Hare Krishna,
Can someone please explain to me the definition of a "Devotee"? Does this mean someone who has received initiation? For instance, without initiation are we expected to wear Sikha and Tilak, or can we?
Apologies for so may silly questions.
Kindest regards,
Tony _/\_
Replies
listen closely' this is not just another' Boy Scout Badge!
These are the only prezrecwasits. Prechng & chanting hearing chant & preaching devotees. Love to shear & listen about Krishna so there you go. Chant share & listen
Hare Krsna Prabhuji,
PAMHO.
There are various definitions of devotee - ranging from someone who has taken the name of the lord even once, that too accidentally to someone who is absorbed only in thoughts of the lord, regardless of external position.
Initiation is an external activity for most people I have seen. Surrender is an internal activity and does not require any external sanction. Yes, initiation is like a degree - then a person is expected to have a certain level of knowledge, and is supposed to be following a minimum level of sadhana.
Regarding tilak and shikha, there is no pre condition for us to become initiated to have either. This is not only an external manifestation, it is also purifying. Unless one does it and experiences for himself, it is not possible to understand this.
Haribol,
Your servant,
Radha Rasamayi DD
Outwardly one may not appear to be a devotee, while inside he is crushed by separation from his beloved Krishna.
Krishna never said in the Gita "wear Tilak and saffron," but he said "be My devotee, think of Me always and offer everything unto Me."
He also says "to those who are constantly engaged in serving me with love, I give the understanding by which they can come to me."
Love for Krishna is the only requirement to be His devotee. Though advanced devotees may show other characteristics as well.
Hare Krishna
Please forgive me if I have spoken incorrectly
I hope I have helped you prabhu