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
The document discusses the qualifications of an ideal disciple based on scriptural teachings. It states that a disciple must sincerely approach a qualified spiritual master, inquire from them submissively and render service. Some key qualities of a disciple mentioned are humbly and submissively approaching the spiritual master with important questions, being anxious to inquire about spiritual perfection, and serving the master with humility and gratitude. The purpose is to receive proper guidance from the spiritual master to understand the science of the soul and solve the fundamental problems of life.
This document contains a translation and commentary of the first six verses of the Mukunda-Mala-Stotra by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. It includes a note that the complete work is now available from the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust International. The copyright notice explains that this is an evaluation copy for personal use only. The commentary then analyzes each way that King Kulasekhara addresses Lord Krishna in the first verse, including as Sri-vallabha, Varada, and Dayapara, explaining the meanings and significance.
Krishna Leela Series - Part 42 - Delivery of the Message of Krishna to the GopisKrishna Bhakti Sangha
1) Uddhava, an associate of Krishna who resembled him, was sent by Krishna as a messenger to the gopis in Vrindavan.
2) The gopis, upon seeing Uddhava, mistook him for Krishna at first. When they realized he was just a messenger, they accused Krishna of not caring for them anymore since he left.
3) Uddhava delivered Krishna's message to the gopis that the separation they feel from him is only due to their forgetfulness of their true spiritual relationship with Krishna, and that Krishna has not actually left them.
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.
Uddhava visits Vrindavan on Krishna's instruction to pacify the residents suffering from Krishna's separation. Nand Maharaj recalls Krishna's pastimes with great longing for His return. Uddhava delivers Krishna's message to the grieving gopis. He desires to become a blade of grass in Vrindavan to receive the dust of the gopis' feet. The pastime highlights the ecstasy of separation from Krishna experienced by the residents of Vrindavan.
This document provides biographical details about Saradamani, who later became known as the Holy Mother. It describes her upbringing in a poor family in the village of Jayrambati, and her marriage at a young age to Sri Ramakrishna. When Sri Ramakrishna began experiencing intense spiritual longing after his first vision of the Divine Mother, his family thought he had become mad and arranged his marriage, hoping it would stabilize him. Saradamani was married to Sri Ramakrishna as a child, but she did not fully understand the concept of marriage at such a young age. The document outlines some of Saradamani's early life experiences and interactions with Sri Ramakrishna during their marriage.
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
The document discusses the qualifications of an ideal disciple based on scriptural teachings. It states that a disciple must sincerely approach a qualified spiritual master, inquire from them submissively and render service. Some key qualities of a disciple mentioned are humbly and submissively approaching the spiritual master with important questions, being anxious to inquire about spiritual perfection, and serving the master with humility and gratitude. The purpose is to receive proper guidance from the spiritual master to understand the science of the soul and solve the fundamental problems of life.
This document contains a translation and commentary of the first six verses of the Mukunda-Mala-Stotra by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. It includes a note that the complete work is now available from the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust International. The copyright notice explains that this is an evaluation copy for personal use only. The commentary then analyzes each way that King Kulasekhara addresses Lord Krishna in the first verse, including as Sri-vallabha, Varada, and Dayapara, explaining the meanings and significance.
Krishna Leela Series - Part 42 - Delivery of the Message of Krishna to the GopisKrishna Bhakti Sangha
1) Uddhava, an associate of Krishna who resembled him, was sent by Krishna as a messenger to the gopis in Vrindavan.
2) The gopis, upon seeing Uddhava, mistook him for Krishna at first. When they realized he was just a messenger, they accused Krishna of not caring for them anymore since he left.
3) Uddhava delivered Krishna's message to the gopis that the separation they feel from him is only due to their forgetfulness of their true spiritual relationship with Krishna, and that Krishna has not actually left them.
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.
Uddhava visits Vrindavan on Krishna's instruction to pacify the residents suffering from Krishna's separation. Nand Maharaj recalls Krishna's pastimes with great longing for His return. Uddhava delivers Krishna's message to the grieving gopis. He desires to become a blade of grass in Vrindavan to receive the dust of the gopis' feet. The pastime highlights the ecstasy of separation from Krishna experienced by the residents of Vrindavan.
This document provides biographical details about Saradamani, who later became known as the Holy Mother. It describes her upbringing in a poor family in the village of Jayrambati, and her marriage at a young age to Sri Ramakrishna. When Sri Ramakrishna began experiencing intense spiritual longing after his first vision of the Divine Mother, his family thought he had become mad and arranged his marriage, hoping it would stabilize him. Saradamani was married to Sri Ramakrishna as a child, but she did not fully understand the concept of marriage at such a young age. The document outlines some of Saradamani's early life experiences and interactions with Sri Ramakrishna during their marriage.
Theme - The Glorious Guru Parampara;
Content -Commendable Commanders, The Humility Of Our Acaryas, Pari-Prasna, Analogy Arena, Verse of the Month, Quiz Corner, Bhagavata Pravaha
- 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.
The Buddha provides a comprehensive analysis of kamma (action) and its results to Subha, explaining the moral law of cause and effect. He details how unwholesome actions like killing, harming others, envy, anger, pride and greed can lead to rebirth in woeful realms or problems in this life, while wholesome actions like compassion, wishing well for others, patience and generosity lead to happiness. Subha is convinced by specific examples the Buddha shares about his miserly father's rebirth as a dog and recovery of hidden treasure.
Krishna Voice is an English monthly newsletter published by ISKCON Bangalore. One of the objectives of our temple is to increase Krishna Consciousness in the community. Through this newsletter, we want to promulgate the message of the Vedic scriptures like Bhagavad-gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam.
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.
The document describes the materials and procedure for performing the Pooja ritual. It involves setting up an altar with items like a book, platform, leaves, idols, lamps, and offerings. The ritual consists of five parts and involves worshipping deities like Ganesha, planets, and Vishnu through offerings and prayers. Several stories are provided as examples of people who performed the Pooja ritual and received benefits like fulfilling desires, increasing wealth, and relief from suffering.
Krishna Voice is an English monthly newsletter published by ISKCON Bangalore. One of the objectives of our temple is to increase Krishna Consciousness in the community. Through this newsletter, we want to promulgate the message of the Vedic scriptures like Bhagavad-gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam.
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
Krishna Voice is an English monthly newsletter published by ISKCON Bangalore. One of the objectives of our temple is to increase Krishna Consciousness in the community. Through this newsletter, we want to promulgate the message of the Vedic scriptures like Bhagavad-gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam.
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.
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
Bhagavata Pradipika, a free monthly e-magazine on the Srimad Bhagavatam, by Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha.
CONTENTS -
1. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu - The Great Apostle of Love of God
2. Is God Partial?
3. Verse of the Month
4. Quiz Corner
5. Bhagavata Pravaha
6. Analogy Arena
7. Pari-prasna
This passage describes the life events that led Venerable Ajaan Khao Analayo to ordain as a Buddhist monk. As a layperson, he worked hard to support his family through farming but faced difficulties. After discovering his wife's infidelity, he was overcome with anger and almost killed her and her lover in a fit of rage. However, he restrained himself due to Dhamma teachings that arose in his mind. This experience left him disillusioned with lay life and desiring to ordain. He became a monk to escape the difficulties of the world and diligently practice the path to Nibbana taught by the Buddha.
This document contains quotes from Srila Prabhupada emphasizing the importance of printing and distributing his books worldwide. It begins with Prabhupada's request to "kindly help me" print and distribute books in many languages so that the Krsna consciousness movement will increase. The quotes that follow show Prabhupada's strong desire and insistence that his disciples prioritize publishing and distributing his books. He expresses that this is the "main business" and is more important than constructing temples. Prabhupada saw book distribution as essential to spreading Krsna consciousness globally.
The document discusses a prayer by Krishnadasa Kaviraja Gosvami offering obeisances to Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. It summarizes that Lord Chaitanya came to teach love of God (prema-bhakti) throughout the English-speaking world, publishing 70 volumes of Vedic texts that are now standard in universities. His international society molded into temples and communities around the world carrying on his movement. The prayer emphasizes that prema-bhakti or love of God is life's only necessity and Lord Chaitanya offers this freely to benefit all souls.
The Bhagavad Gita, a revered Hindu scripture, is a profound dialogue between Lord Krishna and the warrior Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Focused on duty, righteousness, and spiritual enlightenment, it offers timeless guidance on navigating life's challenges, emphasizing the path of selfless action and devotion.
This document provides a summary of the key teachings from the book "Teachings of Lord Caitanya" by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. It explains that Lord Caitanya's teachings are identical to those of Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita - to fully surrender to the Lord. It describes Lord Caitanya teaching the process of chanting the Hare Krishna maha mantra as a means to advance through different spiritual stages and achieve pure love for God. It also summarizes the teachings around engaging the mind in thoughts and activities related to Krishna to purify consciousness and control the senses.
23 reasons to Love the Bhagavad Gita & How illumined Am Imiddela
The document discusses the author's love for the Bhagavad Gita, which is a classic Hindu scripture. In 25 sentences, the author lists the various aspects of the Gita that they love, including its emphasis on spirituality, acceptance, truth, happiness, love, and applying spiritual teachings to daily life. The author also loves how the Gita pushes them to become their own divinity and provides means to cultivate extreme goodness. They are enthralled by descriptions of God and their true nature in the Gita.
This document summarizes the August-September-October 2015 issue of The Mustard Seed magazine. It begins with the editor Radhika thanking contributors and readers for their support in publishing the issue. The next sections discuss the challenges of the past few months but also family blessings. Globally, there is the greatest refugee crisis since WWII and in India issues like violence, drought and abuse. The editor urges counting blessings and wishes readers compassion, generosity and blessings from God. It includes letters from readers praising the magazine's secular nature and spiritual messages. The next issue's editor is discussed.
This document provides an excerpt from the book "Transcendental Teachings of Prahlada" by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. The excerpt discusses Prahlada Maharaja instructing his young friends that the real purpose of human life is to cultivate Krishna consciousness, rather than wasting time pursuing sense gratification. Bodily pleasures and distress come through nature's laws regardless of effort, so one should instead focus on the higher goal of understanding God.
Theme - The Glorious Guru Parampara;
Content -Commendable Commanders, The Humility Of Our Acaryas, Pari-Prasna, Analogy Arena, Verse of the Month, Quiz Corner, Bhagavata Pravaha
- 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.
The Buddha provides a comprehensive analysis of kamma (action) and its results to Subha, explaining the moral law of cause and effect. He details how unwholesome actions like killing, harming others, envy, anger, pride and greed can lead to rebirth in woeful realms or problems in this life, while wholesome actions like compassion, wishing well for others, patience and generosity lead to happiness. Subha is convinced by specific examples the Buddha shares about his miserly father's rebirth as a dog and recovery of hidden treasure.
Krishna Voice is an English monthly newsletter published by ISKCON Bangalore. One of the objectives of our temple is to increase Krishna Consciousness in the community. Through this newsletter, we want to promulgate the message of the Vedic scriptures like Bhagavad-gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam.
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.
The document describes the materials and procedure for performing the Pooja ritual. It involves setting up an altar with items like a book, platform, leaves, idols, lamps, and offerings. The ritual consists of five parts and involves worshipping deities like Ganesha, planets, and Vishnu through offerings and prayers. Several stories are provided as examples of people who performed the Pooja ritual and received benefits like fulfilling desires, increasing wealth, and relief from suffering.
Krishna Voice is an English monthly newsletter published by ISKCON Bangalore. One of the objectives of our temple is to increase Krishna Consciousness in the community. Through this newsletter, we want to promulgate the message of the Vedic scriptures like Bhagavad-gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam.
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
Krishna Voice is an English monthly newsletter published by ISKCON Bangalore. One of the objectives of our temple is to increase Krishna Consciousness in the community. Through this newsletter, we want to promulgate the message of the Vedic scriptures like Bhagavad-gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam.
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.
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
Bhagavata Pradipika, a free monthly e-magazine on the Srimad Bhagavatam, by Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha.
CONTENTS -
1. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu - The Great Apostle of Love of God
2. Is God Partial?
3. Verse of the Month
4. Quiz Corner
5. Bhagavata Pravaha
6. Analogy Arena
7. Pari-prasna
This passage describes the life events that led Venerable Ajaan Khao Analayo to ordain as a Buddhist monk. As a layperson, he worked hard to support his family through farming but faced difficulties. After discovering his wife's infidelity, he was overcome with anger and almost killed her and her lover in a fit of rage. However, he restrained himself due to Dhamma teachings that arose in his mind. This experience left him disillusioned with lay life and desiring to ordain. He became a monk to escape the difficulties of the world and diligently practice the path to Nibbana taught by the Buddha.
This document contains quotes from Srila Prabhupada emphasizing the importance of printing and distributing his books worldwide. It begins with Prabhupada's request to "kindly help me" print and distribute books in many languages so that the Krsna consciousness movement will increase. The quotes that follow show Prabhupada's strong desire and insistence that his disciples prioritize publishing and distributing his books. He expresses that this is the "main business" and is more important than constructing temples. Prabhupada saw book distribution as essential to spreading Krsna consciousness globally.
The document discusses a prayer by Krishnadasa Kaviraja Gosvami offering obeisances to Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. It summarizes that Lord Chaitanya came to teach love of God (prema-bhakti) throughout the English-speaking world, publishing 70 volumes of Vedic texts that are now standard in universities. His international society molded into temples and communities around the world carrying on his movement. The prayer emphasizes that prema-bhakti or love of God is life's only necessity and Lord Chaitanya offers this freely to benefit all souls.
The Bhagavad Gita, a revered Hindu scripture, is a profound dialogue between Lord Krishna and the warrior Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Focused on duty, righteousness, and spiritual enlightenment, it offers timeless guidance on navigating life's challenges, emphasizing the path of selfless action and devotion.
This document provides a summary of the key teachings from the book "Teachings of Lord Caitanya" by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. It explains that Lord Caitanya's teachings are identical to those of Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita - to fully surrender to the Lord. It describes Lord Caitanya teaching the process of chanting the Hare Krishna maha mantra as a means to advance through different spiritual stages and achieve pure love for God. It also summarizes the teachings around engaging the mind in thoughts and activities related to Krishna to purify consciousness and control the senses.
23 reasons to Love the Bhagavad Gita & How illumined Am Imiddela
The document discusses the author's love for the Bhagavad Gita, which is a classic Hindu scripture. In 25 sentences, the author lists the various aspects of the Gita that they love, including its emphasis on spirituality, acceptance, truth, happiness, love, and applying spiritual teachings to daily life. The author also loves how the Gita pushes them to become their own divinity and provides means to cultivate extreme goodness. They are enthralled by descriptions of God and their true nature in the Gita.
This document summarizes the August-September-October 2015 issue of The Mustard Seed magazine. It begins with the editor Radhika thanking contributors and readers for their support in publishing the issue. The next sections discuss the challenges of the past few months but also family blessings. Globally, there is the greatest refugee crisis since WWII and in India issues like violence, drought and abuse. The editor urges counting blessings and wishes readers compassion, generosity and blessings from God. It includes letters from readers praising the magazine's secular nature and spiritual messages. The next issue's editor is discussed.
This document provides an excerpt from the book "Transcendental Teachings of Prahlada" by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. The excerpt discusses Prahlada Maharaja instructing his young friends that the real purpose of human life is to cultivate Krishna consciousness, rather than wasting time pursuing sense gratification. Bodily pleasures and distress come through nature's laws regardless of effort, so one should instead focus on the higher goal of understanding God.
This summary provides an overview of the document in 3 sentences:
The document is an excerpt from the book "Transcendental Teachings of Prahlada" which discusses a chapter about Prahlada Maharaja, a young boy devotee who was born in an atheistic family. The excerpt describes Prahlada teaching his young friends about Krishna consciousness and the importance of understanding God while in the human form. It discusses how the supreme well-wisher and most dear friend is Krishna, and how we are all searching to fulfill our natural relationship with him.
A saintly person is likened to pure water in the document. Such a person is free from all contamination, gentle by nature, and creates a beautiful vibration through speech, like flowing water. Just as one is purified through contact with pure water, seeing, touching, or hearing a saintly person purifies the living entity. Similarly, a saintly person purifies all those who contact him, as he always chants the glories of the Lord. The lesson to be learnt from water is how to be naturally clear and purifying. Several stories are then provided as examples of how contact with or service to pure devotees can swiftly transform one and free one from all contamination, no matter one's past.
The document discusses the teachings of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada on achieving fulfillment and bliss in life through developing a loving relationship with Krishna. It outlines five purposes of life: enjoying a relationship with Krishna, developing meaningful relationships with others, expressing oneself through abilities, fulfilling one's mission, and developing character. Quotes from scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam emphasize that true happiness comes from loving service to Krishna, not from material pleasures or liberation, and that those in Krishna consciousness enjoy transcendental bliss at every moment.
- Krishna uniquely shapes each person with strengths and weaknesses for a purpose and wants to see them develop and use their abilities in service to him.
- One finds fulfillment by identifying their abilities and talents, developing them through practice and training, and offering them in devotional service without concern for selfish goals or public recognition.
- When abilities are offered to Krishna without attachment to results or credit, it brings the greatest joy and fulfillment.
A Self help healing book - A True Story Life Story - one mother writing to her son to save his soul at a time of being incarcerated in Slovakia. The book is an interactive book on Hope, Belief, Trust, Love, and Care for anyone who needs uplifting and motivating and to be inspired spiritually for a better life.
1) The Pandavas were able to see Krishna at every moment through their loving devotion (bhakti) which purified their consciousness.
2) One can attain the spiritual abode of Krishna in this very body by being washed clean of all material contamination through pure devotion.
3) By developing love and constant remembrance of Krishna through chanting and reading about Him, one can see and live with Krishna even in this life, just as the Pandavas did.
Similar to The Epitome of Love (SARAT PURNIMA SPECIAL) (20)
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.
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.
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.
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
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
Theme - The Art of Responding Effectively | Turning Crisis into Opportunities
CONTENTS:
1) The Art of Responding Effectively
2) Verse of the Month
3) Pari-prasna
4) Quiz Corner
5) Analogy Arena
6) Bhagavata Pravaha (SB 3.23-25, DUTIFUL HUSBAND & RESPONSIBLE RENUNCIANT )
Theme - Disapproved but not Disowned
CONTENTS -
Disapproved but not Disowned, Verse of the Month, Bhagavata Pravaha, Pari-prasna, Quiz Corner, Analogy Arena
Theme - An Eventful Tour! (Janmastami Special)
CONTENTS -
An Eventful Tour!, Verse of the Month, The Seven Effects of Hearing About Krsna, Bhagavata Pravaha, Pari-prasna, Quiz Corner, Analogy Arena
The Enchantment and Shadows_ Unveiling the Mysteries of Magic and Black Magic...Phoenix O
This manual will guide you through basic skills and tasks to help you get started with various aspects of Magic. Each section is designed to be easy to follow, with step-by-step instructions.
A Free eBook ~ Valuable LIFE Lessons to Learn ( 5 Sets of Presentations)...OH TEIK BIN
A free eBook comprising 5 sets of PowerPoint presentations of meaningful stories /Inspirational pieces that teach important Dhamma/Life lessons. For reflection and practice to develop the mind to grow in love, compassion and wisdom. The texts are in English and Chinese.
My other free eBooks can be obtained from the following Links:
https://www.slideshare.net/ohteikbin/presentations
https://www.slideshare.net/ohteikbin/documents
The Hope of Salvation - Jude 1:24-25 - MessageCole Hartman
Jude gives us hope at the end of a dark letter. In a dark world like today, we need the light of Christ to shine brighter and brighter. Jude shows us where to fix our focus so we can be filled with God's goodness and glory. Join us to explore this incredible passage.
Why is this So? ~ Do Seek to KNOW (English & Chinese).pptxOH TEIK BIN
A PowerPoint Presentation based on the Dhamma teaching of Kamma-Vipaka (Intentional Actions-Ripening Effects).
A Presentation for developing morality, concentration and wisdom and to spur us to practice the Dhamma diligently.
The texts are in English and Chinese.
The forces involved in this witchcraft spell will re-establish the loving bond between you and help to build a strong, loving relationship from which to start anew. Despite any previous hardships or problems, the spell work will re-establish the strong bonds of friendship and love upon which the marriage and relationship originated. Have faith, these stop divorce and stop separation spells are extremely powerful and will reconnect you and your partner in a strong and harmonious relationship.
My ritual will not only stop separation and divorce, but rebuild a strong bond between you and your partner that is based on truth, honesty, and unconditional love. For an even stronger effect, you may want to consider using the Eternal Love Bond spell to ensure your relationship and love will last through all tests of time. If you have not yet determined if your partner is considering separation or divorce, but are aware of rifts in the relationship, try the Love Spells to remove problems in a relationship or marriage. Keep in mind that all my love spells are 100% customized and that you'll only need 1 spell to address all problems/wishes.
Save your marriage from divorce & make your relationship stronger using anti divorce spells to make him or her fall back in love with you. End your marriage if you are no longer in love with your husband or wife. Permanently end your marriage using divorce spells that work fast. Protect your marriage from divorce using love spells to boost commitment, love & bind your hearts together for a stronger marriage that will last. Get your ex lover who has remarried using divorce spells to break up a couple & make your ex lost lover come back to you permanently.
Visit https://www.profbalaj.com/love-spells-loves-spells-that-work/
Call/WhatsApp +27836633417 for more info.
The Book of Ruth is included in the third division, or the Writings, of the Hebrew Bible. In most Christian canons it is treated as one of the historical books and placed between Judges and 1 Samuel.
Sanatan Vastu | Experience Great Living | Vastu ExpertSanatan Vastu
Santan Vastu Provides Vedic astrology courses & Vastu remedies, If you are searching Vastu for home, Vastu for kitchen, Vastu for house, Vastu for Office & Factory. Best Vastu in Bahadurgarh. Best Vastu in Delhi NCR
A375 Example Taste the taste of the Lord, the taste of the Lord The taste of...franktsao4
It seems that current missionary work requires spending a lot of money, preparing a lot of materials, and traveling to far away places, so that it feels like missionary work. But what was the result they brought back? It's just a lot of photos of activities, fun eating, drinking and some playing games. And then we have to do the same thing next year, never ending. The church once mentioned that a certain missionary would go to the field where she used to work before the end of his life. It seemed that if she had not gone, no one would be willing to go. The reason why these missionary work is so difficult is that no one obeys God’s words, and the Bible is not the main content during missionary work, because in the eyes of those who do not obey God’s words, the Bible is just words and cannot be connected with life, so Reading out God's words is boring because it doesn't have any life experience, so it cannot be connected with human life. I will give a few examples in the hope that this situation can be changed. A375
1. October 2018 | Issue 16 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 1
CONTENTS
The Epitome of Love.....2
Verse of the Month.......6
Bhägavata Praväha........7
Pari-praçna.......................9
Quiz Corner.....................9
Analogy Arena..............10
A Monthly E-Magazine from the Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha with Illuminating Perspectives on the Srimad-Bhagavatam
October 2018 | Issue 16
Dedicated to His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedänta Swämi Prabhupäda,
Founder-Äcärya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness
The
Epitome
of Love
ÇARAT-
PÜRËIMÄ
SPECIAL
2. October 2018 | Issue 16 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 2
The conjugal love experienced by human beings is a mere reflection of spiritual reality,
in which the same love exists in an absolute, pristine state. (SB 10.29.1 P)
Love is Eternal
Every living entity is a part and parcel of God, and
thus has an eternal relationship with Him. Although
one has relationships with many others in this
world, they begin when one enters a material body
and end while leaving the body. But one is eternally
related to the Supreme Lord Çré Kåñëa. The source
of the love within all of us is Kåñëa and Kåñëa is the
ultimate object of our love too. Therefore, everyone
loves Kåñëa the most, and it is Kåñëa who loves a
person the most.
Just as the living being is eternal, his love for God is
also eternal. If we love someone, we love the things
and people related to that person. Thus,
understanding one’s eternal relationship with God
and loving Him doesn’t make one indifferent to
friends and family members, but makes one love
them in true spirit.
Pure love manifests as the desire to serve the beloved in all circumstances,
without considering personal unhappiness.
Kindness and love centered around God makes people
more united and broadminded. The love of pure
devotees is meant not only for themselves or their
immediate family, but such love spreads everywhere
and to everyone. On the other hand, love disconnected
from God doesn’t ultimately have much substance to
satisfy one’s self.
Due to the covering of material illusion, a conditioned
soul is overwhelmed by forgetfulness of his
relationship with God, and starves due to lack of
experiencing pure love in material temporary
relations.
The process of bhakti-yoga is meant to reawaken that
love. When one’s love for Kåñëa is not covered by
illusion, the nourishment and pure happiness she or he
experiences in heart is beyond the imagination of an
ordinary mortal.
By Gauranga Darshan Das
Purity and Supremacy of Gopés’ Love for Kåñëa
THE EPITOME OF LOVE
3. October 2018 | Issue 16 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 3
Of all those who love Kåñëa, the residents of
Våndävana are the topmost. They possess the most
extraordinary love for Kåñëa. Amongst them, the
gopés are endowed with the greatest love for Kåñëa.
They have no interest in their own pleasure or
removing their own pain. They render service with
body, mind and words only for Kåñëa’s happiness.
Love is Selfless
Pure love is characterized by selflessness, service
attitude and remembrance of the beloved. A glimpse
of such pure love can be seen in the relationship
between a mother and a small child. A mother serves
the child selflessly even compromising her own needs.
She nourishes the child with milk from her own body
and is ready to attend to the child at all times, even in
the middle of the night. Such love, however, seems to
slacken as the child grows, and often may not exist
through-out the lives of the mother and the child,
either due to circumstances or the individuals’
changing priorities. If this is the case with mother-
child relationship, what to speak of other
relationships in this material world?
Thus the exchanges of love in this mortal world,
although exist, are temporary and often volatile. In
contrast, love on spiritual platform is purely selfless
and eternal. Çréla Prabhupäda writes, “When
activities are enacted on the platform of personal
sense gratification, they are called material activities,
but when they are for the satisfaction of Kåñëa, they
are spiritual activities. For example, on the material
platform, the servant would not serve the master if
the payment is stopped. That means that the servant
engages himself in the service of the master just to
satisfy his own senses. On the spiritual platform,
however, the servitor of the Supreme Personality of
Godhead serves Kåñëa without payment, and he
continues his service in all conditions. That is the
difference between Kåñëa consciousness and material
consciousness.” (Kåñëa book, chapter 29)
The gopés of Våndävana exemplify such pure and
perfect Kåñëa consciousness. Their love and service
are selfless and their constant meditation is how to
serve Kåñëa and please Kåñëa.
The pure devotees who inhabit Våndävana do not possess any bodily conception.
They are fully dedicated to the service of the Lord in sublime affection, premä.
(SB 10.9.21 P)
Pure love is characterized by
selflessness, service attitude and
remembrance of the beloved.
Remembering the Beloved
To somehow or the other remaining always
engrossed in the thoughts of Kåñëa is the essence of
devotional service. The gopés do it so naturally and
spontaneously, although engaged in many household
activities.
yä dohane 'vahanane mathanopalepa
preìkheìkhanärbha-ruditokñaëa-märjanädau
gäyanti cainam anurakta-dhiyo 'çru-kaëöhyo
dhanyä vraja-striya urukrama-citta-yänäù
“The ladies of Vraja are the most fortunate of
women because, with their minds fully attached to
Kåñëa and their throats always choked up with tears,
they constantly sing about Him while milking the
cows, winnowing grain, churning butter, gathering
cow dung for fuel, riding on swings, taking care of
their crying babies, sprinkling the ground with water,
cleaning their houses, and so on. By their exalted
Kåñëa consciousness they automatically acquire all
desirable things.” (10.44.15)
The gopés are not born in brähmaëa or kñatriya
families, but in vaiçya families, that too not in big
mercantile communities but in cowherd communities.
They are not well educated, although they heard all
sorts of knowledge from brähmaëas. Çréla
Prabhupäda writes, “The exemplary character of
devotional service manifested by the devotees of
Våndävana is the purest type of devotion. The gopés
particularly showed pure devotional service toward
Kåñëa, so much so that Kåñëa Himself remained
indebted to them. Lord Caitanya thus said that the
devotional service manifested by the gopés in
Våndävana excelled all other methods of approaching
the Supreme Personality of Godhead.” (Kåñëa book,
Chapter 32)
4. October 2018 | Issue 16 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 4
The masters of mystic meditation include Lord Çiva, Ananta Çeña and other exalted
personalities, all of whom keep the Lord seated within the lotus of their hearts. This
same Lord, conquered by the intense, selfless love of the gopés. (SB 10.32.14 P)
Kåñëa looked at the gopés and touched them
exactly as a child enjoys playing with the
reflection of his body in a mirror.
Exhibiting the topmost example of kåñëa-prema, the
gopés display their love, youth and beauty only for
increasing Kåñëa’s joy. Their selfless service attitude
and dedication towards Kåñëa is worshipped even by
exalted devotees such as Uddhava.
The Topmost Display of Love
The räsa dance that Lord Kåñëa had performed with
the gopés in Våndävana is the topmost display of such
pure love between God and His energies. When the
mortal beings see God as ordinary and consider Him
one amongst them, they tend to misunderstand His
divine activities. However, just as Kåñëa’s lifting of
Govardhana Hill and His killing of great demons like
Pütanä are all extraordinary activities, similarly, the
räsa dance is also an uncommon spiritual pastime of
Kåñëa and cannot be imitated or criticized by any
ordinary man.
Çrémad-Bhägavatam states that Lord Kåñëa’s räsa dance
took place on the çarat-pürëimä, the full-moon night of
the Autumn, the most beautiful night in the year. In the
festive and cool ambience of çarat-pürëimä in
Våndävana, the moonrise increased Kåñëa’s desire to
dance with the gopés. Kåñëa began to play His flute,
and the gopés all over Våndävana left their respective
engagements and rushed towards Kåñëa who was
standing at the Vaàçévaöa. Some of them were
forbidden by their relatives, but they disregarded them
and went to Kåñëa. When a person becomes attracted
by the Supreme Lord Kåñëa, one loses interest in all
external obligations. Initially Kåñëa spoke few words to
send the gopés back, but later He initiated the räsa
dance with them.
Kåñëa is the Supersoul (paramätma) in everyone’s
heart. He also manifested such expansion in this
gathering with the gopés. Kåñëa was sitting by the side
of each gopé, unseen by the others. Kåñëa was so kind
to the gopés that instead of sitting in their hearts to be
appreciated in yogic meditation, He seated Himself by
their sides and showed them special favor in pure love.
Kåñëa is self-sufficient (ätmäräma). He does not
require anything beyond Himself for His satisfaction.
At the same time, He is not ungrateful. But because the
gopés desired to have Kåñëa as their husband, He
fulfilled their desire.
Kåñna is self-satisfied (äpta-käma), all His desires are
automatically fulfilled. He has no unfulfilled desires.
He could not be lusty. Even if He were lusty, He
doesn’t need to help from others to satisfy His desires.
This apparently immoral activity of Kåñëa’s dancing
with others’ wives is not a display of material lust
which is like iron, but of pure spiritual love which is
like gold. That räsa-lélä is not an ordinary activity and
is transcendental is explained elaborately by the
Vaiñëava äcäryas.
Kåñëa’s age when He enjoyed the räsa dance with the
gopés was 8 years. Even from an external perspective, a
child of that age cannot be lusty for women.
Kåñëa is bhagavän, the Supreme Lord endowed with
all six opulences in full, and thus has no desire that
needs to be fulfilled. Thus His dance cannot be like the
ordinary dancing of young boys and girls.
The gopés are transcendental expansions of Kåñëa’s
pleasure potency, and as His potency they are
nondifferent from Him. They are on an equal level with
Kåñëa as His eternal associates. In the räsa-lélä, Kåñëa
looked at the gopés and touched them exactly as a child
enjoys playing with his own reflection in a mirror.
Kåñëa was enjoying with His own svarüpa-çakti.
In pure spiritual bodies, Lord Kåñëa and the gopés
exchanged transcendental love in the räsa-lélä. They
don’t have material bodies and thus there is no question
of material lust.
Kåñëa’s yogamäyä orchestrated His räsa dance, and
not the mahämäyä, that induces dances between boys
and girls on the basis of material lust which is like iron.
The gopés went to Kåñëa with the transcendental desire
to satisfy Kåñëa and the spiritual love between them is
like gold.
5. October 2018 | Issue 16 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 5
The gopés were completely absorbed in the existence of Kåñëa and mad with love at
their sudden separation from Him, and thus their dedication to Him attained absolute
perfection. (SB 10.1423 P)
Kåñëa is the supreme creator and proprietor of this
entire cosmic manifestation, and everything belongs to
Him. Thus if He dances with the gopés, He cannot be
accused in anyway. It is the purest display of love
between the Lord and His devotees.
Even the devotees of Kåñëa like Arjuna and Haridäsa
Öhäküra didn’t succumb to material lust when
approached by Urvaçé and Mäyä herself respectively.
So, how can their worshippable Lord Kåñëa be
subjected to material lust?
Great paramahaàsas in the renounced order of life
like Lord Caitanya, Çukadeva Gosvämé, the six
Gosvämés of Våndävana also hear and relish the loving
pastimes of Kåñëa with the gopés. So, in no way can
these exchanges be ordinary lust.
Testimony for the Purest Love
Once, after going to Mathurä, Lord Kåñëa had sent
His dear associate Uddhava to Våndävana with a
message for the gopés. When the Vraja-gopés met
Uddhava, who resembled Kåñëa, the gopés remembered
Kåñëa’s pastimes, and loudly wept in separation from
Kåñëa. Uddhava tried to console the gopés and related
to them Kåñëa’s message.
Uddhava stayed in Vraja for several months reminding
the Vraja-väsis about Kåñëa in various ways. Seeing
how the gopés were totally absorbed in Kåñëa,
Uddhava was supremely pleased. Uddhava was an
exalted minister in Dvärakä and a dear associate of
Kåñëa. Yet he felt the spiritual urge to worship the
glorious gopés, although externally they were mere
cowherd girls in a small village called Våndävana.
Desiring to offer them all respect, he sang their glories
in five verses (10.47.58-62). Uddhava sang these verses
daily while he was in Våndävana.
Aspired even by great souls
etäù paraà tanu-bhåto bhuvi gopa-vadhvo
govinda eva nikhilätmani rüòha-bhäväù
väïchanti yad bhava-bhiyo munayo vayaà ca
kià brahma-janmabhir ananta-kathä-rasasya
[Uddhava sang:] “Among all persons on earth, these
cowherd women alone have actually perfected their
embodied lives, for they have achieved the perfection
of unalloyed love for Lord Govinda. Their pure love
is hankered after by those who fear material
existence, by great sages, and by ourselves as well.
For one who has tasted the narrations of the infinite
Lord, what is the use of taking birth as a high-class
brähmaëa, or even as Brahmä himself?” (10.47.58)
The high births as brähmaëas or even Brahmä cannot
compare to pure Kåñëa consciousness. In fact, Çré
Uddhava, who spoke this verse, took birth as a pure
brähmaëa, but he deprecates this position in
comparison to that of the exalted gopés, who had
pure love for Kåñëa.
Often criticized, yet most perfect
Uddhava continued singing, “How amazing it is that
these simple women who wander about the forest,
seemingly spoiled by improper behavior, have
achieved the perfection of unalloyed love for Kåñëa!
Still, it is true that the Supreme Lord Himself awards
His blessings even to an ignorant worshiper, just as
the best medicine works even when taken by a person
ignorant of its ingredients.” (10.47.59)
Lord Kåñëa is criticized by worldly people for His
stealing butter, tending cows, wandering in the
forest, eating with monkeys, dancing with others’
wives, and so on. Yet He, as the Supreme Lord, exists
on the highest platform of purity and morality, and
always remained praiseworthy by sensible people.
Similarly, some people criticize the gopés for being
mere cowherd women living in the forest and
behaving in an apparently improper way of
associating with Kåñëa. But these gopés constituted of
the Lord’s pleasure potency (hlädiné çakti) and are on
the highest standard of purity and auspiciousness,
even in comparison to the goddesses of fortune, and
thus they are supremely glorious.
Surpasses everyone else’s position
näyaà çriyo 'ìga u nitänta-rateù prasädaù
svar-yoñitäà nalina-gandha-rucäà kuto 'nyäù
räsotsave 'sya bhuja-daëòa-gåhéta-kaëöha-
labdhäçiñäà ya udagäd vraja-vallabhénäm
6. October 2018 | Issue 16 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 6
Attained the rarest privilege
Uddhava sang further, “The goddess of fortune herself, along
with Lord Brahmä and the other demigods, who are masters
of yogic perfection, can worship the lotus feet of Kåñëa only
within her mind. But during the räsa dance Lord Kåñëa placed
His feet upon these gopés’ bodies, and by embracing those feet
the gopés gave up all distress.” (10.47.62)
Having established the glories of the gopés in these five verses,
Çré Uddhava, now directly offers his obeisances to them.
Considering himself completely unqualified for such direct
service to the Lord, Uddhava simply offers respects to the
gopés to attain such a bhäva.
My fervent prayer
vande nanda-vraja-stréëäà. päda-reëum abhékñëaçaù
yäsäà hari-kathodgétaà. punäti bhuvana-trayam
“I repeatedly offer my respects to the dust from the feet of
the women of Nanda Mahäräja's cowherd village. When
these gopés loudly chant the glories of Çré Kåñëa, the vibration
purifies the three worlds.” (10.47.63)
Uddhava then took permission to leave from the gopés and
from mother Yaçodä and Nanda Mahäräja. He bade farewell
to the Vraja-väsés and departed for Mathurä.
Conclusion
One who faithfully hears Kåñëa’s pastimes with the gopés
from the right sources will become completely freed from the
lusty desire and elevated to the highest level of spiritual
understanding.
vikréòitaà vraja-vadhübhir idaà ca viñëoù
çraddhänvito 'nuçåëuyäd atha varëayed yaù
bhaktià paräà bhagavati pratilabhya kämaà
håd-rogam äçv apahinoty acireëa dhéraù
“Anyone who faithfully hears or describes the Lord's
playful affairs with the young gopés of Våndävana will
attain the Lord's pure devotional service. Thus he will
quickly become sober and conquer lust, the disease of
the heart.” (10.33.39)
VERSE OF THE MONTH
Phala-Çruti of Hearing
Kåñëa’s Pastimes with the Gopés
The love the cowherd men and gopés felt for Kåñëa was far beyond anything the
Lord's other devotees had ever experienced, and by hearing about that love all the
Lord's devotees would increase their faith and devotion. (SB 10.46.1 P)
“When Lord Çré Kåñëa was dancing with the
gopés in the räsa-lélä, the gopés were embraced
by the arms of the Lord. This transcendental
favor was never bestowed upon the goddess of
fortune or other consorts in the spiritual world.
Indeed, never was such a thing even imagined
by the most beautiful girls in the heavenly
planets, whose bodily luster and aroma resemble
the lotus flower. And what to speak of worldly
women who are very beautiful according to
material estimation?” (10.47.60)
May I get their dust, if not their mood
Having glorified the superiority of the gopés
over all others, Uddhava desires their service
attitude, but thinks of its extreme rarity. Thus
he desires only a particle of dust from their
lotus feet:
äsäm aho caraëa-reëu-juñäm ahaà syäà
våndävane kim api gulma-latauñadhénäm
yä dustyajaà sva-janam ärya-pathaà ca hitvä
bhejur mukunda-padavéà çrutibhir vimågyäm
“The gopés of Våndävana have given up the
association of their husbands, sons and other
family members, who are very difficult to give
up, and they have forsaken the path of chastity
to take shelter of the lotus feet of Mukunda,
Kåñëa, which one should search for by Vedic
knowledge. Oh, let me be fortunate enough to
be one of the bushes, creepers or herbs in
Våndävana, because the gopés trample them and
bless them with the dust of their lotus
feet.” (10.47.61)
Being a humble Vaiñëava, Uddhava does not
pray to be equal to the gopés in their exalted
stage of love, but rather to take birth as a bush
or creeper in Våndävana so that when they walk
upon him he will get their dust and be blessed.
The shy gopés would never agree to give their
dust to a great personality like Uddhava;
therefore he cleverly sought to get such mercy
by taking birth as a plant in Våndävana.
Even Lord Brahmä also prayed for the good
fortune of taking any birth in Gokula and have
his head bathed by the dust falling from the
lotus feet of any of its residents. Uddhava’s
prayer is considered even more exalted.
Uddhava desired for a service attitude like the
gopés, with special bhäva for Kåñna, yet thinking
himself unqualified for it, he humbly prayed for
the dust of the gopés.
7. October 2018 | Issue 16 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 7
The demigods approach Lord Brahmä in order to know the cause of darkness that enveloped all directions.
Brahmä narrates the fall down of Jaya and Vijaya, the two doorkeepers of Vaikuëöha caused by the curse of
the four Kumäras (3.15). He also describes the Lord’s interaction with the four Kumäras and Jaya and Vijaya
(3.16). Jaya and Vijaya take birth as demons from the womb of Diti and terrorizes the entire universe. (3.17)
Self-realization is a state not of desirelessness but rather of purified desire,
wherein one desires only the pleasure of Lord Kåñëa. (SB 10.22.26 P)
Darkness All Around
Diti held her sons in the womb for 100 years. She was worried
that they would trouble the demigods or would be killed by
the Lord. By force of her pregnancy, darkness spread in all
directions. The demigods approached Brahmä and asked them
about the cause of darkness. Brahmä explained to them how
the two doorkeepers of Vaikuëöha were cursed by the four
Kumäras to enter Diti’s womb. Before that he narrated the
characteristics of Vaikuëöha and Vaikuëöha-väsés. He
described about the opulence and beauty of Vaikuëöha forest,
birds, plants, airplanes, men and women.
Kumäras Curses Jaya and Vijaya
By the strength of yoga-mäyä, Kumäras reached Vaikuëöha.
After crossing six gates without being much astonished, they
were blocked by the somewhat agitated two doorkeepers. The
Kumäras became angry as their desire to see the Lord was
thwarted. They said, “How is it that you two, although in the
highest position of service to the Lord, have developed a
discordant mentality? Where is the possibility of an enemy
coming here? You must be imposters and therefore suspecting
others. We consider the apt punishment for you who see
duality in Vaikuëöha, go to the material world where there are
three enemies (lust, anger and greed). ”
Jaya and Vijaya became fearful, not of the
punishment itself, but of the impending danger of
forgetting the Lord. They immediately fell at the
feet of the Kumäras and prayed that they do not
forget the Lord under illusion. Seeing their humble
disposition and repentance, the Kumäras also felt
repentant and became afraid that the Lord might
become angry with them for cursing His devotees.
Lord Appears on the Scene
Understanding the situation, Lord appeared there
along with Lakñmé. He pacified the lamenting
doorkeepers and the fearful Kumäras by His
affectionate glance and pleasing face respectively.
When the breeze carrying the aroma of tulsi leaves
from the Lord’s lotus feet entered the sages’ nostrils,
they experienced change in their body and mind,
even though they were attached to impersonal
Brahman understanding. The Kumäras viewed the
Lord’s form again and again and attained
meditation on the Lord’s personal feature. They
became devotees. They offered their prayers unto
Him. They said that even hell with bhakti is
preferable to liberation.
BHĀGAVATA
PRAVĀHA
The Flow of Çrémad-Bhägavatam
AN INCIDENT AT THE
DOOR OF VAIKUËÖHA
[Çrémad-Bhägavatam, Canto 3 Chapters 15-17]
By Vijay Krishna Kumar Das
8. October 2018 | Issue 16 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 8
Reconciliation by the Lord
The Lord replied, “The punishment on them, as becoming
demons, was ordained by Me. They will very soon return
to Me as they will be absorbed in meditation on Me in
anger.” Thus their desire of seeing the Lord being
fulfilled, the sages circumambulated Him. After taking
His permission, they departed. The Lord spoke to the
doorkeepers, “Do not fear. This departure of your’s was
foretold by Lakñmé. She was angry when you stopped her
from entering gate, when I was sleeping. Though you will
have mentality of demons, you will think of Me and serve
Me. I will experience pure happiness in vira-rasa fighting
with you two.”
Brahma concluded the narration, “Thus, Jaya and Vijaya
lost their luster due to the curse and fell from Vaikuëöha.
Through the semen of Kaçyapa Muni, these two entered
the womb of Diti. It is the prowess of these twins that has
disturbed you demigods. There is no remedy within my
power to subjugate them. This is all happening by the
Lord’s will. The Lord will alone come to our rescue.”
Birth of the Twin Demons
After hearing from Brahmä, all the demigods gave up fear
and returned to their respective places. After hundred
years of pregnancy Diti gave birth to her twin sons. Many
fearful natural disturbances started to occur on the earth,
the heavens and the outer space. Seeing the omens,
everyone except the four Kumäras, became afraid and
thought that the time for the dissolution was at hand. The
two brothers began to grow like mountains with bodies as
strong as steel. Kaçyapa gave them names –
Hiraëyakaçipu and Hiraëyäkña . Hiraëyakaçipu
performed austerities and received a benediction from
Brahmä. He started to control all the three worlds.
Hiraëyäkña travelled all over the universe with a fighting
spirit just to satisfy his elder brother.
Hiraëyäkña Challenges Varuna
Hiraëyäkña’s uncontrollable temper, gigantic form,
mental and bodily strength scared all the demigods away.
Desiring to sport, he entered into the ocean. Striking the
waves with his mace, he reached Vibhävaré, the capital of
Varuna. To make fun of Varuna, he fell at his feet like a
lowborn man and said, “Give me battle, O Supreme
Lord!” Though provoked Varuna controlled his anger
with his intelligence and replied, “I have grown too old.
Only Viñëu can satisfy your desire to fight. On reaching
Him, you will get rid of your pride and will lie down on
battlefield surrounded by dogs, for eternal sleep. He
assumes incarnations like Varäha to exterminate wicked
fellows like you and show grace to the virtuous.”
To be Continued…
After meditating for millions of years, Lord Brahmä could understand the
transcendental form of the Lord as Çré Kåñëa, in the dress of a cowherd boy,
and thus he recorded his experience in the Brahma-saàhitä. (SB 3.8.26 P)
The Lord Apologizes to the Kumäras
The Lord congratulated the Kumäras for their nice word
and spoke to them as follows – “Ignoring Me, these
attendants of Mine have offended you. I consider this as
an offence by Myself. I approve of the punishment you
have given to My servants. I will not hesitate to lop off
My own hands if it offends you. I enjoy food from the
mouth of brähmaëas like you. People who respect you,
please Me and who look upon you as different from Me,
displease Me. My servants, not knowing My mind have
committed an offense. I shall deam it a favour if you
order that, although reaping the fruit of their
transgression, they may return to Me very soon.”
Kumäras’ Incomprehension
The Kumäras were not satiated by the Lord’s lovely
speech, because they were bitten by the serpent of anger.
They could not comprehend it because of its momentous
import and profound significance. To understand Lord’s
intention they spoke as follows, “We are unable to know
what You intend for us to do. You speak in our favour as
if we have done something good for You. Certainly You
respect the brähmaëas to set an example for others. If
You do not protect the brähmaëas by offering worship
and mild words, then the auspicious path of worship will
be rejected by people in general, since they accept You as
pramäëa. Your potency is not reduced by Your
submissive behaviour. We have cursed two faultless
persons. We accept without duplicity, whatever
punishment or reward You ordain on these innocent
persons are also upon us.”
9. October 2018 | Issue 16 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 9
Question: What are the ten kind of airs in the body and
what are their functions?
Answer: 1. The main air passing through the nose in
breathing is called präëa.
2. The air which passes through the rectum as evacuated
bodily air is called apäna.
3. The air which adjusts the foodstuff within the stomach
and which sometimes sounds as belching is called samäna.
4. The air which passes through the throat and the
stoppage of which constitutes suffocation is called the
udäna air.
5. And the total air which circulates throughout the entire
body is called the vyäna air.
6. Subtler than these five airs, there are others also. That
which facilitates the opening of the eyes, mouth, etc., is
called näga air.
7. The air which increases appetite is called kåkara air.
8. The air which helps contraction is called kürma air.
9. The air which helps relaxation by opening the mouth
wide (in yawning) is called devadatta air.
10. And the air which helps sustenance is called dhanaïjaya
air. (SB 3.6.9 P)
Free of clouds and filled with clearly visible stars, the autumn sky shines brilliantly,
just like the spiritual consciousness of one who has directly experienced the purport
of the Vedic scriptures. (SB 10.20.43)
Mail your caption to pradipika@vidyapitha.in with
“October Quiz Corner” in the subject. The best
caption(s) along with the your name will be
published in the next issue.
Best captions for the last month’s image:
Bathing the Spotless Lord
(By Sant Jadhav)
Akhila Rasamrita Murti
(By Pranjal)
QUIZ CORNER
PARI PRAÇNA
Suggest an
ATTRACTIVE CAPTION
for this image
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.
PARI PRAÇNAQuestion: What is the cause of fear in this world?
Answer: Bhayam, or fear, is caused by seeing something
other than Kåñëa.
If a servant of the government thinks that there is some
dangerous obstacle that cannot be controlled by the
government's power, he becomes fearful.
If a child feels that there is some power that cannot be
subdued by his father, then he becomes fearful.
Similarly, when one artificially thinks that there is something
within existence that is not under the strict control of the
benevolent Lord, one will become fearful. Such a concept
of a second thing (something other than Kåñëa) is called
dvitéyäbhiniveça, and it immediately creates a foreign
atmosphere of bhayam, or fear. Kåñëa is called
abhayaìkara, which means that He destroys all fear in the
heart of His devotee.
Desiring liberation from fear, some speculators
unfortunately concoct an imaginary liberation (vimukta-
mäninaù) and try to take shelter of impersonal spiritual
existence or voidness. But the Bhägavatam (10.2.32) states,
äruhya kåcchreëa paraà padaà tataù/ patanty adho 'nädåta-
yuñmad-aìghrayaù: because such speculators have not
rectified their original mistake of rejecting their eternal
relationship with the Supreme Personality of Godhead, they
fall from their concocted liberation and thus remain in a
fearful condition. (SB 11.2.7 P)
Similarly, when one become covered by the illusory
potency of the Lord one identify with the temporary
material body, and thus one is always in fear and anxiety.
But when one surrender to the Lord Himself, He can
immediately free one from this illusion and make one
fearless. (SB 11.2.37 P)
10. October 2018 | Issue 16 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 10
With the arrival of autumn, the ocean and the lakes becomes silent, their water
still, just like a sage who has desisted from all material activities and given up his
recitation of Vedic mantras. (SB 10.20.40)
ANALOGY ARENA
A razor is meant to shave the
hair from one's face, but if not
carefully handled, the razor
will cause disaster. One is
advised not to create a
disaster by misusing his
lifetime. One should be
extremely careful to utilize the
span of his life for spiritual
realization, or Kåñëa
consciousness. (SB 6.5.19 P)
Clouds and dust are
carried by the air, but
less intelligent persons
say that the sky is cloudy
and the air is dirty.
Similarly, they also
implant material bodily
conceptions on the spirit
self.
(SB 1.3.31 P)
All living beings in all the
planets of this universe,
including the presiding
deities of all the planets,
are fully under the control
of the Lord. They work like
birds caught in a net, who
cannot move
independently.
(SB 6.12.8 P)
In autumn, farmers save the water
within the fields by building strong
walls so that the water contained
within the field cannot run out.
There is hardly any hope for new
rainfall; therefore they want to save
whatever is in the field. Similarly, a
person who is actually advanced in
self-realization protects his energy
by controlling the senses.
(SB10.20.41 P)
By the influence of the autumn
season, all the cows, doe,
women and female birds
became fertile and were
followed by their respective
mates in search of sexual
enjoyment, just as activities
performed for the service of the
Supreme Lord are automatically
followed by all beneficial results.
(SB 10.20.46)
As from wood, fire can be
manifested, or as butter can be
churned out of milk, so also the
presence of the Lord as
Paramätmä can be felt by the
process of legitimate hearing and
chanting of the transcendental
subjects which are especially
treated in the Vedic literatures
like the Upaniñads and Vedänta.
(SB 1.2.32 P)
11. October 2018 | Issue 16 | Pagewww.vidyapitha.in 11
Register for our
Online Course
PUBLISHED BY
Bhaktivedänta Vidyäpéöha Research Center, ISKCON
Govardhan Eco Village (GEV), Galtare, Hamrapur (P.O),
Wada (Taluka), Palghar (District), Maharashtra, India,
421303.
To subscribe, please visit our website www.vidyapitha.in.
For any comments or feedbacks mail us at
pradipika@vidyapitha.in
The Çrémad-Bhägavatam images, verses and quotes from the books
of His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupäda are
copyright of The Bhaktivedanta Book Trust. Other images are
copyright of their respective artists / photographers/ websites.
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.
h"p://www.vidyapitha.in/sign-up-for-bhak8-vedanta-vidyapitha-courses/
Bhaktivedanta
Vidyapitha
Sloka Recitations
http://audio.iskcondesiretree.com/index.php?q=f&f=%2F05_-
_ISKCON_Chowpatty%2F95_-_Bhaktivedanta_Vidyapitha-
Govardhan_Eco_Village%2FBhaktivedanta_Vidyapitha_Slokas_
Recitation
The autumn season, which regenerates the lotus flowers, also restores the various
bodies of water to their original purity, just as the process of devotional service
purifies the minds of the fallen yogés when they return to it. (SB 10.20.33)