My Heartfelt Effusion Chapter Three
It is now 6:30 a.m.
Part 1
janma-mṛtyu-jarā-vyādhi
janma-birth;
mrtyu-death;
jara-old age;
vyadhi-disease
Humility, pridelessness, nonviolence, tolerance, simplicity, approaching
a bona fide spiritual master, cleanliness, steadiness and self-control;
renunciation of the objects of sense gratification, absence of false ego, the
perception of the evil of birth, death, old age and disease; nonattachment
to children, wife, home and the rest, and evenmindedness amid pleasant
and unpleasant events; constant and unalloyed devotion to Me, resorting to solitary places, detachment from the general mass of people;
accepting the importance of self-realization, and philosophy a search for
the Absolute Truth-all these I thus declare to be knowledge, and what is
contrary to these is ignorance.[63]
Humility means that one should not be anxious to have the satisfaction of being honored by others.[63]
Nonviolence - nonviolence means not to put others into distress
Tolerance means that one should be practiced to bear insult and dishonor
from others.
Simplicity means that without diplomacy one should be so straight
forward that he can disclose the real truth even to an enemy.
Cleanliness is essential for making advancement in spiritual life.
External cleanliness means taking a bath.
Internal cleanliness, one has to think of Krishna.
Steadiness means that one should be very determined to make progress
in spiritual life.
You may be puffed up for advancement of your scientific knowledge, but you must be under the control of birth, death, old age and disease.[64] [65]
One might think that he has solved all the problems of his life, but where is the solution of these four problems: birth, death, old age and disease? That is intelligence.[66]
Prabhupāda: Everything is necessary, but whole... Our position is that, so far our material existence is concerned, that there are so many things that... But one thing, or the four things, janma-mṛtyu-jarā-vyādhi: that we are under the entanglement of repeated birth, death, diseases and old age. These four things do not depend on war or peace. Suppose there is no war. Can you get free from diseases? Suppose there is no war. Can you get free from death? Suppose there is no war. Can you become..., remain a young man all the time? No. Your problem is these four things. You have to solve that thing.[67]
Those who are intelligent persons, they will see that however I may make my life comfortable by material ways and science, these four things—the troubles of taking birth, the troubles of dying, the troubles of old age and troubles of diseased condition of life—that cannot be solved. That can be solved only by understanding Krishna.[68]
I was intending on doing a three part series but shanked it down to just two. Prabhupada could take just one verse and lecture for days as he did with this verse. I have only spent one night and finally getting sleepy. Although I doubt that will happen as I usually can't rest for more than a few hours. After a few days like that then I might get a full sleep. Thank you for listening to me. Please correct anything that is wrong in my writings. I would love your insights into this subject matter. I think the sun is rising. Now is prime time for Kirtan and maybe a short morning walk. I always carry books with me in a book bag just waiting for someone to take. Now for Part 2.
janma-mṛtyu-jarā-vyādhi
janma-birth;
mrtyu-death;
jara-old age;
vyadhi-disease
Prabhupada: One should be very prudent to see that "If I have no birth and no death, then what is this nonsense, birth and death?" That is knowledge. Why I am dying? Why there is birth problem? Why there is death problem? And as soon as there is birth problem, there is disease problem, there is old age problem. Therefore Krishna says... What is the janma-mṛtyu-jarā-vyādhi?
Jayādvaita: It's in the list of items of knowledge, "The perception of the evil of birth, death, old age and disease."[69]
The modern scientists, modern philosophers, they do not think about these four things, janma-mṛtyu-jarā-vyādhi, birth, death, disease and old age. They set it..., set them aside: "Oh, let them be happy. Let us enjoy this life, hogs and dogs."[70]
So long we are in ignorance, we do not care for these four things = birth, death, old age and disease. We care, but don't take very seriously on them. Whether it can be stopped we do not seriously consider. But we can stop this process of birth, death, old age and disease. We can stop. And that is possible in this human form of life.[71]
Prabhupāda: But he's thinking, "Now I am prime minister." That is illusion. Nobody, nobody is here peaceful. Everyone is suffering, because threefold miseries. That is the conditional life. After all, Kṛṣṇa says that "If you are thinking that you are very happy, that you must know at least these things = janma-mṛtyu-jarā-vyādhi."[72]
I recently read a story, about an old woman who was carrying a bundle of dry wood through the forest. Somehow or other the bundle, which was very heavy, fell to the ground. The old woman became very disturbed, and thought, “Who will help put this bundle back on my head?” She then began to call on God, saying, “God help me.” Suddenly God appeared and said, “What do you want?” She said, “please help me put this bundle back on my head.” So this is our foolishness. When God comes to give us some benediction, we simply ask Him to load us down again with all these material bundles. We ask Him for more material things, for a happy family, for a large amount of money, for a new car or whatever.[1]
Prabhupada mentions Bilvamaṅgala Ṭhākura during his Lecture at Magha-mela on January 30, 1971 in Allahabad. " Just like Bilvamaṅgala Ṭhākura says, muktiḥ mukulitāñjali sevate asmān. Those who are actually pure devotee, mukti is standing with folded hands, "What can I do for you?" That is the position of a devotee."
Bilvamaìgala Thakura, who was a very rich South Indian brahmana. So Bilvamangala Thakura was very rich man. Bilvamangala Thakura became a very staunch prostitute hunter, and he spent all his money on a prostitute named Cintamani. One night, during a terrible rainstorm, Bilvamangala went to see Cintamani, but the prostitute was thinking, “Surely tonight Bilvamangala will not come. This is a terrible storm.” Nonetheless, Bilvamangala came, despite all difficulties. Somehow he managed to cross the raging river, and when he saw the gates of Cintamani’s house closed, he somehow managed to jump over them. Despite all the dangers, he reached Cintamani’s house, and the prostitute, being very astonished, said, “How is it you have come tonight? Oh, you are so attracted to this skin! If you just had this much attraction for Krishna, it would certainly be to your benefit.” Bilvamangala then immediately left the prostitute’s house and went to Vrindavana. The fact was that in his previous life he had executed devotional service up to bhava-bhakti. Thus the prostitute Cintamani actually became his guru.[73]
I found many people who have worked very hard, raised children very nicely, have sex, but lead a good life. I don’t think there is anything wrong with that.”
“Yes, if there is no wrong,” said Prabhupāda, “it is all right. But this sort of life is not very palatable.”
The man continued, “Because I find even the dog —”
Śrīla Prabhupāda interrupted, but his reply was soft and humble. “If you like that life, if you feel it is good, then that is up to you. But I don’t think this is a very nice way of life, to work so hard simply for bread.”
“No,” the man said, “I agree there.”
Śrīla Prabhupāda then raised his voice more strongly. “Then agreed, agreed. Then why disagree? That’s all right, no more.” The man had more questions, but Tamāla Krishna called on someone else.[74] [75]
I actively seek out atheists and Mayavadis. Tell me, "There is no God." or "God
has no form." or "I am one with God." Bring your best arguments! First class man means being able to destroy the Rascals' ignorance with hard core facts! I thoroughly reject their nonsense. If I have a headache I will pay money to a doctor for relief. But footache? Ignore? NO! I will pay also? If Krishna is Absolute then how can one say, " God owns all equals good and He never steals?" But, "He is a thief?" Krishna is a butter thief! Don't say this around the bumble bee's. They might tell on me!
So, after reading Canto 03, Chapter 03: The Lord’s Pastimes Out of Vrindavan. I have learned that the Lord learned all Vedas simply by hearing them once from His teacher Sandipani Muni. Rukmini, whom the Lord carried away to marry, was the daughter of King Bhismaka. By subduing 7 bulls, the Lord achieved the hand of Princess Nagnajiti. Nagnajiti, also known as Satya and Nappinnai, is the fifth of the Ashtabharya, the eight principal queen-consorts Krishna. In the Vaishnavite texts, Nagnajiti is said to be the incarnation of Nila devi, the third consort of Lord Vishnu. During the Dwapara Yuga, Neela Devi was born on the earth as the daughter of King Nagnajita, of Kosala. Krishna competed in the svayamvara arranged by Nagnajita, and as per the set rules he brought seven ferocious bulls under control by putting noose around each of them and thus won Nagnajiti as his wife.[76] Narakasura was the son of Dharitri, who had held 16000 princesses as captives. The Lord begot in each and every wife ten sons and Maharaja Yudhistira performed three horse sacrifices induced by Krishna.
Then reading Canto 03, Chapter 04: Vidura Approaches Maitreya: I have learned that the Lord asked Uddhava to go to Badarikashrama to spend the rest of his days. The Lord in the enactment of His last lila on this earthly planet, was sitting, taking rest against a young Banyan tree. During His ending lila, when Lord was talking to Uddhava, Maitreya approached to that place. Uddhava desired only to;
- Engage in the loving service of the Lord’s lotus feet
- Always remember the Lord
- Serve the Lord from his mind, body and soul.
The Lord resides in Badarikashrama in His incarnation as NaraNarayana Rsi. Vidura was instructed by Uddhava to receive the transcendental knowledge from Maitreya Muni.
Moving on to Canto 03, Chapter 05: Vidura’s Talks with Maitreya, Vidura met Maitreya Rsi at the banks of the river Ganga. Vidura inquired from Maitreya Rsi on the transcendental devotional service of the Lord, how the Lord accepts incarnations and creates cosmic manifestation all perfectly, and the auspicious characteristics of the Lord in His different incarnations. Vidura is pained to see how the duration of common people is spoiled by presentations of philosophical speculations, theoretical ultimate goals of life, and different modes of ritual. Vidura was formerly King Yamaraja. Absolute truth transforms into false ego, which is manifested in 3 phases. The false ego is transformed into mind by interaction with the mode of Goodness.
I am skipping ahead several chapters since Prabhupada didn't lecture on them very much. Now for Canto 03, Chapter 25: The Glories of Devotional Service. Lord Kapila explained the path of the transcendentalists to His mother as she had an uncontaminated desire for transcendental realization. The symptoms of a sadhu are tolerant, merciful, friendly, peaceful, sublime, and abides by the scriptures. Sankhya philosophy is a combination of devotional service and mystic realization. When the devotees accept Lord as their Friend, Relative, Son, Preceptor, Benefactor, Supreme Deity, they are not deprived of their possessions. The only means of attaining perfection of life is to engage in intensive practice of devotional service.
Gold is gold. Does it mean that if a Christian possesses some gold, it becomes Christian gold? Or Hindu possesses some gold, it becomes Hindu gold? No. Gold is gold. Either it is in possession of Hindu or Muslim or Christian, it doesn't matter. Gold is gold.[77] They have no information of these hodgepodge Gods. That is their opportunity. I have told them, given the information, that Kṛṣṇa, kṛṣṇas tu bhagavān svayam... In this stanza the word svayam is particularly mentioned to confirm that Lord Krishna has no other source than Himself. [77] [78] All of the above-mentioned incarnations are either plenary portions or portions of the plenary portions of the Lord, but Lord Sri Krishna is the original Personality of Godhead. All of them appear on planets whenever there is a disturbance created by the atheists. The Lord incarnates to protect the theists. Similarly, the incarnations of the Lord display limited powers because so much power is needed at that particular time. [78]
It is quickly becoming midnight. So, I shall end the day reading and writing on Srimad-Bhagavatam and start the new day reading and writing about Srimad-Bhagavatam! From Srimad-Bhagavatam Canto 03, Chapter 26: Fundamental Principles of Material Nature; I have learned that Sankhya philosophy deals with the analytical study of devotional service. Sankhya philosophy has been explained by Lord Kapiladev. The whole world is illusioned by the three modes of material nature due to which the common conditioned soul cannot see the Supreme Personality of Godhead. The Supreme Personality of Godhead is called Vibhu because the material energies cannot act on Him. Why the material world was created for the sufferings of the conditioned souls is for the nitya-baddhas – who are eternally conditioned, for rectify the enjoying temperament of the conditioned souls and for anyone who pretends to enjoy. The material modes are also said to be tricolor with red, white, blue. Red as mode of passion, White as mode of goodness, Blue as mode of ignorance. Material Consciousness is the cause of one's conditional life. The influence of maya on conditioned souls can be eradicated by Serving Krishna! The individual conditioned souls have no choice in terms of accepting a particular type of body. The living entity is the cause of his own suffering. The living entity can also be the cause of his eternal happiness. Product of Prakriti (material) nature and the Supreme Lord is manifest and unmanifest material world. Material nature is ever existing and the cosmic manifestation sometimes appears and disappears. Pradhana means that the Material nature in its subtle stage and the stage where cause and effect are not clearly manifested, also the condition of the material nature immediately previous to its manifestation. When time agitates the neutral state of material nature, it begins to produce varieties of manifestations. The living force is a component of the Spiritual world. In the beginning, from clear consciousness, the first contamination sprang up. This is called the false ego. This is also represented as different senses and sense organs and gives us an illusion of advancement of civilization. However advanced a man is, if he is not fixed in Krishna Consciousness, he will simply accept and reject and will never be able to fix his mind on a particular subject matter. Intelligence is the discriminating power to understand an object and it helps the senses to make choices. The False ego of the living entity is known by the name of Lord Sankarsana. The Mind of the living entity is known by the name of Lord Aniruddha. It is stated in Vedanta Sutra that sound is the origin of all objects of material possession and by that one can dissolve this material existence. In the fire there is sound, touch and form. The planetary systems are considered to form different bodily parts of the Universal form of the Lord . In this, the Patala is considered as sole of the Supreme Lord, Earth as belly and Brahmaloka as head. The Sun is considered as the eyes of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Presiding Deity of mind is the moon, of intelligence is Brahma, of false ego is Siva. The analytical study of the elements of material nature and the concentration of the mind upon the Supersoul are the sum and substance of the Sankhya philosophical system. It is now 3:30 in the morning and maybe, just maybe, I can take a short rest.
I find it difficult to be laconic with my emails. I feel supercharged yet tired. It is now 6 a.m. I still suffer from chest pains everyday. I have pretty much abandoned both world and local news. It has been a long time since I have left this apartment.
The word of the day is Avikara.
‘Avikara’ means ‘without change’. What exactly is the unchanging position of a living entity? To dovetail his energy with the Supreme Lord, practicing devotional service under the guidance of a bonafide spiritual master, doing everything for Krisna and not claiming proprietorship over his activities. In the mundane world, there is always the influence of time, which changes things from one stage to another, and the living entity, originally being avikāra, or unchangeable, suffers a great deal on account of changes due to the influence of time.[79] avikārād akartṛtvān[80] “ ‘I offer my respectful obeisances to the Absolute Truth, the summum bonum. He is the all-pervasive, all-increasing subject matter for the great yogīs. He is changeless, and He is the soul of all.’"[81] [82] One of the main differences between the conditioned soul and a Devotee is a Devotee does not own the responsibility of his actions. One who desires material liberations (liberation from the pangs of birth and death) has to turn to Devotional Service. Because we have been associated with material nature since time immemorial, we have become accustomed to our attachment with this temporary material nature. Consciousness acts in 3 stages under material conception of life. To become Krishna Conscious, one has to become transcendental to these 3 stages. The 3 stages are being awake, asleep, and deep sleep. Identification of“Everything in relationship to the body is mine “ is false ego. But identifying oneself as eternal servitor of the Supreme Lord is ego. Although a devotee appears to be merged in the 24 elements of matter, he is still understood to be awake and free from false ego. This can be found in Srimad-Bhagavatam, 3rd Canto, Chapter 27. The material body is the symbol of the gross and subtle form of forgetfullness. The material manifestation is necessary is to give a chance to the conditioned souls to surrender to Lord.
So avikārād akartṛtvān. avikārāt — from being without change; akartṛtvāt — by freedom from proprietorship; The Personality of Godhead Kapila continued: When the living entity is thus unaffected by the modes of material nature, because he is unchanging and does not claim proprietorship, he remains apart from the reactions of the modes, although abiding in a material body, just as the sun remains aloof from its reflection on water.[80] vāsudeve bhagavati bhakti-yogaḥ prayojitaḥ[83] Akartṛtvāt means not doing anything for sense gratification. When one does something at his own risk, there is a sense of proprietorship and therefore a reaction, but when one does everything for Krishna, there is no proprietorship over the activities[80] By rendering devotional service unto the Personality of Godhead, Śrī Krishna, one immediately acquires causeless knowledge and detachment from the world.[83]
Naiṣkarma means not undertaking activities that will produce good or bad effects. When one is freed from all contamination and he acts in devotional service under the direction of the spiritual master, one is on the platform of naiṣkarma. By such transcendental devotional service, the Lord is served. I offer my respectful obeisances unto Him.[84] The third chapter of the eight Canto discusses Gajendra’s Prayers of Surrender.
Gajendra in his previous life was a bird by the name Indradyumna. While thus offering prayers, Gajendra did not invoke Indra, nor Candra, nor Lord Brahma to save him. Gajendra had been forcefully captured by the crocodile in the water and was feeling acute pain. But when he saw Lord Narayana, He offered a lotus flower to the Lord with his trunk. After saving the elephant Gajendra form his dangerous position the Lord severed the crocodile’s mouth from its body. Gajendra completely surrendered to the Lord and repeatedly glorified the Lord and prayed to not live any longer after being freed from the mouth of the crocodile. He also prayed for eternal liberation from the covering of ignorance and complete release from material life.
It is already 11:30 a.m.
The gopis asked the Kurabaka tree, the Asoka tree, and the Naga tree as to whether they had seen Krishna pass by. Tired of searching for Krishna and asking everyone, the gopis began to act out different pastimes of Krishna. There are 19 distinguishing marks on the soles of Lord Krishna’s lotus feet. There are 19 distinguishing marks on the soles of Srimati Radhika’s lotus feet. Lord Krishna abandoned other gopis and went away with Radhika. As the special gopi was with Krishna, she began feeling proud and asked Krishna to carry her. The Goddess of Fortune is also called Indira. The gopis tell that they had come to see Acyuta, abandoning their children, ancestors, and even husbands. The gopis spent a long time singing the glories of Krishna and speaking their hearts out in various charming ways and still when they did not see Krishna, They began to weep loudly. On return of Krishna, while spending time with Him, the gopis took from His mouth the chewed betel nut, placed His arm on their shoulder and stared at Him with frowning eyebrows. The Lord then took the gopis with Him to the banks of Kalindi. Krishna explains to the gopis that the true well wishers are those who serve others even when the latter fails to reciprocate. Lord Krishna says that the reason He does not immediately reciprocate the affection of living beings even when they worship Him is because He wants to intensify their affection to Him.
I thought I was done with my emails. At 1:30 a.m. I should be asleep, But one for Sunday September 5, 2021.
I was born in the darkest ignorance, and my spiritual master opened my eyes with the torch of knowledge. I offer my respectful obeisances unto His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, who is very dear to Lord Krishna, having taken shelter at His lotus feet. Our respectful obeisances are unto you, O spiritual master, servant of Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Goswami. You are kindly preaching the message of Lord Chaitanyadeva and delivering the Western countries, which are filled with impersonalism and voidism
I offer my obeisances to Sri Krishna Chaitanya, Prabhu Nityananda, Sri Advaita, Gadadhara, Srivasa and all others in the line of devotion.
I am still having chest pains but that is no excuse. Caitanya Mahāprabhu says that we must hear about Krishna twenty-four hours a day. In Bhagavad-gita 10.10; teṣāṁ satata-yuktānāṁ; To those who are constantly devoted to serving Me with love, I give the understanding by which they can come to Me. On September 2, 2021 my first Grandson was born. So, I shall give him a Krishna Doll.
There is a mother in India that would fine her children is they missed Temple. Prabhupāda: So if somebody misses to go in the temple one day, the priest presents the bill = "Sir, you have been fined five rupees." [laughter] So they pay. Yes. So we should also enforce that rule. Anyone who is not attending maṅgala-ārati should be fined. [laughter] And the fine should be that he must sell one Kṛṣṇa book. [laughter] Is that all right?[86]
Mahārāja Parīkṣit, the grandson of the Pāṇḍavas, was from his very childhood a great devotee of the Lord. Even while playing with dolls, he used to worship Lord Krishna by imitating the worship of the family Deity.[85] Children, simply by playing with Krishna, they become Krishna conscious. Some way or other, if somebody comes in contact with Krishna, then his life becomes successful.[86]
The word for today is kīrtanīyaḥ - to be chanted.
So, kīrtanīyaḥ sadā hariḥ. kīrtanīyaḥ — to be chanted; sadā — always; hariḥ — the holy name of the Lord.[87] The Lord is reciprocally respondent to His devotees. When He sees that a devotee is completely sincere in getting admittance to the transcendental service of the Lord and has thus become eager to hear about Him, the Lord acts from within the devotee in such a way that the devotee may easily go back to Him. The Lord is more anxious to take us back into His kingdom than we can desire.[88]
On of the statements from Bhagavad gita gives me encouragement in my writing and reading. "If a devotee is not intelligent enough to make progress on the path of self-realization but is sincere and devoted to the activities of devotional service, the Lord gives him a chance to make progress and ultimately attain to Him."[89]
Everyday I write to remember my Lord. I check my email and seeing replies from Great Devotees like you is so motivating. Today you have made me remember my Lord, the supremely blissful Personality of Godhead, Nārāyaṇa.[90]
It is almost midnight. I shall end the day with Srimad-Bhagavatam and start the new day with Srimad-Bhagavatam! The following is what I have learned from Canto 6 Chapters 8 and 9.
The protective mantra – Narayana Kavaca given by Visvarupa is chanted by meditating on eight armed form of Narayana. The Lord assumed the form of Vamana. The Narayana kavaca prayer says, may Lord in that form protect me on the land and may the Lord in Boar form protect me from rogues on the street. May the Lord in His appearance as Nara protect me from unnecessary pride. May Lord as Dhanvantari relieve me from undesirable eatable and protect me from physical illness. The Supreme Personality of Godhead bears Srivatsa on His chest which protects one after midnight until the sky becomes pinkish as per Narayana Kavaca prayer. The conch shell of Lord Hari is Panchajanya.
There are three Rāmas. One Rāma is Paraśurāma (Jāmadāgnya), another Rāma is Lord Rāmacandra, and a third Rāma is Lord Balarāma.[91]
Vishvarupa, the priest of the demigods had Three heads. The demons were related to Vishvarupa from his Mother’s side. Indra, on knowing that Vishvarupa was secretly cheating the demigods and favoring demons, he cut Vishvarupa’s 3 heads from his shoulders. As a result of killing a Brahman, Indra repented fully accepted the burden of these reactions with folded hands. He suffered for 1 year and then distributed the reactions among the earth, water, trees, and women. Vrtrasura was born by the sacrifice made by Tvasta to kill Indra. On seeing the overpowering strength of demons, the demigods took shelter of Lord Narayana. When Lord Hari appeared in front of the demigods, they were overwhelmed with happiness and immediately offered obeisances. They pleased the Lord by offering Him prayers. They heartily glorified the Lord. ‘Maghavan’ is also another name of Indra. Lord Sri Hari asked Indra to approach Dadhyanca and beg him for his body. Dadhici gave the mantras to Aswini Kumaras through the mouth of a horse and so the mantras are called Asvasira. Dadhici’s body is very strong due to Narayana kavaca. From Dadici’s bones, Visvakarma would prepare a thunderbolt by which the demigods can certainly kill Vrtrasura. Seeking shelter of a demigod instead of worshiping the Supreme Personality of Godhead is compared to trying to cross the ocean by grasping the tail of a dog. A dog can swim, but that does not mean that one can cross the ocean by grasping a dog’s tail.
Dadhichi, also known as Dadhyancha or Dadhyanga, is a central character in Hinduism. Dadhichi is primarily known for sacrificing his life so the Devas, or benevolent celestial beings, could make the weapon called "vajra" from his bones. After being driven out from Svarga, or heaven, by the serpent king Vritra, the Devas needed a powerful weapon to aid their fight. By making use of the vajra, made from the sage Dadhichi's bones, the Devas defeated the Asura and reclaimed heaven. In the Bhagavata Purana, Dadhichi was the son of the sage Atharvan and his wife Chiti. Atharvan is said to be the author of Atharvaveda, which is one of the four Vedas (a collection of texts upon which the Hindu religion is based). Chitti was the daughter of the sage Kardam. The Dadhich Brahmins, a Brahmin clan primarily found in Rajasthan, later migrating to other parts of the world, claim to be his descendants.[92]
Thereafter, the head meant for drinking soma-rasa was transformed into a kapiñjala [francolin partridge]. Similarly, the head meant for drinking wine was transformed into a kalaviṅka [sparrow], and the head meant for eating food became a tittiri [common partridge].[93] The Grey Francolin (formerly called Grey Partridge) is a common breeding resident game bird of India. They are grayish-brown game birds with short stubbed tail. They are fast runners and prefer to run when approached or disturbed. They take to wing only when surprised in the bushes or when persistently chased. Flight is swift and direct, attained by rapid vibrating wing strokes. They are weak fliers and fly short distances, escaping into undergrowth. Bird drops into grass again after flying a couple of hundred meters.[94] A kalaviṅka is a fantastical immortal creature with a human head and a bird's torso, with long flowing tail.[95]
It is now 2 a.m. and time for a short break.
It is 4:45 a.m. This is my prime time for Srimad-Bhagavatam. My chest pain has finally gone away for the most part. I had a Grandson born back on September 2,2021. I was sent some pictures. I do not think that I will ever see him. I have never seen any of my Grand children nor do I know how many there are. I think maybe three. I am not in contact with any family except a monthly call every once is a while. I do see my sister every few weeks. Sometimes, I go many days isolated with no human contact. I am fine with this. Even while suffering in the midst of difficulties, devotees simply offer their prayers and service more enthusiastically.[102]
For those who have accepted the boat of the lotus feet of the Lord, who is the shelter of the cosmic manifestation and is famous as Murāri, the enemy of the Mura demon, the ocean of the material world is like the water contained in a calf’s hoof-print. Their goal is paraṁ padam, Vaikuṇṭha, the place where there are no material miseries, not the place where there is danger at every step.[96] Owing to ignorance, one does not know that this material world is a miserable place where there are dangers at every step.[97] According to Śrīla Śrīdhara Svāmī, this verse summarizes the knowledge presented in this section of the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam.
Sridhara Svami is a celebrated religious leader of medieval India. His ideas are reflected in his great Sanskrit commentaries on the basic texts of the Bhagavata cult Bhagavadgita, Visnupurana and Bhagavatpurana.[98] Sridhara Swami was born at Balodi Village at Gujarat some 600 years ago. He was a disciple of Paramanda Puri and his beloved deity was Narasimha.*
So, "goloka eva nivasaty akhilātma-bhūtaḥ"[99] [101]
goloka — in Goloka Vṛndāvana; eva — certainly; nivasati — resides; akhila-ātma — as the soul of all; bhūtaḥ — who exists;
Krishna, although He is in Vṛndāvana, Goloka Vṛndāvana, enjoying pastimes with the associates, He is everywhere, according to the position, shape, form, activities. Everywhere. Therefore it is said here that Supreme Lord walks and does not walk. He does not go from His abode. He is fully enjoying. But at the same time, everywhere He is. Everywhere He's walking.[100] It is now 7 a.m. and time for rest.
From the sixth Canto chapter 10 I learn; Even though Dadhichi was liberal by character, still when the demigods asked for his body, he did not completely agree because he wanted to hear religious instructions. Dadhichi Muni was the son of Atharva. The fierce battle between the demons and demigods took place at the end of Satya Yuga and beginning of Treta Yuga at the banks of river Narmada. The commander-in-chief of the demons was Vrtrasura. The demons on seeing their endeavors futile decided to flee from the battlefield. One is said to have met a glorious death if he dies after performing mystic yoga especially Bhakthi yoga or if he dies in the battlefield.
Prabhupāda gives a short arrival address in Atlanta on Feb. 28, 1975. Later, Prabhupāda went on to have a conversation with Svarūpa Dāmodara. The conversation was about rascal scientist trying to create life from chemical. That cannot be done and even if so credit would be they learned to bark like dog. Later on that day Prabhupāda gave a purport to Parama Koruna. The lecture was serious with little laughter and long with no questions taken. On March 1st there was a morning walk. Later that day Prabhupāda had a conversation with three Trappist Monks. Again, a very long serious discussion. Later, Prabhupāda went on to have a conversation with Svarūpa Dāmodara. Prabhupāda has been hammering the creation subject with all these talks. Prabhupāda is giving a lecture on Śrī Caitanya-caritāmṛta, Ādi-līlā 7.1. "But Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu is so kind and magnanimous that in course of His chanting and dancing, He embraced everyone and gave him krishna-prema. That is Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu's magnanimity." Prabhupāda ends yet another long, serious lecture. It is now March 2nd, 1975 and Prabhupāda is on a morning walk. Prabhupāda: "Farmers are producing, and you are eating, but you are not producing. Therefore gradually your food will be shortage. You are depending on others. The farmers, they do not produce food for human being; they produce food for the cows." Prabhupāda stresses the need for Devotees to have farms for growing nice foodstuff.
Still March 2nd. Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Appearance Day Lecture. Prabhupāda: So now, by the grace of Kṛṣṇa and Caitanya Mahāprabhu and in the presence of my Guru Mahārāja, you are so nice boys and girls. So in front of Caitanya Mahāprabhu you are chanting Hare Krishna mantra, and you are taking part in it very seriously. So my Guru Mahārāja will be very, very much pleased upon you and bless you with all benefits. Now in front of a room with scientist. Devotee: [explaining] He is serving. Serving. Prabhupāda: He is serving International Society. I am serving Krishna, or he is serving Krishna, like that. So everyone is servant. This is religion---to remain a servant. It does not mean that the Hindus are only servant, or Muslims are servant and Christians are not. Everyone is servant. Is it not a fact? Professor Fenton: I hope it is. Room Conversation with Tripurāri. Prabhupāda: Yes, yes. Our... We know that he is a fool, but we have to present in a different way. We shall say that "There is nobody as learned as you are." In this way just make him puffed up, and then you say humbly, "My only humble request is that whatever you have learned, please forget. Now you try to understand Caitanya Mahāprabhu. That's all." This is the different way of calling him, that "Whatever you have learned, this is all rubbish." We simply say, "Kindly forget them. Now you turn your attention to Caitanya Mahāprabhu." This is the way Prabodānanda Sarasvatī taught us. You flatter him, "Sir, I have got one request." Flatter him like anything, falling down on his leg and becoming humble and... "Sir, I have got one request." "What is that?" "You are very learned scholar. But kindly forget them, and you try to turn your attention to Caitanya Mahāprabhu." He will not be angry. Then, if he turns his attention to Caitanya Mahāprabhu, then naturally he will forget all rubbish things. Sunday Feast Lecture. Guest: Who was Meher Baba? Prabhupāda: Hmm? I do not know. [laughter] There are so many bogus Babas. I do not know. [laughter] What is the use of knowing Meher Baba? If I know Krishna, that is sufficient. That's all. Why shall I go to know this and that? End of Atlanta visit.
It is now 11 p.m. I like to end the day with Srimad-Bhagavatam and start the new day with Srimad-Bhagavatam. The Supreme Lord is so kind that He especially favors such a devotee by not giving him opulence that will hamper his devotional service. Therefore I wish to give up everything for the service of the Lord. I wish always to chant the glories of the Lord and engage in His service. Let me become unattached to my worldly family and make friendships with the devotees of the Lord.[103] and so I write to Great Devotees like You!
In Canto six, Chapter eleven I learned; When the demons began to flee, the demigods took advantage of the situation and attacked the demons. Seeing this Vrtrasura rebuked the demigods saying there is no use of killing the demons from behind while they are running out of fear. One who considers himself a hero should not kill an enemy who is afraid of losing his life. Such killing from behind is never glorious and cannot promote one to heavenly planets. When the demigods heard Vrtrasura’s tumultuous roar, they fainted and fell on the ground as if struck by thunderbolts. When Indra attacked Vrtrasura with one of his great clubs, Vrtrasura caught hold of the club with left hand and threw back to Indra. When Vrtrasura saw Indra holding his thunderbolt given by Dadhichi to attack him, Vrtrasura encouraged Indra to attack and assured him of his victory. The only ardent desire that Vrtrasura had was to render direct service to the Supreme Lord.
Vṛtrāsura insulted the demoniac soldiers by comparing them to the stool of their mothers.[104] So, basically he called them a piece of, "Sh#%!" , Question? A similar comparison was given by Tulasī dāsa, who commented that a son and urine both come from the same channel. In other words, semen and urine both come from the genitals, but semen produces a child whereas urine produces nothing. Therefore if a child is neither a hero nor a devotee, he is not a son but urine.[104]
It is nearing midnight, 9 p.m. I find it difficult to ask questions since by reading I always seem to find answers. The more I read the more I wish to read and that leads to even more reading and writing. I am still having chest pains. But still, I shall end the day with Bhagavad-gita and start the new day with Bhagavad-gita!
My Heartfelt Effusion Chapter Four
The text for today is;
Ye yatha mam prapadyante
ye — all who; yathā — as; mām — unto Me; prapadyante — surrender
As all surrender unto Me, I reward them accordingly. Everyone follows My path in all respects, O son of Pṛthā.[105] But the ultimate stage of realization is prema-bhakti, as actually demonstrated by mother Yaśodā.[106] And mother Yaśodā appears to be the topmost of devotees who have attained this perfection.[107] Both Indra and Vṛtrāsura were certainly devotees of the Lord, although Indra took instructions from Viṣṇu to kill Vṛtrāsura. The Lord was actually more favorable to Vṛtrāsura because after being killed by Indra’s thunderbolt, Vṛtrāsura would go back to Godhead, whereas the victorious Indra would rot in this material world. Because a devotee never uses material possessions for any purpose other than the service of the Lord, the possessions of a devotee are not to be compared to those of a karmī.[108] The Lord is always eager to congratulate the servant because of the servant’s transcendental qualities. The servant pleasingly renders service unto the Lord, and the Lord also very pleasingly reciprocates, rendering even more service unto the servant.[109] Although the Supreme Personality of Godhead is equal toward everyone, He is especially inclined toward those who engage in His devotional service.[110] Actually, everyone is trying to please the Supreme Personality of Godhead in various ways, but according to their methods of approach, the Supreme Lord endows them with different benedictions.[111]
Partiality and cruelty do not [exist in the Lord; the pleasure and pain experienced by beings is] in regard to their karma, and so the scriptures declare. No fault of partiality or cruelty exists in Brahman the creator. The different conditions into which creatures are born and the pleasures and pains they suffer depend entirely on their own karma. The Lord creates the environment in which the creatures are placed with the strictest regard to their karma. The proof of this is in the scripture itself.[112]
“He makes one who He wishes to lead up from these worlds do good deeds, and He makes one who He wishes to lead down from these worlds do bad deeds, according to the tendencies generated by their past karma. By the will of the Supreme he can go to heaven or hell, as a cloud is driven by the air. The living entity is completely dependent in his distress and happiness.” The Lord is the operative cause of the enjoyment or suffering of the jīvas. They get promotion to the heavenly planets through the will of the Lord, and similarly they are degraded into hellish condition of life through the will of the Lord. But His will is always in regard to the karma of the jīva.[113]
The living entity is responsible for his own acts. The Lord only gives him facilities, through the agency of material nature, the external energy. Anyone who is fully conversant with all the intricacies of this law of karma, or fruitive activities, does not become affected by the results of his activities.[114] “All the liberated souls in ancient times acted with this understanding of My transcendental nature, and so attained liberation. Therefore, you should perform your duty, following in their footsteps.”[115] By dovetailing one’s activities in Krishna consciousness, although one may perform all kinds of activities, he is free.[116]
While on a morning walk; Prabhupāda: Ye yathā mām... That very word, prapadyante. Ye yathā māṁ prapadyante. So if your surrender is twenty-five percent, then Krishna is realized twenty-five percent. If your surrender is cent percent, then Krishna is realized cent percent.[117] So we have to become associate of Krishna, as Arjuna became. Always with Krishna---eating with Krishna, sitting with Krishna, talking with Krishna, joking with Krishna, fighting with Krishna---everything Krishna. That is wanted.[118]
At 2 a.m. I feel most peaceful and alive. Prabhupāda wrote at night and I will follow, not imitate. I only wish to be dāsānudāsa,the servant of the servant. The special mercy for the unalloyed devotee is that the Lord saves him from hard labor to achieve the results of religion, economic development and sense gratification.[119]
Now, I have finished the Eleventh Chapter of the Sixth Canto. Back on September 2, 2021, I sent an email covering these last four verses which I enjoy so much. Now, I have done a circle! When King Indra dropped his thunderbolt by the attack of Vrtrasura’s iron mace, Vrtrasura encouraged Indra to pick up his weapon again and attack. Vrtrasura started to preach on the transcendental facts with the essence that the Supreme Personality of Godhead Himself creates and devours the living beings through other living beings. Since everything is dependent on Supreme will, one should be equipoise in fame and defamation, life and death, victory and defeat. Hearing the straightforward instructions of Vrtrasura, King Indra glorified Vrtrasura by saying He was a perfect devotee of the Supreme Lord. He has given up his demoniac nature. He has attained the position of an exalted devotee. When Vrtrasura swallowed Indra, Indra with his thunderbolt pierced out of Vrtrasura’s body. It took 360 days to separate Vratrasura’s head from his body by Indra’s thunderbolt. All this I learned from chapter twelve.
The true conclusion is that the only independent person is the Supreme Personality of Godhead.[120] “Lord Krishna alone is the supreme controller, and all others are His servants. They dance as He makes them do so.” We are all servants of Krishna; we have no independence. We are dancing according to the desire of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, but out of ignorance and illusion we think we are independent of the supreme will.[121] [122] No one but Viṣṇu has any independence.[123] Krishna is the original master or husband of everyone, and all other living entities, having taken the form of so-called husbands, or wives, are dancing according to His desire.[124]
Unless one receives dictation from the Supreme Personality of Godhead, who sits within everyone’s heart, one cannot be induced to create anything.[120]
It is now 3:45 a.m. and I have come the the end of the Sixth Canto, Twelfth Chapter.
It is now 6 a.m. and time for a morning walk. Srimad-Bhagavatam all night then
reflection in the rising sun. Hare Krishna!
When Vrtrasura was killed, all the presiding deities and everyone else were immediately pleased except Indra. When Indra had refrained from killing Vrtrasura, a Brahman, the great sages assured him by saying they would perform a Asvamedha sacrifice to release Indra from any sin thus incurred. Indra saw personified sinful reaction chasing him, appearing like a Candala woman. Indra took shelter of Manasa sarovara when chased by sin personified. When Indra lived in water, Nahusa was equipped with the ability to rule the heavenly kingdom. By the bad qualities of Nahusa, he was cursed by a brahmana and later became a snake. Indra was finally free from all his sinful reactions by his worship of The Supreme Personality of Godhead.
From the Prema-vivarta by Jagadānanda Paṇḍita page 217;
eka Krishna-nāme pāpīra yata pāpa-kṣaya
bahu janme sei pāpī karite nāraya
[But] sei pāpī–a sinner karite nāraya–cannot commit bahu janme–over the course
of many births yata–as many pāpa–sins [as are] kṣaya–destroyed pāpīra–for a sinner [by] eka–one Krishna-nāme–Name of Krishna.
“But a sinner cannot commit over the course of many births as many
sins as one Name of Krishna can destroy."
This means that by once chanting the holy name of the Lord, one can be freed from the reactions of more sins that he can even imagine performing. The holy name is so spiritually potent that simply by chanting the holy name one can be freed from the reactions to all sinful activities. What, then, is to be said of those who chant the holy name regularly or worship the Deity regularly? For such purified devotees, freedom from sinful reaction is certainly assured.[125]
Srila Jagadananda Pandita was a close and confidential associate of Lord Caitanya. A resident of Navadvipa, he was Nimai’s boyhood friend and classmate. They enjoyed a unique relationship throughout life. He was continually picking fights with the Lord. These quarrels began from their early boyhood days and continued in Jagannatha Puri. By then Lord Caitanya had already entered the sannyasa order of life; for the sole purpose of benedicting the fallen souls of Kali-yuga. Some of the boyhood pastimes depicting their innocent disputes have been described in this book.[126]
In this very great narrative there is glorification of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Nārāyaṇa, there are statements about the exaltedness of devotional service, there are descriptions of devotees like Indra and Vṛtrāsura, and there are statements about King Indra’s release from sinful life and about his victory in fighting the demons. By understanding this incident, one is relieved of all sinful reactions. Therefore the learned are always advised to read this narration. If one does so, one will become expert in the activities of the senses, his opulence will increase, and his reputation will become widespread. One will also be relieved of all sinful reactions, he will conquer all his enemies, and the duration of his life will increase. Because this narration is auspicious in all respects, learned scholars regularly hear and repeat it on every festival day.[127]
I have now reached the end of the Thirteenth Chapter of the Sixth Canto.
I only have phone Internet and it is so slow. I can't really do to much online. Before I got rid of the internet I downloaded every book and lecture that i could find. I have over 700 Prabhupāda video lectures and 2 GB of books. So I am currently engaged in about nine or so zoom classes a week but I will fit this one in also. As soon as my other zoom class is over tonight I will jump over and join your class. Actually, I am unqualified to be in any class. It is only by the Mercy of Great Devotees like You that I am allowed to attend.
Vrtrasura although being a demon, attained such exalted love for the Supreme Personality of Godhead because Vrtrasura was King Citraketu in his previous birth who was then a great devotee. King Citraketu had 10 million wives. The reason for King Citraketu’s anxiety and lamentation was because he did not have any children. A powerful sage Angira visited the palace of King Citraketu. The sage Angira was pleased with King Citraketu because the King exhibited the qualities of humility, hospitality, and sense control. King Citraketu was desperate to have a son because he wanted a son who could deliver himself and his forefathers from the darkness of hell. The remnants of the food offered in the Yajna were given by the great sage Angira to the first most perfect queen Krtadyuti. The other wives seeing Krtadyuti’s son were agitated, envious, and unhappy. Unable to tolerate the King Citraketu’s neglect and Krtadyuti’s happiness, the other queens administered poison to the son. King Citraketu and his wife then were doomed in great grief and were thus lamenting, approached Vasista Muni.
As King Citraketu fostered his son very carefully, his affection for Queen Kṛtadyuti increased, but gradually he lost affection for the other wives, who had no sons.[128] Oh No, I sense trouble is coming! As their envy increased, they lost their intelligence. Being extremely hardhearted and unable to tolerate the King’s neglect, they finally administered poison to the son.[129] Unaware of the poison administered by her co-wives, Queen Kṛtadyuti walked within the house, thinking that her son was sleeping deeply. She did not understand that he was dead.[130] This happened to me also. I held my dead grandchild in my arms, murdered by the father. The garland of flowers decorating the Queen’s head fell, and her hair scattered. Falling tears melted the collyrium on her eyes and moistened her breasts, which were covered with kuṅkuma powder. As she lamented the loss of her son, her loud crying resembled the sweet sound of a kurarī bird.[131] Collyrium. In eye care, collyrium is an antique term for a lotion or liquid wash used as a cleanser for the eyes, particularly in diseases of the eye.[132] And so ends the Fourteenth Chapter of the Sixth Canto of Srimad-Bhagavatam.
It's 10 p.m. and midnight will be soon. So I want to end the day with Srimad-Bhagavatam and start a fresh day with Srimad-Bhagavatam. The relationship of parenthood is ultimately controlled by The Supreme Personality of Godhead. On hearing the instructions of great sages, King Citraketu was very appreciative and grateful. King Citraketu appreciated the sages by telling them that they have dressed themselves like avadhutas but in reality they are the most elevated in awareness. They are great Vaishnavas who have come to deliver him. He should be enlightened by their torch of knowledge. Angira Muni first came to Citraketu and did not give Supreme Transcendental Knowledge but instead blessed him with a son because he saw that the king was absorbed in material bondage. Narada Muni gave a mantra to the King which after accepting, in seven nights the King would be able to see the Lord face to face.
Those miscreants who are grossly foolish, who are lowest among mankind, whose knowledge is stolen by illusion, and who partake of the atheistic nature of demons do not surrender unto Me. Those who are not actually philosophers, scientists, educators, administrators, etc., but who pose themselves as such for material gain, do not accept the plan or path of the Supreme Lord.[133] [134]
The great sage Nārada continued: My dear King, attentively receive from me a mantra, which is most auspicious. After accepting it from me, in seven nights you will be able to see the Lord face to face.[135]
I have come to the end of the Fifteenth Chapter of the Sixth Canto.
In Chapter Sixteen I hope to learn that Sage Narada brought the dead son of King Citraketu into the vision of all the lamenting relatives. When the dead son was given the chance to reenter his body and enjoy the opulence of the kingdom, he began to speak philosophy on transmigration and thereby explaining impermanent relationship between living entities. When the conditioned soul in the form of Maharaja Citraketu’s son spoke such great philosophy, Citraketu and other relatives of the dead son were astonished, cut off shackles of their affection and gave up lamentation. After the dead child spoke, Queen Krtyadyuti’s co-wives were very ashamed; lost all their bodily luster and went to the bank of Yamuna and atoned for their sinful actions. Narada Muni became the spiritual master of King Citraketu. Fasting and drinking only water, Citraketu for one week chanted with great care the mantra given by his spiritual master. As soon as Maharaja Citraketu saw the Supreme Lord, he was cleansed of material contamination and became purified. Due to his love for the Supreme, he exhibited symptoms of ecstasy. He offered his respectable obeisances to the Supreme Lord. Citraketu in his prayers to the Supreme Personality of Godhead says that, ‘if persons obsessed with material desires for sense gratification through material opulence worship you’ They are not subject to material rebirth. Aryans worship The Supreme Personality of Godhead. King Citraketu perfected his life by getting the shelter of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Lord Sankarsana.
Reminder; Depending on your calendar September 11th is Shrimati Sita Thakurani Appearance Day.
Srimati Sita Thakurani is to be worshiped just as much as Sacidevi herself, as the mother of the universe. She is the eternal wife of Sri Advaita Acharya. She was the daughter of Sri Nrishinga Baduri. She was married to Sri Advaita Acharya in Phuliya Nagara.[136] Shrimati Sita Thakurani was the wife of Shri Advaita Acharya Prabhu, and she lived in Santipura. She had three sons, Achyutananda, Krishna Mishra and Gopala Mishra.[137]
Finally, I have a question. How does one achieve Rāgānugā, rāga-bhakti?
So prākṛta stage is pratyakṣa knowledge, direct perception; and knowledge received from paramparā... Pratyakṣa, parokṣa, then aparokṣa, self-realization, then adhokṣaja, aprākṛta. So Krishna consciousness is aprākṛta knowledge. It is the topmost platform of knowing Krishna, aprākṛta knowledge. So, so long we are up to the adhokṣaja knowledge, that is regulative principles. We have to follow the regulative principles strictly. And aprākṛta knowledge is for the paramahaṁsa. There is... That is called rāga-bhakta. In these stages, pratyakṣa, parokṣa, they are called viddhi-bhakti. But without viddhi-bhakti you cannot reach to the platform of rāga-bhakti, although that is our aim. Rāgānugā, rāga-bhakti is executed following the footprints of the devotees in Vṛndāvana. That is called rāga-bhakti. Krishna's personal associates. Not to become directly Krishna's personal associate, but following the footprints of Krishna's eternal associates we can come to the stage of rāga-bhakti. That is called parā-bhakti. That parā-bhakti is required.[138]
Just handed out two of Prabhupāda's Books! I am all out of Chant and Be Happy Books, only one left! It is now 11:30 p.m. My goal is to end the day with Srimad-Bhagavatam and begin the new day with Srimad-Bhagavatam.
After seeing the Lord face to face, king Citraketu enjoyed life for millions of years as the head of Vidyadhara. Maharaj Citraketu commented loudly on Lord Siva when he saw Lord Shiva embracing mother Parvati amidst assembly of saintly persons. On hearing Citrketu’s statement, Lord Shiva simply smiled. On hearing Citraketu’s statement, mother Parvati cursed Citraketu to take birth in the family of low sinful family of demons. On hearing the curse from mother Parvati, Citraketu descended from the airplane, bowed before her in great humility and pleased her completely. King Citraketu was born as Vratrasura in his next life as a result of the curse by mother Parvati.
The Krishna consciousness movement is progressing successfully in the Western countries at the present moment because the youth in the West have reached the stage of vairāgya, or renunciation. They are practically disgusted with material pleasure from material sources, and this has resulted in a population of hippies throughout the Western countries. Now if these young people are instructed about bhakti-yoga, Krishna consciousness, the instructions will certainly be effective.[139]
All the letters of the alphabet and the words constructed by those letters are meant for offering prayers to the Supreme Personality of Godhead.[140] When advancement of knowledge is applied in the service of the Lord, the whole process becomes absolute. [141] This means that one should feel happy only by experiencing the happiness of the Supreme Lord.[142] This is the duty of a perfect human being.[143]
From the introduction to; Sri Ndrada-pancamtra is an ancient Vaisnava literature that was compiled by Srila Vyasadeva. It deals with five branches of transcendental knowledge and was spoken by Lord Siva to the great sage Narada. Another name of this literature is Jndndmrtasdra. The five types of knowledge described in this book are—knowledge of the Absolute Truth, knowledge ofliberation, knowledge of devotional service, knowledge of mystic yoga, and knowledge in the mode of ignorance.
sarvopadhi-vinirmuktam tat-paratvena nirmalam
hrsikena hrsikesa- sevanam bhaktir ucyate
“One should be free from all material designations and
cleansed of all material contamination. lie should be
restored to his pure identity, in which he engages his
senses in the service of the proprietor of the senses.
That is called devotional service.” This is the most
famous verse from Narada-pancaratra.[144] [145]
"Such devotional service must be unmotivated and uninterrupted in order to completely satisfy the self.”[146] As stated by the Vaiṣṇava poet Jagadānanda Paṇḍita in his Prema-vivarta:
Krishna-bahirmukha hañā bhoga vāñchhā kare
nikaṭastha māyā tāre jāpaṭiyā dhare
[When] hañā–souls become Krishna-bahirmukha–averse to Krishna [and] vāñchhā kare–
desire bhoga–enjoyment, nikaṭastha–nearby māyā–Māyā jāpaṭiyā dhare–seizes
tāre–them.
"When souls become averse to Krishna and desire enjoyment, nearby
Māyā seizes them."[147][148]
It is now 5:30 a.m. and that concludes the Sixteenth Chapter of the Sixth Canto of
Srimad-Bhagavatam.
It is now 7 a.m. and time for a morning walk.
If a devotee thinks that he is very much advanced in devotional service, he is considered puffed up and unfit to sit beneath the shelter of the Lord’s lotus feet.[149] A devotee is naturally so humble and meek that he accepts any condition of life as a blessing from the Lord.[160]
tat te ’nukampāṁ su-samīkṣamāṇo
tat — therefore; te — Your; anukampām — compassion; su-samīkṣamāṇaḥ — earnestly hoping for;
My dear Lord, one who earnestly waits for You to bestow Your causeless mercy upon him, all the while patiently suffering the reactions of his past misdeeds and offering You respectful obeisances with his heart, words and body, is surely eligible for liberation, for it has become his rightful claim. The word su-samīkṣamāṇa indicates that a devotee earnestly awaits the mercy of the Supreme Lord even while suffering the painful effects of previous sinful activities.[151]* This entire purport is a must read for me. I will read and reread and then read again.
karmani nirdahati kintu ca bhakti-bhajam
govindam adi-purusam tam aham bhajami
I adore the primeval Lord Govinda, who burns up to their roots all fruitive activities of those who are imbued with devotion and impartially ordains for each the due enjoyment of the fruits of one’s activities, of all those who walk in the path of work, in accordance with the chain of their previously performed works, no less in the case of the tiny insect that bears the name of indragopa than in that of Indra, king of the devas.[152]
More about me. I am an oddball and a Blacksheep. My politics are extreme right yet I am also more liberal than most. I have attended political rallies on the right yet, I sympathize with the left. I remember a time in ISKCON when hippies in tye dye attended Darshan coming down from drugs. Would that be allowed today? So, my point is most Devotees today in general are not as Merciful as in the past. But also keep in mind that most of the time my views are incorrect. I have difficulty because I am aware of the unpleasant side of history. The Guru is perfect even if facing Felony charges? I don't even want to write this letter and feel that I should delete it. But if anyone can understand my position it is you. My favorite material music band is The Grateful Dead and I traveled with them for many years. So, I have been around the block and understand there MUST be sincerity. That is why if you notice I try to be first in the zoom class. There is no mistake. Only by your association and the other Great Devotees in the zoom call do I even stand a chance. Please forgive my ignorance and social awkwardness. But I am at least making an attempt. I am about to receive a full set of Srimad-Bhagavatam and I must find these books a home before I pass away. Yes Krishna take my life but please let me find a home for Srimad-Bhagavatam before I leave.
It is now 9:30 p.m. I wish to end the day with Srimad-Bhagavatam and begin the new day with Srimad-Bhagavatam. Everyone in this material world is distressed by miserable conditions, but Śrīla Prabodhānanda Sarasvatī says that this world is full of happiness.How is this possible? A devotee accepts the distress of this material world as happiness only due to the causeless mercy of Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu.[153] Prabodhananda Sarasvati was a Gaudiya Vaishnava, and later Radhavallabha, sannyasi. A Telugu Brahmin from Srirangam, Prabodhananda formerly followed Sri Vaishnavism but was converted to the path of devotion to Radha Krishna by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. When Chaitanya traveled through south India in 1509–10, he stayed at the house of Venkata Bhatta, the father of Gopal Bhatta, priest of Srirangam. Venkata and his two brothers, Gopala's uncles Trimalla and Prabodhananda Sarasvati, "were converted from their Sri Vaishnava faith in Lakshmi Narayana as supreme to one in Radha Krishna" as Svayam Bhagavan. The dialog of this conversion is recorded in Chaitanya Charitamrita, the 16th-century biography of Chaitanya by Krishna dasa Kaviraja. Sometime after his conversion, Prabodhananda composed a text in praise of the sacred land of Krishna's birth, Vrindavan, Sri Vrndavana Mahimamrta.[154]
Once one is advanced in devotional service, his spiritual assets are never lost under any circumstances.[155] One who has forsaken his material occupations to engage in the devotional service of the Lord may sometimes fall down while in an immature stage, yet there is no danger of his being unsuccessful.[156] One who rises from bed early in the morning and recites this history of Citraketu, controlling his words and mind and remembering the Supreme Personality of Godhead, will return home, back to Godhead, without difficulty.[157]
And so now I have come to the end of the Seventeenth Chapter of the Sixth Canto of
Srimad-Bhagavatam.
Bhrgu, the son of Brahma took birth again in the womb of Carsani. Bhrgu and Valmiki were the specific sons of Varuna. Agastya and Vasistha were the common sons of Varuna and Mitra. Aditi had 12 son(s). The king of the heavenly planets, Indra, was born as the 11th son of Aditi. The Supreme Personality of Godhead as Urukrama appeared as the twelfth son of Aditi. Sons of Diti, who were begotten by Kashyapa became demons. The first 2 sons of Diti are Hiranyaksha and Hiranyakashipu. Vatapi and Ilvala were the sons Hlada, brother of Prahlada. Prahlada’s grandson was Bali Diti, desiring to have a son capable of killing Indra, constantly acted to satisfy Kashyapa. Upon hearing Diti’s request to have a particular type of son Kashyapa aggrieved. Kashyapa laid the condition to Diti to beget a child who could kill Indra as She should perform ceremony called pumsavana for atleast one year without fail. There should not be any discrepancy in the discharge of her vow, otherwise the son would be the friend of Indra. Indra engaged himself in the service of Diti because he wanted to break Diti’s promise and thus save himself. Seeing the right opportunity, Indra entered Diti’s womb and cut the embryo to 49 pieces in total. Because of Diti’s spiritual strength of worshipping Vishnu for almost 1 year, all the pieces of her embryo were alive and were saved by the mercy of the Supreme Lord. Although the Maruts were born from the womb of Diti they became equal to the demigods. She was completely purified.
On Bhaktisiddhanta's appearance day I discussed with a friend how Bhaktisiddhanta was so strict, so traditional and steadfast to holding down the rules we could say he was conservative. He would not tolerate anything that went against the teachings of Rupa Gosvami. While on the other hand, he stuck his neck out to allow anyone in. Anyone that showed the slightest interest in Krishna, he would take them in and initiate them as brahmans. He would strictly defend their position when attacked by the rest of society. He also told his followers, bring in the British, feed them meat if you have to, we have to give them Krishna. He was both; very conservative
and very liberal. The devotee waved his arms, "You need two wings to fly. To be balanced you've got to be strong on both wings." I then asked, "Is there anyone else in our line who's shown such strength and balance between left and right wing?"
We didn't have to think long. Srila Prabhupada shows many examples of both.
I feel it is something we need to aspire to. We shouldn't take either side too seriously. In a letter Prabhupada says, we are not for anyone or against anyone. We are only for Krishna and the cause of Krishna consciousness. One of the things they read before AA meetings says we don't identify or support any particular religion or political party as it may jeopardize our all important mission of saving alcoholics. We don't want to jeopardize our all important business of extricating ourselves and others from illusion by bringing up topics that distract and polarize. What good will it do? These topics agitate the mind like a boat on rough seas. Narada is my hero. Prabhupada says a lot of good things about him. He's able to go everywhere, to anyone, good or bad. He always gives Krishna. He doesn't get involved or upset. Because of that, he's free. In many places Prabhupada tells us to be like that.*
Yes, time to end the day with Srimad-Bhagavatam and start the new day with Srimad-Bhagavatam! I know, I say this every night but it's true. By ending the day with Srimad-Bhagavatam, I have had a "perfect" day and by starting the new day with Srimad-Bhagavatam, If I pass at 12:02 a.m. or on that day. Well, was that day not perfect also? So my conclusion is;
Govinda Damodara Madhaveti
He Krishna, he Yadava, He Sakheti
Govinda Damodara Madhaveti
and
Sri Krishna Govinda Hare Murare
Hey Natha Narayana Vasudeva
O descendant of King Bharata, one who desires to be free from all miseries must hear about, glorify and also remember the Personality of Godhead, who is the Supersoul, the controller and the savior from all miseries.[164]
“O best of the Bhāratas, it is the prime duty of persons who want to become fearless to hear about the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Hari, and to chant about Him and always remember Him.”[165]
Krishna is the master of mysticism.
yatra yogeśvaro hariḥ
yatra — where; yoga-īśvaraḥ — the master of mysticism; hariḥ — the Lord, who vanquishes all miseries!
When there is Krishna and when there is devotee, all victory, all glories are there. That is guaranteed.[158] [159] [160] The Lord of supreme mysticism can simultaneously reside within everyone’s heart, or even within the atoms, by His Paramātmā feature, His plenary portion.[161]
Prabhupāda: ...master of all mystic yoga. Yatra yogeśvaro hariḥ. What is that verse? Yatra yogeśvara, Bhagavad-gītā. Who will find out? In the last portion of the Eighteenth Chapter. Yatra dhanur-dharaḥ pārtho yatra yogeśvaro hariḥ. I think it begins with yatra.
Hṛdayānanda: Oh, I know where it is. Yatra yogeśvaro hariḥ. Here. This is yatra yogeśvaraḥ kṛṣṇaḥ. Read that? Yatra yogeśvaraḥ kṛṣṇo yatra pārtho dhanur-dharaḥ, tat...[159][162]
Lalita Shashthi festival is associated with the Vaishnava Sect and is dedicated to one of Gopis of Vrindavan. Lalita Sasti 2021 date is September 12. The day is of great importance to ISKCON devotees. Lalita Sashti Vrat is dedicated to Goddess Lalita Devi, a gopika in Vrindavan. This vrat is believed to have been suggested by Sri Krishna. It is believed that married couples observing this vrat will be blessed with healthy children. Parents observe this for health, intelligence and long life of their children.[163]
My health has gotten worse. I am going to the hospital. I will be quiet until I am
out of pain. I have severe chest pains, unable to stand or sit up. I will let you know when or if I recover. Test test hello how are you I am not doing so good I am using Speech-to-Text software so that I can lay here and talk . I don't know what the problem is but I've had chest pains for about a week. and as long as I'm laying down I'm okay but if I try to set up or walk or stand I can't do it for more than a couple of minutes or so. I am supposed to be going to see the doctor in the morning. From Devotee: I hope the doctors can work some magic for you. In the meantime, I wish I could help you like the devotees helped Prabhupada who only wanted the medicine of hearing Bhagavatam and kirtan.
I am no longer starting or ending my day. Just one continuous reading of Srimad-Bhagavatam with breaks to maintain this broken body. I am using Speech-to-Text software so that I can lay here and talk so there might be mistakes in grammar. I try to catch them when I can. My sister is taking me to a doctor in the morning.
The material body, even if possessed by a great king, is ultimately transformed into stool, worms or ashes. When one is too attached to the bodily conception of life, he is certainly not very intelligent.[166]
So, for now I must ignore the pain and continue no matter what.
Once engaged in the devotional service of the Lord, one will continue the service in all circumstances.[167]
Devotional service is so pure and perfect that once having begun, one is forcibly dragged to ultimate success.[168]
Svalpam apy asya dharmasya trāyate mahato bhayāt
su-alpam — a little; api — although; asya — of this; dharmasya — occupation; trāyate — releases; mahataḥ — from very great; bhayāt — danger
In this endeavor there is no loss or diminution, and a little advancement on this path can protect one from the most dangerous type of fear.[169] Tamāla Kṛṣṇa: "Even the slight performance of such a principle enables one to overcome great difficulty." Prabhupāda: Yes.[170] Even practicing the Vaiṣṇava principles to a small extent can save one from the greatest danger of material existence.[171]
I will keep moving in my perseverance and endeavor to continue. Now, at 3 a.m I come to the end of the Eighteenth Chapter of the Sixth Canto. ISKCON Radhashtami on Monday, September 13, 2021.
One cannot keep Lakṣmī in one’s home without Lord Viṣṇu. To think that one can do so is very dangerous. To keep Lakṣmī, or the riches of the Lord, without the service of the Lord is always dangerous, for then Lakṣmī becomes the illusory energy. With Lord Viṣṇu, however, Lakṣmī is the spiritual energy.[172] By observing this vrata, a diseased man can gain relief from his disease and have an able body with which to work.[173]
I have now come to the end of the Nineteenth Chapter of the Six Canto and The End Of
The Sixth Canto.
Hare Krsna Bhakta Jack, You are in my prayers, and I hope that you recover soon.
My responce: I am neither a great scholar nor a great devotee; I am simply your humble servant, and to the best of my ability I am trying to please you by publishing these emails. 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. Srimad-Bhagavatam 3.22.5.
Well, I didn't die and some some reason I am still living so guess what? Yep, it's Srimad-Bhagavatam time!
Kaṁsa knew very well that Yoga-māyā was, after all, the maidservant of Kṛṣṇa and Viṣṇu and that although Yoga-māyā had appeared as the daughter of Devakī, she might have been forbidden to disclose this fact.[174]
Is this because if Kamsa knew Yoga-maya had appeared as the daughter of Devakī and now she is in front of Kamsa acting like that [ but actually she was born from Mother Yasoda ] this would have clued Kamsa to the fact that Krishna was switched? I need your insight? Nanda Mahārāja wanted Garga Muni to preform the process of purification in secret in a cow shed. There is a reference to the four divisions of human society from Bhagavad-gita 4.13 and the nāma-karaṇa ceremonies in Srimad-Bhagavatam 10.8.10. So, why was Yoga-māyā forbidden to disclose this fact? O learned one, in this iron Age of Kali men almost always have but short lives.[175] Was that the reason for the nāma-karaṇa ceremonies?
mandāḥ sumanda-matayo manda-bhāgyā
mandāḥ — lazy; sumanda-matayaḥ — misguided; manda-bhāgyāḥ — unlucky
We have got direction of great sages and saintly persons and God, Kṛṣṇa, Himself. So to make our life perfect is not at all difficult. We are simply neglecting. That is our misfortune.[176]
So, Garga Muni to preforming the process of purification was to prevent lazy, misguided, and unlucky society with the intention of setting an example?
According to a statement in the Hari-vaṁśa[4]:also known as the Harivamsha Purana, is an important work of Sanskrit literature, containing 16,374 shlokas, mostly in anustubh metre. This text is considered to be a khila (appendix or supplement) to the Mahabharata.[178]
pratyuvāca tato rāmaḥ
sarvāṁs tān abhitaḥ sthitān
yādaveṣv api sarveṣu
bhavanto mama vallabhāḥ
Garga Muni did disclose to Nanda Mahārāja that Balarāma would be known as Saṅkarṣaṇa because of uniting two families.[177]
I went back to having chest pains yesterday and had to lie down for a long time.
Again, when I woke I was fine. So now back to Srimad-Bhagavatam!
Devahuti had heard about Kardama Muni from Narada Muni and had thus fixed her mind on Kardama Muni. Hiranyaksha attacked the Lord by throwing a mace against the Lord. Then hurling his trident towards the Lord and striking his fist on the Lord’s chest. The condition which Kardama Muni placed before agreeing for his marriage with Devahuti was after she gets children from him, he would accept a life of devotional service. Svayambhuva Manu lived for 71 cycles of the 4 ages [71 × 4,320,000 years] completely engaged in matters regarding Vaasudeva.
After asking and obtaining the great sage’s permission to leave, the monarch mounted his chariot with his wife and started for his capital, followed by his retinue.[179]
retinue; NOUN
A group of advisers, assistants, or others accompanying an important person.
"The rock star's retinue of security guards and personal cooks"[180]
That ends Canto Three Chapter Twenty-Two of Srimad-Bhagavatam.
She stood and scratched the ground with her foot, which was radiant with the luster of her gemlike nails. Her head bent down, she spoke in slow yet charming accents, suppressing her tears. Devahūti was so beautiful that her toenails appeared just like pearls, and as she scratched the ground it appeared as if pearls had been thrown on the ground. When a woman scratches the ground with her foot, it is a sign that her mind is very disturbed. These signs were sometimes exhibited by the gopīs before Krishna. When the gopīs came in the dead of night and Krishna asked them to return to their homes, the gopīs also scratched the ground like this because their minds were very disturbed.[181]
That ends Canto Three Chapter Twenty-Three of Srimad-Bhagavatam.
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