# HEARING ## The Importance of Hearing ==58-08 "The process recommended by the Lord is very simple and plain. It is just to create a favorable condition for hearing only the message of Krsna (Bhagavad-gita) or the messages about Krsna (the spiritual Bhagavatam) or both combined in the message of Sri Caitanya-caritamrta. *== * The hearing tendency is made easy and still more favorable by songs and music of spiritual value to be equally shared by all classes of men namely the highest educated and the lowest illiterate. The movement is sublime and easy at the same time. The League of Devotees is registered to make this movement in an organized way and I wish to enquire if any cooperation and help can be expected from your honor." (Dr. B. L. Atreya, 14 August, 1958) *** 67-07 "I have read with great interest the copy of your letter, and I am so glad to learn that you are feeling more and more Krsna conscious. So far the stories are concerned, the Vedic literatures are full of instructive stories for the spiritual advancement of the human society. Because the less intelligent class of men, like ==women, mercantile people, and laborers want to hear stories, for them the Vedic idea or concept was explained in the eighteen Puranas and the Mahabharata. If I get good assistance I can overflood your country with stories so nice and instructive." ([[letters/1967/670722_janardana|Janardana, 22 July, 1967]]) ==67-10 "I recommend therefore, that all my students read Brahma-saḥhitā—very carefully especially because it was translated personally by my spiritual master Srimad Bhaktisiddhdnta Sarasvati Goswami Maharaja." (SPL to Pradyumna 17th October, 1967) ==67-12 "You have rightly said that learning more and more about Krsna makes you so happy. The more we learn about Krsna from the authoritative sources, the more we can be attached in Krsna consciousness."== ([[letters/1967/671217_indira_iris_mendoza_ekayani_esther_mendoza|Blanche Hochner, 17 December, 1967]]) *** 68-02 "Krsna is so sublime and transcendental that He cannot be realized by mental speculation or by personal endeavor, education or material acquisition. He can only be approached and understood clearly by our service attitude, engaging all our senses in His service. The beginning of service is to engage our hearing organs and receive the transcendental message by aural reception. ==And whenever we are mature in receiving the transcendental message from books like Bhagavad-gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam via media the transparent bona fide spiritual master, then we are able to chant or engage our tongue in the service of the Lord, *== * being engaged in the service of the Lord. The material covering of our senses becomes inactive and actual spiritual form of activity becomes manifest. I very much appreciate your development of this spiritual perception and Krsna has given you a good chance in the matter of your proposed dealings with the U.N." ([[letters/1968/680202_purusottama|Purusottama, 2 February, 1968]]) ==68-06 "No, there is no need of sending the Kalyana books as you have mentioned, not yet. Just read Srimad-Bhagavatam, our three volumes, regularly and repeatedly. It is no use reading many books, it is better to assimilate one book and that is sufficient." ([[letters/1968/680610_harivilasa|Hari Vilasa, 10 June, 1968]]) ==68-06 "So, reading of the literature and hearing of the chanting is the medicine, and prasadam is the diet. So, if diet and medicine are properly administered the disease of maya will be cured. *== * But the physician must be always healthy. People may not say, physician is ill thyself. That means the preachers must be of highly elevated character, following strictly the rules and regulations and chanting regularly in the temple. There may be so many odds in the progressive march of Krsna consciousness, but if we pin our faith in Krsna, everything will come out successful in due course." (SPL to Satsvarupa, June 27th, 1968) ==68-06 "Yes. Try to let James hear patiently this Hare Krsna maha-mantra and he will be tamed without delay. If somebody simply hears very patiently he will be altogether converted. *== * In India, if a man is bitten by a serpent, it used to be, and still is in some places, that an expert man would chant a *mantra* and apply some herbs and the serpent-bitten man would be saved from death. Similarly, we are bitten by the *maya* serpent and the *mantra* to save us is Hare Krsna. It is Lord Caitanya's *mantra." (SPL to Rupanuga, June, 1968) *** 68-07 "I hope you are all well in Krsna consciousness. And I am so glad to learn that Krsna is endowing you with more and more intelligence in the matter of understanding Krsna consciousness. Krsna is very kind and any sincere devotee is always taken care of by His Lordship in all respects. Please regularly chant Hare Krsna, read *Srimad-Bhagavatam,* and very soon you will get other books also, like *Bhagavad-gita As It Is, Teachings of Lord Caitanya,* and ==always read and talk about Krsna between yourselves and always remember that this life is but a flash only. We have to seek after our eternal life in Krsna consciousness *== * and be transferred to the spiritual world in the association of Krsna. Continue to keep your present attitude and certainly even within this life, you will be successful in attaining perfection of Krsna consciousness." ([[letters/1968/680707_dayananda|Dayananda, 7 July, 1968]]) ==68-09 "Now, because you are on the field work, you have to meet so many opposite elements. And you have to satisfy them or fight with them with conclusive statements from Bhagavad-gita, and Srimad-Bhagavatam, and as such, it is needed that you should be thoroughly conversant with the truth." (SPL to Gurudasa, September, 1968) *** 68-11 "It is very encouraging that Devananda is combating with Mr. Jarvis representing Maharishi Mahesh. Yes, in each and every meeting ==you should go and challenge these persons, but you must be equipped very strongly with the conclusions of Bhagavad-gita.== In the *Bhagavad-gita* it is clearly said that the first-class yogi is he who has in his heart always the eternal form of Krsna. I could not follow what Devananda said to the Jerry Jarvis when he said that he was also worshiping Krsna. It is good to argue with him even at the suspension of meetings, and it is very good enthusiasm." ([[letters/1968/681118_satsvarupa|Satsvarupa, 18 November, 1968]]) *** 68-11 "I am in due receipt of your letter and thank you very much for it. ==That you are chanting and reading with great delight is very good. Please continue this practice and this delight will continue to increase the more you increase sincerity. *== * I understand also that your family is now reading *Back to Godhead,* and this is also very good. Just try to explain this philosophy to them and convince them in this way." ([[letters/1968/681113_patita_uddharana_was_patita_pavana|Patita Uddharana, 13 November, 1968]]) ==68-11 "I am pleased to learn that you are singing the Cintamani prayers of the Brahma-saḥhitā. This Brahma-saḥhitā contains the highest of all spiritual knowledge. *== * In lecturing too if we sing a verse from the *Brahma-saḥhitā* and then nicely explain the meaning it will be very much appreciated. Just as Krsna is the all-attractive principle, so similarly these *Krsna-kathas* of the *Brahma-saḥhitā* are all-attractive and will gain favorable attention from listeners." ([[letters/1968/681124_syamasundara|Syamasundara, 24 November, 1968]]) ==68-11 "You should all read very carefully Srimad-Bhagavatam and Bhagavad-gita, and you should be able to answer all questions like this, and only in rare cases approach me. But it is important that our students must be able to answer all questions for becoming preachers." ([[letters/1968/681114_aniruddha|Aniruddha, 14 November, 1968]]) *** 68-12 "The final question which was asked by Tosana about the validity of the story of the sparrow and the ocean, ==you should know that everything that is found in these scriptures is factual. There is nothing allegory. But you must not depend upon your own limited experience. *== * What happens in different corners of the Lord's creation no one can say. But we can hear from the authentic sources such as the *Puranas.* This story of the sparrow is found in the *Puranas." ([[letters/1968/681221_syamasundara|Harer Nama, 21 December, 1968]]) *** 69-01 "Regarding the examination you are already a passed student so don't be afraid of it. When the examination will be held, you will find the questions so easy that within a few minutes you shall be able to answer them all. I wish to introduce this examination system so that in the future our students may not remain unconcerned with these books we are publishing. These books are not material knowledge. ==To a sincere student, all of the contents of these books become revealed from within, even if he has not thoroughly studied them all." ([[letters/1969/690112_kirtanananda|Hamsaduta, 12 January, 1969]]) ==69-01 "So far as reading scriptures out loud, this depends upon the circumstances. If you can understand by reading silently, there is no need to read out loud, because this may make others feel disturbed." ([[letters/1969/690130_jayapataka|Jayapataka, 30 January, 1969]]) ==69-03 "I am so glad to learn that you are reading my Bhagavad-gita As It Is with great interest, and I hope if you kindly read my books carefully that all your spiritual desires will be fulfilled. And you are in the right place for doing this in New Vrndavana." ([[letters/1969/690318_hrsikesa|Hrsikesa, 18 March, 1969]]) *** 69-07 "You have hinted about the value of concentration and in the stories from the *Bhagavatam* and *Mahabharata,* but I do not exactly follow what you mean by this. The statement in the *Bhagavatam* and the *Mahabharata* and the *Puranas* are all different historical incidents. *Mahabharata* is called according to Vedic authorities, as the history of India. I do not know who first designated it as 'epic' ==That is the cause of the fall-down of Hindu culture. They did not believe in their Vedic literatures presented by Vyasadeva. They are not stories after all. Stories are imaginary, but they are not imaginary. They are actual facts. *== * Such historical facts are not chronological, but for teaching of the commonplace people some of the important incidents of history are there. It is said: *saram saram samuddhrtam. (S.B. 1.3.41) This means only the essential facts have been collected, and they are put together in the shape of * Puranas, Mahabharata,* etc." ([[letters/1969/690708_rayarama|Mr. Kair, 8 July, 1969]]) *** 69-07 "Jaya Govinda was correct in his observation that Radha-Krsna pastimes should not be discussed at the present time. ==Unless one is highly elevated in spiritual understanding it is risky to discuss these pastimes. *== * Caitanya Mahaprabhu never discussed Radha-Krsna *Iila* with ordinary persons. We have so many other things to discuss—what is the soul, what is *bhakti.* To understand Radha and Krsna's pastimes that is our aim, but we should not indulge in this at present. Then there is sure to be misunderstanding." ([[letters/1969/690722_sivananda|Sivananda, 22 July, 1969]]) *** 69-07 "Regarding someone to go there to take charge of the children in Satyabhama's absence, I will write to Lilavati in Boston to see if she is able to fill this position for that time. If not, we will have to make other arrangements. But wherever you go, either in New Vrndavana or New York, you should make effort to finish your rounds whenever possible. Of course, if you are always engaged in Krsna's service, and always chanting Hare Krsna, even if not on your beads, that is also a nice status. As you are an important worker there and you have so many important duties, especially to take care of the cows, it may not be possible for you to stop your work for chanting sixteen rounds. This is no great loss, and you should not feel badly about it. Krsna sees your sincerity in Krsna consciousness, and He will be very much kind upon you for this. But as much as possible you should try to fulfill the goal of sixteen rounds daily. If you must fall short of this because you have so much service to render to Krsna, do not become disturbed by this. But you should not fall too much short of this goal. That will not be good. Similarly, you must read *Bhagavad-gita* at least a few verses every day and think about them throughout the day. ==The best thing is to read one chapter daily, but if you== can meditate upon a few verses of Bhagavad-gita every day, that is better than reading for simply one hour and then forgetting the topics until the next reading."== ([[letters/1969/690729_paramananda|Paramananda, 29 July, 1969]]) *** 69-11 "Regarding your question about Lord Jesus Christ, we accept him as a *saktyavesa-avatara.* Lord Buddha is in the same category also. Lord Buddha is mentioned specifically in the *Srimad-Bhagavatam* as incarnation of Godhead, and yet Vaisnavas do not accept his philosophy which is classified as atheism. Similarly, even if we accept Lord Jesus Christ as *saktyavesa-avatara,* it doesn't mean that we have to accept his philosophy. But we have all respects for him without fail. Regarding books like *Aquarian Gospel* or even the *Testaments,* we cannot accept them as authorities because sometimes it is learnt that the words are not actually spoken by Christ but they are so set up by the devotees. For example, in the ten commandments it is clearly stated, 'Thou shall not kill' but some bishop in Boston has changed it to Thou shall not murder.' This means the bishop wants to keep hold for animal slaughter. So don't bother about all these literatures. We have all respect for these great preachers, but we do not require to study books save and for some reference. We must push on our philosophy how to love God. Our process is simple. We have got volumes of books also, so ==it is better for us to mind our own business than to divert our attention in the studies of other books. This was definitely forbidden by Lord Caitanya. *== * After all, Krsna consciousness philosophy is as old as 120 million years at the least. So nothing can be compared with our philosophy either in the matter of antiquity, philosophy, ethics, science, morality, etc, all in correct vision and approved by great stalwart *acaryas.* So far others are concerned, they cannot be compared even. For example, if Lord Jesus Christ said, 'Thou shall not kill' or 'Thou shall not murder' to the people it does not reflect very good social structure of the audience. Our philosophy is above all these things. Just like we prescribe to our students no illicit sex life, no meat-eating, no gambling, no intoxication, but they are not ends in themselves. The real end is how to serve Krsna and sacrifice everything for Him. And to learn this transcendental art we have got so many volumes of books. So the summary is that instead of diverting our attention to read such unauthorized books, better to pay our attention to more authorized Vaisnava literature. These scriptures of the Buddhists and Christians may be the words of God, but still they are not always applicable to us. It is just like a king may give some rules and regulations for some criminals in prison, but for the good citizens out of the prison these rules are not necessarily applicable. ==So these Christian and Buddhist scriptures were delivered for a different class of men, and we needn't spend our time in studying their doctrines. You should read our own books over and over again *== * and as far as possible do not try and enter into controversy. We do not concern ourselves with any other religion. Our religion is to become the servant of the servant of the servant of Krsna." ([[letters/1969/691102_hayagriva_vamanadeva_pradyumna|Hamsaduta, 2 November, 1969]]) ==69-12 "Please continue to read the literature very attentively. Try to understand very soberly and you will feel ecstasy undoubtedly. The more we understand the spiritual literatures the more we become engladdened.== Lord Caitanya has written: *ananda ambudhi-bardhanam.* This means the ocean of bliss is always increasing. So continue to execute your duties with enthusiasm and patience, and I am certain Krsna will be pleased to make you successful on all accounts." ([[letters/1969/691207_aniruddha|Aniruddha, 7 December, 1969]]) *** 70-01 "In our devotional service there are nine different processes for executing devotional service, they are as follows: 1) Hearing, 2) Chanting, 3) Meditating, 4) Offering prayers, 5) Rendering service, 6) Making friendship, 7)Temple worship, 8) Serving the lotus feet, 9) Surrendering everything to the Lord. ==So out of these nine sravanam or hearing is very important. *== * This hearing is important in ordinary life also. In the civil action of human society this hearing is a very important factor. Early in the morning, just rising from bed, they want to hear the newspaper, especially in the Western countries. But the most unfortunate situation is that the *karmis* will agree to hear a bunch of newspaper which is ten times more in volume than *Bhagavad-gita,* but if they are requested to read *Bhagavad-gita,* they will not agree. So our propaganda is to transfer the taste of the general people from reading rubbish nonsense to reading of *Bhagavad-gita,* which solves the problems of life. As you are sincere devotee, you should always keep in mind these differences of hearing and try to understand how much important it is to hear about Krsna consciousness. You are thinking that there are many problems in your life, but I assure you that if you follow the regulative principles of chanting sixteen rounds, observing strictly the prohibitive injunctions, keep association with pure devotees, plus taking care of the Deities in the temple, surely all your problems will be solved without any difficulty. Please try it for at least one month and see the result." ([[letters/1970/700111_kulasekhara|Kulasekhara, 11 January, 1970]]) *** 70-01 "I am very glad to learn that the small children are also increasing their disposition and service attitude. Please get it recognized and increase the activities of the school more and more. All the devotees who desire to know may ask their questions to the elderly members but still they are open to write to me for all their questions and there should not be any hesitation. I reply each and every letter that I receive, but sometimes it may be a little late due to the pressure of work. But they should write, there is no checking. But it is better if simple questions are solved amongst yourselves in the *Istagosthi* class. ==Every one of you must regularly read our books at least twice, in the morning and evening, and automatically all questions will be answered." ([[letters/1970/700124_ranadhira|Ranadhira, 24 January, 1970]]) *** 70-02 "It is good news that by joint agreement you are now established as a nice Krsna conscious family in Boston center where you are working on the press. Please do persevere and make advancement in this Krsna consciousness movement. In this connection, ==I may inform you that now we are in need of devotees who are very well versed in the scriptures. The means of understanding the spirit of the scriptures is to chant regularly sixteen rounds daily without fail and follow the regulative principles rigidly.== All our students must carry out these daily duties of regular chanting without offense often kinds, following the regulations and studying our literatures, both in the weekly classes and individually, with close attention for thorough understanding of the transcendental subject." ([[letters/1970/700214_sacisuta|Sacisuta, 14 February, 1970]]) *** 70-02 "The way of discussion with Dr. Staal requires a little bit of knowledge in the *sastras* which is called *siddhanta.* In the *Caitanya-caritamrta* it is said that nobody should be neglectful of the *siddhanta* because by *siddhantic* conclusion one becomes firm in Krsna consciousness. ==So these siddhantic conclusions are being mentioned in all my books, and the boys and girls in our Krsna Society should now give more attention for studying the books very attentively. *== * And to get the strength, one should chant on the beads daily, sixteen rounds without fail. In this way, when the devotee is constantly engaged in Krsna consciousness, at that time, Krsna will give all intelligence from within how to make steady progress in Krsna consciousness. I hope in Washington center you will ask all the boys and girls to follow this method, because henceforward we will have to face many scholars and philosophers to stabilize our Krsna consciousness movement." ([[letters/1970/700217_sudama|Krsna devi, 17 February, 1970]]) *** 70-02 "So far we are concerned, every one of us must chant the beads according to the vow and follow the regulative principles in all departments of our activities, and this will give us spiritual strength to convince the audience about our aims and object. ==Someone of us in each and every center must be well versed in the sastras so that he can meet scholars and philosophers, and if need be convince them about our movement and philosophy with great strength." ([[letters/1970/700220_tamala_krsna|Tamala, 20 February, 1970]]) *** 70-03 "All this is good news that you are very studious and always busy. I am so much encouraged to hear how you are preaching in the school. That is very nice and that is your first-class engagement. Prahlada Maharaja, in his childhood, was doing this. As soon as he got some opportunity, he would preach amongst his class fellows. His class fellows would be astonished to hear him, and they would ask Prahlada, where have you learned these things? We have got the same teachers, so where have you been taught this?' They were inquisitive, so Prahlada informed them that his spiritual master was Narada Muni and he was taught while he was in the womb of his mother. So just imagine how much powerful is spiritual instruction that it was effective even while the child was in the womb. ==Similarly, if you chant and read, you will also be powerful to preach, and whoever will hear will be converted. That is the way of spiritual life." ([[letters/1970/700315_ekayani|Ekayani, 15 March, 1970]]) *** 70-04 "Regarding your other arrangement, I have already replied you in my last letter and as you are trying your best to make our preaching propaganda as most authoritative on the Vedic culture, Krsna will certainly help you. I think the book which I have sent you will help and the balance Krsna will teach you. ==We should always remember at the same time that we want to understand our business only and not try to become very scholarly because time is very short. But some of us, as you are trying, may proceed on as far as possible on the scholastic way." ([[letters/1970/700409_pradyumna|Pradyumna, 9 April, 1970]]) ==70-06 "So you take the good opportunity to study well our literature and how to apply the philosophy of Krsna consciousness practically in the daily working and help us to spread this transcendental message to all the people of the world. *== * That is our desire. So your humble and sincere effort is needed to be applied for executing this program to the best of your capacity. My Guru Maharaja used to say that everything is already supplied by Krsna. All the ingredients of different varieties already are there, there is no lack of anything in this world. The only thing that is lacking is Krsna consciousness. So Krsna is supplying us with all facilities, so there is no question of scarcity of anything. Simply we must become Krsna conscious and conscientiously apply our energy to utilizing all facilities in the matter of pleasing Krsna or devotional service. We should always be very careful to avoid utilizing any of the facilities available for our own sense gratification, but we should use everything for the satisfaction of Krsna only." ([[letters/1970/700603_madhavananda|Madhavananda, 3 June, 1970]]) *** 70-06 "I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated 16th June 1970, along with two copies of *Nectar of Devotion.* Yes, it is made very excellent. At least I can safely say that there is eighty percent perfection. This means we can hope very soon books printed from your press will be cent per cent successful as we are expecting to get from Dai Nippon. In some of the pages, the ink impression is not sufficient, otherwise it appears everything is nice. The paper is first-class, the sewing is also nice, and I hope the cover binding will be nice when it is done professionally. The pictures have also come out very excellent. So everything is very hopeful. You are trying your best, and Krsna will give you proper intelligence to execute these press responsibilities. All of you in the press are doing so much hard work. I can simply pray to Krsna for your perfect advancement in Krsna consciousness. One thing I must inform you in this connection that so far our activities in Krsna consciousness are concerned, every one of us should read this book very attentively because all conclusive statements in the kingdom of *bhakti* are contained in this transcendental valuable book. It is the essence of all Vedic scriptures enlightening about Krsna consciousness. ==If anyone will read this Nectar of Devotion very carefully, he will have all guidance in bhakti cult. So in the temple class some portions of this book must be regularly discussed."== ([[letters/1970/700618_advaita|Advaita, 18 June, 1970]]) ==70-06 "Speaking or anything all depends on practice and study. I remember when I was first called for speaking by one of my senior Godbrothers. I felt very much hesitating because I was not practiced to speak. *== * Later on by speaking and hearing or reading I got experience and now we can speak forty-five minutes, fifty minutes or one hour at a stretch. So you have to read our books very nicely and gather thoughts, then you can speak for hours without any difficulty. It requires practice. So read your books carefully, especially *The Nectar of Devotion* now published, and practice speaking. It will be all right." (SPL to Upendra June 24th, 1970) 70-06 "I am very much glad to learn that you have appreciated the subject matter of *Nectar of Devotion* and *Krsna* book while working on it in the press, and actually these two books will keep us constantly in Krsna consciousness. The secret of Krsna consciousness is open in these two books. Our method is very simple. All different methods of self-realization are little or more troublesome. This is explained in the *Bhagavad-gita* 12th chapter that persons who have no fixed idea what is God will have unnecessarily more trouble to reach the goal. Krsna is the ultimate objective. Unless one therefore reaches to this point he remains imperfect never mind what he is either a *karmi,* or *jnani* or a yogi. For a devotee the objective is directly approached. So persons will be interested simply in reading our books wherein there is only Krsna consciousness described in transcendental varieties. ==Thus by reading of these books, especially Nectar of Devotion, by the devotees everyone will go back to home, back to Godhead, Krsna."== ([[letters/1970/700629_madhusudana|Madhusudana, 29 June, 1970]]) ==70-07 "Yes, you all must read The Nectar of Devotion in your spare time." ([[letters/1970/700711_jadurani|Jadurani, 11 July, 1970]]) *** 70-08 "Before Vyasadeva, all the Vedic Scriptures were taught and received verbally by the disciplic succession. ==Both the students and the spiritual master of those ages were so sharp in their memory that once they heard the transcendental message from the spiritual master the message was immediately imprinted in their brain as vivid as a written language. *== * For example, Sukadeva Goswami was narrating *Srimad-Bhagavatam* extemporaneously. The whole *Srimad-Bhagavatam,* eighteen thousand verses, very difficult to pronounce even and what to speak of memorizing, were narrated very easily just like reading some printed book. He narrated the whole subject matter of *Srimad-Bhagavatam* continuously for seven days and Maharaja Pariksit also understood the subject matter very clearly. Both of them were so meritorious that they attained the highest goal of life, namely the lotus feet of Lord Sri Krsna simply by reciting and hearing respectively." (SPL to Bali Mardan, August 25th, 1970) 70-11 "I beg to acknowledge receipt of your kind letter dated 30th September, 1970 and ==I am glad to see how nicely you are reading my books. Please continue to do this. We need so many preachers who are soundly versed in the scriptures to convince the world to take to Krsna consciousness. *== * I am glad that you and the others are each writing one hour daily—essays. That is *parampara.* All of our previous *acaryas* on our line have written substantially on the science of God consciousness, so I would also like all my students to do this and I am very encouraged by this nice program you have initiated." (SPL to Vrndavana Candra, November 9th, 1970) ==70-11 "I hope you are chanting your rounds regularly and always engaging in devotional service in our regular temple program. Please read all our literatures very carefully and chant Hare Krsna always and be happy." (SPL to Bhakta dasa, November 17th, 1970) ==70-11 "So these books will supply clear idea of God, not only that but anyone who will read this Krsna book in two parts. Nectar of Devotion, and if possible Teachings of Lord Caitanya, I'm sure he cannot go away from becoming a devotee of Krsna." (SPL to Jagadisa, November 28th, 1970) ==71-01 "Your winter schedule is very nice. I am so glad to hear that temple worship is going on nicely and that you have made a program for discussing all our books. Such group discussion of transcendental topics is so much potent and all should participate."== (SPL to Bhavananda, January 21st, 1971) ==71-02 "Please fulfill all your requirements for advancement in Krsna consciousness by rigid following of the rules and regulations, chanting the sixteen rounds of beads daily, studying our literatures carefully and thoughtfully in the company of other devotees *== * and try always to keep yourself engaged progressively in some kind of service of the Lord. I am sure that you are already well familiar with the requirements of devotional service and in any case they are fully elaborated in our various literatures like *The Nectar of Devotion.* So you kindly become conversant with these transcendental scientific principles try to teach them to others while practicing them yourself. When you chant, avoid very carefully the ten offenses to the holy name. If you have any doubts or questions be sure to clear them by inquiry from either Rupanuga Prabhu, your other Godbrothers or if need be by writing to me. Be blessed and happy chanting Hare Krsna." (SPL to Gunagrahi dasa brahmacari, February 12th, 1971) ==71-04 "Remain unflinching in Krsna's service by strictly following the regulative principles, chanting sixteen rounds of beads daily, without fail, and reading all our books. Then Krsna will surely help you." (SPL to Kanya Kumari, April 1st, 1971) ==71-04 "You write to say that this Hare Krsna movement is perfect is all respects. Thank you very much. And it is a fact that 'sankirtana will keep you happy and the books will keep you convinced,' so make your program in that way and become fixed up in Krsna consciousness." (SPL to Vrndavana Candra, April 13th, 1971) ==71-06 "Generally it is the process to simply chant and hear, but if Krsna's lila comes into remembrance, that is very good. It should come automatically. Not that you are remembering artificially."== (SPL to Prahladananda, June 17th, 1971) 71-11 "Your proposals for teaching them our philosophy are very good. But if we try artificially to explain *sastra* in our own words, there is every danger of interpretation and speculation. First the student must be able to repeat exactly the words of the *guru* and then after some time he may be qualified to apply the principles he has learned word-for-word to personal situations. It is not that we are a dry philosophy of dogmas and slogans. No. The language of Krsna consciousness is ever-fresh and we can explain everything by it, just like my Guru Maharaja once lectured for three months on one verse from *Srimad-Bhagavatam.* ==But every precaution must be taken to preserve our basic guiding principles as they are and not change them because we want to hear something new." (SPL to Bhakta dasa, November 20th, 1971) 71-12 "In regard to your question about the Bible, you should just answer, 'You follow your Bible and I follow my *Bhagavad-gita.'* There was no swastika on Arjunas chariot. *Kapi-dhvajah* means whose flag is marked with a picture of Hanuman. So Arjuna s chariot had the flag of Hanuman on it. ==As far as the restriction for reading the Tenth Canto pastimes of Krsna. That is only for those who do not know what is Krsna. but you are initiated, so you can read because you know who Krsna is. *== * For example, when Krsna was seven years old he lifted Govardhana Hill. The nondevotee scholars say that it is mythology, but a devotee will know immediately that Krsna can do anything. Still our *Krsna* book is so nice that even an ordinary man can read it and derive benefit. Hoping this will meet you in good health." (SPL to Caturbhus, December 29th, 1971) ==72-01 "So we have got a great mission, we should be very vigilant that the strong foundation remain solid. Encourage all the boys and girls to adhere to the regulative principles and chant daily at least sixteen rounds. And as much as possible all of my students should become very well versed in all the philosophy presented in our books"== (SPL to Jagadisa, January 5th, 1972) ==72-01 "Now that you are going to join the touring party, Krsna is giving you a nice opportunity to do some preaching. So please be engaged fully in reading and chanting and try to impart Krsna consciousness to whomever you meet."== (SPL to Ranadhira, January 5th, 1972) ==72-01 "You must all study very scrutinizingly all of the books so that when the need arises you can repeat in your own words their purport. *== * Also I will be very pleased if you contribute articles to *Back to Godhead* magazine. By writing regularly, what you read will become realized. As much as possible read, chant and preach. This is our life and soul. If we keep to this simple formula then there is no doubt that we will be victorious wherever we go and very soon we will become the only religion in the world." (SPL to Hrdayananda, January 6th, 1972) ==72-01 "So become yourself very convinced of our Krsna philosophy and introduce it into the schools and colleges, as I think the German people are very much fond of philosophy." (SPL to Sucandra, January 11th, 1972) 72-01 "We must become so responsible for seriously practicing this art of Krsna consciousness, because this world is so full of degrading elements of life for dragging everyone down and down, and if just a few men can perfect the art, they can save the rest of all the people from the greatest dangers. So I count you and your Godbrothers among those few men who are treading seriously on the path back to Home, back to Godhead, and now we must maintain such exalted position and not fall back by neglecting our highest standards of devotional practices. In this way, what I have introduced into your Western countries, the pure love for Godhead process of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu, will go on increasing more and more to have effect by saving others. Otherwise, it will gradually become mechanical and fade away like every other so-called religious movement. ==So you can understand that I am very much depending on you to become very much convinced yourself of our Krsna philosophy and to take full responsibility for teaching others purely."== (SPL to Ranadhira, January 17th, 1972) 72-01 "As for the difference between mental speculation and philosophical speculation, we take it that everything is known by the psychological action of the mind, so that philosophical speculation is the same as mental speculation if it is merely the random or haphazard activity of the brain to understand everything and making theories, 'ifs' and 'maybes.' But if philosophical speculation is directed by *sastra* and Guru, and if the goal of such philosophical attempts is to achieve Visnu, then that philosophical speculation is not mental speculation. It is just like this: Krsna says in *Bhagavad-gita* that 'I am the taste of water.' ==Philosophical speculation in the accepted sense then means to try to understand, under the direction of sastra and Guru, just how Krsna is the taste of water. *== * The points of *Bhagavad-gita,* though they are simple and complete, can be understood from unlimited angles of vision. So our philosophy is not dry, like mental speculation. The proper function of the brain or psychological activity is to understand everything through Krsna s perspective or point-of-view, and so there is no limit to that understanding because Krsna is unlimited, and even though it can be said that the devotee who knows Krsna, he knows everything (Fifteenth Chapter), still, the philosophical process never stops and the devotee continues to increase his knowledge even though he knows everything. Try to understand this point, it is a very good question." (SPL to Caturbhuj, January 21st, 1972) ==72-02 "The verses of the Gita have a specific melody but you may choose a suitable tune. Most important is that the melody remains very simple."== (SPL to Suresvara dasa, February 3rd, 1972) ==72-02 "Now I am pleased that you are making serious study of our Krsna philosophy, so I want that you go on like this until you will able to defeat any challenge from atheists and rascals. *== * Then your preaching work will have real potency and combinedly with your God-brothers around the world and at the London temple you shall preach so strongly that one day this Krsna consciousness movement will change the world from the most dangerous condition. That is the wish of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu, and tomorrow we shall be celebrating the Lords Appearance Day by laying down the corner-stone for our World Headquarters here at Mayapur. Because you want to understand in this way, I have instructed Revatinandana Maharaja to take special attention for your questions to him, and I think he will answer them to your satisfaction, but if he is unable, then you may ask them to me instead." (SPL to Caturbhuj, February 28th, 1972) 72-02 "You are experiencing some doubts, that you cannot believe that the Krsna from *Krsna* book can be the Supreme Personality of Godhead, that it must be like some fairy-tale. To clear up these things the best remedy is to discuss amongst yourselves, all members regularly, all our books in classes, then these doubts will be killed. Without reading books it becomes hackneyed and such obnoxious ideas trouble us. Our thoughts are always changing, that is the nature of the mind, so you cannot expect that even the great saintly persons are free from thoughts coming and going. But after thinking there is feeling and willing, willing being the stage of putting the thoughts into action. So if we are able to employ our intelligence, then we kill the thoughts before they become manifest in activity, ==but because we are so much inclined to enjoy something unintelligently, we have to therefore daily sharpen our intelligence faculty by reading and discussing and preaching to others. *== * In this way we are able very easily to defeat all challengers to our philosophy and everything becomes very clear as it is revealed from different angles of vision. Krsna makes promise to one who is striving to serve Him sincerely that He will give such devotee the intelligence by which he may come to Him. Therefore we should always pray that Krsna may kindly provide me the intelligence to kill all demons of doubt, and because He understands the heart of His sincere devotee, immediately He gives assistance. For my part, for example, I am absolutely certain that anyone who challenges me I can defeat you. Why is that? Because Krsna gives me the intelligence." (SPL to Satyabhama, February 28th, 1972) ==72-03 "Therefore because the devotee always knows this, he is more superior person because he has got all knowledge. But even more important than the knowledge of Krsna is the acting upon that knowledge, or devotional service. By the acting he realizes his knowledge and becomes complete." (SPL Sri Govinda, March 5th, 1972) ==72-03 "Your book distribution program is very much encouraging to me. The more such literatures are read and distributed, the more auspiciousness will be there in the world. Please continue this program with ever-increasing enthusiasm." (SPL to Lilavati, March 26th, 1972) ==72-05 "Yes, that is a nice proposal if you speak like a learned scholar. Everything is there in our books, so learn it and put it your own way by reproducing. You are also materially well-educated so reproduce what I have taught in your own language. *== * These things are new thoughts in your Western countries, everyone will be interested. Writing is also required. Let it be published first in our *Back to Godhead* magazine, then sometimes they may be printed into books also." (SPL to Kīrtanānanda, May 2nd, 1972) ==72-05 "I am very glad to hear that there is an increase in classes and that the mantra class is being held daily twice. In this way if we always concentrate on reading our literature then there will be no difficulty to preach. *== * Nor will the mind wander to other subjects. By reading these books regularly we become more and more convinced in Krsna consciousness. And if we become more convinced, that will spread the potency of Lord Caitanya's *sankirtana* movement with great strength. I have received one letter from the boy Satyadeva and I think he is doing very nicely there as president. I think it is a good idea for you to start your center in the city of Tokyo and also to keep the *asrama* where I was staying. The Indians there in Tokyo will help you. You can first of all solicit their help in this matter by first making life members, just as we have done in London. I am also glad to hear that Trivikrama has become enthusiastic for helping you in this way." (SPL to Sudama, May 23rd, 1972) 72-06 "Our advancement in Krsna consciousness is made possible in two ways, by knowledge and renunciation, *jnana* and *tyaga* or *tapasya.* The more we become renounced from this material world, the more we advance in Krsna consciousness. ==But we are only able to make such sacrifices and perform *tapasya== if we have got knowledge. So first thing is to become knowledgeable in Krsna consciousness, then the tapasya* or voluntary life of austerity will result automatically. So I am requesting all of my students to read my books very seriously every day without fail. * * In this way, if your mind becomes absorbed at least one or two hours daily in the transcendental subject matter of * Srimad-Bhagavatam, Bhagavad-gita,* and other books then very easily you will make your advancement in Krsna consciousness. It is not a matter of changing our engagement, adjusting this or that material condition, in order to find our real happiness. Krsna consciousness is not like that. It is able to be performed under any variety of material conditions or with any type of engagement. Therefore if your duty as a photographer is very much helpful to our propaganda work and for improving our *Back to Godhead* then there is very much need for your remaining in that occupation and doing it to your best capacity. It is a fallacy to say my present engagement with the press is not the best for my spiritual advancement, and if we think in this way we may go on trying out one engagement after another and always say the same excuse. This restlessness or agitation of the mind cannot be rectified by altering the material circumstances. If we are Krsna conscious, any type of occupation will suit me and we shall always be satisfied. Therefore, I recommend you to read books more and more and try to understand the subject matter from different angles of vision and be always discussing it with your Godbrothers even while you are working at the press, and when you are working and you cannot read, then listen to the tapes of my lectures and hear in that way. And never neglect to chant your sixteen rounds of beads daily, rise early without fail, attend *mangala-arati,* take bath, and follow the other regulative principles, and everything will come out very successfully, you can rest assured of that." (SPL to Bhargava, June 13th, 1972) 72-06 "Your first job should be to make sure that every one of the devotees in your zone of management is reading regularly our literature and discussing the subject matter seriously from different angles of seeing, and if they are somehow or other absorbing the knowledge of Krsna consciousness philosophy. If they are fully educated in our philosophy and if they can get all the knowledge and study it from every viewpoint, then very easily they will perform *tapasya* or renunciation, and that will be their advancement in Krsna consciousness. So first thing is to instruct all of your temple presidents and the other devotees to read daily, just as we have done in our morning class in Los Angeles... ==Don't be too much concerned for the time being with non-devotees, now we must fix up what devotees we have got in the knowledge of Krsna consciousness, then we will succeed. What good are many, many devotees if none of them are knowledgeable?" (SPL Satsvarupa dasa, June 16th, 1972) 72-06 =="I am very much stressing at this point that all of my students shall be very much conversant with the philosophy of Krsna consciousness, and that they should read our books very diligently at least one or two hours daily and try to understand the subject matter from varieties of angles.== We are holding our morning class here in Los Angeles in the temple and I am speaking from seven to eight am, and the process is that we are going through some chapters of *Srimad-Bhagavatam* by taking one *sloka* each day, and reading the Sanskrit aloud, each word is pronounced by me and repeated by the students and then altogether we chant the *sloka* several times until we have learned it. And then we discuss the subject matter very minutely and inspect it from all angles of approach and savor the new understandings. So you introduce this system in all of the centers in your zone, and you will discover that everyone becomes very much enlivened by these daily classes. Read one *sloka* and discuss and then go on to the next *sloka* on the next day, and so on, and even you discuss one verse each day it will take you 50 years to finish the *Srimad-Bhagavatam* in this way. So we have got ample stock for acquiring knowledge. And if the students get knowledge more and more, they will automatically become convinced and very easily perform their duties for *tapasya* or renunciation of the material bondage, and that will be their successful advancement in Krsna consciousness. So I want that advancement amongst all of my students, so you are responsible that the standard will be maintained." (SPL to Madhudvisa, June 16th, 1972) 72-06 "I am very much glad to hear that you are associating with us, and I know that you are a very good boy, very intelligent and your behavior is gentle, so I have all confidence that very quickly Krsna will bestow His blessings upon you and you will feel yourself becoming perfectly happy in Krsna consciousness. One makes his advancement in Krsna consciousness by giving up voluntarily his attachment to material nature or *maya* and such renunciation is called *tapasya.* But we are not very willing to perform austerities without good reason, therefore any man with scientific and philosophical good brain such as your good self, must appreciate first what is the transcendental knowledge. ==If you get knowledge, automatically tapasya will follow, and then you make advancement in spiritual life. So to get knowledge is the first item for anyone who is hoping to find his perfection of life. Therefore, I advise you to daily read our books as far as possible and try to understand the subject matter from different angles of vision by discussing frequently with the devotees *== * at New York temple. In this way you will become gradually convinced, and by your sincere attitude and devotional service you will make progress." (SPL to Bob, June 16th, 1972) ==72-07 "Yes, reading my books will help you, philosophy must be there, but if you do not also apply the philosophy by participating in all temple affairs like rising early, attending mangala-arati, performing devotional service, then simply learning the philosophy will have no effect."== ([[letters/1972/720707_dayananda|Dayananda, 7 July, 1972]]) ==72-07 "It is very good that you want to become very learned in Krsna consciousness, but what good is so much knowledge without== practice? Obedience must be there, so by being submissive in this way and following the direction of the temple leaders is practicing the knowledge of Krsna consciousness. *==* Disciple means discipline. Without discipline there cannot be any spiritual progress. Therefore our system is to follow the authority of our superiors, not that we can independently question, no this is right and this is wrong. That is not the way. So my best advice to you is that without questioning you follow the instructions given to you by Visnujana and other leaders, and do exactly as they say, then everything will be all right. If you want to study, there is much time in the day for studying, but you must go also on *sankirtana* party, that is the result or practice of your studying. Simply studying is dry and useless without chanting." ([[letters/1972/720723_sankarsana|Sankarsana, 23 July, 1972]]) ==72-07 "Everywhere, wherever Krsna Katha is spoken, that is Vaikuntha. And wherever I go to my branches, you my good devotees turn it into Vaikuntha and I wish to be there where my disciples are." ([[letters/1972/720729_citsukhananda|Citsukhananda, 29 July, 1972]]) *** 72-08 "We are never alone in Krsna consciousness. You have got so many wonderful brothers and sisters who are really your family, and besides that the spiritual master is always in his instructions, and Krsna is there within your heart, so you need not feel you are ever alone. Make Krsna your husband and always think of Him, raise your child up very nicely, chant without fail sixteen rounds of Hare Krsna *mantra* daily, ==read Srimad-Bhagavatam at least one hour daily, and in this way without any doubt you will very soon become very happy, and your life will be sublime." ([[letters/1972/720811_gangadevi|Gangadevi, 11 August, 1972]]) *** 72-09 "I have been informed by Sriman Syamasundara of your question via telephone from New York temple, and my reply is that this *sankirtana* or street chanting must go on, it is our most important program. Lord Caitanya's movement means the *sankirtana* movement. You may simply take two hours for chanting sixteen rounds daily, two hours for reading congregationally, and balance of time go out for *sankirtana.* ==We must do both, reading books and distributing books, but distributing books is the main propaganda. Reading in class for two hours is sufficient and other reading can be done in spare time if one has got it, it is not that one has to be always reading. *== * One hour a morning for *Bhagavata* class and one hour evening, either *Bhagavad-gita* or *Nectar of Devotion,* that is sufficient." (SPL to Bali Mardan and Pusta Krsna, 18th September,* 1972) ==73-02 "As far as studying my books is concerned, I have already given the order. One hour in the morning class and one hour in the evening and if there is extra time during the day it may be used for studying but we cannot expect everyone to be studious. *== * If someone has desired to distribute books all day he may do this, but he must always follow the principles of rising early, chanting sixteen rounds, etc. Just as some rich men have no inclination for studying, but still he opens many schools for others to study at. Like this, all of my students may not be inclined to study but they are very much eager to give others the opportunity to read my books and this should not be discouraged." ([[letters/1973/730214_rupanuga|Rupanuga, 14 February, 1973]]) ==73-02 "It has been brought to my attention that some of my students are not studying. I do not know if this applies to you or the devotees under your care, but I must stress again that we must have our classes one hour in the morning and one hour in the evening *== * and the devotees must also chant regularly their sixteen rounds and follow the principles. The rest of the time they may go on distribution of my books. So I hope you will do the needful in this regard." ([[letters/1973/730214_ramesvara|Ramesvara, 14 February, 1973]]) *** 73-02 "Just recently Rupanuga dasa Goswami has had one very successful meeting with Kenneth Keating, the American Ambassador to India and he has agreed to be our chief guest when we open our center in downtown Manhattan. ==I have said before, Hearing is the first step in God realization; therefore if we can simply convince these big men to hear, then gradually they will come to the point of accepting us." ([[letters/1973/730221_mukunda|Mukunda, 21 February, 1973]]) ==73-03 "You are studying Sanskrit, that is very nice. If you can learn to vibrate some important Sanskrit verses then you will be listened to wherever you go. On my return trip to India next time I expect to land in Tokyo so I can see you at that time." ([[letters/1973/730328_satadhanya|Satadhanya, 28 March, 1973]]) ==73-04 "The simple method I have introduced, namely learn English and Sanskrit, is sufficient. Why the so-called Montessori method?"== ([[letters/1973/730411_jayapataka|Satsvarupa Maharaja, 11 April, 1973]]) *** 73-07 "Regarding the starting of a Society Newsletter, I think there is no need for it. Do not unnecessarily increase your responsibilities. What responsibilities you have make perfect. Besides, we already have our Society journal, *Back to Godhead.* As for receiving news of other centers, why should you be so anxious? The news is always the same, *sankirtana* is going on, Deity worship, with little change. ==We should rather turn our interest to learn from the hooks more and more. We should inquire about Krsna. Temple life is going on with little change, but we should become habituated to read the books more profoundly. *== * Then if you have some questions about Krsna consciousness as in the books, you can ask an elder Godbrother or write to me directly. That will help you make progress." ([[letters/1973/730723_sukadeva|Sukadeva, 23 July, 1973]]) *** 74-04 "I am very keen on the distribution of my books and I am very indebted to all of you for your untiring efforts to see that every man and woman in America get one of my books. ==If they simply read one page, even if they do nothing else, they can become perfect. *== * I have read the plans of Ramesvara and Tripurari to attend the fair and distribute to the thousands of people who are coming. Whatever transcendental tactics you leaders think best for distributing the books you can employ. Please keep me informed of your progress as the Fair develops." ([[letters/1974/740420_bhavananda_jayapataka|Bhavananda and Jayapataka, 20 April, 1974]]) *** 74-06 "Regarding your philosophical question, if the *Bhagavad-gita* is part of *Mahabharata* which is considered *smrti,* how can we claim *Bhagavad-gita* to be *Gitopanisad,* or one of the *Upanisads* which are *sruti?* Actually because the *Gita* is spoken by the Supreme Personality of Godhead it is *sruti.* But people take it as *smrti* because it is part of the *Mahabharata.* We take it as *sruti* as far as we are concerned. The purport of *sruti* is to make one advanced in understanding the Absolute Truth. ==Here the Absolute Truth is explaining personally, therefore the Gita should be taken as sruti. But they take it as smrti because it is part of the smrti (Mahabharata). In one sense it is both sruti and smrti."== ([[letters/1974/740614_aksayananda_pancadravida|Acyutananda Maharaja, 14 June, 1974]]) *** 74-06 "Regarding the techniques for book distribution, it is all right if the devotees dress like the young people they are selling the books to. The main thing is that the innocent are given the books and the chance to become Krsna conscious by reading them. ==You have to see that our book distributors are also reading my books and following all the regulative principles, then it is all right selling in public in that way." ([[letters/1974/740625_jagadisa|Jagadisa, 25 June, 1974]]) ==74-10 "The book sales are very encouraging, increasing, increasing. It is very good news. Thank you, I want this. Record selling is temporary. Even George Harrison's record sales do not continue for a long time. But, a book sold becomes a permanent matter for enjoyment. We read the scriptures again and again and it is still fresh. When there is time I go on reading my own books."== ([[letters/1974/741001_rupanuga|Hamsaduta, 1 October, 1974]]) *** 74-11 "So far your worship of Lord Jagannatha in your home and your becoming initiated. It is all right provided you have the recommendation of the temple president. I am very glad to see that such a young boy as yourself is taking serious interest in this Krsna consciousness movement. Please continue in this way. Our process is something universal. It cannot be checked by any means. Anyone in any place, in any country can chant Hare Krsna. If it is possible to go to the temple, then take advantage of the temple. A temple is a place where by one is given the opportunity to render direct devotional service to the Supreme Lord Sri Krsna. In conjunction with this ==you should always read my books daily and all your questions will be answered and you will have a firm basis of Krsna consciousness. In this way your life will be perfect." ([[letters/1974/741122_nrhari|Hugo Salemon, 22 November, 1974]]) ==74-12 "Please continue reading our books with great care, studying again and again and staunchly following all of our regulative principles and always stay in the association of devotees, chanting Hare Krsna."== ([[letters/1974/741216_rsabhadeva|Bhakta Steve, 16 December, 1974]]) *** 75-05 "From your letter, I can understand that you are reading my books nicely and understanding our philosophy. This is wanted. ==By reading my books carefully, you will become enthused to distribute them more and more in greater quantities. *== * If you continue in this way being very much determined to achieve success in this lifetime, following all the rules, chanting at least sixteen rounds, and reading my books, then all of your desires to advance in Krsna consciousness will be fulfilled and you will surely attain spiritual perfection and be able to go back to Godhead very soon." ([[letters/1975/750522_rasarani|Ganesa dasa, 22 May, 1975]]) *** 75-09 "I have seen the latest reviews that you have sent with your letter and I thank you for them. The linguistics professor has correctly remarked. It was my intention in presenting the books that anyone who would read, they would learn Sanskrit. For example almost all of my disciples are pronouncing Sanskrit very nicely just by reading my books. He says that there is no pronunciation guide, but it is there is it not? The best thing would be is a recording. ==Therefore our process for learning is by hearing. Hearing is so important." ([[letters/1975/750926_jagadisa|Kirtiraja dasa, 26 September, 1975]]) *** 75-12 "I beg to acknowledge receipt of your long letter how you are appreciating this philosophy. It is said in the *Bhagavad-gita* that out of thousands of men, only one takes an interest in the perfection of human life. The perfection of human life is to develop ones dormant love for God, and thus be released from the terrible cycle of birth and death. People are so foolish that they simply waste time in temporary pursuits of material happiness, eating, sleeping, defending and enjoying sex life. Especially sex life. The sum and substance of material life is attraction for the opposite sex. ==The sum and substance of spiritual life is attraction to Krsna. So to develop attraction for Krsna is not difficult, you simply have to hear about Krsna, *== * his activities, his name, his form and his teaching in *Bhagavad-gita.* Naturally you will develop love for Krsna, because we are all part and parcel of Krsna. The beginning process is to chant Hare Krsna, follow the four regulative principles and associate with devotees, and take *prasadam* of Krsna. I think you are now living in the temple of Krsna, so these things will be very easy for you to practice." ([[letters/1975/751218_all_temple_presidents|Bhakta Steven Knapp, 18 December, 1975]]) ==76-01 "Yes, we should always remember following the regulative principles and reading our books. That will give us spiritual strength." ([[letters/1976/760105_locanananda|Locanananda, 5 January, 1976]]) *** 76-01 "Thank you for appreciating Sri *Caitanya-caritamrta.* There is no need to feel sad at the end of a chapter or a volume because there is always another chapter and another volume. There is no scarcity. You want more nectarine and the supply is also there. ==Those who are actually looking for spiritual culture will find immense wealth in Caitanya-caritamrta."== ([[letters/1976/760110_visvakarma|Pusta Krsna, 10 January, 1976]]) ==76-04 "Concerning your questions raised, the process is simply to hear from authority and accept it. *== * From the *Bhagavad-gita* we can understand Krsna because He is explaining Himself. What is the difficulty to understand? There is somebody superior in all aspects of material activities. The sun rises exactly on time, the seasons changing, fruits appearing, and flowers. There is no change in the law of nature. Don't you think that there is a superior being managing these things? Why not accept this proposal. It is no explanation that it is simply accident that all these things are going on so nicely: *mayadhyaksena prakrtih, suyate sa-caracaram.* 'This material world is working under my direction, O son of Kunti", and it is producing all moving and non-moving beings. By its rule this manifestation is created and annihilated again and again.' (Bhagavad-gita * 9.10) The reasoning is there if you simply explain that Krsna is full in six opulences, strength, knowledge, wealth, beauty, fame, and renunciation. No one can excel Krsna in opulence. Nobody is equal to or greater than Krsna, therefore He is God. The word for philosophy is * tattva-darsinah: * the * Bhagavad-gita * recommends that one approach a spiritual master who is * tattva-darsinah,* one who has seen the truth. This is philosophy." ([[letters/1976/760402_v.g.k._dipple|Mr. Batra, 2 April, 1976]]) *** 76-04 "Concerning your questions: Yes, it will help to read *Bhagavad-gita* but you have to hear from the realized person. Without the help of guru, if you read independently, you may be misguided. Therefore, so many politicians, scholars, etc. not being guided by the *parampara* system, have simply misled the public. The *Bhagavad-gita* is the standard book of knowledge in India and many eminent persons like Gandhi, Aurobindo, Dr. Radhakrishnan, etc. they tried to understand the *Bhagavad-gita,* but could not do it. They were themselves misled and on account of their big position they misled so many followers. Our system, the Vedic system, is to approach the right person and hear from him exactly as Arjuna listened from Krsna. Mental speculation will not help. Hearing is the main point. In the *Bhagavad-gita,* it is written: *dharma-ksetre kuru-ksetre...* when you hear form a realized soul, a person who knows things, he'll explain that Kuruksetra is a place where religious ritualistic ceremonies are performed from time immemorial, from the time before the Battle of Kuruksetra. But, if you read the books of some cunning politician, he'll mislead you and you'll learn that Kuruksetra means this body which is not actually the fact. That is the difference, hearing from devotees, the sound vibration coming from the realized person. Reading the book is the same thing: *tattva-darsinah* —hearing from one who has seen the truth. ==Reading or hearing from the realized person there is no difference, but hearing the sound vibration from the realized soul is still more effective, better."== ([[letters/1976/760416_aksayananda|Punjabi Premananda, 16 April, 1976]]) *** 76-07 "Concerning making a comparative study and critique of philosophy, unless one is very expert it is difficult for him. First of all, let people understand Krsna. We are doing that. Maybe one or two are interested in philosophy and for so few persons we can't spare so much valuable time. Better to induce everyone to chant Hare Krsna and take *prasadam.* That will be a mass benevolent activity. In the Western countries many Ph.D.'s are out of employment because they do not get any service. ==We do not want to become great philosophers but rather to understand the philosophy in our own books. If we remain strong in our own literature, we can meet anyone else without any fear." ([[letters/1976/760717_damodara_pandita|Damodara Pandita dasa, 17 July, 1976]]) *** 76-08 "I am sorry to learn that you have become a little agitated regarding the publication of an article in our *Back to Godhead* magazine. It is certainly unpleasant, but the officers who publish the magazine do not know *satyam bruyat priyam bruyat,* in this material world only palatable truth should be spoken. Unpalatable truth should be carefully avoided. The cause of Lord Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu s agitation was much the same as your own. As you are irritated by the criticism of Sri Vallabhacarya, similarly Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu was also agitated when Vallabhacarya criticized Sridhara Swami. Sridhara Swami is accepted as the original commentator on the *Srimad-Bhagavatam.* Perhaps you know that there is an edition of the *Srimad-Bhagavatam* by Krsna Sankara Sastri *'abhinavah sukah’ Vedantacarya, Sahitya-tirtha, Sribhagavata-sudhanidhi* from Ahmedabad. In his book he has given almost all the important commentaries on the *Bhagavatam,* as follows: 1. Sridhara Swami 2. Sri Vamsidhara 3. Sri Gangasahaya 4. Srimad Viraraghavacarya 5. Srimad Vijayadhvaja Tirtha 6. Srimad Jiva Goswami 7. Srimad Visvanatha Cakravarti Thakura 8. Srimad Sukadeva 9. Goswami Sri-Giridharilal (Vallabhacarya *sampradaya) 10. Sri Bhagavata-prasadacarya, etc. Among all commentaries, Sridhara Swami's is given the first position. This * parampara * has existed for a very long time. It was also accepted during Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu s time, but Sri Vallabhacarya violated the system. Instead of acknowledging Sridhara Swami's pre-eminent position, he wanted to take it himself. I am enclosing herewith some photocopies of the important verses form the original book * Caitanya-caritamrta * that specifically deal with the subject matter. These verses are from * Antya-lila * Chapter 7, entitled 'Lord Caitanya meets Vallabha Bhatta.' I would like to draw your attention to verse 113 on page 55 where Vallabha Bhatta says: ’In my commentary on * Srimad-Bhagavatam,' * he said, I have refuted the explanations of Sridhara Swami. I cannot accept his explanations.' Moreover, verse 114 states: 'Whatever Sridhara Swami reads he explains according to the circumstances. Therefore he is inconsistent in his explanations and cannot be accepted as an authority.' Vallabha Bhattas declaration certainly agitated Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. Consequently, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu remarked sarcastically that He considered that anyone who did not accept the * svami (or Sridhara Swami) as an authority was a prostitute. *Prabhu hasi kahe;* but he smiled and said this jokingly, because they were friends. Although this point is very controversial, it is not based on hearsay, as you have stated, but it is authoritatively documented by the *Caitanya-caritamrta.* As you have written in a friendly spirit, I do not wish to discuss this point further. If you will kindly take a little trouble to read this chapter 'Lord Caitanya meets Vallabha Bhatta' you will understand the whole situation. Actually Vallabha Bhatta should not have criticized Sridhara Swami, because even now Sridhara Swami is very respected. Even authorities like Sri Jiva Goswami and Visvanatha Cakravarti Thakura mention in their commentaries, *svami caranat,* as we have learned it from the lotus feet of Sridhara Swami. So when Vallabha Bhatta criticized Sridhara Swami, Caitanya Mahaprabhu criticized Vallabha Bhatta strongly. This is a fact, but this does not mean that Vallabha Bhatta and Caitanya Mahaprabhu were inimical. Vallabha Bhatta honored Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu as a superior. Sometimes Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu would chastise Vallabha Bhatta and sometimes He would favor him, because this was their relationship. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu would never refuse the occasional invitations of Vallabha Bhatta. Everything will become clear if you kindly read this chapter with attention. For example, we see that two lawyers in the court-room may fight vigorously about a law point, but upon returning to the law library, they talk and embrace like friends. So you should always remember that we have no ill feelings toward Vallabha Bhattacarya. We have full respect for him, so ==there is no harm if these facts are discussed in the society of devotees. Devotees always humbly offer respect to everyone, but when there is a discussion on a point of sastra, they do not observe the usual etiquette: satyam bruyat priyam bruyat. They speak only the satyam, although it may not necessarily be priyam. *== * I hope you will understand the whole situation. If you still have any doubts, I shall be glad to hear from you and shall try to satisfy you to the best of my ability. I am presently not in very good health, nonetheless I hope this meets you well." ([[letters/1976/760809_sumati_morarjee|Madame Sumati Morarji, 9 August, 1976]]) *** 76-09 "Your *siddhanta* is correct to the *sastra* and in this way go on reading books and have the correct perception and Krsna will help you: *siddhanta baliya citte na kara alasa, iha ha-ite krsna lage sudrdha manasa.* ==A sincere student should not neglect the discussion of such conclusions, considering them controversial, for such discussions strengthen the mind. Thus one's mind becomes attached to Sri Krsna. *== * You should be always alert in understanding the *sastric* conclusions that will help you, otherwise we can be misled by bogus philosophies. I am very pleased that you are studying the books. This will make you happy and successful." ([[letters/1976/760922_jayapataka|Ayodhyapati dasa, 22 September, 1976]]) ## Everything is in Srila Prabhupāda's Books 69-01 "Regarding the answers which you gave to Vilasa Vigraha dasa, they were all correct. ==When you study very carefully all of the literature which is available, especially Bhagavad-gita As It Is, you will have in your grasp answers to all questions that may be put to you.== Please encourage the others to read this *Bhagavad-gita* at least one chapter every day." ([[letters/1969/690106_upendra|Upendra, 6 January, 1969]]) ==69-10 "So if you can satisfy them intellectually and answer all their questions, that will be your success. All the answers are there in Srimad-Bhagavatam, Bhagavad-gita As It Is, and Teachings of Lord Caitanya. You will simply have to study these books to find out the answers."== ([[letters/1969/691003_brahmananda|Bali Mardan and Sudama, 3 October, 1969]]) *** 70-01 "I am very glad to learn that the small children are also increasing their dispositions and service attitude. Please get it recognized and increase the activities of the school more and more. All the devotees who desire to know may ask their questions to the elderly members but still they are open to write to me for all their questions and there should not be any hesitation. I reply each and every letter that I receive, but sometimes it may be a little late due to the pressure of work. But they should write, there is no checking. But it is better if simple questions are solved amongst yourselves in the *Istagosthi* class. ==Every one of you must regularly read our books at least twice, in the morning and evening, and automatically all questions will be answered."== ([[letters/1970/700124_ranadhira|Ranadhira, 24 January, 1970]]) ==70-09 "Now I have invested the GBC for maintaining the standard of our Krsna Consciousness Society, so keep the GBC very vigilant. I have already given you full directions in my books. Please counteract this contamination which has been spread throughout our Society." (SPL to Satsvarupa, September 13th, 1970) ==72-01 "There is no need by any of my disciples to read any books besides my books—in fact, such reading may be detrimental to their advancement in Krsna consciousness. *== * All reading of outside books, except in certain authorized cases such as for example to read some philosopher like Plato to make an essay comparing his philosophy with Krsna's philosophy—but otherwise all such outside reading should be stopped immediately. It is simply another botheration. If my students cannot even read my own books thoroughly, why they should read others? I have given you *Teachings of Lord Caitanya,* what need is there to read *Caitanya-caritamrta* translated by someone else. You are right to stop such reading." (SPL to Sri Govinda dasa, January 20th, 1972) ==73-10 "Krsna has given you nice opportunity to preach the philosophy so you must be sure to understand it rightly. Everything is given in my books for you. So go on with your traveling and preaching program and you can count on it that Krsna will give you all facility." ([[letters/1973/731014_bali_mardan|Gunagrahi dasa, 14 October, 1973]]) *** 74-02 "I share your confidence that if done rightly, we can attract many persons, to visit the Manor and take *prasadam* and chant Hare Krsna. That will be a great victory, and if they can take our books and hear the philosophy then we can make devotees out of them. This great responsibility is in your charge. ==I have given you all the guidance and hints and it is described in all my books. Now it is up to you. Please keep our principles firmly and everything will come out successful." ([[letters/1974/740201_mukunda|Mukunda, 1 February, 1974]]) *** 74-03 "You write that you are becoming very involved in Krsna consciousness but your wife is not very interested and you want to know from me whether you should leave her. It is not necessary to leave your wife. The important thing is that you yourself become Krsna conscious, she cannot check you one way or another, but you must yourself surrender to Krsna and be engaged in devotional service. We do not say that one has to leave home. Either you leave home or remain there, and whether or not she becomes Krsna conscious, you go on with your progressive interest and participation in this great movement. By and by if you are strong in your determination, she may also follow you. If you have further questions you may write me or consult with the devotees in the temple. ==Actually I have already answered all questions in my books such as Bhagavad-gita, so kindly read them and chant Hare Krsna mantra."== ([[letters/1974/740306_cyavana|Brian Fleming, 6 March, 1974]]) *** 74-11 "I == == am pleased to hear that you are chanting sixteen rounds daily and reading my books regularly and following the four rules. == In my books the philosophy of Krsna consciousness is explained fully so if there is anything which you do not understand, then you simply have to read again and again. By reading daily the knowledge will be revealed to you and by this process your spiritual life will develop. *== * Krsna consciousness is not a hackneyed thing but it is something which is our natural and original consciousness. Presently our consciousness is clouded just like a mirror becomes covered with dust, so the cleansing process is this chanting and hearing and doing some service and trying to please the spiritual master. By this process our consciousness becomes clear and we are able to understand everything." ([[letters/1974/741122_nrhari|Bahurupa dasa, 22 November, 1974]]) *** 76-02 "It is nice to hear that your activities are going on successfully in Athens. Caitanya Mahaprabhu says: *prthivite ache yata nagaradi-grama, sarvatra pracara haibe mora nama.* [ *CB Antya-khañòa* 4.126] So now it is actually becoming a fact. This movement is being spread everywhere. ==Maintain your activities and increase gradually. I have instructed everything in my books. *== * You may translate the *Bhagavad-gita* first." ([[letters/1976/760225_nitai|Dina Dayala dasa, 25 February, 1976]]) *** 76-05 "Regarding your questions, we should not take any stock of rumors which may come, that is not our process to act upon rumors. We hear from the authorized sources, and then our hearing is prefect. So you are the leader of a big temple, you should know these things and avoid them, and ==instruct the other students there to stick to whatever is mentioned in our books and try to understand that subject matter from every angle of vision, without trying to adulterate by adding anything rumour. Our preaching must be based upon the subject matter from our books and nothing outside of them. *== * The actual fact is that worshiping Deity and chanting the glories of the Lord are both within the nine processes of devotional service recommended by Rupa Goswami. Besides chanting and hearing and remembering there are six other recommended activities in devotional service. So if we are able to practice even only one of these activities perfectly, the result will be the same. Or we may execute more than one, we may execute several or even all nine activities in devotional service, but even if we execute one perfectly we shall be completely successful in devotional service. So there is no question that one activity is more important than another or that Deity worship is more important than *sankirtana,* but one individual may be able to perform one activity more satisfactorily than another, so to him that activity will be more important. But in general we cannot say that any of the nine processes is more important than the others, except that if hearing, chanting and remembering are there, that is the most vital consideration for the general class of men in this age. Service to the Deities, as you are asking me, begins whenever you remember Them and offer all your services by remembering at the same time. All activities, words, everything should be offered as service to the Deities, and this offering with remembering will gradually increase as you practice it." ([[letters/1976/760516_gopala_krsna|Prajapati dasa, 16 May, 1976]]) ## Other Books That Can be Heard ==68-01 "Regarding Hanuman Prasad Poddar, he is not so formidable rascal, but you can read his literature. He is a sincere worker in Krsna consciousness.== His defect is that he is impersonalist but he cannot remain long an impersonalist because he is devoted to Radha and Krsna. Recently he has sent me one letter of appreciation for my activities here. There is no objection to reading his books. Regarding the other books, keep them very nicely and I shall see when I go there to New York. You might have received another book perhaps by Bhaktisaranga Goswami. This book by mistake was sent, perhaps it has to be returned." ([[letters/1968/680122_satsvarupa|Brahmananda, 22 January, 1968]]) *** 68-03 "So far the reading is concerned, you may read any one of the books you have mentioned— *Introduction to Srimad-Bhagavatam,* Professor Sanyalas book, Srila Bhaktivinodas book, *Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu Life and Precepts* or English translation of *Sri Caitanya-caritamrta.* ==Best thing is to take any one of the above mentioned books and finish it from beginning to end. You can do that with Srila Bhaktivinodas book, that would be very nice." ([[letters/1968/680307_mahapurusa|Mahapurusa, 7 March, 1968]]) ==68-11 "Regarding the prayer from 'Sri Caitanya Mahdprabhu,' yes it is very nice and approved by me."== ([[letters/1968/681123_devananda|Devananda, 23 November, 1968]]) ==69-03 "If somebody does not accept Caitanya Mahdprabhu for want of archaeological evidence, it will not hamper our movement. There is sufficient archaeological evidence in this connection, and== it can be supplied from various sources which are in India. *==* There is even archaeological evidence of Vyasadeva which was recently propounded by one Dr. Cakravarti. I personally saw this in a monthly magazine of Calcutta of the name Mother in which I was giving my articles. If you like, you can inquire from them or such institutes as *Caitanya Research Institute,* started by my Godbrother, Tirtha Maharaja. That is not a very difficult task." ([[letters/1969/690302_janardana|Janardana, 2 March, 1969]]) *** 69-07 "Yes, Kīrtanānanda Maharaja is not very much in favor of Nara Narayana so for the time being I am not asking him to return to New Vrndavana. He has done very nicely here in the Ratha-yatra festival and it was very successful in San Francisco. I shall send you later on the reprint pictures published in the local newspapers and you will be glad to learn that about 10,000 people participated in this function. The procession was taken along about an eight mile distance and the people followed all through, simply chanting the Hare Krsna *mantra.* This was a unique scene in this part of the world. Some of the Christian-minded people became almost envious and I have received some anonymous letters. ==Maybe as our movement increases in volume the orthodox section of Christianity may be envious of our successful march. I think you should collect some information from the Bible that sankirtana, chanting of the holy names of God, is recommended there also.== There is a book called *Aquarian Gospel* in which it is stated that Lord Jesus Christ lived in the temple of Jagannatha. Without being His devotee, how could he live there and how could the authorities allow a non-devotee to live there? From that book it appears that Lord Jesus Christ lived in intimate relations with the priest order. So as far as possible, you should prepare yourself for future writings that our movement is not against the philosophy of Jesus Christ, but it is in complete collaboration with his line of religiosity. Actually, we don't decry any religious way of the world, but we are simply advocating that people should learn to love God by following their religious principles. If one is not fortunate to be learning how to love God, then his religious principles are simply fanaticism, without any value. We are presenting the same thing practically by which one can learn very quickly how to love God, and then his life becomes sublime. So our process is a system, following which any man from any religious sect may come and join and learn how to love God." ([[letters/1969/690731_hayagriva|Hayagriva, 31 July, 1969]]) *** 69-08 "I can understand from your letter that you are quite a fit soldier for fighting with *maya.* Our Krsna consciousness movement is a declaration of war against the activities *of maya.* ==The real description of maya== is given in a Vedic literature called Markandeya Purana in the chapter Candika. Candika is another name of the external energy called maya. This Candika is described there as the Goddess who is putting all conditioned souls in darkness. *==* In this material world, every living entity is under the spell of this Candika, almost asleep in darkness of knowledge. Every living entity is part and parcel spirit soul, but in contact with *maya* it has developed different types of consciousness, represented by varieties of bodies, beginning from the aquatics and going to the bodies of demigods in higher planets. These different grades of bodies are developing in terms of life. When the consciousness comes to the point of Krsna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, then life becomes perfect in its original condition. Therefore, in a sense this Krsna consciousness movement is declaring war against Candika, who has kept the living entities under her spell. Candikas first spell is to make us identify ourselves with these material conditions. Just like a living entity, because he is born and brought up in American condition, he thinks himself as American, similarly, others are thinking they are Indians, or Canadians, or French and so on. Actually, one is none of these material designations, but he is pure Krsna consciousness, now covered by the spell of Candikas energy or the material energy." ([[letters/1969/690803_robert_hendry|Robert Hendry, 3 August, 1969]]) ==69-08 "Regarding publication of Back to Godhead magazine number twenty-nine it is good that you are publishing 'Morphology and Ontology of Vedanta' by Guru Maharaja, four pages." ([[letters/1969/690830_brahmananda|Brahmananda, 30 August, 1969]]) ==69-09 "Regarding the two books you have mentioned, Sri Ramacaritamanasa by Goswami Tulasi dasa is not very authorized, and Ramayana is authorized. One thing is though, you have got enough other books to study. *== * Did you appear in the examination held on Janmastami Day? Why should you go to *Ramayana* when you have got *Bhagavad-gita, Srimad-Bhagavatam,* and *Teachings of Lord Caitanya?* Don't divert your attention in that way. The author *of Ramacaritamanasa,* Goswami Tulasi dasa, has a tint of Mayavadi philosophy. He belongs to the Ramananda *sampradaya.* They are a mixed up combination of personalist and impersonalist. Therefore, the author is not considered as pure Vaisnava. Pure Vaisnava is free from all material contamination of fruitive activities and mental speculation. The pure Vaisnava is simply, purely disposed to transcendental loving service to Krsna. The pure Vaisnava rejects anything which has no pure idea of serving the Supreme Personality." (SPL to Raktaka, September 6th, 1969) ==69-09 "Regarding the Aquarian Gospel of Lord Jesus the Christ, I have taken some stray extracts just to support our views, but we don't give any importance to that book. The best thing is that we accept Lord Jesus Christ as a great devotee of the Lord and the son of God. It is better not to discuss in any detail about the Christian religion or any other religion."== ([[letters/1969/690914_satsvarupa|Tamala Krsna, 14 September, 1969]]) ==69-09 "My predecessors, Vaisnavas, they were so generous that they felt very much afflicted for the suffering of human society. Sri Rupa Goswami tried to elevate them to the real path of happiness by introducing this Govinda Ganamrta, the nectarean of the songs of Govinda. That will make them happy." ([[letters/1969/690919_tamala_krsna|Tamala Krsna, 19 September, 1969]]) ==70-03 "Regarding Neil's study of Sanskrit I am very glad to learn of his seriousness to study, and we need many such Sanskrit scholar devotees. When it is convenient he may study with Pradyumna in Boston, and there are Sanskrit courses at the university there also. In the meantime, for his studies, Manava Dharma Sastra is not bona fide. The Hitopadesa is all right for study." ([[letters/1970/700315_subala|Harer Nama, 15 March, 1970]]) ==70-04 "Regarding the Susruta Samhita, I have no information about this. Susruta Samhita is a big book of medical science, it is not able to be understood by ordinary laymen. I do not know why you bother about this, but if somebody helps you from this book, I have no objection." ([[letters/1970/700401_mukunda|Arumhati, 1 April, 1970]]) *** 71-06 "From your book 'Soviet Studies of India' ==I== understand that academician Mr. A. P. Baranrikov completed a great translation, working the matter of Tulasi dasas *"Ramayana"* into Russian. ==Srimad-Bhagavatam is the ripe, mature fruit of the Vedic knowledge, and Tulasi dasa's Ramayana (Ramacaritamanasa) is but a partial representative of Srimad-Bhagavatam. The real Ramayana is Valmiki's Ramayana. *== * Tulasidasa was a devotee of Lord Rama and he has given his thoughts in his book *Ramayana.* But the real original thoughts and ideas are in *Srimad-Bhagavatam." (SPL to Professor Kotovsky, June 24th, 1971) ==71-08 "Vallabhacarya's teachings are bona fide. This difference of opinion is there always. Just like you differ with your husband, but== that doesn't mean that you and your husband are not devotees." (SPL to Ekayani, August, 31st, 1971) ==74-10 "Yes, the Mahabharata is an authoritative book. It is considered the fifth Veda. But, quotations must be given from the original Mahabharata."== ([[letters/1974/741018_giriraja|Ksirodakasayi dasa, 18 October, 1974]]) *** 74-11 "The book compiled by your father V.R. Srisaila Cakravarti, namely 'The Philosophy of Sri Ramanuja,' given to me by you on 2/11/74 was very interesting to read. Of course we Gaudiya Vaisnavas follow Srila Ramanujas philosophy almost in the same manner. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu gives the identification of *jiva* soul as the eternal servant of Krsna and is situated as marginal potency of the Lord based on the philosophy of *acintya-bhedabheda-tattva.* This is almost similar to *visistadvaita vada.* Vaisnava philosophy is now being pushed on all over the world under the Hare Krsna movement, and we feel Sripada Ramanuja a great support for the Vaisnava philosophical understanding. It is like a combination of *nyaya sruti* and *smrti prasthans.* The *Bhagavad-gita* supports the *Vedanta-sutra: brahma-sutra-padais caiva, hetumadbhir viniscitaih. (Bhagavad-gita* 13.5) To the jiva *brahma* identification is one part of *acintya-bhedabheda-tattva.* As spirit soul or identical *brahma, or jiva brahma* is identical with the Supreme Brahma or the *param brahma.* In this sense *jiva* soul is *ab-heda* or non-different from the *param brahma.* But on account of the *param brahma* being the supreme, the biggest, the identical *brahma* or *jiva brahma* being very minute, it is different from the *param brahma.* The summary is that the simultaneous one and different from *brahma* is simultaneously one and different from the *param brahma.* Because it is appreciated simultaneously which is very difficult to comprehend by the common man, this philosophy is called *acintya-bhedabheda-tattva,* inconceivable. This is supported by the *Katha Upanisad* 2.5.13: *nityo nityanamh, cetanas cetananam, eko bahunam yo vidadhati kaman.* This is almost similar to the *visistadvaita-vada.* So far I am personally concerned, following the footsteps of my Guru Maharaja Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura Prabhupāda, we accept the principles of all the *acaryas,* although officially we belong to the Madhva *sampradaya.* Our *sampradaya* is known as the Madhva-Gaudiya sampradaya *.* We find great shelter at the lotus feet of Sri Ramanujacarya because his lotus feet are the strongest fort to combat the Mayavadi philosophy I ==hope the book "The Philosophy of Sri Ramanuja" published by you will be a great help to the Vaisnavites all over the world."== ([[letters/1974/741122_nrhari|Sri Cakravarti, 22 November, 1974]]) ==75-08 "Gopala Krsna informed me that you plan to build the temple in Nellore with the help of local life members. This is a very good idea. You may construct a library and a meditation hall to please the donors, but as far as possible the library should carry our books and books of other Vaisnava acaryas. The meditation hall you may put pictures of Krsna on all four sides." ([[letters/1975/750817_kirtanananda|Mahamsa Swami, 17 August, 1975]]) *** 76-03 "Concerning your questions about tantric sastras: the Vaisnava tantras are bona fide literatures, just like Narada-pancaratra, but not the atheistic tantras which have nothing to do with the Vedic literatures. 'Even if a *brahmana* is very learned in Vedic literatures and knows the six occupational duties of a *brahmana,* he cannot become a *guru* or spiritual master unless he is a devotee of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. However, if one is born in a family of dog-eaters but is a pure devotee of the Lord, he can become a spiritual master.' The point is that Krsna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead, and He is always *purusa* male not female *prakrti: purusam sasvatam divyam, adi-devam ajam vibhum.* Worship of the mother aspect is *prakrti,* not recommended by Krsna for the intelligent class of men." ([[letters/1976/760327_cittahari|Pranada dasa, 27 March, 1976]]) ## Books to be Avoided ==67-03 "Gita Press is full of Mayavada philosophy which says Krsna has no form but He assumes a form for facility of devotional service. *== * This is nonsense. I am just trying to wipe out this Mayavada philosophy and you may not therefore order for any more copy of the English *Bhagavatam* published by the Gita Press. The one which you have got may be kept only for reference on having an understanding of the Mayavada philosophy which is very dangerous for ordinary persons. The Mayavada philosophy has played havoc in spiritual understanding leading to atheistic tendency. The interpretation that one has to be naked before the Lord is also Mayavada philosophy. The pictures which Dan might have brought in the temple are certainly unauthorized. In future before publishing any picture you must consult me. Any stage of life in Krsna consciousness may be a victim of strong material energy. Therefore, we have always to take care and strictly follow the rules and regulations. You are a good boy and sincere devotee and I hope you will understand me right." ([[letters/1967/670307_rayarama|Rayarama, 7 March, 1967]]) *** 68-03 "A few days ago I received one letter from you in which you desired to send me one manuscript for *Nimai Sannyasa Drama* written by some Mr. Chatterji. Generally, these dramas are sentimentalism. Those who are devotees of Lord Caitanya do not discuss much about the Lord's renouncing the householder life, but there are certain persons who floodlight the renunciation of Lord Caitanya in a material sentimental way. I have seen such drama written by Mr. Diliproy and that was nearly nonsense. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu decided to accept this renounced order of life in a moment, and the business was finished in a day. But these people, in order to create a scene, adulterate the Lords renunciation in so many ways, so I guess in the drama of Mr. Chatterji similar such things may be included. ==Any drama or book written by unauthorized persons should not be indulged in. (In this connection I may mention that I have seen a copy of Narada-pancaratra sent here from San Francisco and it is not good. Please stop circulation of this book, which is unauthorized== A pure devotee is always free from the four principle restrictions and he has a *tilaka* on his forehead. At least these symptoms indicate one's purity in Krsna consciousness. If one is not following these principles, he is not considered to be a pure devotee." ([[letters/1968/680523_gurudasa|Gurudasa, 23 May, 1968]]) ==68-06 "No, there is no need of sending Kalyana books as you have mentioned, not yet. Just read Srimad-Bhagavatam, our three volumes regularly and repeatedly. It is no use reading many books, it is better to assimilate one book and that is sufficient."== ([[letters/1968/680610_harivilasa|Hari Vilasa, 10 June, 1968]]) *** 69-09 "Regarding your question about *rasa* with the spiritual master. I do not know who is the someone who has said this, but it is a most unauthorized statement. ==Better you should stick to hearing from authorized persons, like your spiritual master or experienced Godbrothers. But never try to hear someone who is not in our line. It is simply a waste of time to hear and then again have to rectify the mistake. *== * Regarding your question about my never returning to the Spiritual Sky, that is possible simultaneously. So far as the quotation from Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura you have cited, that is quite all right. In this age, chanting of Hare Krsna *mantra* is the prime business of the devotee, and preaching of this Hare Krsna *mantra* by outdoor *sankirtana* and propagation of literature is our more important business. Side by side, Deity worship is recommended, but when there is question of accepting one of them, we shall prefer to accept chanting of Hare Krsna *mantra* first." (SPL to Hamsaduta, September 5th, 1969) ==69-09 "Regarding the two books you have mentioned, Sri Ramacaritamanasa by Goswami Tulasi dasa is not very authorized, and Ramayana is authorized. *== * One thing is though, you have got enough other books to study. Did you appear in the examination held on Janmastami Day? Why should you go to *Ramayana* when you have got *Bhagavad-gita, Srimad-Bhagavatam,* and *Teachings of Lord Caitanya?* Don't divert your attention in that way. The author of *Ramacaritamanasa,* Goswami Tulasi dasa, has a tint of Mayavadi philosophy. He belongs to the Ramananda *sampradaya.* They are a mixed up combination of personalist and impersonalist. Therefore, the author is not considered as pure Vaisnava. Pure Vaisnava is free from all material contamination of fruitive activities and mental speculation. The pure Vaisnava is simply, purely disposed to transcendental loving service to Krsna. The pure Vaisnava rejects anything which has no pure idea of serving the Supreme Personality." (SPL to Raktaka, September 6th, 1969) 69-11 "After all, Krsna consciousness philosophy is as old as 120 million years at the least. So nothing can be compared with our philosophy either in the matter of antiquity, philosophy, ethics, science, morality, etc., all in correct vision and approved by great stalwart *acaryas.* So far others are concerned, they cannot be compared even. For example, if Lord Jesus Christ said 'Thou shalt not kill,' or 'Thou shalt do no murder' to the people, it does not reflect very good social structure of the audience. Our philosophy is above all these things. Just like we prescribe to our students no illicit sex-life, no meat-eating, no intoxication, no gambling, but they are not ends in themselves. The real end is how to serve Krsna and sacrifice everything for Him. And to learn this transcendental art we have got so many volumes of books. So the summary is that instead of diverting our attention to read such unauthorized books, better pay our attention to more authorized Vaisnava literature. These scriptures of the Buddhists and the Christians may be the words of God, but still they are not always applicable to us. It is just like a king may give some rules and regulations for some criminals in prison, but for the good citizens out of the prison these rules are not necessarily applicable. ==So these Christian and Buddhist scriptures were delivered for a different class of men, and we needn't spend our time in studying their doctrines. You should read our own books over and over again and as far as possible do not try to enter into controversy. *== * We do not concern ourselves with any other religion. Our religion is to become the servant of the servant of the servant of Krsna." (SPL to Hamsaduta, November 2nd, 1969) ==70-03 "Regarding Neil's study of Sanskrit, I am very glad to learn of his seriousness to study, and we need many such Sanskrit scholar devotees. When it is convenient he may study with Pradyumna in Boston, and there are Sanskrit courses at the university there also. In the meantime, for his studies, Manava Dharma Sastra is not bona fide. The Hitopadesa is all right for study." ([[letters/1970/700315_subala|Harer Nama, 15 March, 1970]]) *** 70-05 "Regarding the Sanskrit class, I think it was only a plea, but he wanted to teach us something of another philosophy. ==Our temple is meant for our men, and we may have our own discussions amongst ourselves, no outsider needed. It is definitely concluded that we have not got to learn anything from any outsider beyond the jurisdiction of Gaudiya Vaisnava philosophy. *== * Our philosophy is established on sound ground of the conclusion arrived at by Vyasadeva down to Jiva Goswami, Visvanatha Cakravarti, Bhaktivinoda Thakura, etc. The other day one Indian boy came here to take permission for chanting some *bhajan* so I indirectly refused. Try to understand our own philosophy described in so many books, but I cannot allow you to hear from the mental speculators without any solid knowledge." ([[letters/1970/700527_tamala_krsna|Tamala, 27 May, 1970]]) ==71-04 "Also, there is no need of studying Manu. Don't divert your attention in that way. We have got so many books. Those you should study." (SPL to Nayanabhirama, April 30th, 1971) ==72-01 "There is no need by any of my disciples to read any books besides my books—in fact, such reading may be detrimental to their advancement in Krsna consciousness. *== * All reading of outside books, except in certain authorized cases such as for example to read some philosopher like Plato to make an essay comparing his philosophy with Krsna's philosophy—but otherwise all such outside reading should be stopped immediately. It is simply another botheration. If my students cannot even read my own books thoroughly, why they should read others? I have given you *Teachings Of Lord Caitanya,* what need is there to read *Caitanya-caritamrta* translated by someone else. You are right to stop such reading." (SPL to Sri Govinda dasa, January 20th, 1972) ==72-07 "Regarding the songs by Jayadeva, 'Srita Kamala' is not approved. *== * Sometimes our Krsnadasa Babaji sings, but it is not approved by Prabhupāda. Those songs are for *siddha-bhaktas* , not for us who are *sadha-bhaktas* or learning *bhaktas.* Lord Caitanya never divulged in public, He enjoyed them in the company of His selected three or four devotees. There is one song by Jayadeva, 'Worshiping the Ten Incarnations,' that song is all right. The other songs that you mention are all right. Regarding the manuscripts, you may photograph all of the pages, then we shall type them later. If there is shortage of film, I have instructed Karandhara to send you a large supply of the appropriate films for photographing the pages. Or you may purchase there and we shall pay from the book fund. These are important works and they must be preserved forever, so what is that expense?" ([[letters/1972/720715_acyutananda|Acyutananda, 15 July, 1972]]) *** 72-07 "I am in due receipt of your letter dated June 16th, 1972, along with two tapes and one book. ==The book contains some derogatory remarks about my Guru Maharaja, therefore we shall have nothing to do with printing it. *== * In fact, since Lalita Prasada Thakura has not fulfilled his promise to give us that Birnagara land for our ISKCON center, so we shall not have any more to do with printing any books by Bhaktivinoda Thakura or anyone. Try to induce him to fulfill his promise, otherwise we want nothing more to do with the whole business." ([[letters/1972/720722_acyutananda|Acyutananda, 22 July, 1972]]) *** 73-10 "Brahmananda Swami has read me your letter ==regarding the students there reading other books. I request you to stop this practice. Our students have no time to read our own books, but they have time to read other's books, and the money to purchase them?== Why this mentality is there? You are a serious student, therefore you have correctly found out the defect in these books. We don't want *babaji* class. We want active preachers." ([[letters/1973/731013_mohanananda|Cyavana Swami, 13 October, 1973]]) ==73-11 "Regarding the Gaudiya Matha books being circulated there, who is distributing? Who is sending these books? The Gaudiya Matha does not sell our books, why we should sell their books. Who has introduced these books? *== * Let me know. These books should not at all be circulated in our Society. Bhakti Vilasa Tirtha is very much antagonistic to our Society and he has no clear conception of devotional service. He is contaminated. Anyway, who has introduced these books? You say that you would read only one book if that was all that I had written, so you teach others to do like that. You have a very good determination." ([[letters/1973/731114_karandhara|Sukadeva dasa, 14 November, 1973]]) *** 73-12 "Now, one thing is I understand that in the past you were visiting Lalita Prasadaji and that you may also be planning to continue to visit him when you return to India. This is not approved by me and I request you not to go to see him anymore. He holds a grudge against my Guru Maharaja and even if it is transcendental it will gradually appear mundane in our eyes. ==Whatever is to be learned of the teachings of Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura can be learned from our books. There is no need whatsoever for any outside instruction.== So I hope that you have understood these matters and I pray to Krsna always for your protection and advancement in Krsna consciousness." (SPL Gurukrpa and Yasodanandana Svamis, December 25th, 1973) 74-01 =="I think you have my books so please study them carefully. There is no other scripture which can compare to the Vedic scriptures so we should study these scriptures exclusively. *== * When one becomes an initiated disciple although he has respect for the Christian Bible, nevertheless he must understand the *Bhagavad-gita* and must apply all study there and not spend time unnecessarily with other literatures. Therefore if you can chant and follow the four regulative principles and read our books only I am sure you will find a relief from all difficulties." ([[letters/1974/740102_bhumata|Bhumata, 2 January, 1974]]) *** 74-06 "Regarding your question about Lord Jesus Christ, we accept him as *saktyavesa-avatara.* Lord Buddha is in the same category also. Lord Buddha is mentioned specifically in *Srimad-Bhagavatam* as incarnation of Godhead, and yet Vaisnavas do not accept His philosophy, which is classified as atheism. Similarly, even if we accept Lord Jesus Christ as *saktyavesa-avatara,* it doesn't mean that we have to accept his philosophy. But we have all respects for him without fail. Regarding books like *Aquarian Gospel* or even the *Testaments,* we cannot accept them as authorities because sometimes it is learned that the words are not actually spoken by Christ, but they are so set up by the devotees. For example, in the *Ten Commandments* it is clearly stated 'Thou shalt not kill,' but some Bishop in Boston has changed it to 'Thou shalt do no murder.' This means the Bishop wants to keep hold for animal slaughter. So don't bother about all these literatures. We have respect for these great preachers, but we do not require to study books save and accept for some reference. We must push on our philosophy how to love God. ==Our process is simple. We have got volumes of books also, so it is better for us to mind our own business than to divert our attention in the studies of other books. *== * This was definitely forbidden by Lord Caitanya." ([[letters/1969/691102_hayagriva_vamanadeva_pradyumna|Hamsaduta, 2 November, 1969]]) *** 76-03 "Concerning your questions about tantric sastras, the Vaisnava tantras are bona fide literatures, just like Narada-pan-\caratra, but not the atheistic tantras which have nothing to do with the Vedic literatures. 'Even if a *brahmana* is very learned in Vedic literatures and knows the six occupational duties of a *brahmana,* he cannot become a *guru* or spiritual master unless he is a devotee of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. However, if one is born in a family of dog-eaters but is a pure devotee of the Lord, he can become a spiritual master.' The point is that Krsna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead, and He is always *purusa* male not female *prakrti: purusa sasvatam divyam, adi-devam ajam vibhum.* Worship of the mother aspect is *prakrti,* not recommended by Krsna for the intelligent class of men." ([[letters/1976/760327_cittahari|Pranada dasa, 27 March, 1976]]) *** 76-07 "I have received reports that you have been developing the habit of going outside the temple to hear lectures by others outside like Nrsimhavallabha. Also, I have heard now that even some of the Indian devotees are doing likewise. ==Strictly nobody should go outside to hear lectures by others. If you are not satisfied by the calibre of the classes at the Krsna Balarama Mandira, then you should give another class, but you cannot go outside for hearing others' lectures.== Kindly stop this habit immediately." ([[letters/1976/760714_saurabha|Nitai dasa, 14 July, 1976]]) ==76-07 "Why Nitai should be attending lectures outside of our temple? If he is not satisfied with the standard of lectures in our temple, then he should be permitted to give some lectures himself, but this habit of going outside to hear others should be stopped immediately. I am writing one letter to Nitai and copy of this is enclosed for your reference."== ([[letters/1976/760714_saurabha|Gopala Krsna dasa, 14 July, 1976]]) ==76-10 "Regarding details of the universe, be satisfied by reading only Bhagavatam. What is the use of reading other books—you are not going there. *== * Some portion of the earth is flat. When you stand in any place you see flat, so for us to some extent it appears flat, but it is round. Simply keep faith that whatever we describe, that is a fact. After all, we are an insignificant creature in the universe, so whether you take the modern scientists or Sukadeva Goswami, it is inconceivable. It is best to keep faith in Sukadeva Goswami, because actually our only business is to go back to home, back to Godhead. So whether Sukadeva Goswami or the modem scientists are right or wrong, it is nothing interesting to us. We want to go back to home, back to Godhead— *yanti mad-yajino 'pi mam.* P.S. Bharata-varsa in Fifth Canto refers to the whole earth." ([[letters/1976/761003_madhava|Madhava dasa, 3 October, 1976]]) ==76-11 "We have no business with Tagore's Gitanjali. We are simply interested in spreading Krsna's Gita. When the greatest author, Krsna, is there, there is no need of bringing smaller author. *== * When there is brightest sunshine, there is no need of bringing small lamp. When there is brightest moonshine, there is no need of bringing glowworm. This is our principle. If you want to write something, read our *Bhagavad-gita As It Is* carefully and write something simple to benefit the common people. In *Gitanjali* there is a little hint to surrender to the Supreme." ([[letters/1976/761109_b.s._bodhayana_maharaja|S.N. Sharma, 9 November, 1976]]) *** 77-01 "I have received your letter of January 11th, along with enclosures regarding the *Bhakta* Program and it is very nice. ==It is good to hold more classes with the bhaktas, but they should all be on the basis of our books. You should not go beyond the jurisdiction of our teaching.== The idea of theater, based on *Bhagavatam* topics is also a very good way to introduce the philosophy to the people in general. Go on preaching with vigorous enthusiasm and increase your program for bringing new men to live in Krsna consciousness. You yourself must be ideal in following the rules and regulations, rising early, and restricting eating and sleeping. The less a person is concerned with material enjoyment such as eating, sex and sleeping, the more he is spiritually advanced. If the 'devotee' himself lives like a hog or dog how can he preach?" ([[letters/1977/770126_danavir|Danavir dasa, 26 January, 1977]])