A Monthly E-Magazine from the Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha with Illuminating Perspectives on the Srimad-Bhagavatam
February 2019 | Issue 20
Theme - Light of Hope in the Darkness of Sorrow
CONTENTS -
1. Power of Saintly Association
2. Light of Hope in the Darkness of Sorrow
3. When the husband neglects!
4. Verse of the Month
5. Quiz Corner
7. Bhagavata Pravaha
8. Analogy Arena
9. Pari-prasna
1) The sage Vyasadeva had compiled all the Vedic literature including the vast Mahabharata but still felt dissatisfied.
2) His spiritual master Narada Muni arrives, allowing Vyasadeva to express his despondency over not having specifically pointed out devotional service to the Lord.
3) Vyasadeva immediately gets up to worship Narada Muni with great veneration, recognizing him as the representative of Brahma and the paramapara (disciplic succession).
Queen Kunti offers prayers to Lord Krishna describing his mercy in saving her and her children from dangers. She is grateful that Lord Krishna descended to earth in a form that is more approachable, as Krishna in Vrindavan, enjoying childhood pastimes. Queen Kunti sees repeated calamities as opportunities to see Lord Krishna again, which means liberation from repeated birth and death. True devotees who are materially exhausted can easily approach Lord Krishna, unlike those who are materially prosperous and puffed up with false prestige. Queen Kunti offers obeisances to Lord Krishna as the property of the poor and master of self-realization.
The six questions of the sages in Chapter 1 of the Bhagavatam seek to understand:
1. What is the ultimate benefit or purpose for humanity.
2. What is the essence of all scriptures.
3. Why did God appear in the womb of Devaki.
4. A description of God's wonderful deeds in forms like Brahma and Rudra in creation, maintenance and destruction.
5. A description of the activities of God's incarnations within the universe.
6. Where has religion taken shelter now that God has retired to his own abode.
The summary seeks to understand the purpose of life, the essence of scriptures,
The document contains several quotes and teachings from Bhagavadgeeta and Bhagavan Shree Ramana Maharishi about the nature of consciousness and the path of self-inquiry. Key points include:
1) Consciousness pervades the entire body and leads to attachment to the body and identification of the self with the body.
2) Within the body, the ego or sense of "I" arises between the body and the true self, forming a knot that must be cut through self-inquiry.
3) When the mind withdraws from other thoughts and remains in the supreme self alone, the link between body and self is severed and one abides as the pure self
1. Ramadhan is a great and blessed month where the Quran was revealed as guidance for mankind. Every day and night of Ramadhan is blessed with opportunities for worship and drawing closer to Allah.
2. The blessings and mercy of Allah are abundant in Ramadhan, as doors of heaven are opened, good deeds are more rewarded, and Satan is chained. However, not everyone will receive these blessings equally - it depends on one's efforts in worship and obedience to Allah.
3. To get the maximum benefit from Ramadhan, one must make the resolve to work hard in prayers, Quran reading, and avoiding sins. Fasting without drawing closer to Allah will gain only hunger and thirst
The document provides an overview of the Srimad-Bhagavatam, considered the literary incarnation of God. It discusses how the Bhagavatam was originally spoken by God to Brahma and outlines the main topics covered, including creation of the universe, planetary systems, returning to the spiritual world, and devotional service. The opening chapter describes great sages assembled at Naimisaranya forest inquiring from Suta Gosvami about dharma, God's incarnations, and who will now shelter religious principles with Krishna's departure.
Jesus showed mercy to a Canaanite woman who begged him to heal her demon-possessed daughter. At first, Jesus did not respond and his disciples urged him to send her away. He told her that he was sent only to Israel. However, the woman persisted in her request, humbly calling him "Lord." Jesus acknowledged her great faith and healed her daughter. He then healed many others who were brought to him. The document discusses how Jesus tested but ultimately rewarded the woman's faithful prayer through her difficulties, showing his mercy.
This document provides context and explanations for "The Twenty-Sixth Flash Treatise For The Elderly" which consists of 26 hopes and consolations for elderly people. It explains that due to circumstances of its writing, the treatise may not be perfectly expressed but asks tolerant reading. It then begins the treatise by introducing the first hope that belief in God is the source of all hopes and lights for the elderly.
1) The sage Vyasadeva had compiled all the Vedic literature including the vast Mahabharata but still felt dissatisfied.
2) His spiritual master Narada Muni arrives, allowing Vyasadeva to express his despondency over not having specifically pointed out devotional service to the Lord.
3) Vyasadeva immediately gets up to worship Narada Muni with great veneration, recognizing him as the representative of Brahma and the paramapara (disciplic succession).
Queen Kunti offers prayers to Lord Krishna describing his mercy in saving her and her children from dangers. She is grateful that Lord Krishna descended to earth in a form that is more approachable, as Krishna in Vrindavan, enjoying childhood pastimes. Queen Kunti sees repeated calamities as opportunities to see Lord Krishna again, which means liberation from repeated birth and death. True devotees who are materially exhausted can easily approach Lord Krishna, unlike those who are materially prosperous and puffed up with false prestige. Queen Kunti offers obeisances to Lord Krishna as the property of the poor and master of self-realization.
The six questions of the sages in Chapter 1 of the Bhagavatam seek to understand:
1. What is the ultimate benefit or purpose for humanity.
2. What is the essence of all scriptures.
3. Why did God appear in the womb of Devaki.
4. A description of God's wonderful deeds in forms like Brahma and Rudra in creation, maintenance and destruction.
5. A description of the activities of God's incarnations within the universe.
6. Where has religion taken shelter now that God has retired to his own abode.
The summary seeks to understand the purpose of life, the essence of scriptures,
The document contains several quotes and teachings from Bhagavadgeeta and Bhagavan Shree Ramana Maharishi about the nature of consciousness and the path of self-inquiry. Key points include:
1) Consciousness pervades the entire body and leads to attachment to the body and identification of the self with the body.
2) Within the body, the ego or sense of "I" arises between the body and the true self, forming a knot that must be cut through self-inquiry.
3) When the mind withdraws from other thoughts and remains in the supreme self alone, the link between body and self is severed and one abides as the pure self
1. Ramadhan is a great and blessed month where the Quran was revealed as guidance for mankind. Every day and night of Ramadhan is blessed with opportunities for worship and drawing closer to Allah.
2. The blessings and mercy of Allah are abundant in Ramadhan, as doors of heaven are opened, good deeds are more rewarded, and Satan is chained. However, not everyone will receive these blessings equally - it depends on one's efforts in worship and obedience to Allah.
3. To get the maximum benefit from Ramadhan, one must make the resolve to work hard in prayers, Quran reading, and avoiding sins. Fasting without drawing closer to Allah will gain only hunger and thirst
The document provides an overview of the Srimad-Bhagavatam, considered the literary incarnation of God. It discusses how the Bhagavatam was originally spoken by God to Brahma and outlines the main topics covered, including creation of the universe, planetary systems, returning to the spiritual world, and devotional service. The opening chapter describes great sages assembled at Naimisaranya forest inquiring from Suta Gosvami about dharma, God's incarnations, and who will now shelter religious principles with Krishna's departure.
Jesus showed mercy to a Canaanite woman who begged him to heal her demon-possessed daughter. At first, Jesus did not respond and his disciples urged him to send her away. He told her that he was sent only to Israel. However, the woman persisted in her request, humbly calling him "Lord." Jesus acknowledged her great faith and healed her daughter. He then healed many others who were brought to him. The document discusses how Jesus tested but ultimately rewarded the woman's faithful prayer through her difficulties, showing his mercy.
This document provides context and explanations for "The Twenty-Sixth Flash Treatise For The Elderly" which consists of 26 hopes and consolations for elderly people. It explains that due to circumstances of its writing, the treatise may not be perfectly expressed but asks tolerant reading. It then begins the treatise by introducing the first hope that belief in God is the source of all hopes and lights for the elderly.
An Interactive* Book of Shadows consisting of Gathered Wiccan Daily Devotionals, Rituals, Chants and Incantations, Commandments and More! Never search for that chant, devotional or ritual again!
Check back for updates as the book will be an ongoing thing..... hopefully to become rather big!
*Download and open in a powerpoint viewer to use interactively.
The document provides a message of hope and encouragement for young people. It discusses how Christ offers salvation and new life through his death and resurrection. It urges young people to experience life to the fullest through faith, friendship with Christ, service to others, and personal growth. Key themes are embracing one's youthful time of dreams and decisions; experiencing life's gifts through openness to beauty, truth and love; and growing in maturity through deepening one's prayer life and relationships of fraternal love.
Chapter 9 of Bhagavad Gita, entitled "Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga"is interpreted here by Mahatma Gandhiji. In this chapter Sri Krishna tells Arjuna that He has explained the highest knowledge & expounded the highest mystery. The union of Yoga is to be achieved with the Lord. All that is needed is fixed determination to realize God. He whom we seek dwells in our hearts, & the holy temple in which He sits opens only by the means of prayer. He says: I am the author & sustainer of all, I am the friend, I am the source, the cause of existence & of the final destruction. I am all that there is. I alone never perish. If you wish to not perish, come to My world by surrendering your whole mind to Me.
SS of Marriage - Part 6 - Why Saints advocate Marriage as Best Bet for Self-R...Pardeep Sehgal
The Story of Rishyasringa from the Mahabharata precisely brings to light an important insight regarding the interrelationship of the four Purusharthas (Dharma-Artha-Kama-Moksha) and why marriage is the best bet for self-realization.
For every human being, the first task, among the four Purusharthas, must be to determine what is permanent and what is transient and seek the Eternal (Dharma).
The second objective is the acquisition of the Divine Wisdom as the real wealth (Artha). The third is to develop faith in God and yearn for realisation of mergence in God (Kama). The fourth is Moksha, the state of self-realisation in which there is no change and there is no movement.
This is the ultimate aim or goal of human life. A marriage should be on the foundation of Dharma and the other three purposes should be worked towards having Dharma as the base.
The document discusses astrology and superstition. It argues that excessive belief in astrology has hurt Hindus, and that astrology is often nonsense. While some astrologers make accurate predictions, this is likely due to mind reading rather than the stars. True strength comes from within oneself, not from external forces like stars. People should ignore astrological influences and not let them make themselves nervous or weak. Superstitions spring up easily but we must rise above them through strength and truth.
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's Advent Predictions From Various Vedic ScripturesPraveenKumar649440
Major Hindu scriptures contain prophecies about the future advent of Lord Chaitanya in the Kali Yuga to spread the sankirtana movement of chanting the holy names of Krishna. He is predicted to appear in Navadvipa, West Bengal as the son of Jagannath Misra and Sachi Devi, with a golden complexion. Lord Chaitanya will inaugurate the sankirtana movement and deliver the fallen souls through ecstatic chanting of the Hare Krishna maha mantra. The scriptures give many details about the time, place and purpose of His appearance, as well as His future activities of spreading love of God through kirtana.
Chaitanya mahaprabhu's advent predictions from various vedicDeepak Kumar
The document provides numerous predictions and descriptions from major Hindu scriptures such as the Puranas and Vedas regarding the future advent of Lord Chaitanya. It describes His golden complexion, birthplace in Navadvipa, mother Sachi, inauguration of sankirtana movement, and appearance as a renounced sannyasi to deliver people suffering in the age of Kali. The predictions span from His specific birth details to the time of His appearance in the 7th manvantara of Kali Yuga between 4000-5000 years after its start.
This document provides an overview of "The Last Testament of Jesus Christ" by Bruce {Brewster} Peterson. It includes a dedication to the author's parents and brother, followed by three parts: God, Spirit, and You. The first part discusses messages from God about who God is. The second part discusses the spirit. The third part discusses helping the reader understand themselves as a spiritual being connected to God. It encourages feeling good by being good and feeling love through being love.
This document summarizes a story from Buddhist texts about a king named Ambasakkara who encounters a ghost (peta) outside of the city. The peta explains that in a past life he was related to a man being punished, and encouraged him because the suffering in hell is worse than any earthly punishment. The king questions the peta further about karma and rebirth. The peta provides examples from his own past lives to illustrate how virtuous and non-virtuous actions lead to good and bad rebirths, respectively. He recommends the king make an offering to a monk named Kappitaka to gain merit and potentially see the peta in new clothing.
This document is a selection from a book titled "Invocations" by Anthea Church. It describes the author's exploration of her relationship with God through meditative prose. She writes that while humans experience life through their senses and distinctions, God is pure peace, wisdom and light. The author expresses her desire to be someone that God can "play with" through quiet receptivity. By contemplating descriptions of God, she aims to anchor the eternal in her mind and prepare herself beyond physical life's fragility.
This document provides a preface to the Sri Visnusahasranama, which contains one thousand holy names of Lord Visnu. It explains that material existence is full of suffering in the form of repeated birth, old age, disease and death. Chanting the holy names of the Lord is said to be the only means to relieve this suffering in Kali Yuga, as other spiritual practices are not practical or effective in this age. The preface encourages the reader to chant these names regularly to free themselves from material anxiety and transmigrate to the spiritual world without suffering.
I. The Joy of Service i
II. The Duty of Joy 14
III. Thunder, or Angel's Voice 26
IV. Belonging to God 37
V. Our Deposit with Christ 47
VI. Christ's Deposit with Us 58
VII. Ministries that Bless 68
VIII. Mistaken Ministering 78
IX. The Curse of Uselessness 88
X. The Living God 100
XI. The Increasing Christ 11 1
XII. In Doubt and Perplexity 120
XIII. A Problem of Living 132
XIV. The Marks of Jesus 143
XV. If Christ were Our Guest 153
XVI. When Two Agree 163
XVII. Lamps and Bushels 175
XVIII. The Veiling of Lives 186
XIX. The Making of Character 196
XX. "Do Nothing Rashly" 206
XXI. Talking of One's Ailments 214
XXII. The Responsibility of Children .... 221
XXIII. The Method of Grace 230
XXIV. The Other Days 240
This document discusses gender equity in Islam based on primary Islamic sources. It covers spiritual, economic, social, and political aspects of women's role and rights in Islam. Spiritually, men and women are equal in human nature and religious duties. Economically, women have full property and inheritance rights and are entitled to financial support. Socially, women have rights as daughters, wives, and mothers and their consent is required for marriage. Polygyny is an exception rather than the norm. Overall, the document argues that Islam guarantees women's rights and equity.
From a series of visions and messages from Jesus and Mary
A teaching on what happens during the Holy Mass and how to live it with our hearts.
Website: www.loveandmercy.org
This document provides guidance for understanding and properly reciting the Quran. It emphasizes that the Quran is Allah's greatest blessing that will guide one to success in this life and the next. It stresses the importance of having faith that the Quran is Allah's revealed word and reciting it with sincerity and readiness to change one's attitudes and behavior according to its teachings. The document advises developing proper attitudes of heart and mind, including firm faith, exclusive purpose of seeking Allah's guidance, acceptance of the Quran's truth without doubt, and willingness to change. It warns of Satan's attempts to distract and encourages seeking refuge in Allah.
This is a slide-show which features inspiring quotations from a wide range of mainly religious sources. It is designed to encourage thought and reflection, appreciation of difference and positive relationships between communities.
This document provides background information on Saraha and summarizes his encounter with an arrowsmith woman that became his teacher of Tantra. Some key points:
- Saraha was a learned Brahmin in the court of King Mahapala but renounced that life to become a disciple of the Buddhist master Sri Kirti, going against his family's wishes.
- He had a vision that a woman in the marketplace would be his true teacher, so he sought out an arrowsmith woman he saw aiming an imaginary arrow.
- The woman laughed at Saraha's learned ways and said he remained the same despite changing philosophies. Her primitive vitality attracted him to learn Tantra.
A reflective slide-show - the latest version of my Interfaith slide show - which combines images and texts to encourage understadning and appreciation of difference and harmony between peoples of all religions and cultures - a oneness world. This is a dream found at the heart of all the great world religions.
Rama responds to Valmiki's questions by recounting his life and reflections on the world. He describes growing up in his father's palace and traveling to learn customs. Through discrimination, he discarded thoughts of sensual pleasures, seeing that worldly objects provide no stability and attach us through imagination. Rama became disgusted with the world, questioning its nature, progress, and how to alleviate misery. He feels heavy burdens but cannot show tears, waiting to understand positive and negative states. Rama sees prosperity as a seducing cheat that impairs qualities and spreads miseries.
This document is an issue of a monthly e-magazine from the Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha that discusses topics related to the Srimad-Bhagavatam. The main article analyzes why Krsna showed more favor to Kunti than Devaki based on their circumstances, with Kunti being a widow with no one to help her while Devaki had her husband Vasudeva. It notes Krsna puts devotees in difficult situations to increase their attachment to Him. Another section discusses the qualities one should seek in a spiritual master and the importance of devotion to the guru. The importance of surrendering to Krsna like Gajendra Maharaja is also discussed.
The document discusses the importance of relationships and association with devotees in spiritual life. It states that relationships are more important and lasting than material acquisitions. Association with devotees helps one advance in devotional service through chanting and hearing from more experienced devotees. The International Society for Krishna Consciousness provides the ideal association for devotees to progress together.
The document discusses the different types of pleasure - conditional, unlimited, unshakeable, unearned, and unending - and how these can be experienced through devotion to Krishna. It explains that real pleasure comes from one's unconditional relationship with Krishna, enjoying his pastimes, qualities and serving him, which provides transcendental and eternal bliss that is never ending.
An Interactive* Book of Shadows consisting of Gathered Wiccan Daily Devotionals, Rituals, Chants and Incantations, Commandments and More! Never search for that chant, devotional or ritual again!
Check back for updates as the book will be an ongoing thing..... hopefully to become rather big!
*Download and open in a powerpoint viewer to use interactively.
The document provides a message of hope and encouragement for young people. It discusses how Christ offers salvation and new life through his death and resurrection. It urges young people to experience life to the fullest through faith, friendship with Christ, service to others, and personal growth. Key themes are embracing one's youthful time of dreams and decisions; experiencing life's gifts through openness to beauty, truth and love; and growing in maturity through deepening one's prayer life and relationships of fraternal love.
Chapter 9 of Bhagavad Gita, entitled "Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga"is interpreted here by Mahatma Gandhiji. In this chapter Sri Krishna tells Arjuna that He has explained the highest knowledge & expounded the highest mystery. The union of Yoga is to be achieved with the Lord. All that is needed is fixed determination to realize God. He whom we seek dwells in our hearts, & the holy temple in which He sits opens only by the means of prayer. He says: I am the author & sustainer of all, I am the friend, I am the source, the cause of existence & of the final destruction. I am all that there is. I alone never perish. If you wish to not perish, come to My world by surrendering your whole mind to Me.
SS of Marriage - Part 6 - Why Saints advocate Marriage as Best Bet for Self-R...Pardeep Sehgal
The Story of Rishyasringa from the Mahabharata precisely brings to light an important insight regarding the interrelationship of the four Purusharthas (Dharma-Artha-Kama-Moksha) and why marriage is the best bet for self-realization.
For every human being, the first task, among the four Purusharthas, must be to determine what is permanent and what is transient and seek the Eternal (Dharma).
The second objective is the acquisition of the Divine Wisdom as the real wealth (Artha). The third is to develop faith in God and yearn for realisation of mergence in God (Kama). The fourth is Moksha, the state of self-realisation in which there is no change and there is no movement.
This is the ultimate aim or goal of human life. A marriage should be on the foundation of Dharma and the other three purposes should be worked towards having Dharma as the base.
The document discusses astrology and superstition. It argues that excessive belief in astrology has hurt Hindus, and that astrology is often nonsense. While some astrologers make accurate predictions, this is likely due to mind reading rather than the stars. True strength comes from within oneself, not from external forces like stars. People should ignore astrological influences and not let them make themselves nervous or weak. Superstitions spring up easily but we must rise above them through strength and truth.
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's Advent Predictions From Various Vedic ScripturesPraveenKumar649440
Major Hindu scriptures contain prophecies about the future advent of Lord Chaitanya in the Kali Yuga to spread the sankirtana movement of chanting the holy names of Krishna. He is predicted to appear in Navadvipa, West Bengal as the son of Jagannath Misra and Sachi Devi, with a golden complexion. Lord Chaitanya will inaugurate the sankirtana movement and deliver the fallen souls through ecstatic chanting of the Hare Krishna maha mantra. The scriptures give many details about the time, place and purpose of His appearance, as well as His future activities of spreading love of God through kirtana.
Chaitanya mahaprabhu's advent predictions from various vedicDeepak Kumar
The document provides numerous predictions and descriptions from major Hindu scriptures such as the Puranas and Vedas regarding the future advent of Lord Chaitanya. It describes His golden complexion, birthplace in Navadvipa, mother Sachi, inauguration of sankirtana movement, and appearance as a renounced sannyasi to deliver people suffering in the age of Kali. The predictions span from His specific birth details to the time of His appearance in the 7th manvantara of Kali Yuga between 4000-5000 years after its start.
This document provides an overview of "The Last Testament of Jesus Christ" by Bruce {Brewster} Peterson. It includes a dedication to the author's parents and brother, followed by three parts: God, Spirit, and You. The first part discusses messages from God about who God is. The second part discusses the spirit. The third part discusses helping the reader understand themselves as a spiritual being connected to God. It encourages feeling good by being good and feeling love through being love.
This document summarizes a story from Buddhist texts about a king named Ambasakkara who encounters a ghost (peta) outside of the city. The peta explains that in a past life he was related to a man being punished, and encouraged him because the suffering in hell is worse than any earthly punishment. The king questions the peta further about karma and rebirth. The peta provides examples from his own past lives to illustrate how virtuous and non-virtuous actions lead to good and bad rebirths, respectively. He recommends the king make an offering to a monk named Kappitaka to gain merit and potentially see the peta in new clothing.
This document is a selection from a book titled "Invocations" by Anthea Church. It describes the author's exploration of her relationship with God through meditative prose. She writes that while humans experience life through their senses and distinctions, God is pure peace, wisdom and light. The author expresses her desire to be someone that God can "play with" through quiet receptivity. By contemplating descriptions of God, she aims to anchor the eternal in her mind and prepare herself beyond physical life's fragility.
This document provides a preface to the Sri Visnusahasranama, which contains one thousand holy names of Lord Visnu. It explains that material existence is full of suffering in the form of repeated birth, old age, disease and death. Chanting the holy names of the Lord is said to be the only means to relieve this suffering in Kali Yuga, as other spiritual practices are not practical or effective in this age. The preface encourages the reader to chant these names regularly to free themselves from material anxiety and transmigrate to the spiritual world without suffering.
I. The Joy of Service i
II. The Duty of Joy 14
III. Thunder, or Angel's Voice 26
IV. Belonging to God 37
V. Our Deposit with Christ 47
VI. Christ's Deposit with Us 58
VII. Ministries that Bless 68
VIII. Mistaken Ministering 78
IX. The Curse of Uselessness 88
X. The Living God 100
XI. The Increasing Christ 11 1
XII. In Doubt and Perplexity 120
XIII. A Problem of Living 132
XIV. The Marks of Jesus 143
XV. If Christ were Our Guest 153
XVI. When Two Agree 163
XVII. Lamps and Bushels 175
XVIII. The Veiling of Lives 186
XIX. The Making of Character 196
XX. "Do Nothing Rashly" 206
XXI. Talking of One's Ailments 214
XXII. The Responsibility of Children .... 221
XXIII. The Method of Grace 230
XXIV. The Other Days 240
This document discusses gender equity in Islam based on primary Islamic sources. It covers spiritual, economic, social, and political aspects of women's role and rights in Islam. Spiritually, men and women are equal in human nature and religious duties. Economically, women have full property and inheritance rights and are entitled to financial support. Socially, women have rights as daughters, wives, and mothers and their consent is required for marriage. Polygyny is an exception rather than the norm. Overall, the document argues that Islam guarantees women's rights and equity.
From a series of visions and messages from Jesus and Mary
A teaching on what happens during the Holy Mass and how to live it with our hearts.
Website: www.loveandmercy.org
This document provides guidance for understanding and properly reciting the Quran. It emphasizes that the Quran is Allah's greatest blessing that will guide one to success in this life and the next. It stresses the importance of having faith that the Quran is Allah's revealed word and reciting it with sincerity and readiness to change one's attitudes and behavior according to its teachings. The document advises developing proper attitudes of heart and mind, including firm faith, exclusive purpose of seeking Allah's guidance, acceptance of the Quran's truth without doubt, and willingness to change. It warns of Satan's attempts to distract and encourages seeking refuge in Allah.
This is a slide-show which features inspiring quotations from a wide range of mainly religious sources. It is designed to encourage thought and reflection, appreciation of difference and positive relationships between communities.
This document provides background information on Saraha and summarizes his encounter with an arrowsmith woman that became his teacher of Tantra. Some key points:
- Saraha was a learned Brahmin in the court of King Mahapala but renounced that life to become a disciple of the Buddhist master Sri Kirti, going against his family's wishes.
- He had a vision that a woman in the marketplace would be his true teacher, so he sought out an arrowsmith woman he saw aiming an imaginary arrow.
- The woman laughed at Saraha's learned ways and said he remained the same despite changing philosophies. Her primitive vitality attracted him to learn Tantra.
A reflective slide-show - the latest version of my Interfaith slide show - which combines images and texts to encourage understadning and appreciation of difference and harmony between peoples of all religions and cultures - a oneness world. This is a dream found at the heart of all the great world religions.
Rama responds to Valmiki's questions by recounting his life and reflections on the world. He describes growing up in his father's palace and traveling to learn customs. Through discrimination, he discarded thoughts of sensual pleasures, seeing that worldly objects provide no stability and attach us through imagination. Rama became disgusted with the world, questioning its nature, progress, and how to alleviate misery. He feels heavy burdens but cannot show tears, waiting to understand positive and negative states. Rama sees prosperity as a seducing cheat that impairs qualities and spreads miseries.
This document is an issue of a monthly e-magazine from the Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha that discusses topics related to the Srimad-Bhagavatam. The main article analyzes why Krsna showed more favor to Kunti than Devaki based on their circumstances, with Kunti being a widow with no one to help her while Devaki had her husband Vasudeva. It notes Krsna puts devotees in difficult situations to increase their attachment to Him. Another section discusses the qualities one should seek in a spiritual master and the importance of devotion to the guru. The importance of surrendering to Krsna like Gajendra Maharaja is also discussed.
The document discusses the importance of relationships and association with devotees in spiritual life. It states that relationships are more important and lasting than material acquisitions. Association with devotees helps one advance in devotional service through chanting and hearing from more experienced devotees. The International Society for Krishna Consciousness provides the ideal association for devotees to progress together.
The document discusses the different types of pleasure - conditional, unlimited, unshakeable, unearned, and unending - and how these can be experienced through devotion to Krishna. It explains that real pleasure comes from one's unconditional relationship with Krishna, enjoying his pastimes, qualities and serving him, which provides transcendental and eternal bliss that is never ending.
A Monthly E-Magazine from the Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha with Illuminating Perspectives on the Srimad-Bhagavatam
June 2019 | Issue 24
THE DIVINE ORDER
CONTENTS -
Bhakti from Childhood
The Divine Order
Verse of the Month
Quiz Corner
Bhagavata Pravaha
Analogy Arena
Pari-prasna
The Buddha was teaching his mother in the Trayastrimasa Heaven. Many Buddhas and bodhisattvas from countless worlds assembled. The Buddha emitted great bright clouds and subtle wonderful voices. This attracted countless devas, nagas, demons and deities from the Saha world and other realms who assembled in the palace.
1) The passage discusses the concept of paradise and true happiness. It argues that true enjoyment and pleasure comes from living righteously and having a relationship with God, not from wealth, freedom from religious restrictions, or a life of indulgence.
2) While some non-believers appear to live comfortably, they experience high rates of suicide, mental health issues, and inability to cope with difficulties. In contrast, those who trust in God can find happiness even during hardships.
3) Only by living according to God's commands and seeking God's pleasure can people achieve an eternal life of paradise and true enjoyment of this world. Outward luxuries alone do not guarantee happiness.
The document discusses several key concepts about the soul from the Bhagavad Gita:
1) The soul is eternal and imperishable, neither born nor destroyed. It is transcendental to the material body.
2) True compassion should be aimed at realizing the eternal soul within all living beings, not the temporary material body.
3) Understanding the difference between the eternal soul and temporary body leads to freedom from lamentation, fear, and illusion, as well as cultivating universal brotherhood.
This document provides an introduction and overview for a book discussing various topics related to marriage in Islam such as creating the will of Allah, remaining good after death, reducing work burdens, maintaining stability, health and welfare, dealing with sudden changes in society, and following the instructions of prophets. It emphasizes building a happy marriage focused on worshipping Allah and following his commands as given in the Quran and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. The author prays that Allah grants benefit and understanding from the book to help Muslims build quality families and communities.
This document provides copyright information for the book "On the Way to Krishna" by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. It states that this is an evaluation copy for personal use only and provides guidelines for using short excerpts from the book. The copyright is held by Bhaktivedanta Book Trust International.
1) Devahuti asks Kapila Muni about the means of attaining liberation from the bondage of ignorance and desires. Kapila Muni explains that devotion to the Lord is the path, and that the mind is the cause of bondage and liberation.
2) Kapila Muni describes the nature of Purusha and Prakriti, and how attachment to Prakriti leads to bondage through the false identification as the doer. Devahuti has doubts about how one can be free if Prakriti remains.
3) Kapila Muni explains that spiritual practices like devotion, dispassion, and knowledge burn up the effects of Prakriti. When one
This document provides a summary of several incidents from the Bhagavatam that illustrate how anger can lead to overreactions and punishing or condemning groups for the actions of individuals. It discusses how King Dhruva almost destroyed the entire Yaksha race for his brother's death, how Nandi cursed all Brahmins for supporting Daksha, how Janamejaya wanted to kill all snakes for his father's death, and how these overreactions were corrected by sages. It emphasizes that devotees should check anger and not condemn entire groups for one person's mistake.
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The perfect remedies for omission of present stressful life of human being.
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Explore the eternal knowledge, self-identity, objective of human life, science, health & professional guidance through the latest issue of Sukrit. This magazine is the best & unique tool for a perfect human life.
The document discusses how life experiences can be used for spiritual purposes. It suggests that experiences are designed by Krishna to (1) teach us to trust God, (2) build our character, and (3) accomplish Krishna's purposes. It provides advice on examining past experiences to learn lessons, extracting insights from our own and others' experiences, and employing what we've learned to help and encourage others.
- The document discusses the importance of identifying a genuine spiritual master or guru to guide one in spiritual life.
- It provides qualifications for identifying a real guru, including that the guru must be situated in self-realization, teach based on scriptural evidence, and exhibit saintly qualities in their behavior.
- The genuine guru is empowered by Krishna to impart true spiritual knowledge that can free one from illusion and help one progress toward the ultimate goal of self-realization.
This document discusses the importance of prayer through several key points:
1. To become a true son or daughter of God requires total concentration on that goal and looking to the True Parents constantly, which is difficult to achieve alone.
2. Prayer is necessary to restore the original union between God and humanity that was lost due to the Fall. Prayer allows one to discover and inherit God's true desires.
3. God's kingdom and righteousness should be the central focus for believers, not worldly concerns. Everything should be centered on fulfilling God's will to create one harmonized world.
4. Prayer helps one align their family, society, nation and self behind God's providence and become a locomotive
The document discusses effective problem solving and decision making. It outlines an 8-step process for solving problems: 1) define the problem clearly in writing, 2) identify all possible causes, 3) generate multiple potential solutions, 4) make a decision, 5) assign responsibility, 6) set a deadline, 7) follow up and monitor progress, and 8) generate new solutions if needed. Effective communication and meetings are also emphasized for collaborative problem solving.
The document shares insights on realizing one's true self and overcoming suffering through self-knowledge. It emphasizes finding refuge in a self-realized saint whose glance can help one see past identities and behold the inner divine. All worldly worries cease to exist for those who love their true self above all else. True liberation is attained by experiencing the non-existence of the world even while awake.
Sri Ramakrishna was a 19th century Hindu mystic who is recognized as an incarnation of God. He taught that devotion and selfless service are the paths to realizing God, who can be reached through many religions. His teachings helped liberalize Hinduism and were spread throughout India and the world by his disciple Swami Vivekananda. Sri Ramakrishna emphasized practicing devotion and avoiding the company of wicked people while living in the world.
A Monthly E-Magazine from the Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha with Illuminating Perspectives on the Srimad-Bhagavatam
CONTENTS -
1. Pray to Lord Narsimha-deva
2. Selfless and Seamless devotion
3. Quiz Corner
4. Verse of the Month
5. Bhagavata Pravaha
6. Analogy Arena
7. Pari-prasna
Sri Sarada Devi was born in 1853 in West Bengal and was married to Sri Ramakrishna at a young age. She lived with him at Dakshineswar and served him selflessly, becoming his first disciple. After his death, she guided his spiritual movement and disciples. As a spiritual leader, she emphasized finding God within, serving others, and seeing God in all. She taught the importance of spiritual practices, renunciation, and seeking God with love, faith and perseverance. Sarada Devi embodied compassion and saw no one as a stranger. She spread Ramakrishna's teachings until her death in 1920.
Similar to Bhagavata pradipika#20 feb_2019_light of hope in darkness of sorrow (20)
Bhagavata Pradipika, a free monthly e-magazine on the Srimad Bhagavatam, is an initiative of the Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha to share the unparalleled wisdom of the Bhagavatam with the whole world. Each issue of the Bhagavata Pradipika contains illuminating perspectives and principles of practical application on a pertinent theme of Srimad-Bhagavatam, as highlighted in the Bhaktivedanta purports and the commentary of Srila Viswanath Cakravarti Thakura. Every issue is titled based a theme and all the columns are related to that topic.
Bhagavata Pradipika, a free monthly e-magazine on the Srimad Bhagavatam, is an initiative of the Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha to share the unparalleled wisdom of the Bhagavatam with the whole world. Each issue of the Bhagavata Pradipika contains illuminating perspectives and principles of practical application on a pertinent theme of Srimad-Bhagavatam, as highlighted in the Bhaktivedanta purports and the commentary of Srila Viswanath Cakravarti Thakura. Every issue is titled based a theme and all the columns are related to that topic.
Bhagavata Pradipika#28 SRIMAD BHAGAVATAM - The Book form of Lord KrishnaBhaktivedanta Vidyapitha
Bhagavata Pradipika, a free monthly e-magazine on the Srimad Bhagavatam, is an initiative of the Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha to share the unparalleled wisdom of the Bhagavatam with the whole world. Each issue of the Bhagavata Pradipika contains illuminating perspectives and principles of practical application on a pertinent theme of Srimad-Bhagavatam, as highlighted in the Bhaktivedanta purports and the commentary of Srila Viswanath Cakravarti Thakura. Every issue is titled based a theme and all the columns are related to that topic.
CONTENTS:
1. What brings joy to Krsna?
2. The Mood of Entering Vrndavana
3. Pari Prasna
4. Why be born if Unborn?
5. Bhagavata Pravaha
6. Analogy Arena
7. Verse of the Month
8. Quiz Corner
THEME: RAMA NAVAMI SPECIAL
CONTENTS -
1. Rama-Rajya
2. From the Desk of The Founder Acarya (The Floating Stones)
3. Quiz Corner
4. Verse of the Month
5. Bhagavata Pravaha
6. Analogy Arena
7. Pari-prasna
Bhagavata Pradipika, a free monthly e-magazine on the Srimad Bhagavatam, by Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha.
CONTENTS -
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2. Is God Partial?
3. Verse of the Month
4. Quiz Corner
5. Bhagavata Pravaha
6. Analogy Arena
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2) Verse of the Month
3) Pari-prasna
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Bhagavata pradipika#20 feb_2019_light of hope in darkness of sorrow
1. February 2019 | Issue 20 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 1
CONTENTS
Power of Saintly Association…..........................2
Light of Hope in the Darkness of Sorrow……3
When the husband neglects!......................……6
Verse of the Month .............................................7
Quiz Corner ...........................................................7
Bhägavata Praväha .............................................8
Analogy Arena ....................................................10
Pari-praçna ...........................................................11
A Monthly E-Magazine from the Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha with Illuminating Perspectives on the Srimad-Bhagavatam
February 2019 | Issue 20
Dedicated to His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedänta Swämi Prabhupäda,
Founder-Äcärya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness
LIGHT OF HOPE IN THE
DARKNESS OF SORROW
2. February 2019 | Issue 20 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 2
Only one who has properly grasped the transcendental knowledge from the
right source by submissive hearing can properly explain the subject. (SB 1.1.6 P)
POWER OF
SAINTLY
ASSOCIATION
If one meets a saintly person and achieves his favour,
then the entire mission of one's human life is fulfilled.
Lord Caitanya says that one should always try to associate with saintly persons because if one establishes a
proper association with a saintly person, even for a moment, one attains all perfection. Somehow or other, if
one meets a saintly person and achieves his favor, then the entire mission of one's human life is fulfilled. In
our personal experience we have actual proof of this statement.
Once we had the opportunity to meet Viñëupäda Çré Çrémad Bhaktisiddhänta Sarasvaté Gosvämé Mahäräja,
and on first sight he requested this humble self to preach his message in the Western countries. There was
no preparation for this, but somehow or other he desired it, and by his grace we are now engaged in
executing his order, which has given us a transcendental occupation and has saved and liberated us from the
occupation of material activities. Thus it is actually a fact that if one meets a saintly person completely
engaged in transcendental duties and achieves his favor, then one's life mission becomes complete. What is
not possible to achieve in thousands of lives can be achieved in one moment if there is an opportunity to
meet a saintly person.
It is therefore enjoined in Vedic literature that one should always try to associate with saintly persons and
try to disassociate oneself from the common man, because by one word of a saintly person one can be
liberated from material entanglement. A saintly person has the power, because of his spiritual advancement,
to give immediate liberation to the conditioned soul. (SB 3.22.5 P)
FROM THE DESK OF
FOUNDER ÄCÄRYA
By His Divine Grace
A. C. Bhaktivedänta
Swämi Prabhupäda
3. February 2019 | Issue 20 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 3
The Lord's unlimited power is extended on and on by the unlimited expansion of
His devotees and incarnations, and thus every devotee and incarnation can also
be equally surcharged with the potency of the Lord. (SB 1.18.19 P)
Perfect happiness in this world
is just a dream thing
Once there lived a king named Citraketu in the province of
Çürasena. Owing to his piety and righteousness, his kingdom
flourished. There was one problem though. The king had no
issue. Although he married one bride after another in order to
have progeny, nonetheless all of them turned out to be barren.
All the conditioned souls of this world tacitly harbor a
utopian desire of obtaining perfect happiness. But this world
is full of mixed happiness and misery. So the long cherished
and long sought after perfect happiness is simply mirage or
dream, reality of which can be experienced only in the
spiritual world. Here we see that although the king had great
opulence, beautiful queens, vast military power, several
ministers and soldiers and so on, he was still hopeless and
sorrowful.
During this time of despondency, sage
Aìgirä, by his own sweet will, visited
Citraketu and inquired about his welfare. He
said, “I can observe that your mind is not
pleased. What is the reason?”
Mind runs after
the unobtainable
King Citraketu replied, “O great sage,
because of your austerity, knowledge and
meditation, you are free from all vices and
thus you can understand everything
regarding people like us. Still let me disclose
the cause of my sadness. I am not pleased by
my empire because I don’t have a son. Please
save me and my forefathers from hellish
conditions and suggest me a solution.”
By Madhav Gopal Das
LIGHT OF HOPE IN THE
DARKNESS OF SORROW
In the insurmountable darkness of sorrow in this world, the only light of hope is the
association of pure devotees and their instructions on devotional service.
4. February 2019 | Issue 20 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 4
The spiritual master is always prepared to impart knowledge to the disciple and
specifically when the disciple is very inquisitive. Inquisitiveness on the part of a
disciple is greatly necessary for the progressive disciple. (SB 2.8.24 P)
This is the nature of our mind and the nature of this
world. No matter how much we possess, the mind
clings on to what is unobtainable and remains
dissatisfied. However, by revealing our mind to a
trusted superior, there is solace and reassurance in the
situations of confusions and chaos.
Sage Aìgirä mercifully performed a sacrifice and
blessed Citraketu and his first wife Kåtadyuti to have
a son. He warns, however, that the son born will be
the cause of happiness in the beginning and
lamentation at the end. Saying nothing further, Aìgirä
leaves.
Upheavals in life
Citraketu was extremely delighted having obtained a
son after a long time. His attachment to the son and
Kåtadyuti increased so much that he neglected his
other wives.
This world is no peaceful place. When God is not kept
in the center of our lives, we create many ripples by
keeping ourselves in the center, and the ripples clash
with each other leading to turbulence.
The wives of Citraketu who were without issue
became envious of their co-wife Kåtadyuti as she
became the king’s favorite attracting all his attention
to herself. They all devised an evil plan and
administered poison to the child. The child died, and
Kåtadyuti cried in great lamentation.
Do not blame unseen God
for unforeseen karma
Kåtadyuti in her pain blamed God, “Oh, providence,
you are so childish. You are acting against your own
laws, causing the death of a child before his father.”
This is how conditioned soul condemns the creator
when he meets reversals and upheavals. She
continued: “If you say, everything is controlled by
karma, then there is no need of God. If you cut the
bonds of affection that you only have created, through
your arrangement of law of karma, then no one will
raise children with affection.”
Çréla Prabhupäda writes, “The subtle laws of karma,
which are controlled by the Supreme, cannot be
understood by ordinary conditioned souls. Therefore
Kåñëa says that one who can understand Him and
how He is acting, controlling everything by subtle laws
laws, immediately becomes freed by His grace. That is
the statement of Brahma-saàhitä (karmäëi nirdahati
kintu ca bhakti-bhäjäm [Bs. 5.54]). One should take to
devotional service without reservations and surrender
everything to the supreme will of the Lord. That will
make one happy in this life and the next.” (6.14.55 P)
The conditioned soul who does not understand this,
tries to further his selfish plans and meets reverses
inevitably and thus laments.
Light of a Bhägavata can dispel
the gloomy darkness in the heart
King Citraketu began crying loudly and lied down by
the dead body of his child as if he were dead. At that
moment Aìgirä muni arrived there along with Närada
muni. When one is in difficulty, he becomes helpless.
If he is receptive to an advice of a devotee he can take
shelter of Kåñëa in utter helplessness and complete
dependence. Here we see an example of
transformation of a pious distressed king into a pure
devotee only due to the intervention of pure devotees
like Närada and Aìgirä.
5. February 2019 | Issue 20 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 5
Hear it straight from
the horse’s mouth
Närada muni then by his mystic potency brings the
dead son back to life just to convince Citraketu. The
boy spoke, “By my karma I change body. In which
life were you my father and mother? Living entity is
actually a son of Supreme Lord. Just as commodities
and gold coins pass among many people, the jéva
wanders into various wombs with various fathers
and mothers. The soul wandering through material
bodies, be it human body, animal body or tree body
or demigod body gets a father and a mother. It is not
very difficult. The difficulty is to obtain a bona fide
guru which you have obtained by your great
fortune.” Speaking thus, the soul of that boy left.
Kåitadyuti’s co-wives felt ashamed of their act and
performed atonement for it. Citraketu, thus
enlightened, comes out of dark well of ignorance as
an elephant becomes free from muddy water. Bathing
in Yamuna, he chants the mantra given by Närada
muni and perfects his life taking full shelter of the
Lord. He sees the Lord face to face and the Lord
further enlightens him assuring him ultimate
perfection.
How to cross over
the ocean of upheavals?
Çréla Prabhupäda writes, “As living entities, we are
being carried away by the waves of prakåti, or
nature, which works under the Lord's direction
(mayädhyakñeëa prakåtiù süyate sa-caräcaram [Bg.
9.10]). Bhaktivinoda Öhäkura sings, (miche)
mäyäravaçe, yäcchabhese', khäcchahäbuòubu, bhäi:
"Why are you being carried away by the waves of
the illusory energy in various phases of dreaming and
wakefulness? These are all creations of mäyä.” Our
only duty is to remember the supreme director of this
illusory energy—Kåñëa. For us to do this, the çästra
advises us, harer näma harer näma harer nämaiva
kevalam [Cc. Ädi 17.21]: one should constantly chant
the holy name of the Lord—Hare Kåñëa, Hare
Kåñëa, Kåñëa Kåñëa, Hare Hare/ Hare Räma, Hare
Räma, RämaRäma, Hare Hare.” (6.16.53-54 P)
We are tossed in the oceanic waves of this material
world. The only way to cross over is to remember the
Supreme Lord by chanting His names. We are in the
insurmountable darkness of sorrow of this material
world, and the only light of hope is the association of
pure devotees and their instructions for our
upliftment.
In the material world even an ass enjoys his sound vibration, but in the Vaikuëöhas
such nice birds as the peacock, the cakraväka and the cuckoo prefer to hear the
vibration of the glories of the Lord from the bees. (SB 3.15.18 P)
Step I – Understand the
impermanence of life
As long as one searches happiness in matter, one gets
disappointed. The relationships of this world are
transient and based on bodily conception. When one
takes them to be permanent, one ends up in
lamentation.
Närada muni consoles Citraketu by saying: “What is
your relationship with this dead body? Did it exist
before? Will it continue in future? Sand particles
sometimes come together and sometimes are separated
due to forces of waves. Similarly, living entities come
together and are separated.”
yathä dhänäsu vai dhänä bhavanti na bhavanti ca
evaà bhütäni bhüteñu coditänéça-mäyayä
(6.15.4)
“When seeds are sown in the ground, they sometimes
grow into plants and sometimes do not. Sometimes
the ground is not fertile, and the sowing of seeds is
unproductive. Similarly, sometimes a prospective
fathercan beget a child, but sometimes conception
does not take place. Therefore one should not lament
over the artificial relationship of parenthood, which is
ultimately controlled by the Supreme Lord.”
Thus there is nothing to lament for the things that
you cannot do anything about.
Hearing these enlightening words, Citraketu fell at
the feet of the sages. Angira told him that he could
have given him that knowledge earlier also but he was
not ready due to being absorbed in material things.
Step II – Take to the permanent life
in Kåñëa consciousness
Realization of one’s relationship with Kåñëa ends
one’s miserable material life and opens the door of a
blissful eternal life. Närada muni instructed Citraketu
to attentively receive a mantra that will make him see
the Supreme Lord Saìkarñaëa face to face.
yat-päda-mülamupasåtyanarendrapürve
çarvädayobhramamimaàdvitayaàvisåjya
sadyastadéyamatulänadhikaàmahitvaà
präpurbhavänapiparaànacirädupaiti
“My dear King, in former days Lord Çiva and other
demigods took shelter of the lotus feet of Saìkarñaëa.
Thus they immediately got free from the illusion of
duality and achieved unequaled and unsurpassed
glories in spiritual life. You will very soon attain that
very same position.” (6.15.28)
6. February 2019 | Issue 20 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 6
Only one who has properly grasped the transcendental knowledge from the
right source by submissive hearing can properly explain the subject. (SB 1.1.6
P)
WHEN THE HUSBAND NEGLECTS…
It is bhakti that bestows one the maturity to withstand the reversals in this world,
and maintain composure and hope in the most hopeless situation.
King Citraketu had one crore wives and only the
eldest of them, Kåtadyuti, gave birth to a child, due to
the power of a sacrifice. Citraketu began giving more
attention to Kåtadyuti and the child. His remaining
wives felt neglected and considered the child to be the
cause of it. Overwhelmed with envy, they all
conspired and poisoned the child and killed him. Due
to their envy they lost their intelligence, commonsense
and developed such destructive tendencies.
King Uttänapäda had two wives – Sunéti and Suruci.
He loved Suruci, but neglected Sunéti and didn’t even
welcome Sunéti’s son Dhruva, who once eagerly came
to sit on his lap. Even when Suruci outrageously
insulted Dhruva, Uttänapäda didn’t stop her.
Although Sunéti was neglected by her husband and
her son was insulted by her co-wife, she didn’t
become envious. Sunéti advised Dhruva not to desire
harm for anyone (even if they cause him pain), but
take shelter of the Supreme Lord Kåñëa. Because
Sunéti herself was a great devotee, she could inspire
Dhruva to take to devotional service.
Both Citraketu’s wives and Uttänapäda’s wife Sunéti
were neglected by their husbands. But they responded
in different ways, due to the difference in their
maturity levels and their dependence on God.
Citraketu’s wives who poisoned the child lost their
luster and ultimately felt guilty for their henuous act.
Because of Sunéti’s tolerance and devotion, Dhruva
became a great devotee and Uttänapäda also became
transformed.
Miseries are natural in this world. The nature of
misery may vary but no one can escape misery.
Situations are not within our control, but our response
is. We need to try our best to address a situation, but
it may not be possible every time by every person.
When situations are beyond our control, if we train
our consciousness to take shelter of Kåñëa, the
miseries cannot overwhelm us. It is bhakti that
bestows one the maturity to withstand the reversals in
this world, and maintain composure and hope in the
most hopeless situation.
by Gauranga Darshan Das
7. February 2019 | Issue 20 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 7
Great unalloyed devotees of the Lord are compassionate towards the fallen, and
therefore they travel all over the world with the mission of bringing souls back to
Godhead, back to home. (SB 3.5.3 P)
guëa-praväha etasmin
kaù çäpaù ko nv anugrahaù
kaù svargo narakaù ko vä
kià sukhaà duùkham eva vä
This material world resembles the waves of a
constantly flowing river. Therefore, what is a
curse and what is a favor? What are the
heavenly planets, and what are the hellish
planets? What is actually happiness, and what
is actually distress? Because the waves flow
constantly, none of them has an eternal effect.
(6.17.20 – King Citraketu to Pärvati)
VERSE OF THE MONTH
Material dualities have
no permanent effect
Mail your answer to
pradipika@vidyapitha.in with “February
Quiz Corner” in the subject. The answer
along with the your name will be
published in the next issue.
Best captions
for the last month’s image:
Gopal – Lover Of Cows
(By Gangaram)
God Is A Cowherd Boy
(By Vijay)
QUIZ CORNER
Send the names of
minimum three kings
from Çrémad-
Bhägavatam who
performed
açvamedha-yajïa
8. February 2019 | Issue 20 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 8
Lord Kapila now describes the path of bhakti-miçra añöäìga-yoga, the object of which is to concentrate the mind
on Lord’s form. On being further questioned by mother, he describes bhakti affected by the guëas and the pure
bhakti, as well as giving respect to living beings and the power of time. Then he explains about the pains, a
materialistic person suffers in youth, old age and ultimately his death.
Everyone, except the Lord Himself, is dependent on the mercy of the Lord;
even the all-pervading Supersoul is also dependent on the supreme aspect of
Bhagavän, the Personality of Godhead. (SB 2.6.7 P)
Limbs of Añöäìga Yoga
Lord Kapila defined and gave the details of yama,
niyama, äsana, präëäyäma, pratyähära, dhäraëä, dhyäna
and Samädhi. By these processes, a yogi controls the
contaminated, unbridled mind and fixes it on the Lord.
By practising präëäyäma the yogi destroys the doñäs in
the body, by dhäraëä the sins are destroyed, by
pratyähära he frees himself from material association
with sense objects and by practising dhyäna, he frees
himself from the effects of three modes. When thus the
mind becomes steady, looking at the tip of the nose, the
yogi then meditates on Lord’s form.
Darsana of the Lord
Lord Kapila then described to his mother the beautiful
form of the Lord, the yogi meditates upon. For
performing dhäraëä, he meditates upon the Lord with all
His limbs. With heart filled with pure emotions, the yogi
visualizes the Lord standing, moving, sitting or lying
down. He then fixes his mind on each individual limb of
the Lord, this process is called dhyäna. The yogi first
meditates on the Lord’s lotus feet. Then gradually he
raises his meditation to janu, thighs, hips, navel, chest,
neck and finally to his beautiful lotus face.
The Yogi’s State of Mind
By this meditation, the yogi gradually develops love
for the Lord, exhibiting symptoms like the hairs
standing and tears rolling. Gradually he withdraws his
hook-like mind from all material activity. Then that
detached mind becomes situated in its own glory,
transcendental to all happiness and distress. The yogi
realizes the truth of his relationship with the Lord and
discovers that pleasure and pain are actually due to
the false ego. He acts as if totally unaware of the body
like a drunken person. Such a yogi sees the Supersoul
in all beings and all beings in the Supersoul.
Devahüti’s further questions
Devahüti had a desire to perform bhakti. So she asked
more questions on bhakti. “Q1 - Explain in detail the
path of bhakti, which is the root cause of the
knowledge of Säìkhya and the ultimate end of all
philosophical systems. Q2 - Describe about the nature
of time by whose fear, people perform pious acts. Q3 -
Describe about the continual process of birth and
death of the jévas, hearing which one becomes
detached”. Lord Kapila had already spoken of pure
bhakti, now he began to speak about bhakti
contaminated by the guëas.
BHĀGAVATA
PRAVĀHA
The Flow of Çrémad-Bhägavatam
THE OBJECT OF
MEDITATION OF A YOGI
[Çrémad-Bhägavatam, Canto 3 Chapters 28-30]
by Vijay Krishna Kumar Das
9. February 2019 | Issue 20 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 9
A Materialist Unaware Of Passing Time
A materialist does not know the power of time by which
he is being carried away, just as the clouds do not know
the power of wind. Whatever he has acquired with great
pain and labor for his pleasure is destroyed by time, and
he laments for that. He feels little inclined to give up this
body, due to deep-rooted attraction for body and related
pharapharnelia. Although burning with anxiety, he
always performs sinful acts to maintain his so-called
family, with a hope that is never fulfilled.
Treatment Like An Animal
If he can successfully counteract miseries, he thinks
himself happy. Securing money by committing violence,
he maintains his family, although he gets to eat their
remnants. When he suffers reverses, he repeatedly tries
to improve, but when he fails in his attempts, he starts
desiring others’ wealth. Unsuccessful in maintaining his
family members, he grieves very deeply. His family
members do not respect him as before and treat him like
an old and worn-out ox. He remains at home like a pet
dog, neglected and afflicted by diseases.
Final stage
His eyes bulges out, he coughs and breathes with
difficulty. He lies down, surrounded by lamenting
relatives. He finally dies in grief, most pathetically,
without consciousness and seeing his relatives crying.
To be Continued…
The living entity creates his own body by his personal desires, and the external energy
of the Lord supplies him the exact form by which he can enjoy his desires to the
fullest extent. (SB 2.9.2 P)
Bhakti in Three Modes
There are many paths of bhakti in terms of the different
qualities of performer. The performers of bhakti are in
three modes, ignorance, passion and goodness. Each have
a separatist mentality of being devoid of compassion,
having desires for objects other than Lord and desires for
liberation respectively. Important to know is that bhakti
is not in various modes, but the performers can be.
Bhakti Beyond Modes
Lord Kapila also gives the characteristics of pure bhakti
which is beyond the three modes. He describes about the
various angas of bhakti which are meant for the
purification of mind. Some of these aìgas are practising
svadharma without material profit; seeing, touching and
worshiping the dieties; seeing every living entity as
spiritual, etc. The practice of these aìgas of bhakti gives
rise to pure bhakti.
Overcoming Obstacles In Bhakti
In the practice of bhakti, offense creates restriction. Lord
Kapila highlighted that the offences in bhakti is due to
disregard, hatred and criticism. He said “If an ignorant
person neglects Me in all beings, his worship is simply an
imitation. The mind of such a separatist does not get
peace. I am not pleased with a person who criticizes
others even if he worships me. One should realize My
presence in everyone, perform his prescribed duties and
worship My deity. As death, I give fear to those who sees
differences between themselves and other living entities.”
Gradation Of The Jivas
Although a devotee has equal vision, he does not loose
the discrimination based on gradation of jévas. Higher
than inanimate objects are the immovable living entities,
then in order entities with sense perception, animals with
four legs, humans with two legs, then humans in
varëäçrama, then brähmaëas, then a liberated person and
finally a pure devotee is the highest of all. A pure devotee
is the best person as he has no interest outside the Lord
and he therefore engages and dedicates all his activities
and life unto Him without cessation.
Characteristics Of Time
Time causes tranformations of various material
manifestations and is the master of all masters. It holds
no one dear. Out of fear of Lord, in His feature of time,
all the demigods controlling nature perform their
functions. Guëävatäras carry out creation, maintenance
and destruction. Rivers flows, oceans do not overflow,
fire burns and the earth do not sink. It is without
beginning and end but causes everyone’s birth and death.
10. February 2019 | Issue 20 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 10
Research scholars as great as Brahmä, Çiva, Indra and many other demigods are
sometimes bewildered by seeing the wonderful creative energy of the Lord, so
what to speak of the tiny mundane scholars dealing in petty things. (SB 2.4.6 P)
ANALOGY ARENA
As the modern astronauts
who go to the moon or other
heavenly planets by force of
jet propulsion have to come
down again after exhausting
their fuel, so also do those
who are elevated to the
heavenly planets by force of
yajïas and pious activities.
(SB 4.9.10 P)
If one is given a court
order, he must accept it,
whether it brings
suffering or profit.
Similarly, everyone is
under obligations to
karma and it reactions.
No one can change this.
(SB 8.7.44 P)
A brähmaëa who is
satisfied with whatever is
providentially obtained is
increasingly enlightened
with spiritual power, but
the spiritual potency of a
dissatisfied brähmaëa
decreases, as fire
diminishes in potency when
water is sprinkled upon it.
(SB 8.19.26 P)
Devotion, direct experience of the
Supreme Lord, and detachment from
other things—these three occur
simultaneously for one who has
taken shelter of the Supreme
Personality of Godhead, in the same
way that pleasure, nourishment and
relief from hunger come
simultaneously and increasingly, with
each bite, for a person engaged in
eating.(SB 11.2.42 P)
The impersonal cosmic situation is also
Mukunda because it is the emanation
of the energy of Mukunda. For
example, a tree is a complete unit,
whereas the leaves and branches of
the tree are emanated parts and
parcels of the tree. The leaves and
branches of the tree are also the tree,
but the tree itself is neither the leaves
nor the branches. (SB 11.10.17 P)
The Lord must exist before the
creation, otherwise how could
He be its Lord? If someone
constructs a big building, this
indicates that he must have
existed before the building was
constructed. Therefore the
Supreme Lord, the creator of
the universe, must be
transcendental to the material
modes of nature. (SB 4.1.26 P)
11. February 2019 | Issue 20 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 11
Simply by rendering transcendental loving service unto the Supreme Personality of
Godhead, one can have all the benedictions of the world without separate
endeavor. (SB 4.12.7 P)
PARI PRAÇNA
Question: What are the symptoms of a jévan-mukta?
Answer: Çréla Véraräghava Äcärya states that in the
Chändogya Upaniñad there are eight symptoms of a
jévan-mukta, a person who is already liberated even when
living in this body.
• Apahata-päpa - He is freed from all sinful activity. One
who is liberated in this life does not commit any sinful
activities.
• Vijara - He is not subjected to the miseries of old age.
• Vimåtyu - A liberated person prepares himself in such a
way that he does not take on any more material
bodies, which are destined to die.
• Viçoka - He is callous to material distress & happiness.
• Vijighatsa - He no longer desires material enjoyment.
• Apipätä - He has no desire other than to engage in the
devotional service of Kåñëa, his dearmost pursuable
Lord.
• Satya-käma - All his desires are directed to the
Supreme Truth, Kåñëa. He doesn’t want anything else.
• Satya-saìkalpa - Whatever he desires is fulfilled by the
grace of Kåñëa. First of all, he does not desire anything
for his material benefit, and secondly if he desires
anything at all, he simply desires to serve the Supreme
Lord. That desire is fulfilled by the Lord's grace. (SB
5.4.5 P)
Mail us at pradipika@vidyapitha.in your questions on
Çrémad-Bhägavatam. Answers to shortlisted questions shall
be published in the next issue of Bhägavata Pradépikä.
Question: What are the two ways of approaching the
Supreme Lord as per the revealed scriptures?
Answer: One is called bhägavata-märga, or the way of Çrémad-
Bhägavatam, and the other is called päïcarätrika-vidhi.
Päïcarätrika-vidhi is the method of temple worship, and
bhägavata-vidhi is the system of nine processes which begin
with hearing and chanting. This päïcarätrika procedure was
first introduced by the great sage Närada. (SB 4.13.3 P)
Lord Näräyaëa is worshipable by the päïcarätrika-vidhi, or
regulative principles, whereas Lord Kåñëa is worshipable by the
bhägavata-vidhi. No one can worship the Lord in the
bhägavata-vidhi without going through the regulations of the
päïcarätrika-vidhi. Worship according to the päïcarätrika-vidhi
is called vidhi-märga, and worship according to the bhägavata-
vidhi principles is called räga-märga. (SB 4.24.25-27 P)
Question: Why did king Parékñit not ask Çukadeva Gosvämé
to narrate about Kåñëa’s pastime in Vrindavan instead asked
him to narrate the creation pastimes?
Answer: Those who are under the control of the external
energy, or in other words those who are in the material world,
must first of all know how the external energy of the Lord is
working under His direction, and afterwards one may try to
enter into the activities of His internal energy.
Neither King Parékñit nor the great speaker of Çrémad-
Bhägavatam, Çukadeva Gosvämé jumped up to the Vrindavan
pastimes of Kåñëa with his most confidential devotees, the
gopés; both of them proceeded systematically, so that both
future readers and hearers might take lessons from the
example of the procedure of reciting Çrémad-Bhägavatam. (SB
2.4.6 P)
12. February 2019 | Issue 20 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 12
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NOMENCLATURE
SB: Çrémad-Bhägavatam
CC: Çré Caitanya-caritämåta
BG: Bhagavad-gétä
BS: Brahma-saàhitä
1.1.1: Canto 1, Chapter 1, Verse 1
1.1.1 P: From Çréla Prabhupäda’s
purport to SB 1.1.1 (If it is beyond
Canto 10 Chapter 13, it is from the
purport of Çréla Prabhupäda’s disciples)
1.1.1 V: From Çréla Viçvanätha
Cakravarti Öhäkura’s commentary on
SB 1.1.1.
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The Lord has employed His wonderful material energy in manifesting many, many
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by the same energy, are thus unable to know the supreme cause. (SB 3.9.1 P)
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