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On Speaking Strongly in Srila Prabhupada's Service

Although Lord Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and His devotees in disciplic succession can defeat all kinds of learned scholars, scientists and philosophers in arguments, thus establishing the supremacy of the Personality of Godhead, their main business as preachers is to introduce sankirtana everywhere. Simply to defeat scholars and philosophers is not the occupation of a preacher. Preachers must simultaneously introduce the sankirtana movement, for that is the mission of the Caitanya cult. Adi 16.8 purport

I have heard with delight of your preaching attempts. That is one of our businesses, to expose these rascals who are cheating and who have no spiritual asset. We don't say publicly that they are rascal, otherwise they will condemn also, but by practical action they will see and compare. Simply chant and dance, distribute prasadam, and where possible some books. Nobody will be grudged. letter, 4 June 1976

Although Srila Prabhupada's instructions on this point may appear equivocal, the conclusion is not difficult to understand: tact is important, chanting and other programs must be there, and fighting must also be there.

You should not be simply chanting and dancing. Along with that, you must know philosophy. There are so many Mayavadis. You have to defeat them. It is not that we are cowards. We are Krsna's soldiers. So as soon as there is Mayavadi attack, you must immediately defeat them. That is wanted. 720616sb.la

As a practical, supremely experienced preacher, Srila Prabhupada was not utopian about the realities of preaching. He could present controversial points so expertly that others were less likely to be offended. But he could also be bluntly straightforward.

We have to follow in the footsteps of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu, executing our mission peacefully, or, if necessary, kicking the heads of such protesters. Adi 17.218 purport


- From the "My Memories of Srila Prabhupada" by HH Bhakti Vikas Swami
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