Vaishvana Etiquette

Govindaram · January 27, 2004

Introductory Class Lecture given by His Holiness Bhakti Caru Swami

I'd like to welcome you all to our classes on Vaisnava Etiquette.

Thank you for coming. I'll begin by reading some quotes from Caitanya

Caritamrta, the instructions of Caitanya Mahaprabhu to Sanatana Goswami,

on sadacara--the activities of a Vaisnava.

Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu instructed Sanatana Gosvami to write

"Vaisnava Smrti" (Hari Bhakti Vilasa) in CC. Madhya lila 24.324- 344:

Folding his hands, Sanatana Gosvami said, "My Lord, You ordered me

to write a directory about the activities of Vaisnavas. I am a most

lowborn person. I have no knowledge of good behavior. How is it possible

for me to write authorized directions about Vaisnava activities?"

Sanatana Gosvami then requested the Lord, "Please personally tell me

how I can write this difficult book about Vaisnava behavior. Please

manifest Yourself in my heart. If You would please manifest Yourself

within my heart and personally direct me in writing this book, then,

although I am lowborn, I may hope to be able to write it. You can do

this because You are the Supreme Personality of Godhead Yourself and

whatever You direct is perfect."

Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu replied, "Whatever you want to do you will

be able to do correctly by Lord Krsna's favor. He will manifest the real

purport. Because you asked Me for a synopsis, please hear these few

indications. In the beginning one must take shelter of a bona fide

spiritual master. In your book there should be the characteristics of

the bona fide guru and the bona fide disciple. Then, before accepting a

spiritual master, one can be assured of the spiritual master's position.

Similarly, the spiritual master can also be assured of the disciple's

position. The Supreme Personality of Godhead, Krsna, should be described

as the worshipable object, and you should consider the (bija) mantra for

the worship of Krsna, Rama, or any other expansion of the Supreme

Personality of Godhead.

"You should discuss the qualifications necessary for receiving a

mantra, the perfection of the mantra, the purification of the mantra,

initiation, morning duties, remembrance of the Supreme Lord,

cleanliness, and washing the mouth and other parts of the body. In the

morning, one should regularly brush his teeth, take his bath, offer

prayers to the Lord and offer obeisances to the spiritual master. One

should render service to the spiritual master and paint one's body in

twelve places with urdhva pundra [tilaka]. One should stamp the holy

names of the Lord on his body, or one should stamp the symbols of the

Lord, such as the disc and club.

"After this, you should describe how one should decorate his body

with gopicandana, wear neck beads, collect tulasi leaves from the tulasi

tree, cleanse his cloth and the altar, cleanse one's own house or

apartment and go to the temple and ring the bell just to draw the

attention of Lord Krsna.

"Also describe the Deity worship, wherein one should offer food to

Krsna at least five times daily. One should in due time place Krsna on a

bed. You should also describe the process for offering arati and the

worship of the Lord according to the list of five, sixteen or fifty

ingredients.

"The characteristics of the Deities should be discussed as well as

the characteristics of the salagrama sila. One should also discuss

visiting the Deities in the temple and touring holy places like

Vrndavana, Mathura, and Dvaraka.

"You should glorify the holy name and carefully give up offenses

when chanting the holy name. One should know the symptoms of a

Vaisnava. One must give up or nullify all kinds of seva-aparadha,

offenses in Deity worship.

"The items of worship, such as water, conchshell, flowers, incense

and lamp, should be described. You should also mention chanting softly,

offering prayers, circumambulation, and offering obeisances. All these

should be carefully studied.

"Other items to be considered are the method of performing

purascarana (purification), taking krsna-prasada, giving up unoffered

food and not blaspheming the Lord's devotees."

This is also a very important point that devotees should remember.

A Vaisnava is not suppose to take anything that has not been offered to

Krsna. We should be very careful about that. Because I have seen

practically all over the world we are developing a tendency to eat

things that are not offered. The only consideration has become if the

food is vegetarian. But we are supposed to only take Krsna prasada.

Try to avoid it as much as possible. When you are traveling or if

you are on sankirtana, then it is different. But still try to offer

everything to Krsna before you take it.

"One should know the symptoms of a devotee and how to associate

with devotees. One should know how to satisfy the devotee by rendering

services, and one should know how to give up the association of

nondevotees. One should also regularly hear the recitation of

Srimad-Bhagavatam."

We can see how Prabhupada actually implemented all of these

instructions of Sanatana Gosvami in our Society.

"You should describe the ritualistic duties of every day, and you

should describe the fortnightly duties - especially observing Ekadasi

fast, which comes every fortnight."

Now here also it's an important thing to consider, like we

generally think that just by not taking grains we are observing Ekadasi.

But actually when we talk about observing Ekadasi, it actually means

fasting. And fasting means not taking anything. Fasting does not

necessarily mean just fasting from grains. In the beginning of course,

devotees may just abstain from grains on Ekadasi day. But as one makes

advancement, one should try to fast completely. Also as it has been

described that one may also stay awake for 24 hours. Stay up during the

day and the night.

When I give class on observing Ekadasi, devotees often raise the

point that Prabhupada never really instructed us to observe Ekadasi in

this way. But actually in the Nectar of Devotion Prabhupada says that

devotees may stay awake the whole night singing the glories of the Lord

fasting. So Prabhupada actually did instruct us to stay up all night as

well. It's actually not a very difficult thing.

"You should recommend the avoidance of mixed Ekadasi and the

performance of pure Ekadasi."

Perhaps you've noticed that sometimes we don't fast on the Ekadasi

but we fast on the Dvadasi. The reason we do this is that the Ekadasi

is mixed. That is, dasami enters into Ekadasi. When the tenth day

overlaps the eleventh day it is to be mixed or penetrated. And one does

not fast on that Ekadasi but instead fasts on the next day which is

Dvadasi, the twelfth day. And it has been described that fasting on a

Maha-Dvadasi is a thousand times more potent then fasting on an Ekadasi.

"You should also describe the fault in not observing this. One

should be very careful as far as these items are concerned. If one is

not careful, one will be negligent in executing devotional service.

"Whatever you say about Vaisnava behavior, the establishment of

Vaisnava temples and Deities and everything else should be supported by

evidence from the Puranas.

"You should give general and specific descriptions of the behavior

and activities of a Vaisnava. You should outline things that are to be

done and things that are not to be done. All this should be described

as regulations and etiquettes."

Here are some other quotes from Srila Prabhupada on etiquette:

"All the inhabitants of Vrndavana are Vaisnavas. They are

all-auspicious because somehow or other they always chant the holy name

of Krsna." CC Adi 5.232 Purport

So here we also must understand one thing that all of the devotees

in ISKCON are Vaisnavas because somehow or other they are chanting the

holy name. Prabhupada is giving the qualification of a Vaisnava. One

should consider all of the inhabitants of Vrndavan Vaisnavas. Why?

Because somehow or other they chant the holy name of the Lord. So what

to talk of the devotees of ISKCON, we should be very respectful of all

of the devotees knowing well that they are all Vaisnavas.

The biggest hindrance to our spiritual progress is Vaisnava

aparadha. It's actually a very dangerous offense. We must be very

careful about committing Vaisnava aparadha.

"Even though some of them do not strictly follow the rules and

regulations of devotional service, on the whole they are devotees of

Krsna and chant His name directly or indirectly."

This is a very important instruction. Actually the whole Vaisnava

etiquette or the whole Vaisnava culture is founded on this principle.

CC Adi 7.50 Purport: "A Vaisnava should be tolerant like a tree and

submissive like grass."

"Nevertheless the author of this instruction, Caitanya Mahaprabhu,

did not tolerate the misbehavior of Jagai and Madhai. When they

harassed Nityananda Prabhu, He immediately became angry and wanted to

kill them. One should be very meek and humble in his personal

transactions, but if there is blasphemy against one's guru or another

Vaisnava, one should be angry as fire. One should not tolerate

blasphemy against a Vaisnava but should immediately take one of three

actions. If someone blasphemes a Vaisnava, one should stop him with

higher arguments and higher reason. If one is not expert enough to do

this he should give up his life on the spot, and if he cannot do this,

he must go away. But we should never listen to blasphemy against a

Vaisnava."

Although Vaisnavas are very humble and tolerant, that is not

weakness. Vaisnavas are not weak. Vaisnavas are as hard as a

thunderbolt. If it is necessary they can become as violent as a lion, a

soft as a rose petal and he's as hard as a thunderbolt. A Vaisnava is

not only soft, but if necessary he can become hard. That shows that

Vaisnavas are not weaklings. Vaisnavas are very, very powerful. Both

physically and spiritually. Actually it is the spiritual power that

endows them with the physical power.

Vaisnavas should not be disrespectful to anyone. One should always

be respectful to others but should not demand respect for himself.

"amanina manadena"

A Vaisnava is adosa darsi. A Vaisnava never sees other's faults.

Of course, every human being has good qualities and faults. Therefore,

it is said "sadyana guna mitsanti." A Vaisnava accepts only a man's

glories and not his faults. "Adosa darsi" means one who does not find

faults in others. He simply sees the other's good qualities and he

finds faults with himself. He is very strict with himself and he is

always watching himself very scrutinizingly, detecting all of the

defects he has in himself.

A Vaisnava always follows the order of guru and Krsna. Anyone who

attempts to write about Krsna, must first take permission from the guru

and Krsna. One must first become a pure devotee and then he must take

permission from the spiritual master and that permission must be

confirmed by Krsna from within his heart.

Sanatana Goswami followed the instructions of Caitanya Mahaprabhu and

wrote a book on Vaisnava Etiquette. This book is the guidebook that

directs a Vaisnava's activities. The Hari Bhakti Vilasa describes

Vaisnava etiquette as the behavior of a pure Vaisnava. Everybody should

follow that standard. Here is how the Hari Bhakti Vilas defines Vaisnava

etiquette, its philosophy, and some basic Vaisnava principles.

"Since nothing can be successful without "sadachar" or etiquette,

every action should be performed with proper etiquette." We must act

according to proper etiquette. The heart of a saintly person is free

from contamination. The way a saintly person acts is known as proper

etiquette. A way a saintly person acts is know as "sadacara."

"If a person reads the six branches of the Vedas without practicing

proper etiquette, he does not get purified, just as a bird flies away

from the nest as soon as it grows wings, the Vedas leave him at the time

of his death.

"Although one may have acquired the knowledge of all of the Vedas,

but if one is not practicing the proper etiquette or if he did not

become a Vaisnava, then all of this knowledge which he has acquired,

will be lost at the time of death.

"Proper etiquette increases fame, opulence, longevity and destroys

all inauspiciousness.

"O king, proper etiquette gives the results of dharma, artha and

kama. Therefore a wise man very carefully performs the proper etiquette

described in the scriptures.

"Thus one can understand that Vaisnava etiquette purifies the heart

and the consciousness."

Govindaram · January 27, 2004

Now here are some basic principles and points that I've compiled

from Hari Bhakti Vilas and the Nectar of Devotion about the proper

activities of one who is a Vaisnava. A Vaisnava -

l. Offers respect and obeisances to the guru, to the Lord and His

devotees, and to other superiors.

One must offer respect and obeisances to the superiors, like

the guru, the Lord and His devotees. We must also respect

superior relatives, like the parents.

2. Get up before 4 a.m. and attend mangala-arati.

3. After waking up, first brush your teeth and afterwards take a

bath.

4. Bathe after passing stool.

5. Wash with water after passing urine. Also wash hands and

feet.

6. Wash hands, feet, and mouth before and after taking prasadam.

We must at least wash our hands. In the Western countries it

may be difficult to wash our feet. But when in India, you

should wash both your hands and your feet before and after

taking prasada.

7. Wash hands after drinking water.

This is done because when your hold your cup while drinking,

your hands actually become contaminated.

8. Use the right hand for eating and drinking. Even if you are a

lefty, try to use your right hand.

9. Always wear clean clothes.

10. Never steal anything.

11. Never use unpleasant words.

12. Never tell a lie, even if it is pleasant.

That is don't even tell a pleasant lie.

13. Never speak ill of others.

14. Do not become inimical to others.

15. Do not develop friendship with people who are envious, fallen,

insane, inimical, extravagant, deceptive, lying or illicitly

related with women. Do not develop friendship with unchaste

women.

16. Do not travel alone.

17. Do not sneeze or yawn without covering the mouth.

18. Do not laugh loudly.

19. Do not pass air loudly.

20. Always avoid a crematorium, a garden, and unchaste women at

night.

21. Do not take shelter of a fallen person.

22. Neither sleep too much nor stay awake too much.

23. Do not outstretch your legs in front of your elders.

24. Do not pass urine or stool on the road.

25. Do not spit while eating.

26. Do not insult women.

27. Do not become envious of women.

28. Never cause any harm to anyone; instead, always try to do good

to others.

29. Do not associate with unscrupulous people or read "scriptures"

that are not bona fide.

Scriptures are in quotes, which means they are so-called

scriptures.

30. Do not mock people who are foolish, insane, distressed, ugly,

cunning, lame, or fallen.

31. Do not chastise anyone except sons and disciples to educate

them.

32. Bathe after shaving, copulating, or going to a crematorium.

33. Do not hit anyone on the head or pull anyone by the hair.

34. Do not eat yogurt or chickpea flour at night.

Actually Prabhupada instructed us about yogurt but we are not

so sure about the chickpeas. So you be careful about that

now. Don't eat chickpeas at night. In the morning they are

good, but not at night.

35. If someone insults you, leave the place silently.

36. Never praise yourself.

37. Never look at a naked woman or man.

38. Do not place your foodstuffs on your lap to eat.

39. Do not quarrel with your wife.

40. Do not spit on water.

Because people sometimes drink water from ponds or lakes or

rivers, one should not spit on water.

41. Do not sleep in the temple room.

42. Sannyasis should bathe three times a day, grhasthas and

brahmacaris at least twice a day.

43. After one takes prasadam the area where the plate was kept

must be cleared. One should not step over the area where

prasadam was taken, because it is considered contaminated.

I have noticed in many temples that after we take prasada, which is

usually on the floor, we just step all over. Then without even washing

our feet we enter into the temple room. So one should be careful about

that. The place where we take prasadam becomes contaminated. And if

you step on that spot, then you must wash your feet. The place where

the prasadam has been taken, must be cleaned right after the prasadam

has been taken. Because the temple must be very clean, we should be

careful that we do not unnecessarily contaminate the temple.

44. After touching the inside of the mouth or nose, one must wash

his hands.

45. After putting on tilaka, one must do acaman by saying "om

kesavaya namah,om narayanaya namah," and "om madhavaya

namah."

So those are some of the basic principles by which a Vaisnava acts.

We'll be going over many of these points in detail later in our classes.

Becoming a Vaisnava Devotee of Krsna

1. We are all infinitesimal parts and parcels of Sri Krsna. As our

Krsna consciousness evolves we will naturally develop and manifest

all divine qualities.

2. The Supreme process for developing such Krsna consciousness is the

chanting of the Holy Name.

3. Becoming a pure devotee is not a cheap thing. We must guard against

imitation and strictly follow in the footsteps of Srila Prabhupada.

4. The qualities of a pure devotee like Srila Prabhupada are far beyond

our present grasp. However, in their compassion, Sri Krsna and the

Vaisnavas have made both the principle and the process very clear

and simple.

5. Sri Krsna in B.G. 12.13-20 tells us quite plainly which qualities

are dear to Him:

(a) "One who is not envious but who is a kind friend to all living

entities, who does not think himself a proprietor, who is free

from false ego and equal both in happiness and distress, who is

always satisfied and engaged in devotional service with

determination, his mind and intelligence are in agreement with

Me - he is very dear to Me." (BG 12.13-14)

(b) "He for whom no one is put into difficulty and who is not

disturbed by anxiety, who is steady in happiness and distress,

is very dear to Me." (BG 12.15)

activities, who is pure, expert, without cares, free from all

pains, and who does not strive for some result, is very dear to

Me." (BG 12.16)

(d) "One who neither grasps pleasure nor grief, who neither laments

nor desires, and who renounces both auspicious and inauspicious

things, is very dear to Me." (BG 12.17)

(e) "One who is equal to friends and enemies, who is equipoised in

honor and dishonor, heat and cold, happiness and distress, fame

and infamy, who is always free from contamination, always silent

and satisfied with anything, who doesn't care for any residence,

who is fixed in knowledge and engaged in devotional service, is

very dear to Me." (BG 12.18-19)

(f) "He who follows this imperishable path of devotional service and

who completely engages himself with faith, making me the Supreme

goal, is very, very dear to Me." (BG 12.20)

6. How can we develop these qualities? Srila Rupa Goswami explained--

(a) be enthusiastic

(b) endeavour with confidence

(d) act according to regulative principles (such as sravanam

kirtanam visnoh smaranam - hearing, chanting and remembering Krsna)

(e) abandon the association of nondevotees

(f) follow in the footsteps of the previous acaryas

(Nectar of Instruction Text 3)

7. He also elucidates those practices which will hinder our Krsna

conscious development:

(a) eating more than necessary or collecting more funds than

required

(b) overendeavouring for mundane things that are very difficult to

obtain

(d) practicing the scriptural rules and regulations only for the

sake of following them and not for the sake of spiritual

advancement, or rejecting the rules and regulations of the

scriptures and working independently or whimsically

(e) associating with worldly-minded persons who are not interested

in Krsna consciousness (f) being greedy for mundane

achievements.

8. Srila Prabhupada, being as practical as he is compassionate, has

provided a very clear and simple check list by which we can assess

our progress in Krsna consciousness. Please read Bhagavad-gita

Chapter 13, Verses 8-12.

9. The process for developing our Krsna consciousness is profoundly

simple and straightforward. If we sincerely take shelter of the

lotus feet of the Vaisnavas, and intensely desire to achieve the

goal, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu will undoubtedly shower His mercy upon

us.

10. All the divine qualities are there in the spirit soul. Therefore as

we come closer to our spiritual identity, these qualities naturally

become manifest.

Govindaram · January 27, 2004

Basic Principles of Vaisnava Behavior

Vaisnava etiquettes are not superficial or inessential.

"Having heard all these details, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, greatly

pleased, spoke as follows: (Cc Antya 4.128-30)

tathapi bhakta-svabhava -- maryada-raksana

maryada-palana haya sadhura bhusana

"My dear Sanatana, although you are the deliverer of the entire universe

and although even the demigods and great saints are purified by touching

you, it is the characteristic of a devotee to observe and the protect

the Vaisnava etiquette. Maintenance of the Vaisnava etiquette is the

ornament of a devotee."

[so it is stated, "Etiquette is the ornament of a Vaisnava." But what

does this mean? Is etiquette something only external or optional? We

could draw an analogy: Is it possible to be wealthy, but have no riches?

Or what is the value of wealth if one uses no costly ornaments?

Generally, one will decorate himself according to the degree of his

wealth. If one is very rich, he will be adorned with only the finest of

raiments and accessories. Similarly, for one who is profound in his

Krsna consciousness, the jewels of Vaisnava etiquette will naturally

grace all of his dealings and activities. The characteristics of a

devotee are always sublimely manifest in all of his actions. The depth

of a Vaisnava is judged by his symptoms. The true devotee will therefore

adorn himself unsparingly with the decorum of a Vaisnava in all

respects.

Etiquette [Dictionary Definition]: 1) conventional requirements as to

social behavior; 2) the code of ethics of a profession.

Accepting the identity of a Vaisnava necessitates a certain standard of

behavior or etiquette. Vaisnava etiquette facilitates Krsna

consciousness. It provides the criteria -- the protocol -- by which a

devotee can act properly in every situation. In the B.G. (6.24 purport),

quoting from verse 3 of the Upadesamrta, Srila Prabhupada roughly

paraphrases one of the items favorable for development of devotional

service as, "by engaging completely in activities of goodness."

Practicing Vaisnava etiquette means always acting in the mode of

goodness, which is a stepping-stone to the transcendental plane. The

mode of goodness is conducive to self-realization, whereas ignorance and

passion are not. Therefore, how one applies the principles of Vaisnava

etiquette reflects whether a devotee is Krsna conscious or not: ie., Is

he humble? conscientious? well-mannered? disciplined? cultured?

...sensitive? Someone who is actually a devotee will be known by how

much he displays the good qualities.

Quotes from Srila Prabhupada

A Vaisnava is Better Than a Brahmana

"Brahminical life means to be very, very clean, inside and out. Inside

by chanting and hearing, and outside by bathing three times daily, if

not possible at least two times, but never less than once. Bathing after

passing stool. The qualifications of the brahmanas are described in the

18th Chapter of B.G. verse 42: "Peacefulness, self-control, austerity,

purity, tolerance, honesty, wisdom, knowledge, and religiousness --

these are the qualities by which the brahmanas work." So see that these

instructions are being followed nicely."

Not Associating with Materialistic Persons

[in regard to brainwashing] Ramesvara: They claim that our life style

tends to take the devotee and isolate him from the world.Yes," said

P, "We hate to mix with you. No gentleman tries to mix with loafers.

Crows will not like to live with the ducks and white swans; and white

swans will not like to live with the crows. That is natural division.

Birds of the same feather flock together." (SP Lil.VI, pg 222)

The Feet

The feet should not touch (or even be exposed to) anyone or anything

(especially sacred items). That is offensive. Basically, the feet touch

only the floor. Otherwise, they are kept covered. One should not step

over (or reach over) anyone

a) while they are offering obeisances (eg., before the vyasasana)

b) while they are sitting (as in the temple room)

Slamming Doors

The slamming of doors, although seemingly a minor fault, greatly

disturbed Srila Prabhupada. It symptomized carelessness and misuse, and

Prabhupada said the sound cracked his heart. One time Prabhupada came

out of his room and called out, "Who is that slamming the doors? No one

knows from where this building has come. You take it for granted, that

it is here. But no one cares." (SP Lil.V, p.144)

Stealing

* SP Letter to Pradyumna VE (1/22/68) Don't steal

"But so far as stealing is concerned, one should not steal except in the

rarest circumstances. Moral principle is recommended in all scriptures

as a prerequisite for spiritual culture."

More on the Behavior of a Vaisnava

"It is the characteristic of a devotee to observe and protect the

Vaisnava etiquette. Maintenance of the Vaisnava etiquette is the

ornament of a devotee." Cc. Antya-Lila 4.129-130.

1. The consciousness of a devotee is manifested by his actions.

2. If one has any depth of realization, the jewels of Vaisnava

behaviour will naturally pace all of his dealings and activities.

3. We need to be aware that the vast majority of our exchanges are with

devotees and the innocent public. Aparadha is the only real

stumbling block in spiritual life. We must become fearful of

committing offence. This awareness will loan sobriety and gravity

to our behaviour. We will naturally become humble, Sri Caitanya

Mahaprabhu will become pleased, and we will make advancement without

serious obstruction.

4. Srila Prabhupada's reputation depends on our behaviour. In his

compassion he lifted us up from very degraded backgrounds. He was

even criticized by the less intelligent in India for doing so. In

order to maintain Srila Prabhupada's good name our behaviour should

be very exemplary.

Quotes from Srila Prabhupada

"Act in such a way that they will see we are of ideal character." -

Well-known SP quote: When asked, "How do you recognize a Vaisnava?" SP

replied, "He is a perfect gentleman."

(Cc Antya 102-3) Sanatana Goswami to Haridasa Thakura:

apane acara keha na kare pracara

pracara karena keha na karena acara

"Some behave very well but do not preach the cult of Krsna

consciousness, whereas others preach but do not behave properly."

acara pracara -- namera karaha dui karya

tumi -- sarva guru tumi jagatera arya

"You simultaneously perform both activities in relation to the Holy Name

by your personal behavior and by your preaching. Therefore you are the

most advanced devotee in the world."

"Better than the brahmana who knows the purpose of the Vedas is he who

can dissipate all doubts, and better than him is one who strictly

follows brahminical principles. Better than him is one who is liberated

from all material contamination, and better than him is a pure devotee,

who executes devotional service without expectation of reward." (S.B.

3.29.32)

SP Letter to Rupanuga (5/9/72) "Boil the Milk"

"Now I want that we shall concentrate on making our devotees Krishna

conscious and ourselves becoming Krishna conscious, and not be so much

concerned with expanding ourselves widely but without any spiritual

content. Just like boiling the milk, it becomes thicker and sweeter.

Now do like that, boil the milk."

To Patita Uddharan (12/12/74) "A devotee is always ideal in behavior."

So we all have to cooperate amongst ourselves, otherwise what will

people think if we ourselves fight with one another? A devotee is

always ideal in behavior."

SP Letter to Gargamuni (2/5/69) "Vaisnava Symptom is Humility"

"Your humble repentance is just like a Vaisnava student, so I thank you

very much for this humbleness. Lord Chaitanya taught us to be humbler

that the grass on the street and more tolerant that the tree. so these

symptoms are Vaisnava symptoms.

SP Letter to Dindayal (2/2/70)

"Krishna is so very merciful to those who are very humble in their

attitude engaged in service of the Lord. Lord Chaitanya advised,

therefore, one should be humbler than the straw and more tolerant than

the tree and thus be seriously engaged in glorifying the Lord. This

world is very awful. Anyone is ready to create some disturbance,

especially they are very much apt to disturb Krishna Consciousness

persons because that is the way of demoniac life. So, in order to

protect us from all dangerous elements, we have to chant the Hare

Krishna Mantra regularly being humbler than the straw and more tolerant

than the tree. Then Krishna, Who is Dindayal, will bestow His Mercy

upon us."

SP Letter to (8/18/70) Upendra

"You are good for everything but your attitude to remain good for

nothing is very nice. A Vaisnava is always humble and meek, and he is

never puffed-up, even he has got the highest qualities of demigods."

SP Letter to Janardan (1/21/68)

"So we have to be very careful in understanding Krishna Consciousness.

... To understand Krishna as He has spoken in the Bhagavad Gita or in

other Vedic literatures through the right sources of disciplic

succession, that is our real knowledge. The idea is everyone should try

to pace himself as if he doesn't know anything. His position is secure.

But as soon as he says that "I know everything, and I was previously

such and such...," that is actually rascal. So I know that you are

trying to know things from the real source, and you are not puffed up

like other fools who think that they know everything. Your humbleness

is very much appreciated by me."

"Otherwise, we may become subject to criticism"

SP Letter to Advaita (5/28/70)

"As I have already said many times that we have to maintain two lines

parallel; namely the path of Srimad Bhagavatam and the path of

Pancaratriki. Srimad Bhagavatam is the path for Paramahansas, and

Pancaratra path is for the neophytes. So the Temple worship is

necessary for the beginners so that by following the regulative

principles such devotees become more and more purified and thus

gradually come on the platform to understand Srimad Bhagavatam. So we

shall always keep these principles in view and maintain our centers on

this standard. Recently I have received one 'Kalyan' magazine in which

our activities in the Western world have been very much appreciated.

Especially they have appreciated my strong injunctions on the point of

following the four prohibitive regulations. So after describing our

activities, the editor has remarked in one place that things are going

very nicely at present, but it is God only Who knows how it will

continue in the future. This means that the Indians, or the rigid

followers of Vedic principles, are doubtful about my American and

European students about their sticking to these principles. So it is a

God-sent warning for us so that we may not deviate from the above

mentioned two lines of action and thus become subject to criticism by

the opposing elements."

"Our dealings with others must be very clear."

Letter to Bali Mardan (2/22/70)

SP Letter to Satsvarupa (8/19/69)

"Anyway, do things in good sense, without any disturbance. We have to

make progress very soberly, and I am always at your service whenever

required." [Therefore a serious devotee is always ready to take guidance

from superior/other Vaisnavas to understand the proper way of acting.]

"But we should never steal anything like money, food, water, gasoline,

etc., just to enhance our service to Krsna. That is too much dangerous,

and if we are caught then all our work is finished. Just like in India

recently, this Balyogi Guru Maharaji was detected by the customs

authorities attempting to smuggle some small items into India. By this

one tiny incident his entire effort for preaching - even he is rascal

Number One and his preaching is nonsense, even so the example is there -

his work is ruined now and he is practically finished, as the government

will not grant him a passport to leave India. So we shall always be

careful to avoid any kind of jeopardizing our high standing in the

society by some foolish and small act of illegal stealing." <Source N/A>

No Salaries

"The teacher and the pujari should never receive a salary. They must

work in pure devotion. The ksatriya also." (SP Lil.V, p.65-6)

Govindaram · January 27, 2004

Vaisnava Behavior is Inspiring for Everyone

SP Letter to Janardan (1/21/68) Humbleness is appreciated

SP Letter to Shivananda (9/14/68)

"This Krsna consciousness movement through music, philosophy, spiritual

culture, and personal behavior culminating in ideal character of the

devotees. All these heavenly contributions combined together will

certainly bring about a major change in the life of Western people."

SP Letter to Batu Gopal (2/1/75)

"You are right. We must all become ideal in character and then people

will become very impressed with such purity. A devotee is faultless --

he has no flaws."

But, on the other hand, if we don't follow:

SP Letter to Madhavi Lata (10/28/68)

"It is nice that you are doing preaching work there, but you should know

that such practices like stealing are against the principles of Krsna

consciousness. I always want that my students should be very ideal in

character and not discredit our society."

Letter to Sridama (7/8/70)

"It is very good you have received permission for chanting and

distributing literature as well as collecting. Now you should

concentrate to develop your spiritual power to attract the fallen souls

to Krsna consciousness. The daily regulative duties must be performed

by everyone very strictly: the beads chanted sixteen rounds, and our

literatures read and discussed. In this way, everything should be done

very nicely. Sankirtan should be done by you in the streets and at

gatherings and in this manner display what is this Krsna consciousness

movement and how it is for everyone's eternal welfare and happiness. So

you do all these with great enthusiasm and very carefully. Our all

activities must be open so that no one may criticize our mission. So all

dealings must be to the standard of Vaisnavism. We cannot misrepresent

ourselves for the purpose of taking monies from the public, but as

everything is undertaken forth rightly in a Krsna consciousness way,

then Lord Krsna will be pleased to provide all facilities for aiding our

such sincere service."

Etiquette within Relationships

1. The Vaisnava society is very meticulously structured, where seniors

are always respected by the juniors and juniors always receive the

seniors nicely.

2. The Vaisnava society is structured according to Varnasrama,

Brahmana, Ksatriya, Vaisya and Sudra; and Sannyasi, Vanaprastha,

Grhasta and Brahmachari.

3. There are considerations of seniority according to initiation among

Godbrothers. Devotees who have received initiation earlier are

considered senior.

4. The Guru's Godbrothers should be respected as the guru.

5. Sannyasis should always be respected as the guru.

6. In a Vaisnava society everyone tries to become humble. The more

advanced one is the more humble he becomes.

7. Sometimes senior Vaisnavas may offer respect to a junior Vaisnava

due to his humility, but a junior Vaisnava should never think that

he deserves that respect from all senior Vaisnavas. On the other

hand when a senior Vaisnava offers him respect then the junior

Vaisnava should feel extremely embarrassed, and repeatedly pray to

Krsna that He receives the respect.

8. One should always remember that his business is to become more

humble than a blade of grass, more tolerant than a tree, and

desiring no respect for himself he should offer all respect to

others.

9. Transgression of Vaisnava etiquette will undoubtedly destroy one's

spiritual life.

10. Never take sides when there is a disagreement among senior

Vaisnavas. Stay neutral because the quarrel among the Vaisnavas is

a kind of pastime and beyond our understanding.

11. Disciple should always respect his guru as God.

12. Preachers should have compassion upon the innocent souls but avoid

offenders.

Quotes from Srila Prabhupada

Use of Titles

"One thing you may note also as a matter of etiquette. The Spiritual

Master is addressed as His Divine Grace, a Godbrother is addressed as

His Grace, and any sannyasin is addressed as His Holiness." (SP letter

to Rayarama 91/30/67)

Dealing with Godbrothers

- Definition of "Prabhu": SP, "You should not just use it mechanically;

you should meaningfully apply it."

SP Letter to Himavati VE (6/14/68) [68-6-18]

"Yes, to call one another "Prabhu" is all right, but not to become

prabhu. To accept others as prabhu, and remain as servant is the idea.

But because somebody is calling you "Prabhu", one should not become a

prabhu and treat others as servants. In other words, every one should

feel himself as servant, and not to think himself prabhu because he is

being called "Prabhu". This will make the relationship congenial."

- A Practical definition of "Prabhu": Ralph Waldo Emerson (who is quoted

on the jacket cover of all English Gita's) said, "Every man I meet is my

superior in some way. In that, I learn of him."

"To serve the Spiritual Master means also to serve his disciples."

SP Letter to Shivananda (1/23/69)

"Regarding serving your godbrothers, this is a very good practice. The

Spiritual Master is never without his followers, so to serve the

Spiritual Master also means to be the servant of his disciples. When

you want to serve the king, you must also serve his minister, secretary,

and everyone who serves him. And to serve his servants may please him

more than to serve the king personally."

But, on the other hand:

SP Letter to Kirtanananda (11/23/74)

"Why Taittiriya should have a servant? Godbrothers are not meant for

being servants. Without the spiritual master's order, nobody can utilize

the service of a Godbrother as one's personal servant. We address each

other as "Prabhu" so how we can engage our Godbrother as servant? Lord

Caitanya Mahaprabhu engaged Govinda das, who was His Godbrother, as His

servant, but that was only on the order of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu's

spiritual master."

SP letter to Janardan (1/21/68)

"I understand that your Godbrothers are as your younger dependent

brothers: kindly treat them as your younger dependent brothers and try

to advance them in Krsna consciousness as good as you can."

SP Letter to Janaki (1/18/69)

"Please do your duty combinedly without any disruption of peaceful

attitudes amongst yourselves. We are pushing our movement on the

background of a peaceful atmosphere in the world, and if we show a

little disturbance in our own camp that will not be a very good example,

Therefore, every one should be forbearing, tolerant and cooperative."

SP Letter to Gargamuni (9/8/69)

"But one thing is you must stop this fighting between brothers.

Otherwise the whole program will be spoiled. Yourself, Tamal Krishna,

Brahmananda, Satsvarupa-- you should do everything combinedly. That is

my request. Gradually, by Krishna's Grace, we are expanding. So if

amongst us there is friction, it will be very dangerous."

SP Letter to Brahmananda (11/15/69)

"This is called Vaikuntha attitude. In the Vaikuntha factually there is

no fault in anyone, but there is another type of competition. The

competition is that one devotee thinks of other devotees how nicely they

are serving the Lord. In the material world the attitude is that

everyone likes to think that I am doing better than others. This is

material conception. In the Spiritual Sky it is just the opposite:

Everyone thinks that my contemporary devotees are doing better than me.

We are trained to address Godbrothers as Prabhu, which means Master.

This means we shall try to find out always the serving side of our

Godbrothers. Sometimes there are misgivings, but we should try to

overlook."

SP Letter to Upendra (8/4/70)

"It doesn't matter what we are, grhasthas or sannyasis, the point is to

be, paramahamsa, completely surrendered to Lord Krsna."

"Brahmana, ksatriya, vaisya, sudra, brahmachari, grhasta, vanaprastha

and sannyasa. These are all MATERIAL DESIGNATIONS, but this Krsna

consciousness movement is for becoming transcendental to these material

designations, and these boys, these foreigners, they are being taught in

that light." (SP Lil.V, p.21)

Dealings Amongst Grhasthas

SP Letter to Vrndavan Chandra (6/24/70)

"I am so glad to learn that your good wife is also helping you. That is

the duty of a faithful companion of life. If the wife is helpful in the

spiritual progress of life, she is the best friend and philosopher. So

in Krsna consciousness the wife is never a burden, but she is completely

a counterpart.

So set example to your countrymen how younger generation can live

peacefully, husband and wife, being engaged in Krsna's service. There

are many examples of this type of husband and wife working in our

different centers for propagating this sublime message."

Dealing with One's Guru

Letter to Madhudvisa (2/14/70):

"In regard to praying to Lord Nityananda Prabhu, I have written to you

in my last letter that such prayer is quite appropriate. Our only prayer

should be in the matter of desiring further development of devotional

service and such sincere prayer should be submitted not directly to the

Lord but through the via media of His bona fide servitor or

representative." [Note: media is plural in number, not just one]

"I chastise you, because it is my duty. Disciple is related to

discipline, so it is my duty to my disciples. Otherwise, I am not upset

with anyone. I simply do this to discipline you, because you are my

disciples." (SP Lil.V, p.43)

"You may be afraid of your spiritual master, but that doesn't mean you

shouldn't come and see him." "I will drag you to come and see me." (SP

Lil.V, p.196)

- Disciples should not try to instruct their spiritual master:

"Not knowing why Madhavendra Puri was crying, Ramachandra Puri tried to

become his advisor. Thus he committed a great offense, for a disciple

should never try to instruct his spiritual master." (Cc Antya 8.21

purp.)

- Disciples should not initiate while the spiritual master is present.

SP Letter to Acyutananda (8/21/68)

"The first thing, I warn, Acyutananda, do not try to initiate. You are

not in a proper position now to initiate anyone. Besides that, the

etiquette is that so long the Spiritual Master is present, all

prospective disciples should be brought to him. Therefore if anyone is

anxious to be initiated, he should first of all hear our philosophy and

join chanting at least for three months, and then if required, I shall

send chanted beads for him if you recommend."

Gurus Should Not Transgress Vaisnava etiquette (and initiate their

Godbrothers' disciples in good standing):

SP Letter to Mukunda VE (3/26/68)

"I have received one letter which is very depressing from Hrshikesh. I

understand that he has been induced by Bon Maharaja to be initiated by

him for giving him shelter, and this foolish boy has accepted his

inducement. I have replied Hrshikesh's letter in the following words:

`My dear Hrsikesa... I am greatly surprised for Bon Maharaja's

initiating you, in spite of his knowing that you are already initiated

by me. So it is a deliberate transgression of Vaisnava etiquettes and

otherwise a deliberate insult to me. I do not know why he has done like

this, but no Vaisnava will approve of this offensive action. ... I do

not wish to discuss on this point elaborately now, but if you are

desirous to know further about it, I shall be glad to give you more

enlightenment...' If Hrshikesh writes you a letter, I think you may

avoid reply. I do not approve of both Hrshikesh's and Bon Maharaja's

this offensive action."

Govindaram · January 27, 2004

Seniors, Juniors, and Equals

gunadhikan mudam lipsed

anukrosam gunadhamat

maitrim samanad anvicchen

na tapair abhibhuyate

[sB 4.8.34]

gunadhikan -- who is more qualified; mudam -- pleasure; lipset -- one

should feel; anukrosam -- compassion; gunadhamat -- who is less

qualified; maitrim -- friendship; samanat -- with an equal; anvicchet --

one should not desire; na -- not; tapair --by tribulation; abhibhuyate

-- becomes affected.

(Narada Muni to Dhruva M:)

"Every man should act like this: when he meets a person more

qualified than himself, he should be very pleased; when he meets someone

less qualified than himself, he should be compassionate toward him; and

when he meets someone equal to himself, he should make friendship with

him. In this way, one is never affected by the threefold miseries of

this material world."

Purport: Generally when we find someone more qualified than ourselves,

we become envious of him; when we find someone less qualified, we deride

him; and when we find someone equal we become very proud of our

activities. These are the causes of all material tribulations. The great

sage Narada therefore advised that a devotee should act perfectly.

Instead of being envious of a more qualified man, one should be jolly to

receive him. Instead of being oppressive to a less qualified man , one

should be compassionate toward him just to raise him to the proper

standard. And when one meets an equal, instead of being proud of one's

own activities before him, one should treat him as a friend. One should

also have compassion for the people in general, who are suffering due to

forgetfulness of Krsna. These important functions will make one happy

within this material world.

Surpassing a Superior Personality

(maryada vyatikrama)

"To be well versed in the transcendental science necessitates awareness

of the techniques of spiritual science. Uddhava, being well aware of all

these technicalities of transcendental science advised Vidura to

approach Maitreya Rsi to receive transcendental knowledge. Vidura

wanted to accept Uddhava as his spiritual master, but Uddhava did not

accept the post because Vidura was as old as Uddhava's father and

therefore Uddhava could not accept him as his disciple, especially when

Maitreya was present nearby. The rule is that in the presence of a

higher personality one should not be very eager to impart instructions,

even if one is competent and well-versed. So Uddhava decided to send an

elderly person like Vidura to Maitreya, another elderly person.

Since both Maitreya and Vidura were directly instructed by the Lord,

both had the authority to become the spiritual master of Vidura or

anyone else, but Maitreya, being elderly had the first claim to becoming

the spiritual master, especially for Vidura, who was much older than

Uddhava. One should not be eager to become a spiritual master cheaply

for the sake of profit and fame, but should become a spiritual master

for the service of the Lord. The Lord never tolerates the impertinence

of maryada-vyatikrama. One should never pass over the honor due to an

elderly spiritual master in the interests of one's own personal gain and

fame. Impertinence... is very risky for spiritual realization." (SB

3.4.26)

SP Letter to Sudama (7/29/72) Respect for sannyasi

"All should offer due respect to a sannyasi. His position is always

superior to all other inmates of the temple. He must always maintain

that superior position by action and behavior."

SP Letter to Rayarama (1/30/67)

"One thing you may note as a matter of etiquette: The Spiritual Master

is addressed as `His Divine Grace', a Godbrother as `His Grace', and any

sannyasi is addressed as `His Holiness'."

SP Letter to Janardan (1/21/68)

"I understand that your Godbrothers are as your younger dependent

brothers. Kindly treat them as your younger dependent brothers and try

to advance them in Krsna consciousness as good as you can."

SP Letter to Arundhati (6/16/69)

"Regarding your second question about greeting karmis, if a karmi is a

friend, you just greet him Hare Krishna, and with folded hands touch

your forehead. If the karmi is a superior relative, then chant Hare

Krishna and bow down to him on the ground. That should be the etiquette

in our society transactions."

SP Letter to Yamuna devi & Harsharani (1/15/68)

"If you have any specific grievance, please let me know but don't be

disturbed by any sort of disagreement with your Godbrothers and

Godsisters. Each and every living entity is an individual soul and as

such disagreement is quite possible in our dealings with one another.

But we have to consider the central point of interest. You are both very

intelligent and sober girls and I have got good estimation of you; do

not take at any time an attitude of non-cooperation because you have not

agreed with another's point of view."

[As superiors] "We should not accept unnecessary favors for sense

gratification." (Letter to Brahmananda 2/20/68)

Treating Women as Mothers

"In distributing love of Godhead, Caitanya Mahaprabhu and His associates

did not consider who was a fit candidate and who was not, nor where such

distribution should or should not take place. They made no conditions."

(Cc. Adi-Lila 2.7.22)

1. In essence, duality means that we forget that we are part and parcel

of Krsna. We want to enjoy separately from Him, we want to play the

controller. This controlling tendency culminates in sex desire.

2. Man/woman concept is synonymous with material consciousness.

3. Becoming Krsna conscious means rising above duality. We have to

become fixed in the consciousness that all are part and parcel of

Krsna and for His pleasure - not ours.

4. A devotee's foremost duty is to transcend sex desire.

5. This takes philosophical awareness, constant practice and

perseverance. (Aversion is not the solution. Attachment/aversion

are two sides of the same coin.)

6. Srila Prabhupada in the compassionate mood of the Pancatattva has

opened the treasure house of bhakti to all classes of men - and

women.

7. This offers us intense and unlimited opportunity to transcend

material attachment and aversion and develop transcendental

realization in Krsna.

8. The word 'mother' generates a mood of respect and sobriety.

9. When we advise that women should be seen as mothers, we mean that

our dealings with women should be reserved and respectful.

10. Such conduct will minimize offensive mentality and dealings with

other living entities.

11. Women should behave as mothers.

12. In the practice of Krsna consciousness segregation of the sexes is

essential.

Quotes from Srila Prabhupada

SP letter to Gargamuni (75/9/?):

"Regarding the disturbance made by the women devotees, they are also

living entities. They also came to Krishna. So consciously I cannot

deny them. If our male members, the brahmacharies and sannyasis, if

they become steady in Krishna consciousness, there is no problem. It is

the duty of the male members to be very steady and cautious. This can

be done by regular chanting like Haridas Thakur did."

Letter to Rayarama (10/4/67) "Protect the women (Don't Exploit Them.)"

"Please guide our innocent Godsisters who have come to our shelter.

Girls are more susceptible to the finer attachments of Maya. Boys are a

little stronger. Mrinalini, Jadurani and all other girls who are so

qualified, good-looking, intelligent, educated, and seriously engaged in

Krsna consciousness should always be given protection from the

attachments of Maya."

SP Letter to Gargamuni (10/18/69)

"Maya's most attractive feature is women and money. We Krishna Conscious

men have to deal with women and money in course of preaching work, and

the only prophylactic measure to save us is not to accept them for our

sense gratification. Then we shall remain strong enough. Materialistic

people take everything for sense gratification and Krishna Conscious

people take everything for Krishna's satisfaction. There is no fault in

the thing as it is; namely women and money, but it becomes faulty by

improper use. The improper use is to accept them for sense

gratification."

SP letter to Ekayani (12/3/72):

"Who has introduced these things, that women cannot have chanting japa

in the temple? If they become agitated, then let the brahmacharies go

to the forest. I have never introduced these things. The brahmacharies

cannot remain in the presence of women in the temple, then they may go

to the forest, not remaining in NYC, because in NY there are so many

women, so how they can avoid seeing? BEST THING IS TO GO TO THE FOREST

for not seeing any women, IF THEY BECOME SO EASILY AGITATED, but then no

one will either see them and HOW OUR PREACHING WORK WILL GO ON?"

Vaisnava Aparadhas

"In Krsna consciousness every man is so important because all of the

activities of a devotee of Lord Krsna is beneficial to all living

entities." (SP letter to Shivananda 6/15/69)

The Greatness of A Vaisnava

Quotes from Hari Bhakti Vilas

1. Devotees of Hari are very rare in the age of Kali. The position of

the devotee is more elevated than the position of Lord Brahma and

Lord Rudra.

2. The presence of a devotee at the time of death elevates even the

killer of a brahmana to the spiritual sky. (10.86)

3. If a dog-eater becomes a Vaisnava then he becomes more elevated than

a brahmana, and if a sannyasi is devoid of devotion to Visnu then he

considered to be more degraded than a dog-eater. (10.87)

4. Even at the time of total annihilation the devotees of Visnu do not

fall down. That's why Sri Hari is known everywhere as infallible,

all pervasive, and inexhaustible; therefore there is no need to fear

a devotee. A devotee never inflicts pain on anyone. (10.101-105)

5. Those who worship the Supreme Personality of Godhead Sri Hari are

the best of all people and no one is better than them in the three

worlds. (10.110)

6. Those sinless, magnanimous Vaisnavas purify the entire creation

therefore they are even better than the places of pilgrimage.

(10.118)

7. Those who are My devotees are not actually My devotees, those who

are My devotees of My devotees are real devotees. (10.133)

8 My devotees who are surrendered unto Me and free from attachment and

disgust, envy and pride, sing My glory all the time. They never

cause any harm to anyone. They are always engaged in worshipping My

devotees and eager to hear about Me, they are the ones who always

carry Me in their hearts. (10.145-146)

Blasphemy of a Vaisnava

SP letter to Gopal Krishna (4/21/70)

"You are always alert to see whether you are committing some offense.

This is a very nice attitude. In rendering service to Lord Krsna and His

representative, the Spiritual Master, we should always maintain this

fearful attitude which means careful attention. This attitude will

advance you progressively in Krsna consciousness."

Quotes from Hari Bhakti Vilas

1. When one blasphemes a Vaisnava he loses his religiosity, wealth,

fame and children. (10.310)

2. If one beats a Vaisnava, blasphemes a Vaisnava, shows disrespect to

a Vaisnava, gets angry upon a Vaisnava or does not express joy in

seeing a Vaisnava, he goes to hell. (10.310)

Four Kinds of Blasphemy to a Vaisnava

1. To find fault with a Vaisnava for his apparent low birth.

2. To blaspheme him for his previous faults.

3. To blaspheme him for his accidental fault.

4. To blaspheme him for the faults that are almost rectified.

(from Harinam Cintamani)

What to Do If One Commits Vaisnava Aparadha

If by chance one commits Vaisnava aparadha then he must beg forgiveness

from the Vaisnava very earnestly holding his feet. A Vaisnava is very

merciful so he will immediately embrace him and forgive him for all his

offenses. (from Harinama Cintamani)

Offering Praise to a Vaisnava

SP letter to Tamal Krsna (8/19/68)

"This is actually a devotee's business that everyone should appreciate

the value of other devotees. Nobody should criticize anyone."

Now that you have come to my house today, I have become glorified, my

life has become completely successful. To be able to see a Vaisnava is

as rare as the good fortune of seeing Sri Hari. I must have acquired

immense piety, huge as the Meru mountain that's why I got to see a great

Vaisnava like you." (HBV 10.337-338)

Dressing Like a Vaisnava

"Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu said 'A first class Vaisnava is he whose very

presence makes others chant the Holy Name of Krsna.'" (Cc. Madhya-lila

6.16.74)

1. There should be no compromise in our Vaisnava appearance. We are

representatives of Srila Prabhupada. We should aim to be first

class representatives.

2. We need to be aware of the bonafide standard of appearance, maintain

it and preach it. In the age of Kali deviations easily become the

standard. We should be alert to this.

3. Proper Vaisnava dress helps us maintain proper consciousness

regarding our identity and responsibility in service to Srila

Prabhupada and the Vaisnavas.

4. Vaisnava appearance is attractive and will facilitate our preaching.

The first impression, which is most often formed from visual

stimuli, is the most longstanding.

5. Just by seeing a Vaisnava the conditioned soul is purified.

Quotes from Srila Prabhupada

"Srila Prabhupada was dressed appropriately for a resident of Vrndavana.

He wore kanthi-mala <neck beads> and a simple cotton dhoti, and he

carried japa-mala <chanting beads> and an old chadar, or shawl. His

complexion was golden, his head shaven, sikha in the back, his forehead

decorated with the whitish Vaisnava tilaka. He wore pointed white

slippers, not uncommon for sadhus in India. But who in New York had ever

seen or dreamed of anyone appearing like this Vaisnava? He was possibly

the first Vaisnava sannyasi to arrive in New York with uncompromised

appearance. Of course, New Yorkers have an expertise in not giving much

attention to any kind of strange new arrival." (SP Lilamrta, vol 2, pg 7)

Episode of Vaisnava wearing tilaka in Muslim factory (SP Nectar 3, 6th

Story): There was once a factory in India where all the workers were

Hindus, and mostly Vaisnavas. The Vaisnavas had freedom, therefore, to

wear their Vaisnava tilaka to work, and they also displayed other

Vaisnava paraphernalia. But after some time, the factory went into new

management, and then the proprietor was a Muslim. On taking over the

business, the Muslim owner declared that he would not allow the workers

to come to work any more wearing Vaisnava tilaka. Most of the workers

obeyed, and on the given date announced by the owner, they appeared at

the factory without their tilaka. One employee, however, thought that

he would take his chances and depend on Krsna. So he went to work

wearing very clear, white Vaisnava tilaka. After seeing all the workers

assembled, the new Muslim proprietor said, "This one devotee who has

worn Vaisnava tilaka is very courageous. He may be permitted to

continue wearing the tilaka to work. But all others are forbidden to

wear it any more."

In this way, Prabhupada encouraged the devotees to not unnecessarily

abandon the markings of a Vaisnava. Where situations forbid it,

Prabhupada said it was not absolutely necessary to wear tilaka, although

a devotee should at least put water tilaka on his body with the names of

Visnu. But if the paraphernalia is permitted, then a devotee should not

unnecessarily do away with the dress or beads of a Vaisnava.

Comment by SDG: This story has obvious modern day application. In 1966

Srila Prabhupada was pleased when Rupanuga and Satsvarupa persisted in

wearing Vaisnava tilaka to their jobs with the NYC Dept of Welfare.

Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura also desired that one day the high

court judges may wear Vaisnava tilaka, and this would be a symbol of the

successful influence of Krsna consciousness in the world. Even in job

situations where wearing tilaka is not permissible, a devotee should try

in different ways to remember Krsna while at work. The story told by

Prabhupada about the man who insisted on wearing tilaka to his job may

remain an inspiration to all devotees who go to places of employment

controlled by the karmis. Somehow or other, we must remain as devotees.

"Gaudiya Vaisnava sikha is an inch and a half across -- no bigger.

Bigger sikha means another sampradaya. ...And they have to be knotted."

(SP Lil.V pg. 93)

Correcting Others

"Devotee means he is able to tolerate all kinds of discomfort and whims

of the material nature, and because he is too much absorbed in serving

Krsna he takes no time to become angry or take offense with others or

find out some fault. No. Devotee means very liberal and kind to

everyone, always gentleman under all kinds of conditions of life." (SP

letter to Hansadutta 12/10/72)

1. There is a difference between criticism and correction. A devotee

realizes that criticizing a Vaisnava pollutes the heart and impedes

spiritual advancement.

2. To correct a devotee one must be:

(a) non-envious

(b) desirous to practically assist the devotee in his Krsna

consciousness.

and/or necessitates such intervention.

OR

be personally requested by the devotee to help him in his

difficulty.

3. The devotee offering correction must be practicing what he preaches.

4. Methods of correction:

(a) Correct by personal example and association.

(b) Guide the devotee to the shelter of a more advanced

devotee.

correct another devotee. He should reveal his heart

to a senior devotee whom he feels at ease with and

seek his assistance/advice to adjust the situation.

5. Harsh words and actions have no place in correcting a sincere

devotee. We want to destroy the ignorance in the heart of a devotee

- not the devotee himself.

6. If there is some sincere and honest criticism offered, we should be

grateful, not upset. To react negatively to well-intentioned

correction is to manifest false ego.

7. An advanced Vaisnava will see each and every correction offered as

the mercy of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu.

8. Prevention is better than cure. If all devotees take up the

responsibility to develop proper awareness in their devotional

behaviour the need for correction will be minimized.

Quotes from Srila Prabhupada

SP Letter to Patita Uddharan (12/12/74) "A devotee -- one who is humble

-- doesn't fault-find"

"So in your letter you are not finding fault with anyone. So you are

good Vaisnava. You do not find fault with anyone. This is the

qualification. We should always think ourselves humble and meek. This

you must know. So we all have to cooperate amongst ourselves, otherwise

what will people think if we ourselves fight with one another? A

devotee is always ideal in behavior."