Author: Purushottam Nitai Das

How to stop religious violence and create a better world?

Is it possible to stop religious violence in the world? Seems to be a herculean task. Today religious violence has become so common. We see people killing each other in the name of God. Why? Because some believe that “My God is the Only God, the Best God and other’s God is Not God.”  There was an incident in Bangladesh where temples belonging to Hindus were attacked.  Iskcon temple was also attacked and in an unfortunate incident a young devotee was brutally killed. All this happened because of a false rumor and most importantly in the name of religion.

Same God different name

Oxford dictionary defines religion as “the belief in the existence of a god or gods, and the activities that are connected with the worship of them, or in the teachings of a spiritual leader”

Religion entails spiritual practices which helps believers to connect to God. All the major religions of the world be it Hinduism, Christianity or Islam accept God as the supreme father. And they accept that God created all the living beings. People of different faith may call God with different names but there is only one God who is the creator, maintainer, and destroyer of the creation.  Just like there is only one sun which illuminates the whole world, but people may call it differently in different places and in different languages. For example, in Sanskrit Sun is called Surya, in Arabic shams, in English sun, in Spanish El Sol and so on. Similarly, it is the same God which all are referring to with different names.

Violence in the name of God is a great sin

Now God, the Supreme father is one, so it means that you and me, in fact everyone in this world, are children of same God. So, if someone in the name of their God is killing other human beings then it means that they are killing God’s own children. Will any father of this world like to see his innocent children being savagely massacred?  

Similarly, will the Supreme father be happy to see one of his children killing his another child? Will God who is all loving approve such heinous crime? The answer is obvious.  Suffice to say that if someone is killing in the name of religion or in the name of their God then either their religion is not bona fide, or they have not understood their religion properly. Or it could be that some unscrupulous people have usurped the position of a religious leader and is misguiding the gullible masses.

In Bhagavad Gita 16.9, Krishna says that there are demoniac people in this world who have no intelligence, and they engage in horrible works which are meant to destroy the world.

The 200 strong mob who attacked the Iskcon temple in Noakhali, Bangladesh and killed an innocent 25-year-old devotee of Krishna, Partha das, were full of demoniac mentality. There act was not an act of bravery. It was a cowardly act. A cruel act. A demoniac act. An insane act.

No bona fide religion preaches violence. All the religious literatures of the world teach to love God. And when we love God, we love all. We won’t be violent towards any living creatures physically or verbally. Because a genuine devotee of Lord, sees the same God in the heart of each living being. paṇḍitāḥ sama-darśinaḥ.

So, he discriminates none and hates none.

Even butchers became devotee by chanting the names of Krishna

In fact, if one starts following the religious principles given in the scriptures one becomes free from all evil tendencies and develops godly qualities. If we turn the pages of scriptures, we see many such examples.

One such example is of Mrigari.  He was a cruel hunter, so much ruthless that he would half kill animals because he would enjoy seeing them suffer in pain and die. But after becoming a devotee of God, Krishna, his heart got completely transformed. He gave up all kinds of violence and would show compassion to even ants.

Similarly, when Srila Prabhupada went to west to share the teachings of Bhagavad Gita and other Vedic literatures then it transformed the lives of so many people. There were hippies in the west who were indulging in many sinful activities. They were drunkards and meat eaters. But once they became devotee of Krishna, they gave up all impious activities. They gave up eating meat and stopped taking intoxicants.  There were butchers who also got transformed and quickly gave up the profession of killing animals.

This is what a bona fide religion does. It completely removes all the evil and sinful proclivities from the heart of the practitioner. One gives up all types of violence. So, if someone claims to be a follower of a particular faith but has no compassion and love for other living beings, it means that their practice of spirituality is a sham.

Violence towards animals in the name of religion should end

For example, one cannot keep on killing innocent animals, who are also children of God, in slaughterhouses and claim that he is a religious person.  In fact, cruelty towards animal leads to cruelty towards fellow human beings. If someone since his childhood days have seen humongous animals being slaughtered in their courtyard, in the slaughterhouses, on the streets then his heart will be full of violent images. He sees animals crying in pain while their neck is being slit. He sees gallons of blood oozing out of the animal neck and flooding the streets. What consciousness a child will develop seeing so much blood, so much violence? He later sees that the animal flesh is cooked, and everyone feast upon it.

When brutality is normalized in the society, children become brutal, hard -hearted. And when they grow up, they do not hesitate in indulging in cruel acts. For them, killing other living beings including men, women and children is as simple as plucking a guava from a tree. No feeling. No remorse.

Animal slaughter in Vedas

Slaughter of animals is prohibited in the Vedic scriptures. However, in Vedas we do find some instances of animal sacrifice. But it was done in a controlled way for a higher purpose. During Vedic times, learned priests chanted mantras during animal sacrifice. The animal, which was sacrificed would immediately get a new life, sometimes even a human life. It was not that in Vedic times there were slaughterhouses operating on the streets and animals would be brutally killed.

Srila Prabhupada explains, “The animal sacrifice is never meant for killing the animal, but for achieving the successful result of the sacrifice. The animal offered in the sacrificial fire is, so to speak, destroyed, but the next moment it is given a new life by dint of the Vedic hymns chanted by the expert priest. When such an expert priest is not available, the animal sacrifice in the fire of the sacrificial altar is forbidden.” Srimad Bhagavatam 2.6.23

Today such expert priests are not there who can give a new life to the animals. So animal sacrifice is strictly prohibited in this age of Kali yuga.  

What government should do to stop religious violence?

If we want to stop religious violence, then we should stop all kinds of violence including violence towards animals in the name of religion. The government should be prompt in taking action against those who indulge in any kind of religious violence.  

Most importantly the government should identify those religious leaders who are preaching violence and intolerance. They are the mastermind behind the violence in the name of God. The less intelligent common citizens many times get swayed away by the sermons of such evil and cunning preachers. These pseudo religious preachers incite violence and sow the seed of hatred in the society. Such preachers should be nabbed and put behind bars. It is also the duty of the government to see if people are following tenets of the religion as it is and are not deviating from the path.

Srila Prabhupada says, “There is educational inspector, school inspector. They go see that the students are properly being educated in that school. Similarly, government should have expert men in the government to see that the Hindus are acting like Hindu, Muslims are acting like Muslim, and Christians are acting like Christian. The government should not be callous about religion. They may be neutral, that “Whatever religion you profess, government has nothing to do. You do nicely.” But it is the government’s duty to see that you are doing nicely, you are not bluffing. That is government duty.” Room Conversation with Indian Ambassador, Sept. 5, 1973, Stockholm

Bona Fide Religion Brings Peace & Harmony

Violence in the name of religion is the greatest sin, an unpardonable crime. To stop religious violence, government should severely punish the perpetrators. It is also the responsibility of the people to not get misled by the fanatic religious preachers. When they hear any sermons or read any religious literature which advocate use of violence against non-believers then they should ask themselves that how by inflicting pain upon others they will be able to please their God who is glorified as all merciful. They should think before accepting any religious doctrines and should not be a blind follower.

It is also equally important that the genuine devotees of the Lord spread the message of sacred scriptures far and wide so that people understand the purpose of religion. The purpose of any bona fide religion is to establish peace and harmony. It is to let live and let others live. All types of religious violence will stop once people will come to know the sacred teachings of bona fide religion. This will help in creating a better world where everyone can live happily.

Why Cow Protection is so important especially in India?

Vedic literatures highlight the importance of cow protection.  Bhagavad Gita 18.44 recommends(go-rakṣya). Lord Krishna loves cows.  

Krishna’s love for cows

He appeared in Vrindavan as a cowherd boy. In the sacred land of Vrindavan, Krishna would play with the cows and would take care of the cows.  Cows too loved to be with Krishna. They felt protected and cared. Krishna, the Supreme Lord, is the best well-wisher of the cows. Viṣṇu Purāṇa 1.19.65 says

namo brahmaṇya-devāya
go-brāhmaṇa-hitāya ca
jagad-dhitāya kṛṣṇāya
govindāya namo namaḥ

Srila Prabhupada explains, “Lord Kṛṣṇa, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, is the prime protector of brahminical culture and the cow. Without knowing and respecting these, one cannot realize the science of God, and without this knowledge, any welfare activities or humanitarian propaganda cannot be successful.”

 Krishna’s favourite food is butter and butter comes from milk. Mother Yashoda knew Krishna’s love for milk and preparations made from milk. So, she would prepare many delicacies of milk and give it to Krishna.  Krishna enjoyed them. One of the names of Krishna is Govinda because he gives “pleasure to the cows.” Krishna is also called Gopal, the maintainer of the cows. Vrindavan is also known as Goloka Vrindavan. Goloka means “planet of cows.” So, cows have great spiritual significance in India. Millions worship cows daily here. And in India cow is always referred as “mother cow.”

Cow’s milk so precious and delicious

As a mother cow gives abundant milk which sustains life. Milk is also used to prepare varieties of nutritious and delicious food items. Cow’s milk is precious and delicious. Dozens of varieties of sweets are made from cow milk. It is not that cow milk is used only in India. People in all parts of the world use cow milk and milk products. 

Like a mother she gives her milk to us.  Milk is said to be complete food, it completely nourishes us. We start drinking cow’s milk when we are just an infant. But sadly, the same cow who serves us as mother is killed for flesh. Even in India cows are killed. It’s so unfortunate.  Although millions of Hindus revere cows and in many provinces cow slaughter is banned but still cows are killed, many times brutally. 

Liberals or pseudo seculars against cow protection

In India there are certain section of people who call themselves secularists, but they are mostly pseudo – secularists. They also call themselves as liberals. These people have lots of problems with Hindus religious belief system. Not only with the Hindus these people have issue with anyone who follows the Vedic teachings and respect the Vedic culture.  For example, these liberals did not like APJ Abdul Kalam, former President of India and a renowned scientist. It was because although a Muslim APJ Abdul Kalam would love reading and deriving inspiration from Ramayana and Mahabharat.

These pseudo – secularists are few in number, but they wield tremendous power. Most of them are active in academics and in media.  Today if anyone in power speak about cow protection then these pseudo secularists with their media partners will start making lots of noise. They will label him or her as communal, fascists and most importantly anti-Muslim. This despite the fact that majority of Muslims in India have Vedic roots. In fact, many Muslims in India happily participate in festivals like Janmashtami and Ramnavmi.  One of my office colleagues was a Muslim and lived in Mumbai. He would tell me that he with his friends would participate in dahi handi festival during Janmashtami.

When once Menaka Gandhi, former Union Minister in Indian Government and well-known animal rights activist and environmentalist, raised her concern against cow slaughter then immediately the pseudo secularists lampooned her and labelled her as communal.  The liberals support cow killing and vehemently oppose anyone who talks about cow protection.

People callous towards cow protection

It is disheartening to see cows being killed in India.  But why to only blame the pseudo seculars or liberals or the inefficient government. People are also responsible. Many people keep cows till the time she gives milk. Once she grows old and stop giving milk the owner thinks that it is uneconomical to keep the cows. So, they abandon the cows.

Some are so callous that they even sell their cows to butchers.  For many killing cows have become more profitable because selling meat bring instant profit. 

Scriptures say that a person has 7 mothers and one of them is the cow. So, cow is called gau-mata (mother cow).  But today people have become so wicked and so savage that they do not hesitate in inhumanly killing mother cow for money.  Once cows grow old and become non profitable, they are unceremoniously driven out from the house. Height of insensitivity! Such cows can be seen loitering in the streets for want of food, water and shelter. They eventually end up in slaughterhouses or die on the road. Sometimes they are hit by trucks and buses or they die because of hunger or some disease. 

The cows served their master by giving her milk. She should be loved and cared like a family member.  It is high time that sane and pious men understand the gravity of the situation. People need to be educated about the need of cow protection and simultaneously government should take strong action against those who indulge in such acts. Although cow slaughter is banned in many states of India but nevertheless people illegally with implicit support of the local administration continue with the business.

Our spiritual responsibility to protect mother cow

A human being does not become a human if he does not show compassion towards other living beings.   Srila Prabhupada gave emphasis on cow protection. Many Iskcon centres and farmhouses all over the world have cows which are well taken care. At Iskcon Mayapur Gaushala (or Goshala) there are scores of healthy and happy cows. Anyone can go there and see how joyfully they live. Those cows who stop giving milk are not thrown out from their homes but are properly taken care. They continue to get their share of food, water, shelter and love. In fact, at all the Gaushalas run by Iskcon all over the world cow gets complete protection and care. This is what scriptures teach. And this is what every God loving person should do.   

Mother is always a mother whether young or old or diseased. Her value cannot be determined in terms of monetary benefit. Cow is our mother. So, it our spiritual responsibility, yours and mine, to protect her and protest against her killing. Those slaughterhouses which kill cows should be closed. And those who indulge in this gruesome act should be punished.

Lord Krishna appeared in India. Devotees love Krishna and Krishna loves cows. So, devotees of Krishna should take a lead role in protecting cows especially in India.   They should do whatever possible legally to save cows and also should preach vigorously about the spiritual significance of cow protection. 

Is violence in the name of religion sanctioned in the religious literatures?

Is violence in the name of religion justified? Is it sanctioned in the scriptures? If we look around the world today, we see people are killing other people in the name of religion. Because some believe that their god is better than other gods. So in the name of God they have license to kill others.

Recently in Bangladesh, hundreds of fanatics attacked Hindus. They destroyed Hindu Temples burned their houses and unfortunately one Iskcon devotee was also brutally killed.

Few years back there was terrorist attack in Paris and when the terrorist were killing innocent people, they were also shouting “God is great”. It makes one wonder is religion the cause of violence in the world? Also does the great God justify the killing of innocent people and eulogize the killers. If yes then how could God be great?  Or is it that the killers are the agents of devil who are on a mission to discredit the great God?  

Violence in the name of religion

Violence & Killing in the name of religion has spread all over the world today. The brutal massacre of innocent men, women and children, and the beheading videos are not just frightening and distasteful but it is also shaking people’s faith in the idea of God.  If people unleash violence in the name of God then the world will be a much better place without God.  Why not have Godless world where there will be no discrimination and murder in the name of God? 

Now before rejecting God and admonishing the books of God let us also try to understand these books to figure out if violence against innocents has ever been justified? Has God promised that those who shout my name and inflict pain on others achieve me?  

Bona Fide Religion Preaches Peace

All the bona fide religions of the world believe in the Supreme Lord and unequivocally declare God to be our Supreme Father. For e.g. in Bhagavad Gita 14.4, Krishna says, aham bija-pradah pita, I am the seed giving father. If it is so then how could a father sanction the killing of one of his children at the hands of the other children because both the terrorist and the victims are his own children? More so it is said that a devotee of the Lord sees all the living beings of this world as parts and parcels of the Supreme Lord and sees them with equal vision without any discrimination (Bhagavad Gita 5.18).

If we study Vedic scriptures carefully we will find that these sacred books preaches the message of peace and love and not of violence. And if we read the lives of the great messengers of the Lord then we find that they have never used violence but have instead used love of God as a weapon to transform the lives of people. There are innumerable stories of people’s heart getting transformed by associating with holy men and holy books.

Story of Mrigari, the cruel hunter

Lord Nityananda and Haridas Thakura reformed ruffians like Jagai and Madhai by filling their hearts with love of God. It was the power of devotion to God that transformed the life of Valmiki, the composer of Ramayan.   Scripture tells a story of a cruel hunter named Mrigari who used to rejoice seeing suffering of helpless animals and birds. He used to half kill them and then enjoy seeing them suffer and die.

When sage Narada saw the suffering beasts and birds, he was shocked. Why don’t you just kill them completely, he asked? 

Mrigari replied smilingly, “Because I enjoy seeing them suffer and die”.

Narada understood that his cruelty is going to cost him dear, the hunter is going to get a terrible reaction for his sins. And so he decided to transform Mrigari’s heart. He explained the hunter how his act is not in accordance with the laws of God and so it is going to bring great misfortune to him. He told him to have love, compassion and mercy towards the other children of God and most importantly asked him to chant and take shelter of the supreme Lord.

Mrigari had never heard any sagely advice before because he belonged to the family of hunters. He had witnessed such cruelty since childhood.

Mrigari’s heart transforms

But Narada had now told him to see the world through the eyes of the scriptures. The hunter understood that he was swiftly moving to the path of self-annihilation. And so he decided to give up violence and lead a God conscious peaceful life. Soon his heart had got so transformed that while walking he used to be cautious so that he may not step on any small living beings such as ants.  

A genuine devotee of the Lord will never try to cause any harm to others even in his dreams.  He is para-dukha-dukhi   i.e. seeing others in pain he himself feels pain. He does not go and voluntarily inflict pain on others as some misguided men and women are currently doing in the name of God. Instead he is ready to suffer for the sins of others.

Vasudeva Datta wanted to suffer for the sins of others

Vasudeva Datta was a great saintly person. He was ready to suffer on behalf of all people of the world so that they could be absolved of all the miseries.  “I will take their sins and suffer in hell on their behalf, but please deliver them from their material disease, he prayed to Lord Caitanya” (Chaitanya Charitamrita Madhya 2.15.160-163). This is the true character of a devotee.   

Qualities of a devotee of God

• A genuine lover of God does not wear the vest of bombs with a mission to inflict immeasurable sufferings on others. Instead they give their life to save the lives of the suffering masses.

• They do not carry weapons of destruction in their hands. But instead they carry the chanting beads on which they chant the names of God. And also inspire others to get connected to God. 

• They do not speak words which fill people’s heart with fear. But instead they speak words of love which brings joy to people’s heart. 

• The process of devotion to God is so enlightening that it makes a ruffian a sage and a crooked man a kind hearted man.   

Conclusion: God does not sanction violence

“God is great” and the great God does not sanction violence. He is a loving and caring father. And has asked all of us to live together happily like brothers and sisters. He has asked us to shun violence and embrace peace and has advised us to fill our hearts with love, mercy and compassion (Bhagavad Gita 16.1-3). 

And those who massacre people in the name of religion are not even humans; they are messengers of evil. In fact they are worst than the beasts. Violence in the name of religion is not sanctioned by God and is not mentioned in the scriptures. Those who are killing people in the name of religion or God are fanatical people and have no understanding who is God. In fact they are evil people. They should be severely punished by the government of the world.  Along with this the genuine devotees of the Lord should spread the message of sacred scriptures far and wide. This will help to establish peace and harmony everywhere.

The Bhagavad Gita verse which enhances my faith & conviction in Krishna Consciousness

All the verses of Bhagavad Gita enhance my faith and conviction in Krishna. But one verse which stand out is the verse from Bhagavad Gita 18.37.  In this verse Krishna says, “That which in the beginning may be just like poison but at the end is just like nectar and which awakens one to self-realization is said to be happiness in the mode of goodness.”

I can relate with this verse and can say with full conviction that each word of this verse is true.  Especially this one from the verse “which appears poisonous in the beginning but becomes nectar in the end.” I have applied it in my life. And have always got the same result which is Krishna is saying.  In fact, I apply this verse almost daily in my life.

Because of past conditioning and ignorance, spiritual activities appear troublesome to me. In fact, as mentioned in this verse, poisonous, viṣam iva.

Spiritual activities appear poisonous in the beginning but becomes nectar in the end

For example, getting up early in the morning and doing mangal arati appears very difficult. Chanting sixteen rounds of Hare Krishna Mahamantra appears tedious. And I do not find much interest in reading literatures like Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatam and other books of Srila Prabhupada. All these important spiritual activities are poisonous to me. Every day I have to struggle to complete these important spiritual activities.

So, every morning I remind myself of this verse. I contemplate on its meaning. I tell myself that these activities are now looking poisonous but if I exert myself, give up laziness and complete these spiritual duties I will experience “happiness in the end.” This is what Krishna is promising in this verse. So, I keep faith in the words of Krishna and I complete all these activities like mangala arati, chanting the names of Krishna, reading spiritual books. And almost every day, at the end of the day, I find that once I complete these spiritual activities, I feel so satisfied and happy from within. 

Sense gratification appears nectar in the beginning but becomes poisonous in the end

But if I indulge in sense gratification like browsing internet, reading political news, doing prajalpa (mundane talks) then while doing these activities I feel some sort of so-called happiness. But after spending time in these non-Krishna Conscious activities, almost all the time I fret. I curse myself saying that what was the need for me to waste my time in this way. Sense gratification is a waste of time, and it takes us away from Krishna. So, Krishna has warned us in Bhagavad Gita 18.38 that sense gratification may appear like nectar in the beginning, but it becomes poison in the end.

“That happiness which is derived from contact of the senses with their objects and which appears like nectar at first but poison at the end is said to be of the nature of passion.” Bhagavad Gita 18.38.

Once we begin doing, we begin enjoying

One of the great things about spiritual activity is that before we start doing it, it appears troublesome. But as soon as we start doing it, we start experiencing pleasure. For example, getting up early in the morning, taking bath, making preparation for mangal arati appears unpleasant. But as soon as we start making preparation for mangal arati and start worshipping the deity, we start enjoying from within.

Similarly, once we begin chanting, we feel nice. And once we complete chanting 16 rounds of Hare Krishna Mahamantra, we feel so happy and so lucky. It gives us a sense of accomplishment. And also, once we have read few sentences from Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam then slowly we find ourselves getting absorbed in reading.

How Bhagavad Gita 18.37 verse helps me on the day of fasting?

On the day of fasting especially on the day of nirjala ekadasi this verse helps me a lot to successfully complete nirjala ekadasi. Nirjala ekadasi means fasting for 24 hours without water. On that day I keep on reciting this verse in my mind throughout the day and contemplate on its meaning. I keep on telling myself, “One day of trouble and sacrifice and the next day I will be on cloud nine, I will get lots of spiritual happiness.” And by remembering this verse I have been able to complete nirjala ekadasi for last many years.

Similarly on other days when I have to fast like during Janmashtami, Gaur Purnima, Narasimha Chaturdasi and other ekadasi days I keep on remembering this verse.

Spiritual life is full of nectar

Upon contemplation I come to the conclusion that we all have developed a wrong understanding that spiritual activities are troublesome. Because if spiritual activities would have been troublesome then I would have felt miserable after completing it. I have never seen any devotee in my entire life who felt miserable after chanting Hare Krishna Mahamantra or after attending managal arati.

When we go to Mayapur we get up in the morning to attend 4:30 am Managal arati. We feel so blissful and happy seeing the deities of Radha Madhav and asta sakshis, of Panchatattva and of Lord Narasimhadeva. It’s a divine experience. And when we look around, we find everyone – men, women, children, old people – happy. Even those who come for the first time to the temple are also blissful.

When we do Govardhan Parikrama on foot in Vrindavan, we feel so exhausted. The parikrama marg is around 21 km and it takes 6-7 hours to complete the parikrama. During the parikrama, we get completely exhausted. Legs become stiff. We have to exert a lot to move ahead. But devotees do not give up. With full faith in Krishna they continue the parikrama. And once we are able to successfully circumambulate Giriraj Govardhan we feel so satisfied and happy. I have never met any person in my life who regretted the decision of doing Govardhan Parikrama.

Conclusion

This is the reason that I strongly believe what Krishna says in this verse “that spiritual life appears like poison in the beginning but becomes nectar in the end.” It has increased my faith and conviction in Krishna’s words. Because I have personally experienced it.  

In this verse Krishna also says that activities in the mode of goodness such as spiritual practices lead to “self-realization.” I cannot say much about self-realization because I have not attained it. But one thing I have realized that no matter how hard we try, we can never be happy by satisfying the unholy demands of our mind and senses.  But if we engage our mind and senses in Krishna Consciousness then we will be happy.

To conclude, “Krishna Consciousness appears difficult initially, but if we practice it with determination and faith then the end result is extraordinary.”

How to know Krishna?

You want to know Krishna. I too want to know Krishna. In fact, everyone is looking for Krishna because we all have deep spiritual relationship with Krishna.

George Harrison explains it in a better way, “Everybody is looking for KṚṢṆA. Some don’t realize that they are, but they are.”

So, the question is, is it possible to know Krishna? Is it possible to understand Krishna? Is it possible to know our relationship with Krishna? And most importantly is it possible to develop relationship with Krishna? 

If yes, then how?

To know Krishna, tell your mind to always remember Krishna

The answer is given by Krishna himself in Bhagavad Gita. In Bhagavad Gita 7.1, Krishna says that if we are always conscious of him, our mind is attached to him then we can know him completely without any doubt.

“The Supreme Personality of Godhead said: Now hear, O son of Pṛthā, how by practicing yoga in full consciousness of Me, with mind attached to Me, you can know Me in full, free from doubt.” Bhagavad Gita 7.1

Krishna spoke Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna and through Arjuna he is speaking this transcendental knowledge to you and me.

Prior to this verse i.e. in Bhagavad Gita 6.47 which is the last verse of Chapter 6 of Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna says that “amongst all the yogis one who with great faith always thinks of Me within himself and engages in transcendental loving service unto Me is the topmost yogi.” 

Now immediately in the first verse of Chapter 7, Lord Krishna tells Arjuna that if we want to know him then our mind should be completely absorbed in him.  Absorption should be 100%.

Here, Krishna also underlines the importance of hearing about Him. Unless we hear about Krishna, we won’t know him. And if we do not know Krishna then how we will always serve him with love. It is not possible to continuously serve a stranger. If someone is very powerful then we may be compelled to serve him, but that service will not be with love but will be because of fear.

From whom to hear about Krishna?

Now the question is from whom to hear. The best source is Krishna himself because he is the Supreme Personality of Godhead. So, Krishna tells Arjuna, tac chṛṇu, i.e. “Hear from Me.” Bhagavad Gita 7.1. Arjuna was fortunate because Krishna was present in front of him. But let us not be disheartened. We can also know Krishna by hearing about Krishna from pure devotees of Krishna. Pure devotees have so much love for Krishna that by the mercy of Krishna, he is able to speak about Krishna elaborately.

We see Sukhdev Goswami, a pure devotee of Krishna so eloquently described Krishna’s beautiful pastimes. Srila Prabhupada, a pure devotee of Krishna, in his commentaries on Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam have described unlimited glories of Krishna. If we read these books, we will know a lot about Krishna. In fact, the knowledge will be sufficient to not just know Krishna but also to develop a strong relationship with Krishna.

How to attach mind to Krishna?

We discussed that in Bhagavad Gita 7.1, Krishna says that our mind should be always attached to him, mayyasakta-manah.  

Those who practice spirituality knows well that how difficult it is to always focus our mind on the object of meditation. As soon as we start meditation our mind begins to wander here and there.  I always experience that as soon as I take the beads in my hand and begin chanting the names of Krishna, slowly my mind starts losing focus. Instead of focusing on Krishna and his names, mind takes me to a different world.

Now if we are chanting the names of Krishna but our mind is focusing on something else then although our mouth will be uttering the words, but our consciousness will be absorbed in sense gratifying objects. We are where our mind is. So, if we want Krishna then we have to focus our mind on Krishna.

Controlling the naughty mind

Mind is like a naughty child; it keeps on running here and there. So, as soon as we see our mind is wandering, we should immediately catch our mind and bring it back and focus it on Krishna.  It is not that once we bring our mind from wherever it is to focus on Krishna it will stop wandering. Uncontrolled mind’s nature is to wander.  So, as soon as we find that the mind is wandering, we will again have to bring it back on Krishna.

This we will have to do again and again. Easy to say, difficult to do. But it is also not impossible.

If we try again and again then a state will come when mind won’t wander much. Slowly it will start rejoicing in being with Krishna.  And a state will come when our mind will completely stop wandering and will only focus on Krishna. Srila Prabhupada explains, “By concentrating one’s mind upon Kṛṣṇa, one is able to know the Absolute Truth completely, but not otherwise.” Bhagavad Gita 7.1 Purport.

The nine process of devotional service

Concentration of the mind upon Lord Krishna becomes easy when we practice the nine process of devotional service. The nine process of devotional service is also called nava-vidha bhakti and it begins with śravaṇam. Śravaṇam means hearing about Krishna. Vedic literature is shruti-shastra. Shruti means to hear. If we hear about Krishna from Krishna or from the scriptures, then we will become a perfect Krishna Conscious person.

Who cannot know Krishna?

In Bhagavad Gita 7.3, Lord Krishna says that many thousands of men endeavour for perfection but amongst those hardly few comes to know about Him. For non-devotees it is impossible to understand Krishna. But even those who practice jñāna-yoga and dhyāna-yoga, they are also not able to understand Krishna completely. For example, the followers of Śaṅkarācārya are not able to accept Krishna because they do not understand Krishna.

Yogis, jnanis, scholars, philosophers get bewildered when they see Krishna as little child playing in the courtyard of mother Yashoda. Or when they see Krishna as the charioteer of Arjuna they get confused. They wonder how the Supreme Personality of Godhead can be a little child or become subservient to Arjuna. The yogis and jnanis may attain impersonal Brahman realization but they will not attain Krishna and Krishna’s abode unless they develop personal relationship with Krishna. Even the great demigods get confused by Krishna’s different pastimes. This is why Krishna says that “yatatam api siddhanam kascin mam vetti tattvatah: those who have achieved perfection, hardly one knows Me in truth.” Bhagavad Gita 7.3.

Conclusion

But yogis, jnanis, scholars, philosophers can know Krishna if they start hearing about Krishna. “Hearing” about Krishna means hearing Krishna’s unlimited transcendental qualities and also hearing about Krishna’s many wonderful pastimes. If we hear about Krishna then we will be inspired to serve Krishna. We can focus our mind on Krishna. We will understand that we are eternal parts and parcels of Krishna. And in this world we are suffering because we have forgotten Krishna. 

Chapter 6 ends by Krishna declaring that the yogi who meditates upon Him and renders devotional service to Him is topmost. And in Chapter 7 Krishna starts explaining the process by which one can know Him completely and can attain Him without doubt.

The only way to know Krishna as He is (tattvataḥ) by the practice of devotional service with complete absorption.  

What is the relationship of Krishna with this material world?

You may think what relationship Lord Krishna has with this material world.  Is it that he created this world and later severed all his relationship with this material world?  Let us see what Krishna says about this in the scriptures, especially in Bhagavad Gita.

In Brahma Samhita, Brahma says that Krishna who is the Supreme God is the origin of all, causes of all causes. It implies that he creates the spiritual world, and he also creates this material world.

“Kṛṣṇa who is known as Govinda is the Supreme Godhead. He has an eternal blissful spiritual body. He is the origin of all. He has no other origin and He is the prime cause of all causes.” Brahma Samhita 5.1

Material world is Krishna’s energies

Lord Krishna himself says in Bhagavad Gita that this material world is one of his energies and it works under his direction.

“This material nature, which is one of My energies, is working under My direction, O son of Kuntī, producing all moving and nonmoving beings. Under its rule this manifestation is created and annihilated again and again.” Bhagavad Gita 9.10.

So, everything is happening in this material world as per Krishna’s guidance and direction.  Krishna is the Supreme director and has a special and unique relationship with this material world.  The Supreme Lord Krishna creates this material world, maintains it, and ultimately destroys this material world.  

Krishna has two energies – superior (para) and inferior (apara). Everything in this creation – moving and non-moving – is part of Krishna’s superior energy and inferior energy. We the living entities are Krishna’s superior energy, and the material nature is Krishna’s inferior energy.

Lord Krishna pervades this material world and supports it. Just as sunshine is spread everywhere similarly the energy of the Lord is everywhere in this entire creation.

How Krishna maintains this material world?

To maintain and sustain this creation it is not that Lord has to be present personally everywhere. For example, a king manages the kingdom with the help of various departments. The various departments of the king are his energies and to maintain them king does not have to be there personally.  He appoints ministers to take care of finance, home, defence etc.

Similarly, the Supreme Lord maintains this world through his energies. He does not need to be personally present everywhere.  

The Lord delegates the responsibility to different personalities based on their capabilities to run the affairs of this world. These empowered and respectable personalities are called demigods. So, we have a demigod who makes sure that it rains, he is called Indra. Then there is a demigod who takes care of the air, he is called vayu. Similarly, there is sun-god, moon-god and so on.

Why Krishna is not part of this cosmic manifestation?

Although Krishna creates and maintains everything in this material world and is present everywhere through his energies still he is aloof from this material creation. Krishna says in Bhagavad Gita 9.5, “although I am everywhere, I am not a part of this cosmic manifestation.” Why?  Krishna explains it further in the same verse by saying that it is because “he is the source of creation.” By his supreme will Lord Krishna creates, sustains and destroys everything in this material world.

Krishna is also simultaneously present everywhere in this material world. As Supersoul or Paramatma he is not just present in each living entity but he even enters into each atom of this material world. This is Krishna’s inconceivable mystic power (yogam aiśvaram) and this is how he maintains his relationship with this material world. Srila Prabhupada explains, “From Brahmā, the most gigantic entity, on down to the smallest ant, all are existing because the Lord has entered each and all and is sustaining them.” Bhagavad Gita 10.42

Creation & Annihilation of this material world

Krishna, the supreme creator, says in Bhagavad Gita 9.8, “The whole cosmic order is under Me. Under My will it is automatically manifested again and again, and under My will it is annihilated at the end.”

This material world is temporary. So, it is destroyed and again created. Just like our material body is not permanent similarly the material world is also temporary.

Krishna annihilates this material world at the end of Brahma’s life. As per earthly calculation, Brahma lives for 311 trillion 40 billion years.

What actually happens at the time of annihilation? As a soul we do not die, so what happens to us at the time of annihilation? Where do we go? It is explained that at the time of cosmic devastation, the entire cosmic manifestation, sarva – bhutani, enters into the Supreme Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu is plenary expansion of Krishna. In the body of Vishnu, the souls like you and me remain in an unconscious state.

Again when the material world has to be created, the Supreme Lord creates it by his will. All the souls which remain unconscious during the period of devastation become unconscious again. They get a particular body based on their desires and past karma.

Is Krishna attached to this world?

Although the Supreme Lord has complete control over this material world, and everything happens by his will still he is always detached from all the material activities. Just as a high court judge may punish someone or reward someone but he remains neutral. Similarly, the Lord is involved in all the activities, yet he is neutral. He is transcendental to all material activities and is not attached to the creation and maintenance of this world. We the living entities also get different bodies because of our various deeds. We enjoy or suffer because of our own karma. Lord always remains neutral; he does not interfere.

Srila Prabhupada explains with an example from smṛti, “when there is a fragrant flower before someone, the fragrance is touched by the smelling power of the person, yet the smelling and the flower are detached from one another. There is a similar connection between the material world and the Supreme Personality of Godhead.” Bhagavad Gita 9.10 purport

Conclusion

In conclusion, we can say that the Supreme Lord is the Supreme director of this entire material creation.  He is the source of this world. Yet, he remains detached from this material creation.  The Supreme and intelligent designer, Krishna, maintains his relationship with this material world through his energies.

ISKCON holds candlelight protest against the attack on Hindus & Iskcon in Bangladesh

ISKCON devotees held candlelight protest in Kolkata and West Bengal against the attack on Hindus and Iskcon devotees in Bangladesh.

While the world sleeps and remains indifferent to the plight of the Hindus in Bangladesh, Iskcon devotees in Bangladesh and in India are trying to wake the indifferent regime by holding protests. Iskcon Kolkata protested outside Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Kolkata. Hundreds of devotees holding candles protested the attack and the gruesome killing of Iskcon devotee and other innocent Hindus in Bangladesh. HG Radheshyam Prabhu a senior Iskcon devotee and President Iskcon Pune led the protest with kirtan.

Cycle of violence in Bangladesh in past few days hasn't stopped. There was dance of death inside ISKCON temple on Friday. ISKCON will continue to protest outside Bangladesh High Commissions across the world until the guilty are punished: Radharaman Das, Vice Pres, ISKCON Kolkata pic.twitter.com/clZx8iKDJ6

— ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2021

Iskcon to hold protest all over the world against the attack

Iskcon has decided to protest all over the world in front of Bangladesh High Commission. Radharaman Das, Vice President, ISKCON Kolkata said, “Cycle of violence in Bangladesh in past few days hasn’t stopped. There was dance of death inside ISKCON temple on Friday. ISKCON will continue to protest outside Bangladesh High Commissions across the world until the guilty are punished”

Iskcon devotees also protested in Siliguri, West Bengal with a torch rally.

West Bengal: ISKCON devotees protested & held a torch rally in Siliguri today following the incident where an ISKCON temple in Noakhali, Bangladesh was vandalised and a devotee was killed by a mob yesterday. pic.twitter.com/0nWOIbP9au

— ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2021

Protest is happening also in Bangladesh. Hindus and non communal Bangladeshis have taken to the street to protest the violence against the Hindus in Bangladesh.

https://twitter.com/taslimanasreen/status/1449912311125188615

The world remained silent when Hindus were being attacked and killed in Bangladesh. The Indian government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not issued any official statement on the anti Hindu riots in Bangladesh. Some of the media reports suggested that the Indian government is satisfied with the efforts of Bangladesh government in controlling the riot. However Iskcon Bangladesh has strong refuted that the situation in Bangladesh is normal. Hindus and Iskcon devotees are still living in fear.

Expressing deep anguish at such reports Iskcon Bangladesh tweeted, “The news reported that India has praised Bangladesh’s efforts to control the situation. Who says the situation is under control @MEAIndia ? Are Indians blind? Never expected From India.”

https://twitter.com/IskconBDH/status/1449460727006203904

Devotees killed, temples destroyed, Bhagavad Gita desecrated, Srila Prabhupada deity burnt

Heart wrenching videos of brutal attacks by Muslim mobs on Hindus is slowly surfacing. A Iskcon devotee is critically injured. Not sure if he survived or not. Even if he survives will he be able to lead a normal life?

https://twitter.com/IskconBDH/status/1449225105385537543

Srimad Bhagavad Gita, Hindu holy book, desecrated, temples burnt. Secular world remained silent. Secular Hindus did not say anything else they will lose their secular credentials. Placard activists did not find time from their busy schedule to tweet in support of Bangladeshi Hindus. Reason is simple – #HindusLivesDoesNotMatter

https://twitter.com/IskconBDH/status/1449337495838203907

Deity of Srila Prabhupada, founder acharya of Iskcon and a prominent vaisnvav saint desecrated in Bangladesh. Violent Muslim mobs attacked Hindus and Hindu temples because they alleged (falsely) that their holy book was demeaned. So they have been killing Hindus, destroying Hindu temples, desecrating Hindu holy scriptures like Bhagavad Gita and burning the deity of acharyas like Srila Prabhupada.

https://twitter.com/IskconBDH/status/1449024993682026500

While Hindus suffer brutal attack in Bangladesh, world remains silent

As the world remained mute spectator and did not come out to support the Hindus in Bangladesh, Iskcon Bangladesh in deep anguish tweeted a quote of Martin Luther King Jr., “We Will remember not the words of Our enemy, but the silence of Our Friends.”

https://twitter.com/IskconBDH/status/1449339755624288256

Without any support from the Bangladesh government and the Indian government Hindus in Bangladesh are fighting for survival. They know that the world will not hear their cry. They have to be there for each other and wipe the tears of their near and dear ones.

So they have decided to come out on the street and protest the attack on Hindus and Iskcon devotees in Bangladesh. It is always better to die fighting than being slaughtered like a goat in the slaughterhouse.

Significance of Gita Jayanti – the day when Krishna spoke Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna

Gita Jayanti is the day when Krishna spoke Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna, the day has lots of significance. It was spoken by Krishna to Arjuna about 5000 years ago. This sublime message of Bhagavad Gita was spoken at the battlefield of Kurukshetra. The setting was unprecedented. Millions of mighty Pandava and Kaurava warriors had swarmed the battlefield of Kurukshetra. The armies from both the sides were ready to take the life and give the life.

But just before the beginning of the war, Arjuna got completely bewildered. He lost the desire to fight the most important battle of his life. He wanted to run away from the battlefield and was ready to live by begging.  But Arjuna was fortunate because Krishna was with him. Krishna was Arjuna’s friend, philosopher and guide. The bewildered warrior who had won many battles in his life turned towards Krishna. With tears in his eyes, fear in his heart and in a faltering voice he begged Krishna to help him, to show him the right path, “Now I am confused about my duty and have lost all composure because of miserly weakness. In this condition I am asking You to tell me for certain what is best for me. Now I am Your disciple, and a soul surrendered unto You. Please instruct me”: Bhagavad Gita 2.7.

Krishna is a well-wishing friend of all. He is ever ready to help those who seek his shelter. He shows special mercy to his devotees. So, when Arjuna beseeched Krishna for help, Krishna immediately came to Arjuna’s rescue. He removed ignorance from Arjuna’s heart which was the main cause of Arjuna’s perplexity.

By all the Vedas, Krishna is to be known

In Bhagavad Gita, Krishna speaks about five main topics – Isavara (God), Jivatma (Soul), Kala (Time), Karma (actions) and Prakriti (Nature). In Gita, Krishna reveals his identity that he is the Supreme Personality of Godhead. “I am the source of all spiritual and material worlds. Everything emanates from Me. The wise who perfectly know this engage in My devotional service and worship Me with all their hearts.” (Bhagavad Gita 10.8). The purpose of all the Vedic literatures is to know Krishna, “vedais ca sarvair aham eva Vaidya” which means “by all the Vedas, Krishna is to be known”. Krishna also reveals our true identity that we are souls, parts and parcel of Krishna. Once we realize this identity of ours and start working to develop relationship with Krishna, all the problems of our life will end.

Always think of Krishna and do your duty

Krishna also speaks about prescribed duties, capricious work and inaction. Prescribed duties are activities which one performs as enjoined in the Vedic scriptures, capricious work are the activities which are not recommended in the scriptures and inaction is not doing one’s duty at all. Krishna advised Arjuna to perform his prescribed duties by keeping him always in the centre and without any attachment for the result. “Therefore, Arjuna, you should always think of Me in the form of Kṛṣṇa and at the same time carry out your prescribed duty of fighting. With your activities dedicated to Me and your mind and intelligence fixed on Me, you will attain Me without doubt.” Bhagavad Gita 8.7

If we always keep Krishna in the centre of our life and do all our duties, we will live happily in this world. and after leaving this body and this world, we will attain Krishna and go to the kingdom of Krishna which is free from birth, old age, disease and death.  Krishna promises that those who come under his shelter has nothing to fear, “Abandon all varieties of religion and just surrender unto Me. I shall deliver you from all sinful reactions. Do not fear.” (Bhagavad Gita 18.66).

After hearing the sublime message of Gita, Arjuna’s bewilderment goes away and he decides to act as per Krishna’s instruction, “Arjuna said: My dear Krishna, O infallible one, my illusion is now gone. I have regained my memory by Your mercy. I am now firm and free from doubt and am prepared to act according to Your instructions.” Bhagavad Gita 18.73.   

Bhagavad Gita is the king of all knowledge

The Gita is the crest jewel of all Vedic literatures. It is called Raja Vidya – the king of all knowledge. Singing the glories of Bhagavad Gita, Krishna says, “This knowledge is the king of education, the most secret of all secrets. It is the purest knowledge, and because it gives direct perception of the self by realization, it is the perfection of religion. It is everlasting, and it is joyfully performed.” Bhagavad Gita 9.2. If all the Vedic literatures are cows then Bhagavad – Gita is the milk of the cow i.e. it is the essence of all the Vedic literatures. Krishna is the milkman, Arjuna is the calf who drinks the milk. The same milk is now available to us in the written form by the great sage, Vyasa – Dev.

This holy book full of transcendental wisdom has impacted the conscience of humankind for ages. The glories of Gita stems from the fact that it transcends all the artificial boundaries of caste, creed, religions, race, nation and gender. Bhagavad – Gita is not just 5000 years old. It has been in existence since the dawn of creation. Krishna informs Arjuna that “I instructed this imperishable science of yoga to the sun-god, Vivasvan, and Vivasvan instructed it to Manu, the father of mankind, and Manu in turn instructed it to Iksvaku” Bhagavad Gita 4.1. Since the knowledge got lost by the influence of time so Krishna again spoke it to Arjuna. Through Arjuna, Krishna is speaking this sublime message to us.

What is the best way to celebrate Gita Jayanti and understand its significance?

Gita wasn’t spoken only for Hindus or Indians. It is for the entire humanity. Great scholars throughout the ages have sought refuge of this pearl of wisdom when confronted with challenges. It has inspired world fame leaders like Gandhi, Churchill, Einstein, Newton and several others. After reading Bhagavad – Gita a Hindu will become a better Hindu, a Muslim a better Muslim, a Christian a better Christian and a Jew a better Jew. Srila Prabhupada’s commentary on Bhagavad Gita is known as “Bhagavad Gita As It Is.”

It is the best selling edition of Bhagavad Gita in the whole world. More than 100 million copies of “Bhagavad Gita As It Is” has been sold. And this book has been translated into more than 80 languages.

Gita Jayanti is celebrated every year in the month of December. The best way to celebrate Gita Jayanti and understand its significance is by reciting the Bhagavad Gita verses. Along with the verses recitation, we should also read the meaning of the verses. The devotees read entire Bhagavad Gita on the day of Gita Jayanti. At Iskcon temples and at different Iskcon centers there is Bhagavad Gita recitation and also Gita Jayanti Yagna. Not just this on the day of Gita Jayanti, people come forward and distribute Bhagavad Gita. They happily give Gita as gift to their friends, family members and also to those who cannot afford it.

Let us pray to Krishna on the auspicious occasion of Gita Jayanti to show us the right path so that we can know Him, love Him and understand the significance of this great book. And let us also pray to Arjuna that like him we also surrender completely to Krishna after reading Bhagavad Gita.

This year Gita Jayanti is being celebrated on 14th December, Tuesday, 2021.

Iskcon Temple attacked in Bangladesh, one Iskcon devotee killed

In a shocking incident, Iskcon temple was attacked in Bangladesh and one devotee was killed. The attack happened in Noakhali, Bangladesh. Temple suffered significant damages.  Pictures posted by Iskcon on its twitter handle shows the extent of damage.  Pictures of Lord Krishna and Srimati Radharani can be seen lying on the floor.

https://twitter.com/iskcon/status/1449029665578831873

“ISKCON temple & devotees were violently attacked today by a mob in Noakhali, Bangladesh. Temple suffered significant damage & the condition of a devotee remains critical. We call on the Govt of Bangladesh to ensure the safety of all Hindus & bring the perpetrators to justice.”

One Iskcon devotee killed in Temple attack in Bangladesh

But the most shocking part of the attack was that one of the young devotees was killed. Regarding the death of Partha Das, Iskcon said on Twitter, “It is with great grief that we share the news of a ISKCON member, Partha Das, who was brutally killed yesterday by a mob of over 200 people. His body was found in a pond next to the temple. We call on the Govt of Bangladesh for immediate action in this regard.”

It is with great grief that we share the news of a ISKCON member, Partha Das, who was brutally killed yesterday by a mob of over 200 people. His body was found in a pond next to the temple.

We call on the Govt of Bangladesh for immediate action in this regard. https://t.co/BLwqGsN36h

— ISKCON (@iskcon) October 16, 2021

Why attack a Iskcon temple in Bangladesh?

The fanatic Muslim mobs have been attacking Hindu temples for last few days because they allege that their holy book was insulted at Durga Puja pandal. Preliminary investigation has shown that none of the Hindus were involved in any kind of desecration of Muslim holy book. But still the violent mobs have been attacking Hindus.

Iskcon temples were not involved in any kind of activity which would have hurt the sentiments of the Muslim majority population then why the Iskcon temples were attacked in Bangladesh? It seems that the allegation of desecration is just an excuse to target the Hindu Community. It is a ploy to fill fear in the hearts of Hindus so that they stop celebrating Hindu festivals. So, Hindus in Bangladesh will have only two options – either to flee Bangladesh or stop being a Hindu.

Noyakhalite hamla চলছে। সবাই একটু সাহায্য করেন নাহ!!!! pic.twitter.com/yYe4u1Lz5G

— Avro Neel Hindu 🕉️🇧🇩 (@avroneel80) October 15, 2021

World remains a mute spectator on the attack on Iskcon in Bangladesh

When George Floyd, 46, was killed in US there was outrage all over the world. #BlackLivesMatter became a global movement. Partha Das was just 25 years old when he was killed. His only crime was that he was a devotee of Krishna. Will there be outrage across the world on his death? Will the prominent global personality speak for him? Will there be a candlelight march for him? Most probably not. The reason is because he is a Hindu. And the kinds of attack happening against the Hindus across the world, it seems that “Hindu Lives Does Not Matter.”

All the devotees of Iskcon and all the Hindu communities in Bangladesh are living in fear. They are fearful because they know that there is hardly anyone who will come in their support.

Iskcon has never engaged in any kind of violence. It is an educational spiritual organization. Iskcon has branches all over the world and it spreads the message of peace and harmony everywhere. It also does lots of social service. And its service is not confined to Hindu community. But Iskcon serves everyone – be it a Muslim, Christians, Buddhists, Sikhs.

But unfortunately the blood thirsty mob attacked Iskcon in Bangladesh and the world community remained and remains a mute spectator.

Why Upadeshamrita or Nectar of Instruction a perfect guide for all devotees?

Upadeshamrita or Nectar of Instruction (NOI) teaches us how to practice devotion to Krishna with right attitude. So, it is considered a perfect guide for all the devotees of Krishna.

This book has many important guidelines which helps one to become a pure devotee of Krishna.

The book has been written by Srila Rupa Goswami who is one of the six prominent Gosvamis of Vrindavan.

These six Goswamis have played a pivotal role in re-establishing the worship of Lord Krishna based on the teachings of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.

The six Gosvamis of Vrindavan are:  

1. Srila Rupa Gosvami
2. Srila Sanatana Gosvami
3. Srila Raghunatha Bhatta Gosvami
4. Srila Raghunatha Dasa Gosvami
5. Srila Jiva Gosvami
6. Srila Gopala Bhatta Gosvami

Srila Rupa Goswami is a direct disciple of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. He is accepted as the leader of all the Goswamis of Vrindavan.  

This book Upadeshamrita which is also known as “Nectar of Instruction (NOI)” in English helps us to understand the mission of Mahaprabhu.

What is the mission of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu?

Vedic literatures clearly say that Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu is the supreme Personality of Godhead. He appeared in this world in the mood of Srimati Radharani having a golden complexion like Srimati Radharani.

He appeared on this planet in the glorious land of Mayapur to teach us how to love Krishna.

The conjugal love of Krishna with Srimati Radharani and other gopis are most exalted. It cannot be understood with any mundane knowledge.  That love is pure, is sublime and is devoid of any tinge of lust.

But unfortunately, people out of ignorance misunderstand that love. So, Mahaprabhu came here to help us understand that transcendental love.

Instruction to write Upadeshamrita

We can understand the mood and mission of Mahaprabhu by reading the books written by the Gosvamis. Mahaprabhu has written only 8 Siksastakam verses. However he trained many of his followers like Rupa Goswami and Sanantana Goswami and instructed them to write literatures. These literatures help common people like you and me to become a sincere devotee of Krishna.

Following the instruction, Srila Rupa Goswami wrote many books such as Upadeśāmṛta, Bhakti-rasāmṛta-sindhu, Vidagdha-mādhava and Lalita-mādhava. Among all these books, Upadeśāmṛta, is considered a must for those who have started practicing devotion to Krishna.

In fact, just by following the guidelines given in this book one can become a perfect devotee of Krishna. And ultimately make his life successful.

The first duty of an aspiring devotee

In the preface of Upadeshamrita, Srila Prabhupada writes,” In all spiritual affairs, one’s first duty is to control his mind and senses.”

We all suffer in this world because of our uncontrolled mind and senses. In fact, the hero of Mahabharata war, Arjuna, without any hesitation tell Krishna that it is easy to control the wind than to control the mind. Bhagavad Gita 6.24.  

Unless our mind and senses are under our control and we are not under its control it is not possible to practice devotion to Krishna.

The book talks in detail about the importance of controlling our mind and senses. It not just talks about the importance but also gives many practical guidelines as how we can accomplish this.

What happens if we do not control our mind and senses?

Many times, we may be practicing devotional life for many years, but we may not see progress in our spiritual life. When I say progress, it means internal progress. Externally we may dress like a devotee. We may even speak eloquent philosophy but that is not the most important thing.

Yes it is true that as devotees we should wear devotional dress as far as possible. And also have good knowledge of Krishna conscious philosophy. However if we are not able to internally purify ourselves then it is not going to help us a lot.

When we practice devotion then automatically name, fame and money start coming. We get attached to it many times. And instead of developing taste in chanting the holy names of Krishna, in reading spiritual books like the books written by Srila Prabhupada, we start devising means by which we can earn more name and fame. 

We should never think that we have become an advanced devotee and start disregarding the guidelines of the scriptures.

Check your heart constantly

We need to constantly check if the vices of our hearts like lust, greed, pride, anger, envy, illusion and false ego are decreasing or not. If not, then it means that we are not sincerely practicing devotional life.

And no one is going to check our heart. It is our responsibility to monitor and examine our internal progress.  If we are not focusing on our internal purification, then it is just a matter of time that we will start feeling frustrated in our spiritual life.

So, we see that many senior devotees even sannyasis start facing difficulties even though they might have been practicing devotional life for several years. 

This is why great personalities write such books so that we can practice devotion to Krishna with proper understanding and not whimsically.

Krishna has given us free will. He has given us the freedom to make choices in our life. If we practice devotional life without following the guidelines of the scriptures, we will continue to suffer in this world.

But if we choose to practice devotion to Krishna as per the guidelines of the scriptures like Nectar of Instruction (NOI), then we will be able to elevate our consciousness which and make our life successful.  

Why it is necessary to come to the stage of goodness?

In this world we are always under the control of the three modes of material nature – goodness, passion, and ignorance.  Most of the time we are either in ignorance or in passion. In fact, we keep on oscillating between these two modes.

If we are in passion and ignorance making progress in spiritual life is very difficult. 

This book helps us to transcend the lower modes and come to the stage of goodness. Stage of goodness is conducive for our devotional life.

Srila Prabhupada writes, “One must promote himself to the platform of goodness, sattva-guṇa, by following the instructions of Rūpa Gosvāmī, and then everything concerning how to make further progress will be revealed.”

The greatest benefit of being in goodness is that at this stage how to make further progress in spiritual life is revealed.

Are we Gosvami or Godasa?

To become a perfect devotee of the Lord it is imperative that we subdue the urges of our mind and senses.

Those who achieve this feat gets the title of gosvami. Go means senses and svami means master. Those who master the art of controlling the mind and senses get the title of Gosvami.

But those who fail to do so get the title of Godasa i.e. slave (dasa) of the senses (go).

We have to become a perfect Gosvami. Then only it is possible to become a perfect devotee of Krishna. Else we will continue to suffer in this world.

Upadeshamrita (Nectar of Instruction) helps to attain the topmost stage of devotional life

There are nine stages in devotional life beginning with sraddha. The eleven verses of Upadeshamrita or Nectar of Instruction (NOI) gradually takes us from the first stage (Sraddha) of devotional life to the topmost stage (Prema). Different verses of the book help us to come to a specific stage of devotional life as follows:

• Sraddha (Text 1 – 3)
• Sadhu – Sangah (Text 4 -6)
• Bhajana – Kriya (Text 7)
• Anartha – Nivrttih (Text 7)
• Nistha (Text 7)
• Rucih (Text 7)
• Asaktih (Text 8)
• Bhavah (Text 9 – 11)
• Prema (Text 9 – 11)

The book teaches us to practice devotion to Krishna with right attitude.  It is a perfect guide for all the devotees. It has the first set of instructions for the neophyte devotees. If we follow these instructions as it is then we will surely attain Krishna.