tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86215280108485255572024-03-14T14:49:14.920-04:00Krishna's MercyKrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.comBlogger4516125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-35546708103131688652021-09-03T21:00:00.000-04:002021-09-03T21:00:00.327-04:00Five Places Requiring The Presence Of An Operator<p><strong>“The Supreme Lord is situated in everyone's heart, O Arjuna, and is directing the wanderings of all living entities, who are seated as on a machine, made of the material energy.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 18.61)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/wufj79/20210903Five_Places_Requiring_The_Presence_Of_An_Operator8cykf.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>ईश्वरः सर्व-भूतानां<br>हृद्-देशे ऽर्जुन तिष्ठति<br>भ्रामयन् सर्व-भूतानि<br>यन्त्रारूढानि मायया <p>īśvaraḥ sarva-bhūtānāṁ<br>hṛd-deśe ‘rjuna tiṣṭhati<br>bhrāmayan sarva-bhūtāni<br>yantrārūḍhāni māyayā <p> <p>His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/his-divine-grace-a-c-bhaktivedanta-swami-prabhupada/">Prabhupada</a> says that this entire world is operating on account of the combination of matter and spirit. You cannot create life in a laboratory. Some aspect of existing life is necessary. Even the experiment requires intelligence represented by the scientists. <p>But is the claim true? Is there anything that operates on its own, without a director? Is autonomous existence possible? <h1>1. The car on the road</h1> <p>There are so many. A variety of models, as well. Sometimes it is just too much and you are stuck in a jam. Based on the typical hours for the average worker, certain windows of time in each day are known to have more cars on the road [rush hour]. <p>Zooming in for a closer view, we see that each car is impressive. A collection of parts integrated to facilitate travel from one place to another, in much shorter a journey than if attempted by foot or by cycle. The modern cars are equipped with several amenities of luxury, such as heating and cooling systems and sound entertainment. <p>However impressive the vehicle, there is always a driver. This is a human being, and hopefully one who is sober and conscious. A brief distraction in attention can lead to disastrous results. The car is travelling at high speeds, which then requires alertness from the operator. <h1>2. The driverless car</h1> <p>A person may argue that the technology is advancing so rapidly that soon the driver requirement will be eliminated. The driverless car can already be found in several places. It was the automobile that first eliminated the need for the horse. For a while the innovation was known as the horseless carriage. <p>Even with the driverless car, there is still an operator in the background. If it eventually functions more like an autonomous robot, it is not like everything came together randomly. There was no big bang explosion that led to the invention. <h1>3. The plane in the sky</h1> <p>Similar to the automobile, the plane in the sky does not move by itself. There has to be a pilot to get it off the ground, monitor the situation in the air, and then safely land when approaching the destination. There is an autopilot feature, but that is not meant to be a permanent replacement for human operation. <h1>4. The production plant</h1> <p>Mass production. The ability to harness the power of machines to produce at a much greater rate than if relying on human effort alone. Yet there is an illusion to the mechanism, as human intervention is certainly necessary. A human being has to start the production, monitor the process for any issues that should arise, and then properly shut down when the work is complete. <h1>5. The scholarly institution</h1> <p>Based on recent world events, it is now established that physical proximity is not a requirement for learning. The teacher can be thousands of miles away and I can be sitting in my bedroom. Yet the interaction qualifies as formal education, as there is a transfer of information. <p>Even in the case where I only learn from published works and recorded video lessons, there is still a human being on the other side. It is not two rocks interacting with one another, transferring information as if it were water emerging from the top of a mountain and eventually descending to form a river. <p>… <p>These are just a few examples chosen out of the vastly complex material nature. The truth of the necessary connection between matter and spirit first descends from the authority figures. We can then prove through our own experience. Even if we haven’t witnessed everything there is in the world, based on the negation of the principle we see that there is yet to be any proof. That is to say, no one has come across an instance where life emerged from matter alone or where a vital function of nature takes place without the presence of spirit. <p>At the local level there is the driver of the car known as the body. That driver is the individual; the car does not identify them. From <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/bhagavad-gita-as-it-is/">Bhagavad-gita</a> we get further clarity. It is the Supersoul who really makes things happen. We are seated on something like a machine. We press the <em>start</em> button, but unless Supersoul agrees the desired outcome will not manifest. <p>The wise take advantage of this philosophical information to make a practical difference in life. The takeaway is that spirit is more important than matter, and as a mature human being I have the opportunity to inquire into the spiritual nature. I do not have to stay with the dull and lifeless matter, hoping to find an exception, where spirit loses its significance. <p>The Supersoul is but a feature, a way to understand and visualize, the origin of both the material and spiritual energies. We often refer to that entity as God, but the Vedic tradition provides much more descriptive and meaningful names. If we make an honest effort to understand that origin, we have made the most of the human birth. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>With car a driver needed,<br>Else without direction proceeded. <p>The plane not empty to fly,<br>Always on operator to rely. <p>Same at individual level there,<br>Combined matter and spirit where. <p><em>Acharya</em> of these truths making aware,<br>So that on needs of soul to care.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-46042621663655115352021-09-02T21:00:00.000-04:002021-09-02T21:00:00.341-04:00Five Ways I Am Tormented By Kali-Yuga<p><strong>“Shri Rama’s holy name is like Narasimhadeva to the Hiranyakashipu-like Kali Yuga. For those who chant the holy name, the Lord offers them all protections and crushes their tormentors, just as He did for Prahlada Maharaja.“ (Dohavali, 26)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/iu754d/20210902Five_Ways_I_Am_Tormented_By_Kali-Yuga8k91r.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>राम नाम नर केसरी कनककसिपु कलिकाल |<br>जापक जन प्रहलाद जिमि पालिहि दलि सुरसाल ||</p> <p>rāma nāma nara kesarī kanakakasipu kalikāla |<br>jāpaka jana prahalāda jimi pālihi dali surasāla || <p> <h1>1. Not allowed to breathe</h1> <p>“Seriously, I never thought things would get this bad. I understand that there is natural diversity due to individuality. Not every person thinks the same way. We are unique; we have our own experiences and develop strategies, ideas, focus, and direction based on the processing of information we receive. <p>“But I thought there were standard truths upon which we could agree. One of them is breathing. We need to breathe. It is vital to good health. If you can’t breathe, you don’t have <em>any</em> health; you will be dead. <p>“Certainly, no one should keep a bacteria collector right next to their intake valve. Yet the entire world is now following this nonsense. They think they are being safe and respectful. I know that they are not. They are endangering lives, including those of children. How can the society as a whole be so fallen as to not realize the importance of breathing freely?” <h1>2. Hypocrisy from experts</h1> <p>“Whenever you share information with someone who hasn’t heard it from their reliable sources, they tend to attack your credibility. They mock you for following conspiracy theory websites. They say that you sound just like the people who watch a certain news channel. <p>“The puzzling thing is that I am not watching any news sources. I am accepting the information firsthand. I watch a noted scientist say something during a news conference. A week later, he says just the opposite. And yet everyone just goes along; they don’t question the hypocrisy. <p>“Has everyone gone mad? If you tell me that a certain behavior is bad for your health and then a week later say just the opposite, why would I ever trust you on anything ever again? You would be the last person I consult for medical advice, and yet no one else seems to be questioning what they hear. It’s like they have buried their heads in the sand.” <h1>3. Useless arguments</h1> <p>“Everyone tells me that television programming is not what it used to be. I rarely watch, but sometimes I can’t help it. For some reason, I naively hope for a different experience, but sadly I am left disappointed every time. <p>“On the news stations you are lucky to find arguments or disagreements about <em>anything</em>. It is entirely one-sided, but in the odd case of genuine journalism, the issues discussed are basically meaningless. I know that both sides are just speaking that way to rise to power. They are equally as culpable in the general decline of the country, but they set up this kind of performance to debate issues. <p>“Then on the sports channels the panelists are discussing the latest statement from a famous athlete. Does it really matter what they say? How is that affecting anyone? To quote a line from a past world leader, no personal attack ever fed a hungry child. We get meaningless banter for viewing content, and it’s disappointing.” <h1>4. Worn out from responsibilities</h1> <p>“How does anyone find time for spiritual life? It is a serious question. I completely understand why someone would visit their house of worship on a Sunday and beg for relief. It is a major struggle out there. You are never certain about anything, and whatever you have you desperately try to maintain. <p>“I just want to sit down in a quiet place, for several hours at a time, with no one bothering me and no pressing responsibilities. I have a feeling I would be so happy, as a result. Sadly, I don’t think that will ever happen. They say that we live in advanced times, but I think people in the past had it much better.” <h1>5. Pretenders as spiritual leaders</h1> <p>“I have developed a new theory. It is slowly evolving, so I am not entirely certain about the conclusion, but hear me out. I think the more a person craves being on television, in front of some sort of camera, the more flaws they have to their character. <p>“I am basing this on personal experience and observation. You see it with spiritual leaders. The more famous they are, the more videos they have published online, the more degraded they seem to be. After all, how can you be humble if you seek so much personal attention? <p>“It would be so nice to find a genuine spiritual leader, to guide us through these difficult times. Sadly, the only qualified ones I find are hesitant to rise in prominence. They lead by example, for sure, and I am thankful to have their association, but I am worried for those who are led astray by the cheaters.” <p>… <p><em>Shastra</em> describes the present time period to be one of increased quarrel and hypocrisy. It is known as Kali Yuga, the dark age. If compared to a table, <em>dharma</em> stands on only one leg; the other three have been knocked aside. <p>Goswami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/goswami-tulsidas/">Tulsidas</a> compares Kali Yuga to Hiranyakashipu, the noted <em>asura</em> villain described in texts like <em>Vishnu Purana</em> and <em>Bhagavata Purana</em>. Hiranyakashipu tormented the saintly class, so much so that they ran away in fear. They would rather not be seen or known for their allegiance to the Divine principles. <p>Tulsidas says that the holy name of Shri Rama is like <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/category/narasimha/">Narasimhadeva</a>. This wonderful <em>avatara</em> appeared in this world to save the innocent Prahlada Maharaja, who was the five-year sold son of Hiranyakashipu. The father harassed that son for so long. Prahlada had done nothing wrong; he simply wanted to worship Vishnu in peace. He was not given proper facility by the father, who remained envious of the Supreme Lord. <p>Narasimha appeared on the scene and essentially removed the fangs from the snake of the Kali-yuga-like <em>asura</em>. In the same way, He can rescue anyone living in the dangerous conditions at present. Repeating those names is an integral aspect of <em>bhakti-yoga</em>, which is the savior of the fallen: <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2009/12/30/hare-krishna/">Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare</a>. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>So much craziness around,<br>Not an honest person found. <p>Expert lying and cheating,<br>Exhaustion by energy depleting. <p>No time for knowledge to read,<br>For rescue a desperate need. <p>But like with <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/category/narasimha/">Narasimha</a> appearing,<br>Holy names the obstacles clearing.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-88636156518964752982021-09-01T21:00:00.000-04:002021-09-01T21:00:00.327-04:00Can You Understand God As A Concept<p><strong>“All of them - as they surrender unto Me - I reward accordingly. Everyone follows My path in all respects, O son of Pritha.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 4.11)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/2akq5z/20210901Can_You_Understand_God_As_A_Concept774b2.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>ये यथा मां प्रपद्यन्ते<br>तांस् तथैव भजाम्य् अहम्<br>मम वर्त्मानुवर्तन्ते<br>मनुष्याः पार्थ सर्वशः <p>ye yathā māṁ prapadyante<br>tāṁs tathaiva bhajāmy aham<br>mama vartmānuvartante<br>manuṣyāḥ pārtha sarvaśaḥ <p> <blockquote> <p>“Everything about the bhakti-yoga presentation, from what I have been exposed to, has been about a person. In fact, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/his-divine-grace-a-c-bhaktivedanta-swami-prabhupada/">Prabhupada</a> intentionally translates the Sanskrit word of b<em>hagavan</em> as ‘Supreme Personality of Godhead.’ <p>“That series of words certainly gets your attention, but I never realized the purpose behind the use until I came upon other commentators who have a different translation. They would refer to God as the ‘Supreme Formless Absolute.’ It is laughable, if you think about it, as they would reference the same scriptural texts in their discussions. In those works there are <em>people</em> doing things. <p>“A formless entity did not speak to Arjuna. It was not a voice from the sky that delivered <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/bhagavad-gita-as-it-is/">Bhagavad-gita</a>. There is a distinct person, an individual. Although He can go by various names, there is no mistaking who He is. Similarly, Shri Rama is a person, as is Vishnu, who speak about the eternal standing of God with respect to the three periods of time, as they relate to Brahma, the creator. <p>अहम् एवासम् एवाग्रे<br>नान्यद् यत् सद्-असत् परम्<br>पश्चाद् अहं यद् एतच् च<br>यो ऽवशिष्येत सो ऽस्म्य् अहम् <p>aham evāsam evāgre<br>nānyad yat sad-asat param<br>paścād ahaṁ yad etac ca<br>yo ‘vaśiṣyeta so ‘smy aham <p><em>“Brahma, it is I, the Personality of Godhead, who was existing before the creation, when there was nothing but Myself. Nor was there the material nature, the cause of this creation. That which you see now is also I, the Personality of Godhead, and after annihilation what remains will also be I, the Personality of Godhead.” (</em><a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/shrimad-bhagavatam/"><em>Shrimad Bhagavatam</em></a><em>, 2.9.33)</em> <p>“The question I have relates to someone who might accept the entire presentation as sectarian. It is not that they disagree with any of the principles presented, but they are hesitant to surrender to another savior, as they see it. What is the option for them, particularly if they are not necessarily fond of someone named Krishna or Rama?”</p></blockquote> <p>The Supreme Lord is so merciful that there are many ways to understand Him. Depending on your degree of inhibition, on the level of realization, you have a certain interaction. For instance, if you are mired in alcoholism, unable to kick the dependency to adult beverages, you can appreciate God through your drink of choice. You can think along the following lines: <blockquote> <p>“This taste is spectacular. It always manages to hit the spot. If there is a God, He must be responsible for this drink. While other people go to church on Sundays, I appreciate Him on a daily basis.”</p></blockquote> <p>If there is an issue with surrendering to a personality, a person can understand God through His all-pervading feature of Brahman. This is the correlating entity referenced by those who view the Almighty as the Supreme Formless Absolute. They are too blinded by the transcendental effulgence emerging from the spiritual world to be able to discern the distinct individual behind the spiritual energy. <p>There are several instances documented in Vedic literature of impersonalists who later became surrendered souls. They were fully realized in the spiritual energy of Brahman, no longer caring for the ups and downs of a temporary world. They were dedicated to the path of righteousness, <em>dharma</em>, but they had yet to appreciate the sweetness of the direct engagement. <blockquote> <p>क्लेशो ऽधिकतरस् तेषाम्<br>अव्यक्तासक्त-चेतसाम्<br>अव्यक्ता हि गतिर् दुःखं<br>देहवद्भिर् अवाप्यते <p>kleśo ‘dhikataras teṣām<br>avyaktāsakta-cetasām<br>avyaktā hi gatir duḥkhaṁ<br>dehavadbhir avāpyate <p>“For those whose minds are attached to the unmanifested, impersonal feature of the Supreme, advancement is very troublesome. To make progress in that discipline is always difficult for those who are embodied.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 12.5)</p></blockquote> <p>If steady at the impersonal level, there is still no harm in hearing <em>Krishna-katha</em>. At the very least, the discourses are a constructive use of time. There are Krishna’s direct instructions, <em>vani</em>, and also marks left by the actions of His transcendental body, <em>vapu</em>. <p>The <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/teachings/how-to-become-a-devotee/">devotees</a>, who are strongly aligned on the personal side, tend to condemn impersonalism. They see it as a misuse of the wonderful opportunity in the human birth to understand spiritual topics. At the same time, the path is still available. No one is shut out completely. Even the atheists are following Krishna, though they may not know. They are worshiping the material energy, which has its accompanying destination. <p>The end-goal for impersonalism is merging into the formless Brahman energy, but those on the personal side get to retain their identity, through and through, into however many successive births they get. They see the all-attractive one wherever they are, and they relish the opportunity to serve Him. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>“Only as concept want to know,<br>Not ready yet in bhakti to go. <p>Is that possible for me,<br>Or jealous God is He?” <p>Everyone following already,<br>From atheist to servant steady. <p>Difference only in destination set,<br>From personal highest benefit to get.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-20900800357901615932021-08-31T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-31T21:00:00.309-04:00Two Strategies For Dealing With Pending Calamity Near Mathura<p><strong>“After this purificatory process, the gopis, headed by mother Yashoda and Rohini, chanted twelve names of Vishnu to give Krishna's body full protection from all evil influences. They washed their hands and feet and sipped water three times, as is the custom before chanting mantra.” (<a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/krishna-book/">Krishna, The Supreme Personality of Godhead</a>, Vol 1, Ch 6)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/mdt6is/20210831Two_Strategies_For_Dealing_With_Pending_Calamity_Near_Mathura7mqur.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>A contrast in strategy. Two groups, but each facing impending doom. One person heard it in a voice from the sky [<em>akasha-vani</em>]. The other group witnessed the events unfolding before their very eyes. One person kept an eye on the clock, as it ticked down ever so slowly, while the other happily went about each day, although they were aware of the uncertainty in the general conditions of the material world. <h1>1. Explicit mitigation</h1> <p>Kamsa heard the voice from the sky while escorting his cousin-sister to the home of her new husband. This was on Devaki’s marriage day, and everything was going well until the sudden warning. Kamsa learned that Devaki’s eighth child would be his doom. <p>It must have been quite a shock to receive such news. There was not much else to the message. It was something like running into a stranger on the street, who makes an important announcement and then vanishes from the scene. <p>Did it even take place? Should the recipient carefully consider the words delivered or should they reject them out of hand, as if delivered from a crazy person? Should they act on the information or let things go, allowing death to arrive in the natural course? <p>Kamsa did not hesitate. He immediately went for the kill. The eighth child would never emerge if Devaki were no longer living. Never mind the sin associated with such a dreaded act; at least the king would remain in his position. <p>The new husband, Vasudeva, rescued Devaki at that moment. Without firing a shot, he found relief through delivery of cogent words of pacification. The king of Mathura relented; he dropped his weapon. Kamsa assumed a position of peace, but the compassion was short-lived. Soon enough, the couple was sent to prison, forced to hand over every new child born to them. <p>Even with the strict oversight, the eighth child managed to appear. Known as <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/lord-krishna/">Shri Krishna</a>, He was secretly whisked away to the nearby town of Gokula in what amounted to a baby-swap. Kamsa later tried to kill what he thought was the eighth child born to Devaki, but it was actually Durga Devi in her potency as <em><a href="https://krishnasmercy.com/2014/12/27/talking-about-the-covering-of-yogamaya/">yogamaya</a></em>. She mocked the king for even attempting something so foolish, in the process revealing that Krishna was elsewhere and very much alive. <p>After dismally failing at something that should have been a piece of cake, Kamsa continued with the strategy of explicit mitigation. He sent one henchman after another to Gokula. The mission was to kill Krishna. One of the people Kamsa sent was a witch named Putana. <h1>2. Praying to Vishnu</h1> <p>The people of Gokula were not aware that Krishna was the very same Vishnu that they were accustomed to worshiping. They did not know that Yashoda’s actual child was swapped, that Krishna came in its place. They just knew that her newborn was the jewel of the town, that He was the center of their life and wellbeing. <p>When Kamsa’s <em>asura</em> friends arrived, the people were amazed at baby Krishna’s ability to survive the attacks. They could not believe it, as how is the essence of innocence expected to defend itself against foes much stronger in the physical sense? <p>When Putana entered, she took the false form of a beautiful nurse. She presumed permission to breastfeed young Krishna, and this was expected to fulfill Kamsa’s mission. Putana had smeared poison on her breast, but when Krishna started to drink, it was the witch who lost her way. <p>As the very life was being sucked out of her, Putana could no longer keep the false guise. She showed her true, hideous form of a witch. Greatly enlarged in size, she finally tumbled to the ground, left lifeless from the ordeal. <p>There were eyewitnesses only to the final scene, where baby Krishna was playing on top of the dead body, looking completely unaffected. The mothers decided to worship Vishnu by repeating various names and asking for protection over the various body parts. <p>… <p>In the post-mortem analysis, Kamsa failed and the people of Gokula succeeded. The cause is that Vishnu’s favor is everything. If the Supreme Lord decrees something to take place, His word is as good as that of a pious <em>brahmana’s</em>. Nothing can be done to reverse destiny. Kamsa failed to recognize this until the very end, when He saw the blow of death in the vision of Krishna’s fist striking his face. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>How dealing with dreaded curse,<br>Appeal to Divine or work to reverse? <p>Kamsa for mitigation choosing,<br>His mind over death’s clock losing. <p>In Gokula people always to pray,<br>Vishnu asked to save the day. <p>Result that king and <em>asuras</em> defeated,<br>Time in destiny’s path proceeded.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-9280598508520157432021-08-30T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-30T21:00:00.328-04:00Vyasa Puja 2021<p><strong>“The root cause of devotional service to Lord Krishna is association with advanced devotees. Even when one's dormant love for Krishna awakens, association with devotees is still most essential.” (Chaitanya Charitamrita, Madhya 22.83)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/aapbff/20210830Vyasa_Puja_2021698oh.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>कृष्ण-भक्ति-जन्म-मूल हय ऽसाधु-सङ्गऽ<br>कृष्ण-प्रेम जन्मे, तेङ्हो पुनः मुख्य अङ्ग<br></p> <p>kṛṣṇa-bhakti-janma-mūla haya 'sādhu-saṅga'<br>kṛṣṇa-prema janme, teṅho punaḥ mukhya aṅga <p> <p><a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2009/02/20/devotional-service/">Devotional service</a> will make a person happy; happier than anything else can. There is no qualification to this claim. No hedge. No exception to the rule. It is a universal truth, for the principle is rooted in <em>dharma</em>, which is the essence of living. <p>There may be a variety of religious traditions practiced and adhered to around the world. Within a single country you might find a handful of popular faiths, with their respective deities, books held in high esteem, and important personalities who roamed the world and preached the truth. <p>Despite the variety, <em>dharma</em> is always one. For this reason, the closest equivalent to the term “<a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2010/04/30/religion-and-spirituality/">religion</a>” in the Vedic tradition is <em>sanatana-dharma</em>. The essential characteristic of the living being, who defines an existence at the local level and also together at the collective within a specific population, is without beginning and without end. <p>There was never a time when the living being took birth. We have the brief history in the current lifetime. This is the known ancestry, but man’s recollection is imperfect. We cannot go back infinitely in the past and know exactly where we were at a specific period of time. The same applies to moving forward, travelling into the future. <p>At every point in the timeline of existence, <em>dharma</em> is the same. My essential characteristic is identical to yours. <em>Dharma</em> cannot be removed, even by force. The tragic event of death caused by infiltration of attacking enemies is merely the destruction of the temporary body. The soul continues to live. <blockquote> <p>न जायते म्रियते वा कदाचिन्<br>नायं भूत्वा भविता वा न भूयः<br>अजो नित्यः शाश्वतो ऽयं पुराणो<br>न हन्यते हन्यमाने शरीरे <p>na jāyate mriyate vā kadācin<br>nāyaṁ bhūtvā bhavitā vā na bhūyaḥ<br>ajo nityaḥ śāśvato ‘yaṁ purāṇo<br>na hanyate hanyamāne śarīre <p>“For the soul there is never birth nor death. Nor, having once been, does he ever cease to be. He is unborn, eternal, ever-existing, undying and primeval. He is not slain when the body is slain.” (Lord Krishna, <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/bhagavad-gita-as-it-is/">Bhagavad-gita</a>, 2.20)</p></blockquote> <p>The <em>dharma</em> of the individual is to serve. The ideal object of service is the Supreme Personality of Godhead. He is soul just like me, but of a different nature. I am individual, conditioned soul, <em>jivatma</em>. He is the Supreme Consciousness, distributed everywhere, though a single entity. He is Supersoul, Paramatma. <p>On the occasion of Vyasa Puja, we honor the appearance in this world of the supreme spiritual guide, the guru. He is the representative of <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/krishna-dwaipayana-vyasa/">Vyasadeva</a>, and he reawakens my dormant consciousness through both instruction and example. I was otherwise wandering in the darkness, jumping from one temporary interest to another. I was suffering the entire time, though unaware through brief but frequent escapades in escape from the senses. <p>We learn that the root cause of devotional service is the association of saintly people. We need someone to show us the way. We cannot discover the miracle of the universe and its creation through our own research effort. The breadth and volume of information is too much to consume, and there is not enough time within a single lifetime to gather all of the data, let alone come to a rational conclusion as to its meaning. <p>His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/his-divine-grace-a-c-bhaktivedanta-swami-prabhupada/">Prabhupada</a> essentially opens the entire universe to me. Without having to move an inch in the physical sense, I can travel to any place I wish. Using the mind, I behold the splendor of the Divine, whose potency cannot be accurately measured by instruments, <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2011/03/02/adhokshaja/">adhokshaja</a>. <p>The guru shows the way in an eternal engagement, where there is renewing optimism, opportunity, and bliss. He explains that the meaning of an existence is to be aligned with <em>dharma</em>, to serve God and to always think of Him. He uses the authority of Bhagavad-gita as support. <blockquote> <p>मन्-मना भव मद्-भक्तो<br>मद्-याजी मां नमस्कुरु<br>माम् एवैष्यसि युक्त्वैवम्<br>आत्मानं मत्-परायणः <p>man-manā bhava mad-bhakto<br>mad-yājī māṁ namaskuru<br>mām evaiṣyasi yuktvaivam<br>ātmānaṁ mat-parāyaṇaḥ <p>“Engage your mind always in thinking of Me, offer obeisances and worship Me. Being completely absorbed in Me, surely you will come to Me.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 9.34)</p></blockquote> <p>There is no way to properly repay the favor except to continue in devotion, to attempt to be a small example to others, in the hopes that they will also find eternal happiness. The goal is not to strive to increase the numbers in the flock, to convert a certain number of people to a new religion, or to boast over the successful propagation of a timeless tradition. <blockquote> <p>क्षिप्रं भवति धर्मात्मा<br>शश्वच्-छान्तिं निगच्छति<br>कौन्तेय प्रतिजानीहि<br>न मे भक्तः प्रणश्यति <p>kṣipraṁ bhavati dharmātmā<br>śaśvac-chāntiṁ nigacchati<br>kaunteya pratijānīhi<br>na me bhaktaḥ praṇaśyati <p>“He quickly becomes righteous and attains lasting peace. O son of Kunti, declare it boldly that My devotee never perishes.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 9.31)</p></blockquote> <p>The focus is on glorifying God and taking pleasure in seeing others happily engaged in the same service, which will do the best for them. The guru may not be universally popular during their time in the preaching world. They may face tremendous difficulties and obstacles along the way, but with Bhagavan as support there is never destruction in the link. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>What better can one give?<br>Than with happiness to live. <p>Where the whole world opened for me,<br>Connection to Divine always to see. <p>The guru my fortunes to save,<br>Pathway to <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/category/liberation/">liberation</a> gave. <p>Honoring the next and this day,<br>Possible never properly to repay.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-163878862766468312021-08-29T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-29T21:00:00.296-04:00Krishna Janmashtami 2021<p><strong>“A nice band played, and the people assembled enjoyed it. All the learned brahmanas were invited, and they chanted Vedic hymns for the good fortune of Krishna. During the chanting of the Vedic hymns and playing of the bands, Krishna was bathed by mother Yashoda. This bathing ceremony is technically called abhisheka, and even today this is observed in all the temples of Vrindavana as Janmashtami Day, or the birthday anniversary of Lord Krishna.” (<a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/krishna-book/">Krishna, The Supreme Personality of Godhead</a>, Vol 1, Ch 7)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/n2dnad/20210829Krishna_Janmashtami_20219onel.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>We hear so much from the <em>acharya</em> about the need to practice <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2009/02/20/devotional-service/">devotional service</a>. We must implement the principles of <em>bhakti-yoga</em> in our daily lives. Follow through on the definition of <em>bhagavata-dharma</em>; make that a way of living instead of an extracurricular activity. Have the devotion become part of you, rather than remain a side discipline with an independent existence. <p>We might be confused as to exactly what that lifestyle looks like. I know pizza from its taste, but I can be sure from the visual. The picture reveals the identity, and with the devotional culture what exactly are the characteristics to look for? <p>We know that pretenders infiltrate organizations and institutions. In the popular style of government today, the worst of the worst rise to the top. The better you are at lying, the more likely you are to get elected. It seems that the more corrupt you are, the more authority you are given. You tell everyone else to live a certain way, all the while exempting yourself from the rules. <p>The occasion of <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/category/janmashtami/">Janmashtami</a> helps to give an idea on the practical aspects of devotional service. It is an annual celebration, commemorating the appearance of <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/lord-krishna/">Shri Krishna</a> in this world. He is the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Bhagavan. He possesses six opulences simultaneously and to the fullest extent: beauty, wealth, strength, fame, wisdom and renunciation. <blockquote> <p>यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य<br>ग्लानिर् भवति भारत<br>अभ्युत्थानम् अधर्मस्य<br>तदात्मानं सृजाम्य् अहम् <p>yadā yadā hi dharmasya<br>glānir bhavati bhārata<br>abhyutthānam adharmasya<br>tadātmānaṁ sṛjāmy aham <p>“Whenever and wherever there is a decline in religious practice, O descendant of Bharata, and a predominant rise of irreligion - at that time I descend Myself.” (Lord Krishna, <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/bhagavad-gita-as-it-is/">Bhagavad-gita</a>, <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/?s=%22Bhagavad-gita%2C+4.7%22&x=0&y=0">4.7</a>)</p></blockquote> <p>With Krishna’s pastimes on earth there is even a birthday celebration. The people of Vrindavana mark the occasion of Janmasthami while Krishna is in their presence. The priestly class gets invited to the home. Bands play devotional music. Everyone dresses themselves nicely. <p>Mother Yashoda has the preferred seat. She is close by. She gets to bathe her child personally, but this does not disqualify any of the other participants from the devotional connection. That is to say, everyone is worshiping in their own way, and they are thus connected in yoga. <p>The same variety applies to the devotional culture outside of the situation of direct, physical contact. A person in the <em>maya</em> consciousness may be preparing food to consume for the nighttime, in the hopes of satisfying their senses. Another person is following the exact same sequence of actions, but their intent is different. They are preparing food for the satisfaction of Krishna. Their sacrifice in time is equivalent with <em>yajna</em>. There is no difference between their work and the recitation of mantras in a formal worship ceremony by an expert priest. <p>Even if I lack mobility, having no chance to work physically in favor of supporting the Almighty and those devoted to Him, there is always the opportunity to at least hear. This is also devotional service. It is the first in the list mentioned by Prahlada Maharaja, in his enumeration of activities described to those who are not familiar. <p><em>Shravanam</em>; just hear about God. Dedicate some time each day. It is not a difficult process, but the benefits are tremendous. On special occasions like Janmashtami take extra time to remember Krishna, the person we are all meant to adore. He is neither a sectarian God nor a concoction of the mind. He is the Supreme Lord in full, with the detail to the abstract, with the curtain removed, so to speak. <p>If there happens to be an intense longing to bathe Krishna in the same way that mother Yashoda did, the Supreme Lord is kind enough to appear in the <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/teachings/deity-worship/">deity</a> form. The same <em>abhisheka</em> ceremony can take place at home, while no one is watching. God’s eyes are everywhere, so He will always notice. He never forgets even a single deed done in His favor. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>Even a single deed to take,<br>Never the memory to forsake. <p>Since everywhere His eyes,<br>Blessed the one who tries. <p>In devotional life taught,<br>By guru who Divinity brought. <p>To this world shining the light,<br>Like on Janmashtami’s night.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-77038706593932322632021-08-28T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-28T21:00:00.382-04:00How Were People Saved Prior To Krishna's Time<p><strong>“Brahma, it is I, the Personality of Godhead, who was existing before the creation, when there was nothing but Myself. Nor was there the material nature, the cause of this creation. That which you see now is also I, the Personality of Godhead, and after annihilation what remains will also be I, the Personality of Godhead.” (<a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/shrimad-bhagavatam/">Shrimad Bhagavatam</a>, 2.9.33)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/tpnfaw/20210828How_Were_People_Saved_Prior_To_Krishna_s_Time6htar.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>अहम् एवासम् एवाग्रे<br>नान्यद् यत् सद्-असत् परम्<br>पश्चाद् अहं यद् एतच् च<br>यो ऽवशिष्येत सो ऽस्म्य् अहम् <p>aham evāsam evāgre<br>nānyad yat sad-asat param<br>paścād ahaṁ yad etac ca<br>yo ‘vaśiṣyeta so ‘smy aham <p> <blockquote> <p>“I hate to bring other traditions into the discussion, but the questions that popped into my head seemed relevant when applied to the Vedic tradition, which commonly goes by the term ‘Hinduism.’ The idea from the outside is that you must accept a certain person as a savior. Whether they are a prophet, a preacher, an empowered teacher, or related to Divinity itself, the entire basis of the particular organization is affiliation with this person. <p>“You could be good or bad in everything else, but you are fine as long as you accept the savior. If you are given over to him, then everything will be alright. I am not here to get into an argument of dogmatic insistence. I fully realize that any person can hold up a book, assign Divine status to a particular person, and then denounce anyone who does not share the same point of view. The outsiders would fall into the ‘sinner’ category, while everyone on the inside would be slated for the best destination in the afterlife. <p>“The contention I have is that everything about that particular <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2010/04/30/religion-and-spirituality/">religion</a> is based on this one individual. The followers identify themselves with a name linked to that person. The leaders never say that God is for everyone or that every person follows the Almighty in some way or another. They say that if you don’t accept their specific savior, you are doomed. <p>“The obvious flaw is that this savior only appeared in this world a relatively few number of years ago. You could say that thousands of years is a long time, but in the grand scheme of things it is like a blip on a radar screen. I get it that everything changed after that, but there was certainly time prior, with a separate set of individuals making up the population of earth. <p>“What about those people? They couldn’t accept the savior precisely because the savior had yet to appear in the world. What were their options for salvation? Was genuine religion not available? If it was, then why wouldn’t the same religion they practiced be applicable today? Do you mean to tell me that the basics of life and death, the afterlife, sin and piety, and so forth are bound to a specific period of time? That doesn’t make sense. <p>“These are the doubts I have. Do you think there is any carryover to the Vedic tradition? For instance, in <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/bhagavad-gita-as-it-is/">Bhagavad-gita</a> we hear the call to surrender, that every kind of <em>dharma</em> will be accounted for if you accept the shelter of <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/lord-krishna/">Shri Krishna</a>. There was a time in this world prior to Krishna, as well. What was the solution for people who lived prior to Krishna’s advent?”</p></blockquote> <p>Shri Krishna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead, non-different from the original. Although there is only one God, He manifests differently depending on the time and circumstance. How He manifests has no bearing on His identity. <p>For instance, if we are Markandeya Rishi and see the Supreme Lord as a small child resting on a banyan leaf while the entire cosmic manifestation is being annihilated, it does not mean that God is limited to the diminutive stature. <p>Similarly, while Arjuna sees God in the <em>virata-rupa</em>, the universal form, it does not mean that God is too large to fit into a temple or into my heart. He is everywhere and anywhere, and He is never affected by the manner in which others connect to Him. <p>In a verse from Shrimad Bhagavatam, the same Supreme Lord instructs Brahma that God is never absent from a situation. Vishnu exists prior to Brahma’s emergence from the stem of the lotus flower tied to Vishnu’s navel, <em>padmanabha</em>. Vishnu exists while Brahma undertakes the process of creation, and Vishnu will be there after everything is annihilated. <p>Although Krishna appears at a certain time and place and delivers words of instruction, that wisdom is timeless. For instance, He explains to Arjuna that the same Bhagavad-gita was spoken at the beginning of the creation, to the sun-god. <blockquote> <p>श्री-भगवान् उवाच<br>इमं विवस्वते योगं<br>प्रोक्तवान् अहम् अव्ययम्<br>विवस्वान् मनवे प्राह<br>मनुर् इक्ष्वाकवे ’ब्रवीत् <p>śrī-bhagavān uvāca<br>imaṁ vivasvate yogaṁ<br>proktavān aham avyayam<br>vivasvān manave prāha<br>manur ikṣvākave ’bravīt <p>“The Blessed Lord said: 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 Ikshvaku.” (Bhagavad-gita, 4.1)</p></blockquote> <p>There is a reason that the best equivalent term for religion in the Vedic tradition is <em>sanatana-dharma</em>. Placing the two words together is significant. <em>Dharma</em> is the essence of living. <em>Dharma</em> can never be removed from the individual. Whether they are a plant, a tree, a flower, a lion, a human being, or a demigod, <em>dharma</em> remains the same. <p>That <em>dharma</em> is timeless; hence <em>sanatana</em>. There is no beginning and no end to the <em>dharma</em> of the individual, and so at any period of time there is the opportunity for salvation. The people worship Vishnu prior to His advent as Krishna, and in another period of time they perhaps direct their worship to another <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2010/02/19/avatara/">avatara</a>. <p>The end result is the same, and so no one is ever shut out from genuine religion. There may be a rise or decline in adherence to <em>dharma</em> over the course of time, which may require empowered representatives to reignite the tradition of allegiance to righteous principles, but connection to God the person is never tied to external factors like language, place of birth, occupation, or stature within society. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>“To accept the savior must,<br>In our future promise trust.” <p>But what about prior years?<br>Before of savior people to hear. <p>Limited applicability then?<br>Where religion on time to depend.</p> <p>With Vedas on eternal truth landing,<br>Where Vishnu always as supreme standing.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-52028127141168913692021-08-27T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-27T21:00:00.601-04:00What If I Am Embarrassed By The Circumstances Of My Birth<p><strong>“By remembering Shri Rama’s holy name, even those who are born into a low caste become worthy of fame, just as the wild trees that line the roads in the heavenly realm are famous throughout the three worlds.” (Dohavali, 16)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/rndpcg/20210827What_If_I_Am_Embarrassed_By_The_Circumstances_Of_My_Birth6vccy.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>राम नाम सुमिरत सुजस भाजन भए कुजाति |<br>कुतरूक सुरपुर राजमग लहत भुवन बिख्याति |</p> <p>rāma nāma sumirata sujasa bhājana bhae kujāti |<br>kutarūka surapura rājamaga lahata bhuvana bikhyāti | <p> <blockquote> <p>“Listen, people make a big deal out of the caste system practiced in India, and how it is racist, bigoted, discriminatory, causes oppression, and the like, but the truth is that the same kind of class designations exist throughout the world, and since the beginning of time. <p>“It was one of the main reasons people fled to what was called the New World in the 17<sup>th</sup> century. In America, everyone was in a similar status of refugee. It didn’t really matter from where you came, who your parents were, how much land they owned back home, and the like. <p>“If you were still in England, France and other countries in Europe, class meant <em>everything</em>. If you were a printer by trade, you could never dream of meeting with the king and queen. Yet a famous printer from America did just that. He rose to the heights of aristocracy, never once falling back on his name or family reputation to get him places. <p>“You would have to admit that there is some validity to the scrutiny, or lack thereof depending on the case. For instance, if someone is born into a family of lawyers, it is understandable that others would take notice. There is some distinction based on the line of work, on the reputation established through previous generations. <p>“On the other side, if someone is born into a family lacking respect based on occupation, there is some embarrassment. What if I should fall into that category? What if I am ashamed of how my ancestors behaved? What if they were unclean in their habits, uncontrolled with the senses, and lacked a moral foundation upon which to stand? Does that not hurt my chances at spiritual life?”</p></blockquote> <p>His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/his-divine-grace-a-c-bhaktivedanta-swami-prabhupada/">Prabhupada</a> explains that no matter the consequence of a particular action in material life, the end-result is always misery. If I am so pious that I ascend to the heavenly realm after death, I eventually have to leave. There is a fixed duration of residency commensurate with pious credits. Once the time runs out, you have to find a way to build up the credits again. <blockquote> <p>ते तं भुक्त्वा स्वर्ग-लोकं विशालं<br>क्षीणे पुण्ये मर्त्य-लोकं विशन्ति<br>एवं त्रयी-धर्मम् अनुप्रपन्ना<br>गतागतं काम-कामा लभन्ते <p>te taṁ bhuktvā svarga-lokaṁ viśālaṁ<br>kṣīṇe puṇye martya-lokaṁ viśanti<br>evaṁ trayī-dharmam anuprapannā<br>gatāgataṁ kāma-kāmā labhante <p>“When they have thus enjoyed heavenly sense pleasure, they return to this mortal planet again. Thus, through the Vedic principles, they achieve only flickering happiness.” (Lord Krishna, <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/bhagavad-gita-as-it-is/">Bhagavad-gita</a>, 9.21)</p></blockquote> <p>I may feel a temporary sensation from a successful venture, but since I am still subject to the threefold miseries of life, there is only suffering in my future. This naturally levels the playing field. The person born of a respectable family is suffering just as much as the one who is embarrassed by their family history. <p>If there is an inferiority complex and a fear that somehow there will be prohibitions on practicing spiritual life based on discrimination, one should remember that the solution to every problem is connecting with the Supreme Personality of Godhead. No person is restricted from genuine <em>yoga</em>, as the basis of the connection is the consciousness. <p>Goswami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/goswami-tulsidas/">Tulsidas</a> explains that when a person chants the holy name of the Lord, which is a form of <em>yoga</em>, they become famous throughout the world. It does not matter if they are born into a low family, <em>kujati</em>. <p>The saint makes the comparison to the trees lining the streets in the heavenly realm. Because of the nature of the place, even the small, insignificant trees are worthy of honor and respect. They are as much desire-trees as the ones standing tall. <p>Therefore, even if a person does not receive sufficient acknowledgment from the rest of society, if they are known as a devotee of the Supreme Lord there is nothing to fear. Just as His land, His pastimes, and His names are sacred, so are the people dedicated to Him in thought, word and deed. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>Dedicated in thought, word and deed,<br>Worthy of fame and honor indeed. <p>Even if from low family coming,<br>High in status becoming. <p>Since associated with Rama so,<br>His shelter only to know. <p>Otherwise everyone suffering the same,<br>But equally saved by holy name.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-23975391379901571972021-08-26T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-26T21:00:00.337-04:00Why Does Life Feel Like Trying To Move A Mountain<p><strong>“Some were excited, but the bow was immovable, like the word of a saint. Looking at the bow, their strength and intelligence were forcefully stolen, like with King Nahusha.” (Janaki Mangala, Chand 11.2)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/vhc8y7/20210826Why_Does_Life_Feel_Like_Trying_To_Move_A_Mountain7e2k1.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>एक करहिं दाप न चाप सज्जन बचन जिमि टारें टरै |<br>नृप नहुष ज्य्ॐ सब कें बिलोकत बुद्धि बल बरबस हरै ||</p> <p>eka karahiṃ dāpa na cāpa sajjana bacana jimi ṭāreṃ ṭarai |<br>nṛpa nahuṣa jyoṃ saba keṃ bilokata buddhi bala barabasa harai ||</p> <p><br></p> <blockquote> <p>“There is the saying about being stuck between a rock and a hard place. I have heard it many times, understood the general meaning based on the context in which it was used, but never gave much consideration to the actual terms. <p>“You have two options. One is to associate with a rock. Since it is cold and difficult to move, you might not prefer that option. The other choice is the hard place. Basically, not much different from the rock. These are the <em>only</em> two options, by the way. You are essentially stuck; no preferred way to move forward. <p>“I often feel that way about life. We are stuck between choices that are not optimal. Go this way and something bad will happen. Choose the other direction and it will be the same outcome. It is almost like we are powerless in this world. No matter how much we try, unless higher forces cooperate, we don’t stand a chance.”</p></blockquote> <p>The story of the bow-contest in the kingdom of Videha highlights a similar issue. King Janaka made the rules. It was his contest, as it was to determine the suitable husband for his beloved daughter, Sita Devi. A heavy bow with its origins in Lord Shiva had been passed down through the family. The lifter of the bow would win the contest. <p>To say that this bow was heavy is an understatement. To say that the participants in the contest were attempting something equivalent to moving a mountain would also not do justice to the weight of the object in question. This bow was <em>really</em> heavy, and Janaka knew that only the suitable husband for his daughter would be able to lift it. This was the bride-price that he had established. <p>Goswami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/goswami-tulsidas/">Tulsidas</a> makes a wonderful comparison in describing the failure of the many kings assembled that day. He says that the bow was as immovable as the word of a <em>brahmana</em>, who is a qualified saintly person. The kings were like Nahusha, and it was as if the bow stole their strength. <blockquote> <p>तावत् त्रिणाकं नहुषः शशास<br>विद्या-तपो-योग-बलानुभावः<br>स सम्पद्-ऐश्वर्य-मदान्ध-बुद्धिर्<br>नीतस् तिरश्चां गतिम् इन्द्र-पत्न्या</p> <p>tāvat triṇākaṁ nahuṣaḥ śaśāsa<br>vidyā-tapo-yoga-balānubhāvaḥ<br>sa sampad-aiśvarya-madāndha-buddhir<br>nītas tiraścāṁ gatim indra-patnyā <p>“As long as King Indra lived in the water, wrapped in the stem of the lotus, Nahusha was equipped with the ability to rule the heavenly kingdom, due to his knowledge, austerity and mystic power. Nahusha, however, blinded and maddened by power and opulence, made undesirable proposals to Indra's wife with a desire to enjoy her. Thus Nahusha was cursed by a brahmana and later became a snake.” (<a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/shrimad-bhagavatam/">Shrimad Bhagavatam</a>, 6.13.16)</p></blockquote> <p>It is said that Nahusha was the king of heaven for a time, full of strength. Because he made a sinful proposal to Indra’s wife, he was cursed by a <em>brahmana</em>. He subsequently lost everything. <p>The sinful proposal here was to try to marry Janaka’s daughter, who was an incarnation of the goddess of fortune. Lakshmi Devi can only live intimately with her husband for eternity, the Supreme Lord. She serves Him in all righteousness, <em>dharma</em>, and this duty happens to align with her preference, borne of love. <p>I can be the strongest person in the world, but if I choose the unrighteous path, I could lose everything. Due to the curse of a <em>brahmana</em>, that descent could take place instantly. One second I have control over the entire world, and the next I am penniless and lacking strength. <p>The genuine <em>brahmana</em> class aligns with the interests of the Supreme Lord, and so their words in favor of <em>dharma</em> and service to the Almighty are just as immovable. If they fervently recommend <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/teachings/chanting/">chanting</a> the holy names in the age of Kali, based on the strength of their recommendation I can be sure that such a connection will bring me complete success in life: <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2009/12/30/hare-krishna/">Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare</a>. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>Word of <em>brahmana</em> taking,<br>For successful life making. <p>That chanting to do for me,<br>The best destination to see. <p>Where Supreme Lord in sound,<br>True transcendence found. <p>Such that difficulty no more,<br>Aligned with <em>dharma</em> for sure.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-88686702663247059512021-08-25T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-25T21:00:01.434-04:00Three Questions About Krishna's Birth<p><strong>“’My dear brother-in-law, please consider that you have no danger from your sister. You are awaiting some danger because you have heard a prophetic voice in the sky. But the danger is to come from the sons of your sister, who are not present now. And who knows? There may or may not be sons in the future. Considering all this, you are safe for the present. Nor is there cause of fear from your sister. If there are any sons born of her, I promise that I shall present all of them to you for necessary action.’” (Vasudeva speaking to Kamsa, <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/krishna-book/">Krishna, The Supreme Personality of Godhead</a>, Vol 1, Ch 1)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/5dgy83/20210825Three_Questions_About_Krishna_s_Birth67hlu.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>Whenever and wherever there is a decline in religious practice, <em>dharma</em>, and a subsequent rise in irreligion, <em>adharma</em>, the Supreme Personality of Godhead descends as Himself to handle the situation. It stands to reason that extraordinary circumstances would be necessary; otherwise every minute of every day would feature a new <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2010/02/19/avatara/">avatara</a> arriving from the spiritual world. <p>The Supreme Lord is already everywhere. He accomplishes omnipresence through the feature known as Paramatma. This is the all-pervading witness, who is something like a neutral bystander. Residing inside of my heart, He takes note of everything that I do. In this role He does not influence decisions, unless specifically requested to do so. <p>The time of Kamsa presiding over the town of Mathura triggered the descent of the Supreme Lord in full. The Sanskrit is <em>krishnas tu bhagavan svayam</em>. There are many incarnations of the Almighty, but Krishna is considered God as Himself. <p>Upon reading of the external events that preceded Krishna’s arrival, there may be some question as to the behavior of the participants. If every action was not performed in the exact, perfect sequence, perhaps the delight of mother Devaki may never have arrived. <h1>1. Why did Vasudeva and Devaki continue to have children?</h1> <p>“The story begins with Vasudeva returning home with his new bride. Since Kamsa was the cousin-brother to the bride, per custom he accompanied the newlyweds. En route to the destination, a voice from the sky suddenly shocked the world. It announced that Devaki’s eighth child would be Kamsa’s doom. <p>“Kamsa was ready to kill Devaki on the spot, so attached to the temporary body was he. Vasudeva stepped in and ameliorated the disturbance felt by the king of Mathura. Vasudeva promised to hand over every child born to the couple. This way Kamsa would have no reason to fear. <p>“I like how the saintly Vasudeva was able to think on his feet, to quickly find a solution when time was running out. The larger question is why would the couple continue to have children. If they knew that Kamsa would kill the newborns, in the graphic manner that he was to display, why take the risk? Pregnancy does not carry a guarantee; the ordeal can be quite stressful for the mother. Why not avoid the issue altogether?” <h1>2. What made Kamsa worthy of punishment?</h1> <p>“From the behavior to follow, including the impulse to kill his own sister, we understand that Kamsa was a bad character. He was not a nice guy, even though Narada Muni had no problem visiting and speaking with him. I guess saintly people are neutral in that regard; they are above the dichotomies of good and evil in a material existence. <p>“The story begins with the voice from the sky, though. It was announcing destiny. Why would Devaki’s son be Kamsa’s death? What had the leader done up to that point to deserve punishment? There must be some history as a precursor.” <h1>3. Why did the voice speak to Kamsa?</h1> <p>“Couldn’t the newlyweds live in peace? Why force them to struggle? If the voice from the sky just kept quiet, there would not have been an issue. <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/lord-krishna/">Shri Krishna</a> still could have emerged from the mother’s womb and set foot in the path of destruction for the great <em>asura</em>. From what transpired, the <em>akasha-vani</em> only made things worse.” <p>… <p>Narada Muni, the great travelling saint representing the Vedic tradition, is known to meddle in affairs in order to further the business of the <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/?s=%22demigod+worship%22&x=0&y=0">demigods</a>. The <em>devas</em>, who reside in the heavenly realm, were the ones who initially approached <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2010/06/12/vishnu-tattva/">Lord Vishnu</a>, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, to descend to earth and relieve the burden of the influential and steadily rising <em>asura</em> class. <p>Narada Muni convinced Kamsa to be more on alert than he was. After their discussion, Kamsa decided to imprison Vasudeva and Devaki. Therefore, at that point there was no advantage to not having children. They would stay in prison forever, as long as Kamsa continued to remain afraid. At least with further children appearing, there was the chance that one of them might indeed be Vishnu, who would rescue the parents. <p>Narada informed Kamsa that in a previous life he was the demon named Kalanemi. Vishnu had killed Kalanemi, and what often occurs is that the rival to the Supreme Lord has to take multiple births to be killed multiple times, prior to achieving <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/category/liberation/">liberation</a>. Therefore, it was in Kamsa’s destiny to be killed directly by the hand of God. <p>The voice from the sky ignited the reaction for the proper chain of events. If Kamsa never knew, then Devaki would never be in prison. If she wasn’t in distress at the time of birth, Krishna would never have been transferred to the nearby town of Gokula. This was done in secret, in the middle of the night by the father, Vasudeva. <p>These are some of the intricacies to the elaborate production put on by the greatest artistic mind in the universe. The ups and downs, the highs and lows, and the thrill-packed moments are embellishments to the wonderful drama that is associated with the advent of the Supreme Lord, whose appearance is still remembered, honored and glorified to this day. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>Accompanying sister sent,<br>Back on that chariot went. <p>But arriving voice from the sky,<br>With message of importance high. <p>That Devaki’s eighth child to kill,<br>Terror in Kamsa’s heart to fill. <p>But destiny unfolding proper way,<br>Meant for Krishna in Gokula to stay.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-63000262573162309322021-08-24T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-24T21:00:00.336-04:00Five Questions Ravana Probably Wouldn't Like To Be Asked<p><strong>“Smelling the fragrance of Rama and Lakshmana, like a dog smelling a tiger, certainly you will not be able to stand.” (Sita Devi speaking to Ravana, Valmiki Ramayana, Sundara Kand, 21.31-32)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/vad23f/20210824Five_Questions_Ravana_Probably_Wouldn_t_Like_To_Be_Askedaiwhm.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>न हि गन्धमुपाघ्राय रामलक्ष्मणयोस्त्वया || <br>शक्यं संदर्शने स्थातुं शुना शार्दूलयोरिव | <p>na hi gandhamupāghrāya rāmalakṣmaṇayostvayā || <br>śakyaṃ saṃdarśane sthātuṃ śunā śārdūlayoriva | <p>There is the saying that truth does not mind being questioned, while a lie does not like to be challenged. The reality manifests in all aspects of life, but particularly in corrupt institutions. The leader might have cheated their way to the top, stealing the latest election out in the open. <p>If anyone should challenge their legitimacy, that person will be removed from the institution. In corporate circles, their accounts are cancelled. Without any prior notice, without providing a valid reason, those protecting the cheater will do everything possible to chill and silence the dissenters. <p>The cheaters fill the void left by the absence of valid criticism by constantly boasting about themselves. It is like listening to state-run media; everything is one-sided. Pile on against the opposition, labeling their claims conspiracy theories and saying that every accusation has already been debunked. <blockquote> <p>“There is no evidence for this or that. The fact-checkers say otherwise. No credible source will back up their claims.”</p></blockquote> <p>If you do happen to question the cheater directly, they are not too happy about it. In this light, we can study the historical figure of Ravana. The ten-headed leader of Lanka was indeed proud of himself, but he was not too thrilled when a certain princess called him out on his cowardice, depravity, and lack of moral character. There are certain things Ravana certainly would not like to be reminded of. <h1>1. Didn’t you steal that plane from your brother?</h1> <p>“That sure is a nice airplane that you fly around in. It facilitates travel to different destinations across the three worlds. No wonder people are afraid of you, and that you are known as the one with the terrifying scream. Credit to Mahadeva for giving you that name, as it matches your character. <p>“But one thing I wanted to ask. Didn’t you get that plane from your brother? Didn’t you basically steal it from him? Why would you do that? If you are this hugely powerful person that everyone is supposed to respect, shouldn’t you be above harassing someone like Kuvera? Couldn’t you have someone build a similar plane and this way the title to the vehicle would be clean?” <h1>2. Didn’t Vali beat you up?</h1> <p>“You are telling Sita Devi how powerful you are, that she should be honored to be courted by such a king. You are the best catch in the whole world. Why, not even Indra, the king of heaven, could compare to you. Your own son got his name from having defeated Indra. <p>“But hey, didn’t you get taught a huge lesson by Vali, the Vanara from Kishkindha? You even snuck up on him while he was seated in prayer. It should have been easy. Sure, attacking an enemy from behind is against the rules, but since when do you care about that? <p>“Anyway, I believe he got ahold of you and then dragged you around for a while. Weren’t your heads stuck in his armpit? I’m guessing that didn’t smell too nice. Remind me again how you are the strongest king in the world.” <h1>3. Didn’t you once get aggressive with a woman?</h1> <p>“Couldn’t find someone your own size? You’re so proud of defeating other kings, but I heard that you once forced yourself on a woman. Because of what resulted, you got cursed for the future. If you ever try something like that again, you will die instantly. What kind of person would lay a hand on a woman who was innocent and blameless? <h1>4. Didn’t you create a ruse in the forest of Dandaka?</h1> <p>“Sita Devi compared you to a dog. That if you were ever in plain sight of her husband, Shri Rama, you would run away instantly. She compared Him to a tiger. That’s a pretty stinging insult, but what can you say in response? <p>“Didn’t you have to create a ruse to take Sita away? You are so proud of your strength, but you had to use deception in order to take a princess. You couldn’t fight Rama directly because you would have been defeated instantly and soundly.” <h1>5. Don’t you eat people like it’s your job?</h1> <p>“You want others to be impressed by the kingdom of Lanka. It has gold everywhere. The buildings and palaces are beautiful. No one will argue that, but what about the character of the people? They are Rakshasas, which are vile, man-eating ogres. How can you be proud of anything when you are degraded to the point that you will eat human beings? Why would any civilized person want anything to do with you?” <p>… <p>On the other side, the <em>acharya</em> is willing to take meaningful and genuine inquiries. There is nothing to hide, and there is an honest explanation for every principle, recommendation, strategy and guidance provided by <em>shastra</em>. Truth does not mind being questioned, and Sita’s husband is Truth personified. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>Not like Ravana living a lie,<br>Where on deception to rely. <p>Who from others stealing,<br>And paranoia over future fearing.</p> <p>Worship Shri Rama ideal,<br>For higher experience to feel.</p> <p>Who Absolute Truth and more,<br>By Sita and Lakshmana adored.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-15677685055893705352021-08-23T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-23T21:00:00.404-04:00Two Ways The Education System Fails Me<p><strong>“Clear understanding of material nature, the Supersoul, the individual soul and their interrelation makes one eligible to become liberated and turn to the spiritual atmosphere without being forced to return to this material nature. This is the result of knowledge. The purpose of knowledge is to understand distinctly that the living entity has by chance fallen into this material existence. By his personal endeavor in association with authorities, saintly persons and a spiritual master, he has to understand his position and then revert to spiritual consciousness or Krishna consciousness by understanding Bhagavad-gita as it is explained by the Personality of Godhead.” (Shrila Prabhupada, Bhagavad-gita, 13.24 Purport)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/c7tj9p/20210823Two_Ways_The_Education_System_Fails_Me9uojh.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>As part of the mission to enlighten the public, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/his-divine-grace-a-c-bhaktivedanta-swami-prabhupada/">Prabhupada</a> gives a clear conception of God. This is not based on mental speculation or hallucination induced by chemicals. It is an authoritative picture, as passed down through the ages. <p>The Supreme Lord is so kind that He does not limit Himself to a single manifestation, but this does not mean that He is anything and everything. The Vaishnava prefers to worship God in the personal form, such as with Vishnu, Krishna or Rama. <p>There is a desperate need for such worship, and sadly the information is lacking within a standard education in the modern day. The resultant outcome is generally along one of two paths. <h1>1. Not to think of God</h1> <p>“Do you remember your years in school? I am talking about ages six to eighteen, roughly. The stages go by different names around the world, but let’s agree that this is the period of primary education. You are learning to read and write. You become proficient at arithmetic. You have a basic idea of science and perhaps some history specific to the country of origin. <p>“While I don’t remember everything from that period of my life, I know for certain that we never discussed God. I think it is illegal to do so in the public education system. There wasn’t really an alternative explanation. We studied the theory of evolution, for sure, but I never took that to be a threat to the religious way of life. Perhaps I wasn’t paying much attention, but the focus was always on the future. <p>“You had to think about what to be when you grew up. You have to find a way to maintain yourself. If you get good grades in school, you can gain admission into a top university, which then sets you on the proper career track. That seemed to be the primary and only focus.” <h1>2. Everyone can think of God in their own way</h1> <p>“No one <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2010/04/30/religion-and-spirituality/">religion</a> is superior to another. Every person is worshiping in their own way. If you have a conception of God, stay with it. There is no harm if you don’t believe in God. We are not forcing anything on anyone. The law prohibits the teaching of religion in the public domain, and for good reason. We don’t want people learning a way of life that is incompatible with their belief system.” <p>… <p>Whatever the excuse, there should not be an issue with a person presenting a clear understanding of the Almighty for others to study, contemplate, and even approach. Just because my neighbor does not have an idea on the proper direction of spiritual life does not mean those who do should stay silent. <p>Without being instructed about something new, how will a person ever learn? How will they learn to decipher right from wrong without someone teaching it to them? How will they even have a chance at happiness if they aren’t provided the different options with respect to worship? <blockquote> <p>ये यथा मां प्रपद्यन्ते<br>तांस् तथैव भजाम्य् अहम्<br>मम वर्त्मानुवर्तन्ते<br>मनुष्याः पार्थ सर्वशः <p>ye yathā māṁ prapadyante<br>tāṁs tathaiva bhajāmy aham<br>mama vartmānuvartante<br>manuṣyāḥ pārtha sarvaśaḥ <p>“All of them – as they surrender unto Me – I reward accordingly. Everyone follows My path in all respects, O son of Pritha.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 4.11)</p></blockquote> <p><a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/lord-krishna/">Shri Krishna</a> explains that everyone follows Him in all respects. Whether someone acknowledges His standing as the Supreme Personality of Godhead makes no difference. Whether they believe in God or not, they are following Him all the same. <p>The purpose of removing the veil of mystery is to facilitate a direct approach. Create a relationship with the one who has had my interests in mind since before I can remember. Forge a bond that cannot be broken. Every other relationship severs eventually, due to the influence of time. God is beyond time, and so I can stay with Him eternally, provided I get to know Him. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>Education system lacking,<br>System of connection attacking. <p>Where otherwise natural to be,<br>God inside of you and me. <p>Following all in every respect,<br>Just different result to expect. <p>Based on level of understanding so,<br>Best when directly to go.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-76355616082062066532021-08-22T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-22T21:00:00.335-04:00The Two Sides Of The Swinging Pendulum Of Material Existence<p><strong>“One who is thus transcendentally situated at once realizes the Supreme Brahman. He never laments nor desires to have anything; he is equally disposed to every living entity. In that state he attains pure devotional service unto Me.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 18.54)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/p9qbv4/20210822The_Two_Sides_Of_The_Swinging_Pendulum_Of_Material_Existence9zz1f.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>ब्रह्म-भूतः प्रसन्नात्मा<br>न शोचति न काङ्क्षति<br>समः सर्वेषु भूतेषु<br>मद्-भक्तिं लभते पराम् <p>brahma-bhūtaḥ prasannātmā<br>na śocati na kāṅkṣati<br>samaḥ sarveṣu bhūteṣu<br>mad-bhaktiṁ labhate parām <p>It is more than just dogmatic insistence. The <em>acharyas</em> want us to worship the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Bhagavan, because it will be the best thing for us. Both long-term interest [<em>paramartha</em>] and short-term gain [<em>svartha</em>] will be satisfied. <blockquote> <p>स्वारथ परमारथ सकल सुलभ एक ही ओर |<br>द्वार दूसरे दीनता उचित न तुलसी तोर || <p>svāratha paramāratha sakala sulabha eka hī ora |<br>dvāra dūsare dīnatā ucita na tulasī tora || <p>“When your personal and supreme interests can be easily obtained from one place, it is not sensible for you in weakness to beg at the doors of others, O Tulsi.” (Dohavali, 54)</p></blockquote> <p>Goswami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/goswami-tulsidas/">Tulsidas</a> confirms the same, as does Prahlada Maharaja. Approach the Almighty directly. Bypass the impersonal Brahman and even the localized aspect of the Absolute Truth known as Paramatma. <p>Otherwise, you will be left in a material existence. This is more than a theoretical concept to be discussed only amongst elevated scholars. The existence has two primary features, and since they are opposed to one another, the experience is something like swinging on a pendulum. <h1>1. Lamenting after loss</h1> <p>“The pain is unbearable. I cannot believe how difficult it is to move past this episode. Everyone gives the same advice, to move on, but that is easier said than done. This defeat attacks at my very core. I find it difficult to wake up in the morning. I don’t see the point to living, to moving forward. <p>“This is due to the loss of the association of a potential paramour. I cannot believe they did not feel the same way about me. It is unrequited love at its essence. They say that it is better to have loved and lost than to have never loved at all. I beg to disagree. I am strongly on the other side. This is the most hellish experience ever.” <h1>2. Hankering after gain</h1> <p>“I want this so bad. I can almost taste it. You could call the ordeal the magnificent obsession. Teachers guide us towards our passions in life. They recommend finding one and then indulging it. That will supposedly make us happy in adult life. <p>“Well, I am right in the middle of the storm. I want this one thing so bad that I can’t think of anything else. I will do whatever it takes. My every waking moment is dedicated to this pursuit. I will leave no stone unturned.” <p>… <p>His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/his-divine-grace-a-c-bhaktivedanta-swami-prabhupada/">Prabhupada</a> explains that the entire material existence is essentially toggling between these two extremes. Typically, we hanker first. We want something so desperately. If we are lucky enough to get it, we hanker for more. It is like pouring gasoline on the fire; the less intelligent will somehow think this is the way to extinguish the blaze. <blockquote> <p>आवृतं ज्ञानम् एतेन<br>ज्ञानिनो नित्य-वैरिणा<br>काम-रूपेण कौन्तेय<br>दुष्पूरेणानलेन च <p>āvṛtaṁ jñānam etena<br>jñānino nitya-vairiṇā<br>kāma-rūpeṇa kaunteya<br>duṣpūreṇānalena ca <p>“Thus, a man's pure consciousness is covered by his eternal enemy in the form of lust, which is never satisfied and which burns like fire.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 3.39)</p></blockquote> <p>At some point the lust will not be satisfied. That for which I hanker will be taken away from me. Then comes the pain of loss. You could be one point away from winning the match. You could have altered the diet slightly to enable your elderly family member to live another year or two. You could have spent some more time appreciating that important person in your life. <p>While the ultimate goal of spiritual life is connection with the Divine, one of the instant benefits is peacefulness. This is achieved while at the Brahman-realization level. That is to say I don’t necessarily have to meet God face-to-face in order to be in a state of equanimity. <p>In fact, <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/lord-krishna/">Shri Krishna</a> explains that after rising above hankering and lamenting, the individual is ideally situated to worship God the person. They are ready for <em>bhakti-yoga</em>, and fortunately the principles of that discipline are so powerful that even without achieving the proper disposition, a person can make advancement. <p>This is why the <em>acharya</em> recommends worshiping directly from the beginning. If for nothing else, find some peace in this otherwise turbulent storm of a material existence: <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2009/12/30/hare-krishna/">Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare</a>. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p><em>Acharya</em> to warn,<br>Against turbulent storm. <p>Where hankering on one side,<br>And later lamentation to preside. <p>Swinging back and forth,<br>Material life in course. <p>Through God find peace and strength,<br>Power of yoga even without Brahman ascent.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-75037713503765581002021-08-21T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-21T21:00:00.336-04:00Constantly Fueling The Fire<p><strong>“It is said in the Manu-smriti that lust cannot be satisfied by any amount of sense enjoyment, just as fire is never extinguished by a constant supply of fuel. In the material world, the center of all activities is sex, and thus this material world is called maithunya-agara, or the shackles of sex life. In the ordinary prison house, criminals are kept within bars; similarly, the criminals who are disobedient to the laws of the Lord are shackled by sex life.” (Shrila Prabhupada, Bhagavad-gita, 3.39 Purport)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/63kebh/20210821Constantly_Fueling_The_Firebsd1t.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>Friend1: Are you aware of how diametrically opposed to conventional thinking the science of self-realization is? <p>Friend2: In what respect? Is this in terms of health, where Ayurveda has a different approach than the expensive, newly developed therapeutics that are on the market? <p>Friend1: Well, that is a component to it, but only a small one. I am talking bigger picture. <p>Friend2: Give me an example. <p>Friend1: If you happen to immerse yourself in pop culture, there is no way to avoid the sexual overtones. <p>Friend2: As in, they are promoting sexual behavior? <p>Friend1: Of all kinds. The movies might center around family life, but it is always about enjoying. That is the primary concern. <p>Friend2: If we are honest about it, the same sentiment is shared in religious circles. You approach God so that He will help you out. They rationalize the behavior by speculating that God wants everyone to enjoy, so why limit yourself? <p>Friend1: Limitations are necessary for vitality and proper functioning. Everyone acknowledges this, at least subtly. You can’t eat an entire pizza pie for dinner each night and expect to feel good in the aftermath. You put a limit on eating. It is a restriction. <p>Friend2: Okay, but that is different from advising to <em>never</em> eat pizza. That is probably where people get the wrong idea of scriptural provisions. They think that we are trying to eliminate the fun. <p>Friend1: Look at the teaching about lust. Known as <em>kama</em> in Sanskrit, in <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/bhagavad-gita-as-it-is/">Bhagavad-gita</a> we learn that lust is the great devouring enemy of this world. <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/lord-krishna/">Shri Krishna</a> advises that it be controlled right from the start. <p>Friend2: He is right, and He would certainly know, based on His standing as the Supreme Personality of Godhead. <p>Friend1: His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/his-divine-grace-a-c-bhaktivedanta-swami-prabhupada/">Prabhupada</a> is more direct in the instruction. He says that sex life is the great trap of the material world. It is like pouring gasoline on the fire, indulging the senses in that way. <p>Friend2: Difficult to argue against. <p>Friend1: For sure, and I laugh out loud whenever I come across such statements. <p>Friend2: Why is that? <p>Friend1: Not because I disagree. He is just so blunt and unafraid to go against the conventional thinking. Men like to joke that being married is like getting sent to prison, but the <em>acharya</em> compares sex life to the same. You won’t hear that anywhere else. <p>Friend2: It’s brutal honesty that we need to hear. Everyone else is steering us in the wrong direction. Better to control lust than to indulge it. <p>Friend1: How do you get passed the stigma of being seen as someone who is condemning everyone else? <p>Friend2: That is easy. We are being condemned through <em>kama</em>. No one is happy. At least I don’t see anyone who is. A person may be expert at indulging the senses in this way, but eventually they want something more. Not to mention the many associated problems. <p>Friend1: Such as? <p>Friend2: You look at the people who are really in trouble in life, and uncontrolled sex always seems to be at the root. A divorced man having to pay child support. Someone dropping out of school early in order to support the child that arrived unexpectedly. Drug and alcohol addiction through association with people interested only in sense gratification. <p>Friend1: It is fairly common to find rehabilitated addicts turning to God. <p>Friend2: And so the Vedas advise to make the turn prior to the problems. Prevention is better than a cure. Don’t wait for rehab. Fix yourself now. It is certainly difficult, as Arjuna asked Krishna. We’re basically trying to control the wind, but through practice and detachment we have a chance. That is why the true <em>acharya</em> gives the positive in addition to the negative. <p>Friend1: What do you mean? <p>Friend2: He will provide restrictions, such as avoiding meat eating, gambling, intoxication and illicit sex. But he will also give the more important positive side. This is the regulative practice of connecting with the Supreme Lord. Even if done only mechanically at first, through steady progression a transformation will take place: <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2009/12/30/hare-krishna/">Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare</a>. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>A transformation to take place,<br>Attention on restriction to erase. <p>Where what not to do,<br>Lust and intoxication too. <p>Meant for higher taste finding,<br>Principles list daily reminding. <p>Otherwise like a fire raging,<br>This battle against <em>kama</em> waging.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-17197718810519677072021-08-20T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-20T21:00:00.351-04:00Is It Ever Okay To Kill<p><strong>“Alas, how strange it is that we are preparing to commit greatly sinful acts, driven by the desire to enjoy royal happiness.” (Arjuna, Bhagavad-gita, 1.44)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/rmwv25/20210820Is_It_Ever_Okay_To_Killb7cjj.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>अहो बत महत् पापं<br>कर्तुं व्यवसिता वयम्<br>यद् राज्य-सुख-लोभेन<br>हन्तुं स्व-जनम् उद्यताः <p>aho bata mahat pāpaṁ<br>kartuṁ vyavasitā vayam<br>yad rājya-sukha-lobhena<br>hantuṁ sva-janam udyatāḥ <p> <blockquote> <p>“When someone is introduced to the principle of <em>ahimsa</em>, often times it is like a light bulb goes off. A full awakening, a large curtain opened, allowing entry into this other world. Rather than go along with what everyone around them is doing, as they have been doing for so long, now they can act differently. <p>“It is like they always had the inclination that something was not right, that there was no need for slaughterhouses and a systematic method of mass killing. It is just that they never had any backing, any support for their position. <p>“Then they hear from the authority of <em>shastra</em> about the need for respecting <em>all</em> forms of life, and everything clicks. Going vegetarian is easy; that is the first step. They move on to avoiding any kind of killing, such as with the flies in the home or the ants on the floor. <p>“If they have a fruit-bearing tree on the property, they are concerned with the use of pesticides. They would rather not kill unnecessarily, though they acknowledge the need to keep the fruits from getting spoiled. <p>“I guess that is the primary area of confusion. Is killing <em>ever</em> justified? Did not Arjuna raise some legitimate concerns in the beginning of <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/bhagavad-gita-as-it-is/">Bhagavad-gita</a>? He is not ready to kill others for the sake of control over a kingdom. How can we act in accordance with the principle of <em>ahimsa</em>, non-violence, if there is killing involved to achieve our objectives?”</p></blockquote> <p>Throughout the annals of history we come across one conflict after another. In the 20<sup>th</sup> century, they had to start adding roman numerals in front of the great wars, to name them, so frequent were they fought. Countries define their existence off boundaries, otherwise known as borders. Those boundaries came to be as a resolution to one conflict or another. <p><a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/shrimad-bhagavatam/">Shrimad Bhagavatam</a> explains that one living entity is food for another. This pearl of wisdom from an ancient text would later be described as, “the food chain.” No one can survive without other forms of life; the living entities in this world are never truly self-sustaining. <blockquote> <p>अहस्तानि सहस्तानाम्<br>अपदानि चतुष्-पदाम्<br>फल्गूनि तत्र महतां<br>जीवो जीवस्य जीवनम्</p> <p>ahastāni sahastānām<br>apadāni catuṣ-padām<br>phalgūni tatra mahatāṁ<br>jīvo jīvasya jīvanam <p>“Those who are devoid of hands are prey for those who have hands; those devoid of legs are prey for the four-legged. The weak are the subsistence of the strong, and the general rule holds that one living being is food for another.” (Shrimad Bhagavatam, 1.13.47)</p></blockquote> <p>Bearing these realities of life in mind, how could <em>ahimsa</em> ever be presented as a concept? <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/lord-krishna/">Shri Krishna</a> covers the principle in Bhagavad-gita in a positive way, but His ultimate recommendation to Arjuna is to forge ahead. Weakness at heart for a <em>kshatriya</em> in upholding the principles of righteousness, <em>dharma</em>, indicates lack of culture, <em>anarya</em>. <p>His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/his-divine-grace-a-c-bhaktivedanta-swami-prabhupada/">Prabhupada</a> explains that killing for the purpose of sense gratification is never allowed. Simply because I want to satisfy my taste buds does not give me the right to interfere in the life of another being. <p>The argument may be made that the animal community offers no similar level of respect. The hawk swoops in and devours its prey. The lion kills and so does the bear. If you cut open a fish extracted from the sea, you will find so many tiny fish inside. <p>The idea is that discrimination is unique to the human experience. <em>Dharma</em> and <em>karma</em> do not apply to the animal community. They are living according to instinct, but the human being can apply intelligence in behavior for moving towards a more fruitful destination. <p>Arjuna’s killing was within <em>dharma</em> since he was protecting the innocent. It would have been sinful for him to drop the weapons and retreat to the forest, as he was suggesting. He was not in it for the personal comforts. He could live in a small hut, if necessary. <p>This means that the true spirit of <em>ahimsa</em> is respect for both God’s creatures and God’s laws. If man does not follow the rules laid down by the highest proprietor, they will surely suffer. This life is meant for fulfilling the purpose of pleasing the Supreme Lord, who never accepts something offered to Him that comes at the harm of innocent life or which violates the rules of propriety. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p><em>Ahimsa</em> principle confusing,<br>How proper behavior choosing. <p>So that dharma’s way not losing,<br>Like Arjuna for quitting musing. <p>Idea that all life to respect,<br>But innocent also to protect. <p>Where violence sometimes needed,<br>Best on Krishna’s approval proceeded.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-85650431534498193052021-08-19T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-19T21:00:00.372-04:00Doesn't Deity Worship Cheapen The Concept Of God<p><strong>“We may be very proud of our eyes, but we cannot even see our next-door neighbor. People challenge, ‘Can you show me God?’ But what can they see? What is the value of their eyes? God is not cheap. We cannot see anything, not to speak of God, without sunshine. Without sunlight we are blind. At night, we cannot see anything, and therefore we use electricity because the sun is not present.” (Shrila Prabhupada, Easy Journey To Other Planets, Ch 2)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/8a7f74/20210819Doesn_t_Deity_Worship_Cheapen_The_Concept_Of_Goda4s4d.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p> <blockquote> <p>“Let me present a situation to you. It is a warm summer’s day. The kids at home are driving you crazy. You wish they were in school, but that is closed for a few months. Watching television for hours a day is not a constructive way to spend time. <p>“On the previous drive home from work, you noticed signs for a carnival. Coming to town for only a few days, it looks like the perfect venue to place the children to pass the time in a more meaningful way. They will run around, eat some candy, go on some rides, and have a good time. Most importantly, they will tire out by the end of the day and thus keep quiet when at home. <p>“You go to the carnival, and one of the attractions you visit involves puppets. There is a curtain at first. The master of ceremonies then removes the curtain at the beginning of the show. It is a moment to be a grand unveiling of the participants in the play. <p>“Transitioning to the realm of spirituality, particularly that descending from the Vedas, is not the practice of <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/teachings/deity-worship/">deity</a> worship the same? You enter the establishment designated for such a purpose, and the altar might not show anything. There is a large curtain in front. <p>“You are not surprised by this, since the public announcement lists the viewing times. The Sanskrit word is ‘<em>darshana</em>’. This means that you will only be able to see the objects being worshiped during certain intervals of the day. <p>“There is a similar presentation when the time arrives. That is to say, someone in the front removes the curtain and then everyone in attendance is happy to see what is behind. There are deities, considered to be identical to the Supreme Lord Himself. Often times there is a side companion, such as the goddess of fortune. <p>“Do you see the similarity to the carnival show? Does this practice not cheapen the concept of God? Shouldn’t He be much more than a puppet or a statue? I am not criticizing the tradition, but I am wondering about people who might mistakenly make such a correlation.”</p></blockquote> <p>His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/his-divine-grace-a-c-bhaktivedanta-swami-prabhupada/">Prabhupada</a> warns about falling into the ways of a particular group. The Sanskrit word is <em>sahajiya</em>, and it generally refers to someone who takes the principles of spiritual life in a cavalier way. They do not necessarily show the proper respect to the deity, and they may concoct some style of worship, following a manner that is not authorized. <p>In the practical sense, deity worship is kind of an entry-level into dedicated spiritual practice. The mature person understands that God is everywhere. He is omnipresent, in the physical sense, but also in the concept of <em>antaryami</em>, which refers to an all-pervading witness. <p>There is the chief resident in the temple, who has the permanent home of the altar. Depending on the deity worshiped, sometimes the resident leaves to be paraded around town, to grant <em>darshana</em> to even those who might not visit the temple. <p>Yet this does not mean that God is limited to that specific setting. He is the chief resident in the temple, but He lives outside, as well. Not a blade of grass moves without His sanction, and there is not a space in the universe where He cannot be found. <p>The deity gives an idea of God. Since we are embodied, since we succumb to the forces of illusion, since we make so many mistakes, the <em>archa-vigraha</em> removes much of the doubt. It clears confusion arising from speculation, proving that God is indeed a person. <p>It is His causeless mercy to appear in such a form, and when the worship takes place in an authorized way it is like connecting with God directly. I lack the eyes to see Him, but He is so kind as to appear in a way that I can begin to understand Him. Even a little understanding on this path is enough to provide full protection in the future, where the individual moves on to some unknown place. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>Moving on to unknown place,<br>But remembering His face. <p>Where from the deity shown,<br>Features of Almighty known. <p>Causeless mercy for me,<br>That finally I can see. <p>Blind for so long I was before,<br>But now of the Truth I’m sure.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-59449846749684225162021-08-18T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-18T21:00:00.357-04:00Two Kinds Of Krishna-Katha<p><strong>“Krishna-katha means narrations about Krishna. There are two Krishna-kathas: narrations spoken by Krishna and narrations spoken about Krishna. Bhagavad-gita is the narration or the philosophy or the science of God, spoken by Krishna Himself. Shrimad-Bhagavatam is the narration about the activities and transcendental pastimes of Krishna. Both are Krishna-katha.” (<a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/krishna-book/">Krishna, The Supreme Personality of Godhead</a>, Vol 1, Introduction)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/kyh42a/20210818Two_Kinds_Of_Krishna-Katha7unod.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p> <h1>1. Words spoken by Krishna</h1> <p>This is a huge boon to humanity. That troubling time the parent spent in teaching the young children how to read. The diligence in sitting the child down, if not for twenty minutes a day, to learn the alphabet and introduce phonetic sounds, through letter combinations. The hope that the child would become literate enough to flourish in adolescence and adulthood, to be able to reach rational conclusions through consulting knowledge from both sides of contentious issues. <p>The added benefit is to be able to access and study the words directly spoken by the Supreme Personality of Godhead. While the context might be a conversation directed to a specific person from thousands of years ago, the wisdom included is timeless. Arjuna had a similar doubt when hearing from Krishna, but he soon learned the origin of that king of education, <em>raja-vidya</em>. <blockquote> <p>अर्जुन उवाच<br>अपरं भवतो जन्म<br>परं जन्म विवस्वतः<br>कथम् एतद् विजानीयां<br>त्वम् आदौ प्रोक्तवान् इति<br></p> <p>arjuna uvāca<br>aparaṁ bhavato janma<br>paraṁ janma vivasvataḥ<br>katham etad vijānīyāṁ<br>tvam ādau proktavān iti <p>“Arjuna said: The sun-god Vivasvan is senior by birth to You. How am I to understand that in the beginning You instructed this science to him?” (<a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/bhagavad-gita-as-it-is/">Bhagavad-gita</a>, 4.4)</p></blockquote> <p>Instead of trying to unlock various secrets of nature on my own, I have the words of Arjuna’s teacher to rely on. He instructs that the individual is spirit soul and that the changes we witness are merely the shifts of the material elements combining together to form what is known as a <em>deha</em>, or body. <p>While the body continues to change, the individual inside is the same. I was no different a person while in my mother’s womb. I looked different and perhaps I lacked development of certain organs necessary for deeper interaction with the outside world, but there can be no doubt as to my qualification as a living person. <p>In the same way, after death the life continues. The perception for others changes; they can no longer speak to me and they are not entirely sure to where I went. Yet just as the soul miraculously appeared in the past, it will so emerge again in some other place and time. <h1>2. Words spoken about Krishna</h1> <p>His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/his-divine-grace-a-c-bhaktivedanta-swami-prabhupada/">Prabhupada</a> gives the example of <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/shrimad-bhagavatam/">Shrimad Bhagavatam</a>. Bhagavad-gita and other works have Bhagavan’s direct teachings. The end of Shrimad Bhagavatam also features a similar dialogue, this time with the disciple named Uddhava. The distinction is that this lengthy work is more <em>about</em> Krishna and His position, as described by others. <p>We sometimes see the less intelligent person criticize Krishna for dancing with young girls. The <em>gopis</em> of Vrindavana were intimate associates; they preferred to rendezvous with Yashoda’s son in the middle of the night. The Supreme Lord did not deny their requests; He can facilitate unlimited enjoyment, if need be. <p>Yet the same critics would have to acknowledge that they heard the information from Shrimad Bhagavatam. That is the principal source of the content upon which they base their criticism. Any rational person would acknowledge that. Upon such an admission, the same critic would have to intentionally overlook the voluminous content describing Krishna’s position within the universe; intentional negligence. That is to say Shrimad Bhagavatam first establishes the position of God, especially with respect to our subordinate standing as individual, conditioned soul. Krishna is the Supreme Soul, and we are a sample of Him, but not the same in terms of potency. <p>If Shrimad Bhagavatam describes how Krishna is the origin of everything, how He creates the twenty-four elements of nature, how He effects change through the force known as time, how the individual is imperishable, and so forth, then where is the problem in dancing with the <em>gopis</em>? If God is truly unlimited, He can keep an unlimited number of paramours, if He so chooses. <p>Either hearing directly from Krishna or consuming content that describes Him, the effect is the same. Both cases qualify as <em>Krishna-katha</em>, and it is this kind of discourse which is most pleasing to the soul. Every other topic of discussion has the defects borne of the realm of duality, but the Supreme Lord is above such designations. <em>Krishna-katha</em> is both timeless and inexhaustible. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>Both timeless and inexhaustible,<br>Words and descriptions imperishable. <p>Since focus on God surrounding,<br>Sacred those <em>shlokas</em> sounding. <p>Some directly from Him hearing,<br>Like with Arjuna’s confusion clearing. <p>Others describing His form and His place,<br>How beautiful and lotus-like face.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-46792194783920664472021-08-17T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-17T21:00:00.302-04:00Two Distinctions I Can Recognize As A Human Being<p><strong>“By human calculation, a thousand ages taken together is the duration of Brahma's one day. And such also is the duration of his night.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 8.17)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/wtnb47/20210817Two_Distinctions_I_Can_Recognize_As_A_Human_Being6iko1.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>सहस्र-युग-पर्यन्तम्<br>अहर् यद् ब्रह्मणो विदुः<br>रात्रिं युग-सहस्रान्तां<br>ते ऽहो-रात्र-विदो जनाः <p>sahasra-yuga-paryantam<br>ahar yad brahmaṇo viduḥ<br>rātriṁ yuga-sahasrāntāṁ<br>te ‘ho-rātra-vido janāḥ <p>The human being has intelligence. <em>Shastra</em> distinguishes the level of intelligence between the various species. In other words, the human being is special in this regard. We can prove this both off experimental knowledge and from sacred texts, passed down through the ages. <p>As a human being I might come upon certain information; a discovery of sorts. It could be something practical like solving algebra equations or something more philosophical, such as how to deal with other people and persuade them over to your way of thinking. <p>Thrilled upon the new discovery, I share with others. I do not consider the age or experience-level of the other participant to the conversation. They may be much older than me, and upon hearing my views, they can’t help but reply along the following lines: <blockquote> <p>“Son, I was conducting experiments before you were born. While you were crawling around in diapers, I was holding down a job, maintaining a family, struggling through life, and working for a higher goal. I do not need to be lectured by you. Instead, you should humble yourself and listen to what I have to say, for a change.”</p></blockquote> <p>The idea is that there is intelligence on both sides, indicative of the unique abilities within the human species. That intelligence is best put to use in seeing distinctions at the largest scale, the macro level. This is in accordance with the objectives of <em>sadhu</em>, <em>shastra</em>, and <em>guru</em>, who hope for only the best achievement, <em>purushartha</em>, for the living being. <h1>1. Life and death</h1> <p>It is almost as basic as recognizing before and after. There is a beginning state, and then something occurs to alter the situation. Last night, for instance, was the beginning. Everything was dark. There was barely any sound coming from outside. <p>This morning things are different. The sun is out. The temperature is higher. I hear a steady stream of cars driving down the road. A person new to the situation may not believe that only a few hours ago everything was different, but I am there to remind them. Memory is a basis for intelligence, and I can logically deduce that the darkness will return a few hours into the future. <p>The same pattern of recognition is available with the paired events of birth and death. The first is the beginning, the time when there is boundless potential. The second is the final act of the play, so to speak. The same individual that previously arrived has now moved on. We refer to them as “the departed” for a reason. <h1>2. One hundred years and eternity</h1> <p>The example above dealt with the changes to the outside environment within the span of a few hours. As an intelligent human being, I can extend that logic to a much larger sample size. I know from recorded history that civilization existed one hundred years ago. It would be foolish to assume otherwise, as there are even people still alive today who lived through that period of time. <p>While one hundred years seems like a large amount of time to the human being, we can also contemplate just how small it is in the larger scheme. <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/bhagavad-gita-as-it-is/">Bhagavad-gita</a> says that a person who knows the day and night of Lord Brahma, the creator, actually understands time. <p>The distinction between one hundred years and eternity is also a good way to make a test out of proving God through the empirical method. This is one of the often-heard complaints offered by the non-believers. They insist upon scientific evidence before they will firmly believe in a higher power. <p>Fortunately, there is a test we can conduct. Establishing that there is someone who claims to be God, if they were to stand before us, what method would we use to prove their claim? The simplest way is to test longevity. If this person is really God, then they must not ever die. I will simply observe them and make sure that they are always alive. <p>The issue is that my time in observation is not perfect. If the person stands before me for one hundred years, is that sufficient? Not really, since we already know mortals who live for that long. What about one thousand years? At this point, the comparison might be to Lord Brahma, and we know that he is not immortal. <p>The truth is I have <em>no</em> way of testing eternity. It is infinite time-travel into the future, and so the empirical method is worthless. Eternity is still true; it is a valid concept. <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/lord-krishna/">Shri Krishna</a> describes how a person can infinitely stay with Him, to achieve the best end there is. <blockquote> <p>अन्त-काले च माम् एव<br>स्मरन् मुक्त्वा कलेवरम्<br>यः प्रयाति स मद्-भावं<br>याति नास्त्य् अत्र संशयः <p>anta-kāle ca mām eva<br>smaran muktvā kalevaram<br>yaḥ prayāti sa mad-bhāvaṁ<br>yāti nāsty atra saṁśayaḥ <p>“And whoever, at the time of death, quits his body, remembering Me alone, at once attains My nature. Of this there is no doubt.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/?s=%22Bhagavad-gita%2C+8.5%22&x=0&y=0">8.5</a>)</p></blockquote> <p>The same memory that furthers our intelligence of the outside world can launch us into a life of eternity in the company of the one person who is always immune to life, death, gain, loss, heat, cold, and other conditions in duality. Our ability to perceive God, to serve Him, to alter our destiny towards His direction, is the true boon of the human existence. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>God desperately want to know,<br>My knowledge of eternity to grow. <p>Since no other way to prove,<br>As perception eventually to lose. <p>But faith from word taking,<br>And then test through practice making. <p>Our intelligence best suited this way,<br>Where in transcendence to stay. KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-60527982272005555832021-08-16T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-16T21:00:00.256-04:00Two Interactions Which Are Not Harmful Within Deity Worship<p><strong>“The mother-in-law did the arati and offered gifts, following tradition. Looking at His dark face again and again, she felt happiness in the heart and great attachment.” (Janaki Mangala, 165)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/5yas7g/20210816Two_Interactions_Which_Are_Not_Harmful_Within_Deity_Worshipb9i9f.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>सासु उतारि आरती करहिं निछावरि | <br>निरखि निरखि हियन् हरषहिं सुरति सवरि ||</p> <p>sāsu utāri āratī karahiṃ nichāvari | <br>nirakhi nirakhi hiyan haraṣahiṃ surati savari || <p>His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/his-divine-grace-a-c-bhaktivedanta-swami-prabhupada/">Prabhupada</a> recommends <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/teachings/deity-worship/">deity</a> worship, known as <em>archanam</em> in Sanskrit. The people of a specific region may have grown up with a prohibition on any resembling practice. They were told that it is sinful to worship an idol, that they are going against the faith inherited from their ancestors. God is to be worshiped, but from within. There is certainly no discussion as to a transcendental form or identifiable features. <p>The <em>acharyas</em> of the Vedic tradition understand the necessity of some understanding of God’s position, especially with respect to the individuals who are worshiping Him. I have a head, hands, legs, a face and so forth. Those features identify me temporarily, but they do not represent who I am. The features change throughout the course of life, so much so that I don’t recognize a photo of myself from the childhood years. <p>To God belongs a form, though it is transcendental in nature. This version of the Almighty may also be referred to as <em>saguna</em>. The root definition is, “with qualities.” This is not to say that the Supreme Lord is bound by any type of structure covering His true essence. The qualities are transcendental in nature, but the identifiable version is for both locating God and comparing His standing to ours. <p>If we are to worship internally, within the mind, what is the harm in putting a reality to the vision? If I am thinking of a specific image within the mind, does it harm anyone to translate the visual to canvas? We keep photographs around to remind us of people and places, so why not do the same with God Himself? <p>He is not limited by the deity, but rather we get a glimpse into the world of the unlimited through the interaction. We may even find that we are afforded certain privileges that would otherwise be prohibited. <h1>1. Reveal your innermost thoughts</h1> <p>It is one of the risks of establishing a close friendship. While it is therapeutic to let your thoughts out, to share experiences and air grievances, the other side gains valuable information. If ever the relationship turns sour, they can use that information against you. You hope that never happens, but in this world of duality a friend can turn into an enemy at a moment’s notice. Sometimes your most beloved son might side with the country from which you are trying to separate and establish independence, as occurred during the Revolutionary War period in America. <p>When worshiping the deity, I can reveal everything. I can share <em>all</em> of my concerns. I can explain what I went through the previous day, what I was feeling, to where I would like to go moving forward. I can ask for assistance in making difficult decisions. <p>The Supreme Lord is already the all-pervading witness. He knows my thoughts, my aspirations, my dreams, my shortcomings, my embarrassing moments, and especially my weaknesses. With the deity standing in front of me, I can at least remember that such a relationship exists, that I am never truly alone in this world. <p>He will never use that information against me. He will not turn to others to seek an advantage. He will never abandon someone who has surrendered to Him, as they can never be lost to Him, no matter what takes place. <blockquote> <p>यो मां पश्यति सर्वत्र<br>सर्वं च मयि पश्यति<br>तस्याहं न प्रणश्यामि<br>स च मे न प्रणश्यति <p>yo māṁ paśyati sarvatra<br>sarvaṁ ca mayi paśyati<br>tasyāhaṁ na praṇaśyāmi<br>sa ca me na praṇaśyati <p>“For one who sees Me everywhere and sees everything in Me, I am never lost, nor is he ever lost to Me.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 6.30)</p></blockquote> <h1>2. Stare for an extended time without shame</h1> <p>Try doing this with someone in the flesh, who is not the deity, and you might run into the following: <blockquote> <p>“Why are you staring at me? Are you a psycho or something? Seriously, stop! If you keep it up, I will call the police. I always thought you were creepy to begin with, and this latest episode confirms my suspicions. I don’t care how beautiful you think I am, you are beginning to frighten everyone.”</p></blockquote> <p>With the Supreme Lord, you can stare for as long as you wish. If your devotion is pure, Bhagavan creates further opportunities for the visual connection to continue. The deity is a factual representation of the features belonging to the qualified Brahman, after all. <p>For instance, the deity of Rama is no different than the celebrated incarnation of the same name. He was the eldest son of King Dasharatha, and one time He lifted a mighty bow in the sacrificial arena created by King Janaka. <p>This feat earned Rama the honor of marrying Janaka’s eldest daughter named Sita. The nuptials afforded Janaka’s wife the opportunity to do <em>arati</em> of Rama directly. She waved welcoming lamps in front of Him, and she was staring at the incomparable beauty the entire time. <p>No one stopped her. No one thought the practice odd or out of place. She repeatedly derived supreme happiness in the heart, as described by Goswami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/goswami-tulsidas/">Tulsidas</a>. This is the fervent desire of the <em>acharyas</em> and Bhagavan Himself, that we always be happy. Through the direct association we have the opportunity to experience that bliss again and again. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p><em>Acharyas</em> wanting for me,<br>That always happy to be. <p>So different methods to provide,<br>Where in devotion can confide. <p>With the deity worshiping steady,<br>Seeing one who inside me already. <p>For as long as I want to stare,<br>And innermost thoughts can share.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-58188364817542891152021-08-15T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-15T21:00:00.349-04:00To Recognize That The Past Is Prologue<p><strong>“A person in Krishna consciousness certainly sees Lord Krishna everywhere, and he sees everything in Krishna. Such a person may appear to see all separate manifestations of the material nature, but in each and every instance he is conscious of Krishna, knowing that everything is the manifestation of Krishna's energy. Nothing can exist without Krishna, and Krishna is the Lord of everything—this is the basic principle of Krishna consciousness.” (Shrila Prabhupada, Bhagavad-gita, 6.30 Purport)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/d6c7jk/20210815To_Recognize_That_The_Past_Is_Prologueamabv.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>The emphasis from the <em>acharya</em> is that this life is preparation for the next. There <em>will</em> be an afterlife. It is real. Though we cannot directly communicate with someone who has recently departed, the same was true prior to their arrival. <p>It is an interesting idea to consider. We lament greatly at the forced separation from loved ones. The actual cause is <em>kala</em>, which is the Sanskrit word for time. The same word applies to death. <em>Kala</em> is debilitating. It is devouring. It is the most formidable foe, as it has yet to meet defeat, at least within its area of jurisdiction. <p>I am sad that I will one day finally submit to the final blow of <em>kala</em>, but why not an equal level of sadness for the near-infinite amount of recorded history prior to my arrival? A year prior to my birth, my parents were in this world. My older siblings were, as well. They got along just fine. They did not know me. I was not even a thought to anyone. <p><em>Shastra</em> reveals that I was someplace. As confirmed by <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/lord-krishna/">Shri Krishna</a> in <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/bhagavad-gita-as-it-is/">Bhagavad-gita</a>, never was there a time that I did not exist. The same applies to others, both visible and beyond the range of perception. <blockquote> <p>न त्व् एवाहं जातु नासं<br>न त्वं नेमे जनाधिपाः<br>न चैव न भविष्यामः<br>सर्वे वयम् अतः परम् <p>na tv evāhaṁ jātu nāsaṁ<br>na tvaṁ neme janādhipāḥ<br>na caiva na bhaviṣyāmaḥ<br>sarve vayam ataḥ param <p>“Never was there a time when I did not exist, nor you, nor all these kings; nor in the future shall any of us cease to be.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 2.12)</p></blockquote> <p>Contemplating this truth of the spiritual science might lead to lamentation resembling the following: <blockquote> <p>“I can’t believe I screwed up. That is the cause for my birth in this world, as I’ve been made aware. I was not fully conscious of the Almighty during the last trip on the merry-go-round. The rotation stopped for a second, and then I jumped right back on the ride. It is so sad that we have to keep spinning on this wheel of <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2009/04/14/reincarnation/">reincarnation</a>, with no end in sight.”</p></blockquote> <p>The optimistic viewpoint sees the past lives as a prologue to a wonderful story of success. Overcoming obstacles, persevering through difficulties, emerging victorious at the end. Finally climbing that mountain, everything in the past was worth it. Without those struggles, the achievement of <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/category/liberation/">liberation</a> would not taste nearly as sweet. <p>Also from Bhagavad-gita we learn that for a person who always sees Krishna everywhere, He is never lost to them. Neither is that person ever forgotten by the Almighty, whose eyes are in every corner and every space. <p>This does not mean the self-realized soul has a kind of morphed vision that no longer sees distinctions. They still correctly identify planes, trains, automobiles, rivers, oceans, mountains, clouds, sunshine, and the like. They can identify different individuals by name and also interact according to the species with whom they are surrounded. <p>The distinction is that there is an additional layer of perception. They see the influence of Shri Krishna, the all-attractive one. They know that each individual has God inside of them. The consciousness that carries awareness of the presence may not have manifested yet, but the Divine is there all the same. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>So wonderful is He,<br>And everywhere to see. <p>Even inside of me,<br>And that tall standing tree. <p>The past so much to lament,<br>That wasted the time went. <p>But now on path to liberation winning,<br>Where no more reincarnation spinning. KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-6551063402156016442021-08-14T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-14T21:00:00.307-04:00What Is Wrong In Being An Animal Lover<p><strong>“Whatever state of being one remembers when he quits his body, that state he will attain without fail.” (Lord Krishna, </strong><strong>Bhagavad-gita</strong><strong>, 8.6)</strong></p> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/2isix2/20210814What_Is_Wrong_In_Being_An_Animal_Lover89u9d.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a></p> <p>यं यं वापि स्मरन् भावं<br>त्यजत्य् अन्ते कलेवरम्<br>तं तम् एवैति कौन्तेय<br>सदा तद्-भाव-भावितः</p> <p>yaṁ yaṁ vāpi smaran bhāvaṁ<br>tyajaty ante kalevaram<br>taṁ tam evaiti kaunteya<br>sadā tad-bhāva-bhāvitaḥ <p> <p>Friend1: A person might argue that the outpouring of affection towards pets is not wasted. <p>Friend2: Who is saying that it is a waste? Isn’t <em>sanatana-dharma</em> the only legitimate religious system in the lot that applies <em>ahimsa</em> to most circumstances? <p>Friend1: Non-violence, though the primary work in which you find that word has the backdrop of a battlefield. <p>Friend2: <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/bhagavad-gita-as-it-is/">Bhagavad-gita</a>. The prologue is <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/lord-krishna/">Shri Krishna</a>, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, speaking to a hesitant warrior. You could say Arjuna is a conscientious objector. <p>Friend1: Right, and you will find the discussion on <em>ahimsa</em> in that presentation, but the conclusion is violence. Arjuna decides to fight in the war, to preserve justice for humanity. <p>Friend2: An apparent contradiction that makes Bhagavad-gita that much more appealing to the inquisitive, the distressed, the desirer of wealth, and the person seeking knowledge of the Absolute. <blockquote> <p>चतुर्-विधा भजन्ते मां<br>जनाः सुकृतिनो ऽर्जुन<br>आर्तो जिज्ञासुर् अर्थार्थी<br>ज्ञानी च भरतर्षभ <p>catur-vidhā bhajante māṁ<br>janāḥ sukṛtino ‘rjuna<br>ārto jijñāsur arthārthī<br>jñānī ca bharatarṣabha <p>“O best among the Bharatas [Arjuna], four kinds of pious men render devotional service unto Me—the distressed, the desirer of wealth, the inquisitive, and he who is searching for knowledge of the Absolute.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 7.16)</p></blockquote> <p>Friend1: You know what I mean, though. The <em>acharyas</em> of the Vedic tradition tend to decry obsession with animals in the home. For starters, the dog is considered unclean. A person should not be sleeping with their dog in bed. That animal serves a vital purpose in providing protection, but it is from outside the home. <p>Friend2: <em>Shaucham</em> is another key principle. Cleanliness, both outside and inside, is important for advancing in consciousness. <p>Friend1: I guess I am specifically referring to the common complaint that man tends to be more interested in dog than in God. At least that is the situation in the modern day. <p>Friend2: Can you honestly dispute that? <p>Friend1: No, but I am trying to look at the positives. A person will say that at least they are showing love. They are not completely cold-hearted. They may be childless in adulthood, but at least they are taking care of someone. <p>Friend2: You would be interested to know that the Sanskrit word for “son” has a deeper meaning. <p>Friend1: Which word is that? <em>Putra</em>? <p>Friend2: Yes. The root definition is someone who delivers from hell. <em>Put</em> is a hellish region, and <em>tra</em> refers to delivering. The son delivers the father and other ancestors from hell, if they should happen to fall there in the afterlife. <p>Friend1: I see. The dog can’t do the same, I assume. <blockquote> <p>पुन्नाम्नो नरकाद् यस्मात् पितरं त्रायते सुतः। <br>तस्मात् पुत्र इति प्रोक्तः पितॄन् यः पाति सर्वतः।। <p>punnāmno narakād yasmāt pitaraṃ trāyate sutaḥ। <br>tasmāt putra iti proktaḥ pitṝn yaḥ pāti sarvataḥ।।</p> <p>“Since a son delivers his father from the hell named ‘Put’, a son is called putra; he who protects his ancestors in every way.” (Lord Rama, Valmiki Ramayana, Ayodhya Kand, 107.12) </p></blockquote> <p>Friend2: <em>Putra</em> attains the status through deeds. They deliver the ancestors through specific offerings, in the ritual known as <em>shraddha</em>. A good son satisfies the debt incurred to the forefathers. <p>Friend1: How does one assume that debt? <p>Friend2: From the time of birth. A good son can also rescue past generations through pleasing the Supreme Personality of Godhead, who is known as <em>yajna</em> because religious sacrifice is ultimately for His pleasure. <p>Friend1: Listen, I am not arguing the merits of having children. I am trying to say that there is nothing wasted in showing affection for a cat or a dog kept in the home. Would you rather they be ignored? Would you rather someone not care for any other living being, acting completely selfishly their entire life? <p>Friend2: Of course it is good to be compassionate. Shri Krishna has a favorite animal, as well. If you are kind to a cow, that accumulate spiritual merits, <em>sukriti</em>. We should generally be nonviolent, as necessary per the situation. <p>Friend1: Okay, then you agree that it is not a waste. <p>Friend2: There is a danger. That is one of the reasons the <em>acharya</em> will give warnings. <p>Friend1: What kind of danger? <p>Friend2: Of developing too strong an attachment. If you forget religious principles and focus entirely on serving the cat or dog, that will affect the consciousness moving forward. You will achieve a state of being identical to what was on the consciousness at the time of death. <p>Friend1: Oh, so if I am too much infatuated with my dog, I will become a dog in the future? <p>Friend2: For sure, and keep in mind that the principle applies to all kinds of attachment. The human birth is meant for <em>tapasya</em>, which has the incorporated feature of <em>vairagya</em>. This Sanskrit word means “lack of attachment.” You can be close with others in any kind of birth, but as a human being you have the chance to break the cycle of dependency. You can focus on the permanent instead, and be forever benefitted. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>If pet in the home to keep,<br>And at night in same bed to sleep. <p>Then from affection to sway,<br>Consciousness in material way.</p> <p>Where opportunity for <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/category/liberation/">liberation</a> lost,<br>For short-term interest a mighty cost.</p> <p><em>Putra</em> with higher value so,<br>This life for towards Supreme to go.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-59986692013629079372021-08-13T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-13T21:00:00.313-04:00Is There Anything Wrong With Keeping Pets<p><strong>“Since a son delivers his father from the hell named ‘Put’, a son is called putra; he who protects his ancestors in every way.” (Lord Rama, Valmiki Ramayana, Ayodhya Kand, 107.12)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/vdiyg6/20210813Is_There_Anything_Wrong_With_Keeping_Petsbco4e.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>पुन्नाम्नो नरकाद् यस्मात् पितरं त्रायते सुतः। <br>तस्मात् पुत्र इति प्रोक्तः पितॄन् यः पाति सर्वतः।। <p>punnāmno narakād yasmāt pitaraṃ trāyate sutaḥ। <br>tasmāt putra iti proktaḥ pitṝn yaḥ pāti sarvataḥ।। <p> <blockquote> <p>“I know that one of the favorite lines of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/his-divine-grace-a-c-bhaktivedanta-swami-prabhupada/">Prabhupada</a> was a play on words, and more specifically spelling. He would lament how man in the present age of darkness, symbolized by increased quarrel and hypocrisy, is more interested in dog than God. They would rather submit to their beloved pet, doing everything for them, than give thought to the Almighty, the afterlife, or the nature of the individual, who is actually spirit soul, eternally existing. <p>न जायते म्रियते वा कदाचिन्<br>नायं भूत्वा भविता वा न भूयः<br>अजो नित्यः शाश्वतो ऽयं पुराणो<br>न हन्यते हन्यमाने शरीरे <p>na jāyate mriyate vā kadācin<br>nāyaṁ bhūtvā bhavitā vā na bhūyaḥ<br>ajo nityaḥ śāśvato ‘yaṁ purāṇo<br>na hanyate hanyamāne śarīre <p><em>“For the soul there is never birth nor death. Nor, having once been, does he ever cease to be. He is unborn, eternal, ever-existing, undying and primeval. He is not slain when the body is slain.” (Lord Krishna, </em><a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/bhagavad-gita-as-it-is/"><em>Bhagavad-gita</em></a><em>, 2.20)</em> <p>“I will use that to pivot to the growing trend amongst married adults. They seem to be foregoing having children. Family to them is the two spouses. Even the definition for that is getting stretched beyond the boundaries of sanity and propriety, wherein any sort of amorous relationship qualifies for the standard, lest any objectors be accused of bigotry or hatred. <p>“You will notice, however, that the childless couples tend to have pets. Usually more than one; a cat or a dog or some combination of the two. They do everything for the pet, as Prabhupada described. If you didn’t know any better, you would think the pet was their child. You could even say it is their <em>ishta-deva</em>, or worshipable <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/teachings/deity-worship/">deity</a> of choice. <p>“I was wondering, is there anything inherently wrong in this path? If someone doesn’t want to have children, should they be blamed or castigated? You have to remember that raising a family in the modern day is extremely difficult. You likely don’t have helpers around. It is not like people can afford to hire servants to do the cooking and cleaning. Both parents have to work just to pay the bills, so the idea of increased family responsibility is dreadful.”</p></blockquote> <p>When accepting the concept of <em>karma</em>, there is a distinct advantage to having children. It is said that man inherits three debts at the time of birth. One is to the <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/?s=%22demigod+worship%22&x=0&y=0">demigods</a>, who are like administrators in the Divine government, responsible for different departments of affairs. The demigods give rain, sunlight, snow, clouds, and so forth. <p>The second debt is to the <em>rishis</em>. These are the elevated souls who have passed down timeless wisdom. The lead newspaper story published yesterday immediately starts to lose significance. In the future, if a person is researching a specific time period they may go back and read the newspapers, but there is generally no lasting value to the information. <p>The wisdom passed down by the <em>rishis</em> is evergreen. For instance, <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/krishna-dwaipayana-vyasa/">Vyasadeva</a> dictated the <em>Mahabharata</em> to Ganesha to write down in the Sanskrit language. Within that lengthy work is Bhagavad-gita, which is a conversation between Krishna and Arjuna. Bhagavad-gita is as relevant today as it was five thousand years ago, spoken on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Within that work is a brief history, wherein we learn that the same wisdom was spoken to the sun-god at the beginning of the creation. <blockquote> <p>श्री-भगवान् उवाच<br>इमं विवस्वते योगं<br>प्रोक्तवान् अहम् अव्ययम्<br>विवस्वान् मनवे प्राह<br>मनुर् इक्ष्वाकवे ’ब्रवीत् <p>śrī-bhagavān uvāca<br>imaṁ vivasvate yogaṁ<br>proktavān aham avyayam<br>vivasvān manave prāha<br>manur ikṣvākave ’bravīt <p>“The Blessed Lord said: 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 Ikshvaku.” (Bhagavad-gita, 4.1)</p></blockquote> <p>The third debt is to the forefathers. We did not intentionally choose the family in which we took birth, but there was work that took place prior to our arrival. Whether we prefer the conditions or not, at least we grew up alive and vibrant. The forefathers deserve credit in that regard, for laying the groundwork. <p>With each debt there is a corresponding method of payment. We resolve the debt to the demigods by conducting <em>yajna</em>, which is religious sacrifice. We honor the <em>rishis</em> by reading their works, by consulting their voluminous knowledgebase and implementing the principles contained therein. <p>The debt to the forefathers is paid through begetting a son. In fact, the Sanskrit word for a male child has added significance; the sounds are not accidentally placed together. <em>Putra</em> is the word for “son”, and the root meaning is a person who rescues their ancestors from hell. <em>Put</em> is a certain kind of hellish region, and one who delivers their ancestors from that condition in the afterlife is known as <em>putra</em>. Shri Rama explains this to Bharata in a discussion found in the <em>Ramayana</em>. <p>The dog or cat cannot provide the same protection. They are not able to assimilate higher teachings, and neither can they conduct a specific ritual for the purpose of rescuing forefathers. The <em>putra</em> can conduct a <em>shraddha</em> ceremony to directly feed any ancestors who may have fallen into the hellish regions due to sinful life. <p>When taking the discussion outside of the realm of <em>karma</em>, no single situation or circumstance automatically disqualifies a person from the highest achievement. Whether they are married, unmarried, with children, childless, or with pets, they can worship the Supreme Personality of Godhead directly and achieve <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/category/liberation/">liberation</a>. <p>As confirmed by <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/category/narasimha/">Narasimhadeva</a>, direct devotion is so powerful that it will automatically liberate many generations prior within the same family. This is what occurred with Prahlada Maharaja, who as a five-year old child of an antagonistic and atheistic father had little resources available to conduct formal worship. Even the meditation he tried was thwarted with physical attacks, but he persevered nonetheless. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>If in future hell to see,<br><em>Putra</em> can rescue me. <p>By <em>shraddha</em> observing,<br>Fed even if not deserving. <p>Not capable for dog to do,<br>At death ending relationship too. <p>But if in worship pleased is He,<br>Then automatically debts to free.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-37121544325693173672021-08-12T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-12T21:00:00.316-04:00Is It Necessary To Decode God's Creation<p><strong>“But what need is there, Arjuna, for all this detailed knowledge? With a single fragment of Myself I pervade and support this entire universe.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 10.42)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/6w6nmc/20210812Is_It_Necessary_To_Decode_God_s_Creation8xt2v.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>अथ वा बहुनैतेन<br>किं ज्ञातेन तवार्जुन<br>विष्टभ्याहम् इदं कृत्स्नम्<br>एकांशेन स्थितो जगत् <p>atha vā bahunaitena<br>kiṁ jñātena tavārjuna<br>viṣṭabhyāham idaṁ kṛtsnam<br>ekāṁśena sthito jagat <p> <blockquote> <p>“I came across something recently that I found interesting. It was in an online discussion forum. I am well aware of how out of control those can get, but this was in the context of the medical community reversing course on the use of face coverings to prevent the spread of contagious illness. <p>“What happened is that one of the top scientists got exposed. Through internal communications leaked to the public, it was learned that the scientist himself did not think that the coverings were effective. This is newsworthy considering that he has been one of the more vocal proponents for their use. In effect, there is a difference between what he says to the public and what he actually thinks from the scientific perspective. <p>“In this online discussion, someone commented that science is nothing more than man’s attempt to decode God’s creation. I found that so interesting because it really is true. I had never heard someone phrase it that way before, but it pays such a high compliment to the Almighty. <p>“Everything is already there. I know that the Sanskrit equivalent is <em>pradhana</em>. This is the unmanifest material substance. Then the Supreme Personality of Godhead, who is past, present and future, glances over the <em>pradhana</em>. This instigates a chain reaction which ultimately leads to the many universes and their component populations of living beings, large and small, moving and nonmoving. <p>“A person may argue that while God is certainly the origin, there is no harm in trying to study His creation. Even if scientists are merely trying to decode what is already there, just see the benefit extracted. Mankind has come a long way since the primitive stages, when it wasn’t even aware of so many aspects that science brings to us today. <p>“Is it really necessary, though? Has anything really changed? What has man gained from discovering many puzzle pieces? Everyone still dies. People are still suffering. Is there a balance that is necessary in a conversation like this?”</p></blockquote> <p><a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/lord-krishna/">Shri Krishna</a> explains that the detailed knowledge of the creation and the universes, both at the collective and individual levels, is not really necessary. This is in terms of understanding in a separate way, such as appreciating the beautiful flowers of spring, the bright full moon of autumn, and the naturally occurring waterfalls. <p>It is not that we should be ignorant of the world around us. There is no need to close our eyes and hide in a closet. Rather, knowing that the Supreme Lord is everywhere is enough. Shri Krishna, the all-attractive one, is responsible for everything. I can search out who, what, where, when and why about various aspects of the creation, but this information will not make a lasting positive impact. <p>The connection to Krishna will. Hearing about Him on a daily basis is like drinking refreshing nectar from a pot that is self-serving. It refills on its own; no outside intervention required. This puts a new perspective on the repeating days. Rather than dreading the upcoming future of hard work, fatigue, and never-ending responsibilities, I welcome the opportunity to again savor the transcendental taste made possible through the connection to the origin of everything. <p>There is no harm in being curious about the world in which we live. It is not a strike against us to be inquisitive about how things work, where they came from, and what will occur in the future. The key is to remember the center of everything. The Supreme Lord is the source, and the more we discover about His amazing creation, the more conduits we have to appreciation, which can expand to an infinite degree. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>Objects of nature not alone,<br>That magically as brilliant known. <p>From a creator first coming,<br>From seed to maturity becoming. <p>Better to understand Him complete,<br>Otherwise time our discovery to defeat. <p>When knowing Shri Krishna so,<br>Endless appreciation to flow.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-91861559764766501222021-08-11T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-11T21:00:00.326-04:00Enjoying With Many<p><strong>“There is no work that affects Me; nor do I aspire for the fruits of action. One who understands this truth about Me also does not become entangled in the fruitive reactions of work.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 4.14)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/zz67de/20210811Enjoying_With_Manybex5p.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>न मां कर्माणि लिम्पन्ति<br>न मे कर्म-फले स्पृहा<br>इति मां यो ऽभिजानाति<br>कर्मभिर् न स बध्यते</p> <p>na māṁ karmāṇi limpanti<br>na me karma-phale spṛhā<br>iti māṁ yo 'bhijānāti<br>karmabhir na sa badhyate <p> <p>As the <em>acharyas</em> explain, the Supreme Personality of Godhead is never alone. Although He is <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2010/07/07/atmarama/">atmarama</a> and satisfied in Himself, there are associates close by. This is true both in the spiritual realm of Vaikuntha and also in the analogous dealings in the material world, during the period for Divine descents known as <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2010/02/19/avatara/">avataras</a>. <p>As Krishna explains in <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/bhagavad-gita-as-it-is/">Bhagavad-gita</a>, there is no work that binds Him. Though He may be married in an official ceremony to Rukmini Devi, He is not bound by duty. It is not imperative on Him to lift the heavy <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/category/govardhana/">Govardhana</a> Hill for the rescue of the people of Vrindavana. <p>He is not forced into the <em>rasa-lila</em>, the dance with the <em>gopis</em> under the bright moon of autumn. He takes pleasure in this enjoyment because it is in the nature of pleasure to have associates. This is one of the reasons given for the expansions of the Almighty, known as <em>amshas</em>. <blockquote> <p>ममैवांशो जीवलोके जीवभूतः सनातनः।<br>मनःषष्ठानीन्द्रियाणि प्रकृतिस्थानि कर्षति।। <p>mamaivāṃśo jīvaloke jīvabhūtaḥ sanātanaḥ।<br>manaḥṣaṣṭhānīndriyāṇi prakṛtisthāni karṣati।। <p>“The living entities in this conditioned world are My eternal, fragmental parts. Due to conditioned life, they are struggling very hard with the six senses, which include the mind.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 15.7)</p></blockquote> <p>As a living entity I am part and parcel of the Supreme. I am like a sample of God; equal in quality but vastly inferior in the complete comparison. I live through the various changes to the body. From boyhood to youth to old age, I am the same person inside. <blockquote> <p>देहिनो ऽस्मिन् यथा देहे<br>कौमारं यौवनं जरा<br>तथा देहान्तर-प्राप्तिर्<br>धीरस् तत्र न मुह्यति <p>dehino ‘smin yathā dehe<br>kaumāraṁ yauvanaṁ jarā<br>tathā dehāntara-prāptir<br>dhīras tatra na muhyati <p>“As the embodied soul continually passes, in this body, from boyhood to youth to old age, the soul similarly passes into another body at death. The self-realized soul is not bewildered by such a change.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 2.13)</p></blockquote> <p>The Supreme Lord is similarly unchanged despite the shifting visuals in the manifest form. The difference is that He is never subject to the rules of <em>karma</em>, whereas I am forced to enjoy or suffer based on my actions. I have to intentionally choose a path that will bring <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/category/liberation/">liberation</a>. <em>Dharma</em> is an option for me, whereas Krishna is the embodiment of <em>dharma</em>. <p>I am vulnerable to the illusory energy known as <em>maya</em>. I mistake a snake for a rope and vice versa. I fall prey to sadness and despondency based on how others treat me, even though I will not maintain their association for long. I hope and pray for a better birth in the future, but for God there is never such concern. He is always in the superior position. <p>Bhagavan has associates and enjoys with them for His benefit and theirs. He is never affected by the work, since He is originally responsible for the creation of the universes. If I engage in strenuous activity to set up an establishment, I likely will suffer or enjoy as a result. Even if I wash my hands completely of the affair, there is still the impact to my psyche based on the period of engagement. <p>Vishnu creates, maintains and annihilates the universes so effortlessly that it is almost like He doesn’t notice. He is lying down in rest, and with every cycle of exhaling and inhaling, everything happens that we consider amazing. A brief moment for Him is billions of years in our human estimation. <p>I am thankful that He prefers to enjoy with others, for since He is unlimited there is never a quota in terms of associates. Though He already has the best eternal consort in the goddess of fortune, He is open to accepting my service. Though He has the best brothers and therefore never is in need of companionship, He will always remain my well-wishing friend. <p>He is the best companion in that regard, and I can spend the rest of my time thanking Him for the attention. I appreciate His causeless mercy through activities that keep me connected to Him in consciousness, such as with the <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/teachings/chanting/">chanting</a> of the holy names: <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2009/12/30/hare-krishna/">Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare</a>. <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>Never with quota to fill,<br>Room for more associates still. <p>So that eligible am I,<br>If fervently to try. <p>The devotional way,<br>Where faithfully to pray. <p>Then companion of mine,<br>Inside and outside to find.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8621528010848525557.post-40894243355353789502021-08-10T21:00:00.000-04:002021-08-10T21:00:00.346-04:00Man's Attempt To Decode God's Creation<p><strong>“Out of many thousands among men, one may endeavor for perfection, and of those who have achieved perfection, hardly one knows Me in truth.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 7.3)</strong> <p><a href="https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/d9mrs2/20210810Man_s_Attempt_To_Decode_God_s_Creationbhpf2.mp3">Download this episode (right click and save)</a> <p>मनुष्याणां सहस्रेषु<br>कश्चिद् यतति सिद्धये<br>यतताम् अपि सिद्धानां<br>कश्चिन् मां वेत्ति तत्त्वतः <p>manuṣyāṇāṁ sahasreṣu<br>kaścid yatati siddhaye<br>yatatām api siddhānāṁ<br>kaścin māṁ vetti tattvataḥ <p> <blockquote> <p>“Is anyone else getting sick and tired of being reprimanded for their skepticism of the experts? I keep hearing them tell me to ‘trust the science,’ but when a new study comes out that debunks their previously, strongly held belief, they ignore it. <p>“These same people love to denigrate <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/2010/04/30/religion-and-spirituality/">religion</a>, to label people as belonging to the stone ages, for relying on faith alone. But the way I see it, these leaders are the ones imposing faith and allegiance. The deities in this religion of science, as I call it, are tremendously flawed. They lie. They cheat. They are duplicitous. <p>“For many months one leading scientist kept telling us that a certain public health issue afflicting the planet at the moment has unknown origins. Then later on someone unearths emails from this official wherein he openly admits to knowing the origins. <p>“Why was he lying this entire time? Why are people ignoring the science? Why this need to deify something that is observation and experiment? Why is there a struggle to simply search out the truth? Where does religion really fit into all of this?”</p></blockquote> <p>A person might say that science, as it is understood today, is nothing more than an attempt to decode God’s creation. For instance, we say that such and such person discovered gravity. They were resting comfortably underneath a tree one day when an apple fell and hit them on the head. <p>This sparked the interest to uncover the cause. Why did the apple fall? At what rate was the descent? Will every object fall in a similar way? Is there a singular force that holds everything together, which keeps us from floating in outer space? <p>Hence a wise scientist, blessed with tremendous intelligence, discovers gravity. He publishes his findings and the world is better off for it. The scientist is a hero in many circles, but something is amiss. What about credit to the person who <em>created</em> gravity? Should not they be considered more intelligent? <p>His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/his-divine-grace-a-c-bhaktivedanta-swami-prabhupada/">Prabhupada</a> often describes <em>sanatana-dharma</em> as the science of self-realization. The specific use of the word is intentional, to appeal to basic scientific principles as we know them, such as the properties of fire, water, earth, sky and so forth. Two plus two is always four; this is a law of science, though perhaps a basic one. <p>In the same way, spiritual life incorporates many scientific principles. Fortunately, they do not have to be discovered. They are passed down from the original person, who happens to be the creator of the natural world. This means that He is the basis for modern science, although someone may not come upon that discovery for a long time, if ever. <p>To understand the science of self-realization is not easy. After accepting the principles passed down through the generations, the student can make a test. For instance, they can witness for themselves if an individual remains unchanged through the transmigration of the soul, with the changing bodies. <blockquote> <p>देहिनो ऽस्मिन् यथा देहे<br>कौमारं यौवनं जरा<br>तथा देहान्तर-प्राप्तिर्<br>धीरस् तत्र न मुह्यति <p>dehino ‘smin yathā dehe<br>kaumāraṁ yauvanaṁ jarā<br>tathā dehāntara-prāptir<br>dhīras tatra na muhyati <p>“As the embodied soul continually passes, in this body, from boyhood to youth to old age, the soul similarly passes into another body at death. The self-realized soul is not bewildered by such a change.” (Lord Krishna, Bhagavad-gita, 2.13)</p></blockquote> <p>They can test the hypothesis that uncontrolled desire, turning into wrath, is the all-devouring enemy of this world. They can study whether certain actions are actually not actions at all, <em>akarma</em>, and vice versa. They can see if attempting to connect with the source of the material and spiritual worlds has a positive influence on the manner of living moving forward. <p>Out of many thousands of men, barely anyone will try to achieve perfection in the science. Out of those who succeed, hardly anyone will know the Almighty in truth. This is another way of saying that decoding the entire creation of God is next to impossible. He cannot be known with full precision because He is everything and more. Even if we were to survey the landscape of the entire universe, that would not fully encompass the potency of the one who is everywhere but also aloof from His creation. <blockquote> <p>मया ततम् इदं सर्वं<br>जगद् अव्यक्त-मूर्तिना<br>मत्-स्थानि सर्व-भूतानि<br>न चाहं तेष्व् अवस्थितः <p>mayā tatam idaṁ sarvaṁ<br>jagad avyakta-mūrtinā<br>mat-sthāni sarva-bhūtāni<br>na cāhaṁ teṣv avasthitaḥ <p>“By Me, in My unmanifested form, this entire universe is pervaded. All beings are in Me, but I am not in them.” (Lord Krishna, <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/bhagavad-gita-as-it-is/">Bhagavad-gita</a>, 9.4)</p></blockquote> <p>The theological science is difficult to understand, and normally there are high requirements for even being admitted to the academic study, but thanks to the merciful <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/worship/krishna-dwaipayana-vyasa/">Vyasadeva</a> even the layperson has a chance at understanding God. <blockquote> <p>“Shrimad-Bhagavatam is the topmost theological science, and therefore it can react on the laymen as medicinal doses. Because it contains the transcendental activities of the Lord, there is no difference between the Lord and the literature. The literature is the factual literary incarnation of the Lord.” (Shrila Prabhupada, <a href="http://krishnasmercy.com/book-recommendations/shrimad-bhagavatam/">Shrimad Bhagavatam</a>, 1.5.16 Purport)</p></blockquote> <p><strong>In Closing</strong>: <p>Pursuit of science unrelenting,<br>To decode God’s creation attempting. <p>But with dharma can make a test,<br>To see which system is best. <p>That body really changing so,<br>And the same identity to know. <p>That <em>kama</em> with <em>krodha</em> leading,<br>To anger and wrath proceeding.</p>KrishnasMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08622717481432804082noreply@blogger.com0