada Muni<b>Story 1 </b><br />
One night an extraordinary thing happened. Prabhupada led the first kirtan and then gave a lecture. I sat on the floor just to his right with the harmonium, and after the lecture, I began leading the second Hare Krishna kirtan. All of a sudden, Srila Prabhupada’s voice cut through the auditorium with the potency of Lord Nrisimha, right in the middle of my chanting. I had never heard Prabhupada do that, nor had I heard the words he chanted. ‘Narada Muni bhajaya vina radhika ramana namne,’ he sang. And then again he repeated it. I looked up, and he looked down at me, signaling me to carry on. So I continued chanting Hare Krishna, and he continued singing his prayer to Narada Muni into his microphone. I closed my eyes and carried on, not knowing what was happening. Then he started leading with me. We could all understand that something inexplicable but amazing was happening. Everyone was literally jumping off the ground, leaping in the air; even little baby Saraswati was two feet off the ground, and the audience was leaping into the air. We jumped off the stage and all of us began running around the perimeter of the auditorium with the audience. It was one of those Krishna magic moments. Just amazing! The next morning I asked what had happened the previous night. “Didn’t you see?” Srila Prabhupada said. “Narada Muni came to our kirtan.” “No, I didn’t see him,” I answered. “Yes, Narada Muni came.” - Yamuna devi dasi – London 1969<br />
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<b>Story 2 </b><br />
During an ecstatic kirtan in Los Angeles temple Srila Prabhupada was laughing. Afterwards a devotee asked why he had been laughing and Prabhupada said, “I was laughing to see Narada Muni.” The devotee said, “Narada Muni?” “Yes, Narada Muni was there.” What was Narada Muni doing?” Prabhupada said, “He was laughing.”
The devotee said, “Why was he laughing?” “He was laughing when he saw the mlecchas and chandalas dancing and chanting Hare Krishna.” - Dinadayadri devi dasi<br />
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<b>Story 3 </b><br />
In the Berkeley temple in Prabhupada’s room where he was staying, some reporters came and some important folks and they were asking questions. That was the period of time where the interviewer asked Prabhupada, “What will happen when you leave? When you leave, what will happen to this movement?” And that’s at the time where Prabhupada said that “My books will never die, they will live on for ten thousand years.” But also during that darshan, it was exquisite because there was this practical interchange of how interviews go and all of a sudden Prabhupada looked up over everyone’s head into the corner, the exact corner of the room, and he said, “There’s Narada Muni.” So Prabhupada saw Narada Muni during that time in that room. - Dhanishta devi dasi<br />
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<b>Story 4 </b><br />
In London, at Bury Place, Prabhupada told devotees to put a small asana on the altar for Narada Muni because he was attending the kirtanas.<br />
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<b>Story 5 </b><br />
In America Prabhupada held a sparsely attended program but said that sage Narada was present.<br />
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Narada Muni also foretold extraordinary worldwide preaching. In the Padma Purana, Bhagavata Mahatmyam (2.5-7), he says: “O Bhakti Devi, there is no age like Kali because you will be established in every house and in every heart. Hear my vow. If I do not preach your message, subdue all other religions and make devotional festivals predominant, then I shall not be considered the servant of Lord Hari. In Kali-yuga those people who follow you, even if they are sinful, will attain Lord Krishna’s abode without fear."<br />
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Unlike anyone else Srila Prabhupada fulfilled Narada Muni’s prediction by following Lord Caitanya’s instruction: prthivite ache yata nagaradi grama, sarvatra pracara haibe more nama: In every town and village of the world. My name will be heard. {Caitanya-bhagavata, Antya 4.126)
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Srila Prabhupada lives forever in his books and worships Lord Caitanya by teaching everyone to always chant “Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare.”<br />
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Hare Krishnaanandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-41724190337307835072018-11-28T09:04:00.000-06:002018-11-28T09:04:16.983-06:00Guru NishtaGuru nishta is a principle that is important for one to advance in Krishna consciousness. Without the blessings of the spiritual master, progress towards Krishna is practically nill. In the Hari Bhakti Vilas (not sure where) i think there is some language on how to select a spiritual master. I believe there is some room for sentiment when it comes to getting diksha from a specific guru. However, sentiment goes only so far. If we truly want to serve guru, then we must serve per principle and not sentiment. Because in daily life, there will be struggles internal and external. There will be doubts and temptations on the position of guru thrown at us by media, people, family and material opulence. If we simply serve based on sentiment, such service can be volatile (up and down).<br />
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We should not trust our mind because as the mind vacillates so does our emotions and sentiments. Therefore, our service, convictions, and emotions should be rooted in principle that stems from the pages of Bhagavatam or Bhagavad Gita. Our vision of the spiritual master and his instructions should be seen through shastra and not our sentiments. When we strictly approach the person Bhagavad through the shastra Bhagavad, no amount of external forces can shake our faith in guru. Sentimental faith on guru is like house on sand, will crumble eventually!<br />
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Hare Krishnaanandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-48442984867396492832018-11-27T14:15:00.001-06:002018-11-30T12:52:14.822-06:00How to control the mind?Krishna after the war and before His departure from this mortal world instructs Uddhava in what is famously called now as Uddhava Gita. One can read this conversation in the pages of the Bhagavata Purana. Right in the beginning, Krishna says something important which i thought requires serious contemplation.<br />
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Krishna says that the world we perceive through our mind, eyes, ears etc is simply an imagination. He says this because the value and meaning we apply to the things of this world as good (guna) or evil (dosha) is derived from our subjective mind. The mind and senses are temporary and subject to change and hence our values and meanings we apply to things also change. In that sense, the same things and people we know, we may like one day and may not like another day or vice versa. In that sense, our values of good or bad is all in the mind.<br />
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From here, Krishna says the concept of mind control arises. He says to Uddhava, because everything is changing and our perception is changing with it, Krishna says withdraw the mind and focus within the self and see the self as part of the Super-self which is Krishna. In other words, mind control means to withdraw the mind from the outside people/world (as it is all subjective anyways) and focus ultimately on Krishna.<br />
<br />
Basically, mind control is a two step process (1) withdraw from the outside world (2) focus or meditate on Krishna. When we constantly practice withdrawal and meditation on Krishna, in time we will be able to perceive our true self (separate from body and mind) and thus attain peace and happiness. This sounds too theoretical but never hurts to try it out.<br />
<br />
SB-11.7-7-9<br />
<br />
Hare Krishnaanandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-71384262535733590492018-11-18T10:03:00.003-06:002020-08-08T11:08:22.945-05:00struggle for existenceOur existence is filled with struggles. It is because nature is designed in such a way that we are dependent on other beings for sustenance. Dependence requires cooperation and where there is no cooperation, there will be struggle. Struggle to align body and mind with health and well-being. Struggle to work as a community and prosper economically and socially. Struggle to ensure I am happy and everyone is happy in this world. As hard as we may try, unfortunately, mankind has never made everyone happy at all times. Therefore, we can say struggle for existence is a constant in this world.<br />
<br />
As practitioners of bhakti, struggle takes a different meaning. It is not so much meant to conquer nature, and people and man-made systems to make ends meet but rather a struggle to tolerate the ever changing mind and try to fix the mind unto the Lotus Feet of Krishna. While it is necessary to do the needful in terms of satisfying the demands of the mind and body, however, it is more necessary to practice indifference to the movements of the mind and practice taking shelter of Krishna. This practice of seeking shelter will help us tame the turbulent mind and the more we humble our self to Krishna, the easier it will be to tame the mind or in other words be indifferent to the mind.<br />
<br />
Struggling to take shelter of Krishna is the permanent solution that puts a full-stop to all struggles for material existence!<br />
<br />
Hare Krishna<br />
<br />
<br />anandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-37828798666748363662018-10-17T08:45:00.001-05:002018-10-17T08:48:59.352-05:00Nine stages of BhaktiThe nine steps are as follows;<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Shraddha - preliminary faith (not strong) </li>
<li>Sadhu Sanga (associating with like minded and advanced devotees) </li>
<li>Bhajana Kriya (performing devotional service based on rules and regulations) </li>
<li>Anartha Nivrti (gradually freeing one's self from unwanted propensities) </li>
<li>Nishta (faith becomes stronger) </li>
<li>Ruci (cultivate a taste as result) </li>
<li>Asakti (cultivate attachment to Krishna and His form, pastimes and Holy Name) </li>
<li>Bhava (spontaneous attachment and preliminary stages of love) </li>
<li> Prema (unalloyed love for Krishna) </li>
</ol>
This is a deep subject that can be justified by senior realized devotees and/or by studying Nectar of Devotion.
Below is my 2 cents.
Krishna Consciousness is a science albeit a science of non-matter. Normally, science is attributed to matter that which can be tested and verified. So if science equals testing and verification, then these steps exactly show us that anyone regardless of background when they take up to Krishna Bhakti will personally experience the nine symptoms above. That is the test and our verification. The beginning is faith (shraddha) and it is not strong faith. This faith is secondary mostly, dependent on guru, sadhu and shastra. This faith is sentimental and or theoretical. The journey has to begin from here. In the Western Judeo-Christian religions, all they have is Step 1. They believe in God and thats it. But as you can see, our acharyas have given a systematized exposition on this subject clearly stating its predictable symptoms. For the initial faith to go from theory to reality requires practical application which is the rest of the eight steps.<br />
<br />
Without sadhus and blessings of sadhus (again this is an esoteric idea since blessings is not testable or sensual however it works) it is difficult almost to nil that our chance to progress in spiritual life. If they bless, we have to accept the blessings. The way we accept their blessings is through seva or bhajana kriya. This submissiveness of accepting the blessings of sadhus and shastra is the beginning of our real spiritual life (punctuated in our life as initiation or diksha). Diksha is not a ritualistic ceremony. To the degree we accept the blessings in the form of service, to that degree we will experience the remaining steps. Sadhus here not only refers to one's spiritual master but also a new devotee walking into the temple. Although we associate with elevated souls but by pleasing devotees of all caliber Krishna is pleased. But if we just focus on pleasing guru and not pleasing other vaishnavas then our understanding of bhakti is incomplete as we fail to see the relationship with Krishna and the new devotee.<br />
<br />
As a result of pleasing Krishna, there is a sense of fulfillment (much like a hungry man who had a full meal) and this fulfillment provides us a sense of inner security and peace of mind that Krishna will protect. As a result, the soul will not hover anymore or desire to hover on the mode of passion and ignorance. The soul will voluntarily journey to satva guna or mode of goodness by giving up unwanted material lifestyle (anartha nivrti) and become more benevolent, compassionate and charity minded to all beings. The desire now to be submissive to guru, sadhu and shastra will become more intense and focused (nisha).<br />
<br />
The rest of the journey is pretty much like auto-pilot mode because once the soul gets a higher taste (ruchi) and feels relief from the pangs of material miseries, the soul will journey closer and closer to Krishna (asakti). It is like if we are feeling cold, and journey towards heat we will not stop once we feel the initial waves of heat. Similarly, spiritual world and spiritual life is the anti-thesis of materialism which means relief from material miseries. Once we taste spiritual peace and happiness, the soul will not stop. Having said that we should still have determination to stay on the path since we are in this material creation and at any moment calamity can befall. Thinking like this, the soul is not proud of his security and position but rather humble always praying to Krishna for shelter and protection with a desire to seek His association (bhava).<br />
<br />
This utter dependence on Krishna and literally crying for His mercy is the real sign that we are on the path and close to the destiny of Krishna prema which is step nine of the bhakti sequence.<br />
<br />
Hare Krishnaanandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-65319447285057967442018-10-03T09:14:00.000-05:002018-10-03T09:14:03.146-05:00Lessons from Narada's travel to the NorthIn the Srimad Bhagavatam, first canto, chapter six, Narada Muni describes his own journey to spiritual emancipation. What do we learn? Below are few of my thoughts;<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>From the death of the mother of Narada, we learn that the Lord is the Supreme controller and we the insignificant jivas are but like puppets under a puppet master. All activities good and bad that happen in my life happens by the will and sanction of Krishna.</li>
<li>Because Narada as a boy served the great Bhakti-vedantas, when he was alone wandering he had the know-how to approach that which is invisible. In other words, his association with the Lord actually was possible because the Bhakti-vedantas taught Narada how to approach the Transcendent Lord. If not for them, he would be lost and not be realized himself. Therefore, without the mercy of a pure devotee, Krishna will not manifest.</li>
<li>Krishna is all independent and not subjected to anyone's thoughts or prayers yet He reveals Himself to Narada thus confirming the idea that He is the eternal well-wisher of all Beings.</li>
<li>Krishna is non-material thus He is approachable ONLY if we become non-material or spiritual. That is why Narada muni was advised by Krishna that He cannot be seen by anyone who has material desires. If we want to serve Krishna, we have to become pure of material dualities of gain and loss.</li>
<li>Nama-Sankirtan is the essence of Vedanta and Narada after losing sight of Krishna decided to chant the Holy Names of the Lord constantly with no material attachments. We also have to follow in his footsteps. </li>
<li>Patience is a virtue. From the first contact of Krishna to becoming His eternal associate took more than 4.3 trillion years for Narada so we also have to become patient and wait for the mercy of the Lord (we should not feel entitled).</li>
<li>After a long wait, Narada successfully became Narada. Krishna does not abandon His bhakta therefore Krishna as Bhakta-vatsal always protects His devotees and delivers the devotee to Himself. We should have this confidence that at the end of it all - Krishna never disappoints!</li>
</ol>
Hare Krishnaanandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-18786650785828823312018-09-25T13:53:00.002-05:002018-09-25T13:53:30.357-05:00Contradictions in modern Christianity<i>"You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I.</i> - John 14.28<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. </i>- Mark 12.29<br />
<br />
<i>By myself I can do nothing; I judge only as I hear, and my judgment is just, for I seek not to please myself but him who sent me</i>. - John 5.30<br />
<br />
<i>Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God</i>.’ - John 20.17<br />
<br />
<b>Modern Christianity</b><br />
Jesus is God - contradicts John 14.28<br />
God exists as a trinity (in three) - contradicts Mark 12.29<br />
Jesus is All Powerful - contradicts John 5.30<br />
Jesus is the only son of God. - contradicts John 20.17<br />
<br />
I think it is important to know that Jesus spoke according to time and circumstance. To think that Jesus and Krishna are one and the same is ignorance and also offensive. The verses spoken by Jesus clearly indicate his position in relation to his father. I am sure there may be other verses claiming Jesus's position but certainly these verses are clear as day and cannot be ignored or unnecessarily interpreted.<br />
<br />
Hare Krishnaanandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-29500730225011891632018-09-05T13:24:00.001-05:002018-09-05T13:24:06.210-05:00why Krishna and not others?Another day, someone asked why Krishna and why not Jesus?<br />
<br />
We all have opinions. That makes us who we are. Between different opinions, an expert's opinion is given weight. Between experts, the expert with extensive knowledge and experience is given weight. Like this we can deduce logically that commonly, when opinions are sought, the person with the most knowledge and experience weighs out others' opinions. If we also know the amount of mistakes one commits then that can still filter out opinions. Above all this, if we know the person really cares about me and my well-being then that opinion still stands high.<br />
<br />
So anyone's opinion who has a combination of all three (extent of knowledge,lack of error and well-being) to a high degree can be accepted. In that regard, Krishna is faultless (perfect), all-knowing (omniscient) and friend of all beings. Above that, He is also the person who owns everything in this cosmos. Therefore, we accept Krishna's opinion versus another say like Jesus or someone else.<br />
<br />
<i>Therefore, O Lord, feeling weary of material life and tormented by its distresses, I now surrender unto You because You are the perfect master. You are the unlimited, all-knowing Supreme Personality of Godhead, whose spiritual abode in Vaikuṇṭha is free from all disturbances. In fact, You are known as Nārāyaṇa, the true friend of all living beings. </i>- Uddhava to Krishna - SB 11.7.18<br />
<br />
Hare Krishna<br />
<br />
<br />anandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-81352438197814849742018-08-30T13:49:00.004-05:002018-08-30T13:49:39.844-05:00why the Bible and Koran fall shortSomeone asked me a question when I was distributing books the difference between Bhagavad Gita and the Bible and why the Gita is any different. It was sort of a challenging question. I thought about the question more and below are some of my points. This logic can also extend to the Koran.<br />
<br />
The Bible and Koran although existing for the past 2000 and 1500 years respectively, have not been recognized as authoritative scriptures by the great acharyas like Sri Ramanuja and Madhwa. In fact, none of the saintly teachers give lot of credence to the Bible and Koran. A few of them have commented on some of its value, however, it is not accepted as a spiritual authority.<br />
<br />
Bible and Koran was spoken for a different audience at a specific time and place. Following are, in my opinion, shortcomings that to me invalidate it as a scripture.<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><b>God is anonymous</b> - If a book is meant to be the word of God, then the least the reader should be aware of is the identity of God? In fact, even the name of God is not properly revealed. There are suggestions, certainly, but the name, form, and pastimes of God is anonymous. </li>
<li><b>The early reciters are anonymous</b> - The Bible and Koran was transferred from one generation to next mainly through oral tradition. The stories were told and re-told to this day. However, we do not have documentation of the identity and qualification of the story tellers. In the Bhagavad Gita, the speaker is very clear and later on, through the chain of disciplic succession from Maha muni Vyasa, the speakers are clear and their qualifications known. The same cannot be said of the Bible or Koram. </li>
<li><b>The authors are anonymous</b> - The Bible and Koran were heard and written by scholars of unknown origin. The old testament, however, especially the first five books called the Torah were written by Moses and the later books were written by some known people. However, as for the New Testament, the stories in the Gospel, the authors are under question. Luke, Mark, Mathew and John are said to be the disciples of Jesus but this is not universally accepted by all. Anyways, the issue of authorship of the Gospels is a deeper subject and is beyond my knowledge but the bottom line is that the identity and qualification of the authors of the Gospels is not revealed. The there are letters by St. Paul but these are not direct words of God. Similarly, the Koran originally was written by members in the audience Prophet Mohammed was speaking but as for their identity, it is not known.</li>
</ol>
<div>
So with God, the reciters and authors being anonymous, it is difficult to consider these books in par with books like Bhagavad Gita and or Srimad Bhagavatam. Approximately 60% of the world population read either the Bible and or Koran and we respect the book and the people who consider it sacred. But in my opinion and under stringent scrutiny, the Bible and Koran are books on ethics and human morality but cannot be taken as a book about the form, nature and pastimes of God!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Hare Krishna</div>
anandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-35172452879674495072018-08-29T09:29:00.002-05:002018-08-29T09:29:18.597-05:00homogenous vs heterogenous cosmologyIn modern physical cosmology, the notion that the spatial distribution of matter in the universe on a large scale is fairly homogenous and isotropic. It means that the properties of the universe is the same for all observers in space regardless of where data is collected. This idea is called cosmological principle and forms the fundamental aphorism of modern science.<br />
<br />
Homogeneity indicates that the same evidence is observed if we collect data from any part of the universe. Isotropy indicates that the same evidence is observed if we collect data from any direction in the universe implying the laws of physics are the same throughout the universe. Although cosmologists use observational data as verification for this theory still we only observe what we observe from earth and cannot verify non-earthly observations. So to generalize at the universal scale purely and primarily on earthly calculations is a bit presumptuous and even dogmatic.<br />
<br />
Non-earthly observations are given in vedic literature about the structure and design of the universe. It does not match modern observations or calculations or theories. Beyond the earth, according to vedi ccosmology, are variety of environments (not just gaseous or solid states) with different types of flora, fauna and living beings. There are planes of existence, planets and star systems that have life all over it. There is also non-globular structures in our universe (more like flat planes). In our current understanding of cosmology, space equals spherical geometry (or close to spherical), however, we get information from vedic cosmology, that there are non-spherical environments. All this indicates that the universe is certainly not homogenous and isotropic. Modern cosmology provides a lifeless picture of the universe and vedic cosmology gives a universe full of variety of species and life forms.<br />
<br />
I will end with a quote from a famous philosopher of science Karl Popper on his attitude towards modern cosmology;<br />
<br />
<i>I once was an enthusiastic admirer of (Friedmann’s) Big Bang. I am now a disgusted opponent. As to the “steady state” theory, it is insufficiently developed, and Ryle’s criticism insufficiently discussed. And the “cosmological principles” were, I fear, dogmas that should not have been proposed. </i><i>- </i>Karl Popper<br />
<br />
Please visit www.vediccosmology.com<br />
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Hare Krishna<br />
<br />anandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-14702172033274811852018-08-22T10:33:00.001-05:002018-08-22T10:33:41.872-05:00Please chant - there is certainly no loss!Chanting<br />
<br />
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna<br />
Krishna Krishna Hare Hare |<br />
Hare Rama Hare Rama<br />
Rama Rama Hare Hare ||<br />
<br />
daily will eliminate fear, anxiety, depression,sadness,despondency,anger,and hopelessness. Instead, chanting will give mental strength, spiritual strength,freedom from anxiety,hope,equal-mindedness,positive feeling and above all inner peace and joy.<br />
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The only condition is to chant with sincerity of heart and take the effort to hear the sound clearly and distinctly in a mood of dependence on Krishna (not independence)!<br />
<br />
Please chant!<br />
<br />
Hare Krishnaanandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-81999464957978973682018-08-20T09:19:00.001-05:002018-08-20T09:19:59.992-05:00Giving credit to the idea of 'yadraccha'Frustration is something we all have experienced. The opposite of that we can say is peacefulness or tolerance. Peace and tolerance are topics discussed by Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita. In the mundane world, peace is sought somewhere outside and tolerance is seen as a sign of weakness. However, in my opinion, frustration is a result of lack of tolerance and lack of mental peace which comes from a sort of entitlement of results (provided we put the work).<br />
<br />
But in the Bhagavatam and Bhagavad Gita, there is an indication that beyond our work and desire, there is a third cause which is destiny. Destiny or time seems ambiguous in lay perspective. The fact is the jiva or soul according to the Vedic understanding is not independent as modern society leads us to think. We are dependent on nature and God. Only God is independent but as for us we are not. We are bound by our previous actions which chalks our future destiny. Therefore, when things do not go our way, instead of getting frustrated we should step back and appreciate the bigger picture. The reverse is also true, if things do go our way, instead of punching the fist in the air, we step back and appreciate the bigger picture.<br />
<br />
The best way to counter frustration is to be happy or content with whatever comes of its own accord by performing one's duty with due diligence. We will not be frustrated if we understand that time and destiny dictates our activities and that we are instruments of them. We should perform our duties with this thinking in mind.<br />
<br />
Krishna says to Arjuna;<br />
<br />
<i>yadṛcchā-lābha-santuṣṭo</i><br />
<i>dvandvātīto vimatsaraḥ</i><br />
<i>samaḥ siddhāv asiddhau ca</i><br />
<i>kṛtvāpi na nibadhyate</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>He who is satisfied with gain which comes of its own accord, who is free from duality and does not envy, who is steady in both success and failure, is never entangled, although performing actions.</i>- BG 4.22<br />
<br />
Vamandev tells Bali Maharaj;<br />
<br />
<i>yadṛcchayopapannena</i><br />
<i>santuṣṭo vartate sukham</i><br />
<i>nāsantuṣṭas tribhir lokair</i><br />
<i>ajitātmopasāditaiḥ</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>One should be satisfied with whatever he achieves by his previous destiny, for discontent can never bring happiness. A person who is not self-controlled will not be happy even with possessing the three worlds. </i>- SB 8.19.24<br />
<br />
In both verses, the word 'yadrccha' is used meaning some thing which is beyond our control. Something that comes accidentally or without much endeavor or by destiny or randomly etc. However, we want to interpret that word, 'yadraccha' indicates that there is something more beyond my control and we are not fully independent.<br />
<br />
When we take shelter of this knowledge or idea of 'yadraccha', we will always be happy or content in any circumstance of life.<br />
<br />
Hare Krishna<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
anandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-51533661229849260192018-08-13T21:41:00.001-05:002018-08-13T21:41:20.737-05:00My motivationThe process of Krishna bhakti is a struggle, I will not lie to you. But then so is everything else in life. What is the difference you ask? The difference is in Krishna bhakti, there is no failure where as material endeavors despite the struggle, there is chance of failure. In Krishna bhakti, there is no failure, only success and victory! That gives me motivation to continue my struggle!<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Hare Krishna</div>
anandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-27001406946174891732018-08-01T15:28:00.002-05:002018-08-01T15:28:53.201-05:00A true social reformer will speak the truthSocial reformers, politicians and welfare workers etc talk about eradicating social ills but they do so comparing to the woes of today. But we have never reached that absolute utopian state, why? Because we live in a world of duality. This is an axiomatic truth - a self-evident one. But we do not accept it and we cannot accept it because if we accept a world with duality, then we have to accept always there will be good and there will be bad. There will be richness but also there will be poverty. There will be security but also there will be crime. As a politician or any social reformer, this sort of 50-50 condition is unacceptable and hence for all their life, they struggle in the name of upliftment and service to man to change human condition.<br />
<br />
As long as man exists and time exists, we will have two sides to a coin since this is a relative world we live in. This desire for an absolute good world, however, is an indication of something deeper. Therefore, a true social reformer will speak the truth. He will point to man the futility of a relative world and that true absolute freedom from social ills is possible only in an absolute setting and not in a relative setting and that absolute setting is the Spiritual world or Vaikunta!<br />
<br />
Hare Krishna<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
anandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-69439721478791507272018-07-24T08:42:00.000-05:002018-07-24T08:42:44.840-05:00We can lieWe can lie under the following conditions;<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Flattering a woman </li>
<li>Passing Jokes</li>
<li>In Marriage ceremony</li>
<li>Earning livelihood</li>
<li>One's life is in danger</li>
<li>Protecting cows and brahminical culture</li>
<li>Protecting a person from an enemy</li>
</ol>
<div>
SB 8.19.43, spoken by Sukaracharya<br />
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Hare Krishna</div>
anandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773559766766810587.post-11489605316112054072018-07-23T11:58:00.004-05:002018-07-23T11:58:46.010-05:00Bhakti is not easy to obtainKrishna will easily give bhuki (material opulence), mukti (liberation) or siddhi (mystic perfections) since it does not directly deal with Him. However, bhakti is personal and hence confidential and bhakti (by bhakti we mean pure bhakti and not mixed) attracts Krishna. Because bhakti is directly connected with Krishna and that Krishna is easily purchased by pure bhakti, to attain pure bhakti is not so easy as attaining mukti, or siddhi or bhukti.<br />
<br />
However, by the mercy of a pure devotee, bhakti is attainable hence this path in line from Lord Chaitanya is the most unique and special since no other path or dharma or religion awards pure devotion. It is by the mercy of Lord Chaitanya and His direct followers we have access to bhakti which otherwise is a close and shut case (not accessible).<br />
<br />
Srila Prabhupada says in Chapter 1 Nectar of Devotion "<i>Devotional service can in fact be attained only through the mercy of a pure devotee. In the Caitanya-caritāmṛta (Madhya 19.151) it is said, "By the mercy of the spiritual master who is a pure devotee and by the mercy of Kṛṣṇa one can achieve the platform of devotional service. There is no other way</i>."<br />
<br />
Hare Krishna<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
anandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00814540698325226163noreply@blogger.com0