Official Ramakanta vs. IRM discussion thread

[Guest guest]

Posted by Yaduraja on Dec 05, 2006:

 

Dear Ramakanta Prabhu,

PAMHO. AGTSP!

You ask an intelligent question at last:

 

> Is the initiation ceremony the initiation itself?

 

No, it is a formality that marks the beginning of the process of diksa which

may take many lifetimes, as I already explained:

 

"Diksa actually means *initiating* a disciple *with transcendental

knowledge* by which he becomes freed from all material contamination."

(Madhya-lila, 4:112, Purport)

 

Since we now both agree the spiritual master does not have to be physically

present at the initiation ceremony, the next issue is:

 

‘Does the spiritual master have to be physically present to impart

‘transcendental knowledge’- the definition of diksa’?

 

Obviously if he did then none of Srila Prabhupada’s original disciples have

had a diksa guru for nearly 30 years.

 

So do you accept that Srila Prabhupada can still impart ‘transcendental

knowledge’ to disciples, yes or no will be fine?

 

Best wishes

Ys

Yadu

 

P.S. my question of course refers to disciples on this planet.