Hari Bol Prabhu,
pamho agtsp.
Front Page of the Camden New Journal, that’s big, we are on our way to Ireland tonight for Feed the 5,000 Cork
Your Servant
Parsharam Das
Feeding the poor makes Camden New Journal
Celebrate Gaura Purnima(Appearance Day of Caitanya Mahaprabhu) this Sunday with us
→ ISKCON BRAMPTON
* Important *
Sunday Feast on March 16th, 2014 at 11:00am has been moved to 5:00pm due to the celebration. Regular Sunday Feast program (11:00am) will resume from March 23rd, 2014.
Happy Gaura Purnima 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||
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Sponsor Kalash
Offerings for Mahaprabhu While chanting is it better to just focus on the holy name or on a mahamantra sticker or on a picture of the Deities?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
When some devotee praises us, should we stop that devotee or go away or hear passively?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
When bhakti is transcendental, why do scriptures give importance to bodily designations like birth in India or birth in a royal dynasty?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
When all of us are unique, why do we compare devotees as per their level of advancement?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
Is their a hierarchy of devotees at higher and lower levels even in the spiritual world?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
Is the jnani in Gita 7.16 and jnanavan in 7.19 the same or different?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
In the Gita chp 8, what is the yogis’ conception of Krishna?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
In NoI 8 purport, what do the dashas from shravana to sampatti refer to?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
In Gita chp 13, what exactly does jneya refer to?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
If the soul’s nature is to love and serve Krishna, where does our nature to love and serve worldly things come from?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
Are there any examples of yoga-mishra bhaktas becoming kevala bhaktas?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
When Prabhupada’s books will be the lawbooks for 10,000 years, how can we contextualize them?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
Can Gita verses be translated differently from Prabhupada’s translations?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
How can we understand Prabhupada’s equating buddhi-yoga in 2.39 purport with bhakti-yoga?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
How is the Gita 18.57 definition of buddhi-yoga different from that in 2.39 and 10.10?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
Harinama tour, in Italy. Florence (Album 16 photos)
→ Dandavats.com
With chanting, dancing and engaging the local people and the tourists Read more › 16 Mar 2014 – Gaura Purnima
→ ISKCON Desire Tree
How do we understand Krishna’s statement to Arjuna that Karna is a better archer than him?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
From Sagar Choksi
Hare Krishna Prabhuji, pamho.
Thank you very much for these enlightening series of articles on 'The Son of the Sun'. I understand that Karna was not equal to Arjuna in terms of virtue and righteousness but can we so confidently claim from the Mahabharata that Karna did not have the skills of an Archer as good as Arjuna? Because I find a verse in the Mahabharata where Krishna himself tells Arjuna that He considers Karna to be equal to Arjuna and perhaps superior. This verse comes in Karna Parva after the episode where Arjuna speaks harshly towards Yudhisthira on advice of Krishna. (Due to the vow of killing any person who says, 'Give your Gandiva bow to another').
The verse I am talking about is as follows:
Vasudeva said, "O wielder of Gandiva, save thee there exists no other man that could vanquish those whom thou hast vanquished with this bow of thine. We have seen many heroes, who, endued with prowess like that Sakra, have attained to the highest regions, encountering thy heroic self in battle! Who else, O puissant one, that is not equal to thee, would be safe and sound after encountering Drona and Bhishma and Bhagadatta, O sire, and Vinda and Anuvinda of Avanti and Sudakshina, the chief of the Kambojas and Srutayudha of mighty energy and Acyutayudha as well? Thou hast celestial weapons, and lightness of hand and might, and thou art never stupefied in battle! Thou hast also that humility which is due to knowledge! Thou canst strike with effect! Thou hast sureness of aim, and presence of mind as regards the selection of means, O Arjuna! Thou art competent to destroy all mobile and immobile creatures including the very gods with the Gandharvas! On earth, O Partha, there is no human warrior who is equal to thee in battle. Amongst all Kshatriyas, invincible in battle, that wield the bow, amongst the very gods, I have not seen or heard of even one that is equal to thee. The Creator of all beings, viz., Brahma himself created the great bow Gandiva with which thou fightest, O Partha! For this reason there is no one that is equal to thee. I must, however, O son of Pandu, say that which is beneficial to thee. Do not. O mighty-armed one, disregard Karna, that ornament of battle! Karna is possessed of might. He is proud and accomplished in weapons. He is a maharatha. He is accomplished (in the ways of battle) and conversant with all modes of warfare. He is also well-acquainted with all that suits place and time. What need is there of saying much? Hear in brief, O son of Pandu! I regard the mighty car-warrior Karna as thy equal, or perhaps, thy superior! With the greatest care and resolution shouldst thou slay him in great battle. In energy he is equal to Agni. As regards speed, he is equal to the impetuosity of the wind. In wrath, he resembles the Destroyer himself. Endued with might, he resembles a lion in the formation of his body. He is eight ratnis in stature. His arms are large. His chest is broad. He is invincible. He is sensitive. He is a hero. He is, again, the foremost of heroes. He is exceedingly handsome. Possessed of every accomplishment of a warrior, he is a dispeller of the fears of friends. Engaged in the good of Dhritarashtra's son, he always hates the sons of Pandu. No one, not even the gods with Vasava at their head, can slay the son of Radha, save thee, as I think. Slay, therefore, the Suta's son today. No one possessed of flesh and blood, not even the gods fighting with great care, not all the warriors (of the three worlds) fighting together can vanquish that car-warrior. Towards the Pandavas he is always of wicked soul and sinful behaviour, and cruel, and of wicked intelligence. In his quarrel with the sons of Pandu, he is actuated by no consideration affecting his own interests. Slaying that Karna, therefore, fulfill thy purpose today. Despatch today unto Yama's presence that Suta's son, that foremost of car-warriors, whose death is near. Indeed, slaying that Suta's son, that first of car-warriors, show the love for Yudhishthira the just. I know thy prowess truly, O Partha, which is incapable of being resisted by the gods and Asuras. The Suta's son of wicked soul, from exceeding pride, always disregards the sons of Pandu. O Dhananjaya, slay that man today for whose sake the wretched Duryodhana regardeth himself a hero, that root of all (those) sinful persons, that son of a Suta. Slay, O Dhananjaya, that tiger among men, that active and proud Karna, who hath a sword for his tongue, a bow for his mouth, and arrows for his teeth. I know thee well as regards the energy and the might that are in thee. Slay the brave Karna in battle, like a lion slaying an elephant. Slay in battle today, O Partha, that Karna, otherwise called Vaikartana, in consequence of whose energy Dhritarashtra's son disregards thine.'"
I could not find a better translation or exact verses. Please clarify on this.
I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Thank you.
“BBT Only” Day: March 14
→ Jayadvaita Swami
A letter from the BBT chairman:
In cooperation with the ISKCON GBC, the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust is marking March 14 as the first annual “BBT Only” Day.
This is a day to remember the following important instructions from Srila Prabhupada:
- He formed the BBT to serve as his exclusive publisher.
- He wanted all his books purchased exclusively from the BBT.
His Divine Grace gave those instructions in a letter addressed to all ISKCON temples. The letter was dated March 14, 1974.
March 14 this year will be the fortieth anniversary of that letter.
Every devotee and congregational member of ISKCON should become familiar with that letter and have its importance clear in mind.
“BBT Only” Day is also an opportunity for devotees to remember – or learn about – the value the BBT adds to Srila Prabhupada’s mission in ways other than by publishing books. For example, the BBT. . .
- gives large grants every year for construction and renovation of ISKCON temples
(current project: the new temple in Mayapur) - provides funding for the Bhaktivedanta Institute
- supports the BBT Sanskrit School started by Gopiparanadhana Prabhu
in Vrindavana to train new Sanskrit editors and translators - funds the Bhaktivedanta Archives
If you’ve received a copy of Srila Prabhupada’s historic letter, please post it on your bulletin board (or on your wall or fridge). You can also find it online at the “BBT Only” website: www.BBTonly.org.
In 1969, while visiting ISKCON Press, the forerunner of the BBT, Srila Prabhupada said, “This is the heart of ISKCON.”
A devotee said, “You are the heart of ISKCON, Prabhupada.”
Srila Prabhupada replied, “And this is my heart.”
May Srila Prabhupada’s heart be dear to the hearts of us all.
Thank you.
Naresvara Dasa
BBT Chairman
PS: How can you tell a BBT book? By the logo. Books published by others may look nearly the same. But only books published by the BBT display the BBT logo. So look for the BBT logo. It’s your guarantee that what you’re getting comes genuinely from the only publisher authorized by Srila Prabhupada to publish his books: his BBT.
More information is posted on Dandavats.com
The post “BBT Only” Day: March 14 appeared first on Jayadvaita Swami.
custom made
→ everyday gita
Over the past several verses, the Gita has outlined the various ways in which an individual can perform sacrifice. Whether it be by selectively exposing oneself to certain sound vibrations, not giving into every whim and fancy of the mind's demands, or practicing breath control, these are just some of the ways one can practice sacrifice.
What is amazing about the different options presented is that fact that:
Different types of sacrifice, as discussed above, are mentioned in the Vedas to suit the different types of worker...these sacrifices are so arranged that one can work either with the body, with the mind or with the intelligence. (Bg. 4.32 purport)
I love this primarily because it means there's something for everyone. This aspect of personalizing and custom-tailoring any practice is so attractive because it takes into account the fact that every living entity, what to speak of every person, is unique and special.
That's what bhakti is all about - addressing the fundamentals that unite all of us in a very personal way. In this case, the various options outlined for performing sacrifice speaks to the fundamental truth that we are all individuals. What works for someone else may not necessarily work for us. This is something we've all had first hand experience of!
I first discovered this when I was going to school. The way in which the majority of school systems are set up are targeted to a certain type of individual - one that can copy down endless notes and excel when placed in exam environments. But what about those who learn visually? Or those who learn tactically? Or those who cannot handle exam situations? The list can go on and on. Thankfully educators are understanding this more and more and the hope is that in the future there will be programs to address this need.
Bhakti yoga has addressed and continues to address this need to craft a personalized program according to the nature and inclination of a person. It does so not only in the arena of sacrifice but in all the various components that serve to comprise the practice of being able to serve with love and gratitude.
It reminds me of a quote which I'll end with today. Something that captures this essence and always fills me with a sense of hope and inspiration:
"Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid." - Albert Einstein
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-03-13 16:16:00 →
1966 March 13: "Saptami. In the evening two ladies and Mr. Susman came. There was some discussions, one of the ladies brought bread for me. No income and no expenditure."
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-03-13 16:15:00 →
1968 March 13: "Today we had a very nice lecture at the State College; the attendence was very nice, and the meeting was successful. They have arranged many other meetings which I shall attend one after another."
Prabhupada Letters :: 1968
Prabhupada Letters :: 1968
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-03-13 16:12:00 →
1969 March 13: "There may be a temple or not, it does not matter; you are doing very nicely, more than having a temple. You six together are doing so nicely that I am very much proud of you. Be blessed and go on like this."
Prabhupada Letters :: 1969
Prabhupada Letters :: 1969
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-03-13 16:09:00 →
1970 March 13: "If we limit ourselves to Hindus, then there will be many competitors. But if we preach the philosophy of Krishna Consciousness in right earnest, it will be accepted throughout the whole world."
Prabhupada Letters :: 1970
Prabhupada Letters :: 1970
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-03-13 16:07:00 →
1970 March 13: "They say that nobody could act so wonderfully as I am doing. Perhaps it is right. But I do not know how such things are happening. The only reason that can be adduced is that I am presenting Bhagavad-gita as it is."
Prabhupada Letters ::1970
Prabhupada Letters ::1970
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-03-13 16:04:00 →
1974 March 13: "Arrange a solid program of translation, printing and distribution of my books by sankirtana party and you will find the devotees willing to help you in this noble project."
Prabhupada Letters :: 1974
Prabhupada Letters :: 1974
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-03-13 16:02:00 →
1974 March 13: "My Guru Maharaja stressed printing and distribution of literature even over gorgeous temple construction. So you follow the footsteps of the previous acaryas while always strictly following the regulative principles."
Prabhupada Letters :: 1974
Prabhupada Letters :: 1974
Cows in Freezing Temperatures
→ Life With the Cows and Land
Although it is below zero, Priya, the ox, gives a kiss.
)
Madhava shows it is cold outside.
Subscribe to the ISCOWP108 YouTube Channel to receive informative and enjoyable videos about cow protection. Post these videos wherever you can so more people can become aware of cow protection. Thank you so much!
Tuesday, March 11th, 2014
→ The Walking Monk
Toronto, Ontario
A Stirring Inside
As winter begins its exit, dreams of outdoor opportunities open up. Even a monk is no exception to this phenomenon. After an hour or two of being occupied in a freshly painted office, it was necessary to burst out of our ashram building and let air do its magic. I almost sprinted on Yonge Street with enthusiasm excited about the spring in the air.
One of my students had earlier on reported seeing one of those bright red male cardinals (the bird and nothing to do with the Vatican). This was a sure sign of spring. As I walked along, one street guitarist between songs expressed his joy, “It’s a great day to be alive!” Couldn’t agree more.
In the Yorkville area a woman saw me and simply said, “Hello.” She acted on spontaneity when she noticed I was doing my work in progress, chanting softly on my meditative beads. She said, “Oh, I’m sorry to interrupt.”
“No, it’s quite alright, you did nothing wrong. Enjoy this day.”
“I am.”
When I returned to the ashram and made my way down the corridor to the office of fresh paint, I glanced at a copy of one of those summer adventure ‘zines’ called “Wilderness Tours” left in the desk tray. The overall message of the publication was ringing out, “Get outside!” The publications highlights more boating adventure as opposed to walking, but I like some of the quotes used regarding life and nature and how to get the most out of them.
From Rich Ridgeway, “Life is either a daring pursuit or nothing at all.” “The best journeys in life are those that answer questions you never thought to ask.”
From comedian Danny Kaye, “Life is a blank canvass, and you need to throw all the paint on it you can.”
From Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, “Teach your children well… and feed them on your dreams.”
From Eleanor Roosevelt, “The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience of the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experiences.”
From William Butler Yeats, “I hear the lake water lapping with low sounds by the shore… I hear it in the deep heart’s core.”
From Rudyard Kipling, “Something hidden. Go and find it. Go look behind the ranges. Lost and waiting for you, go!”
When spring springs, urges to do more stir up inside. Go out then and find yourself and find God.
May the Source be with you!
7 KM
Tapping our irreducible individuality in bhakti-yoga
→ The Spiritual Scientist
March 13th, 2014 – Darshan
→ Mayapur.com
The post March 13th, 2014 – Darshan appeared first on Mayapur.com.
Conversation with devotees in Mayapura
→ SivaramaSwami.com
The post Conversation with devotees in Mayapura appeared first on SivaramaSwami.com.
Harinam at Santa Rosa, Pasig and San Pablo, Philippines, with Giridhari Swami (Album 104 photos)
→ Dandavats.com
All Glories to the Harinam Sankirtan of Lord Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Harinam is the congregational street chanting of the holy names of Krishna or God, if anyone is interested in performing the Yuga Dharma Harinam Sankirtan, is cordially invited to join with us and assist in this effort to please His Divine Grace Srila Prabhupada. Your cooperation in any way will please the Lord as this was the desire of Lord Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu to spread his name in every town and village.
Harinam Sankirtan ki!!! Jaya!!! Read more › Golden 6-Hour Kirtan – This Saturday!
→ The Toronto Hare Krishna Temple!
As you may already know, we are celebrating quite the festival this Golden Weekend and it all starts off with a non-stop 6-Hour Kirtan on Saturday, March 15, 2014! The kirtan will kick off right at 3:00pm and end with a grand finale at 9:00pm, including prasadam (vegetarian feast).Please come and join us as we begin to celebrate the appearance of Lord Chaitanya this weekend!
Schedule (subject to change):
3:00pm - 3:30pm: Mayapurchandra das
3:30pm - 4:00pm: Kunti
4:00pm - 4:45pm: Radha Murari Kirtan Band
4:45pm - 5:00pm: Gopinath Kids Camp Children
5:00pm - 5:30pm: Darshan
5:30pm - 6:00pm: Nipun
6:00pm - 6:30pm: Hitesh
6:30pm - 7:15pm: Sukhayanti devi dasi
7:15pm - 8:00pm: Radha-mohan das
8:00pm - 9:00pm: Dhira Grahi das
Aditi Dukhana Prabhu at Kirtan Mela Mayapur 2014 Day 3
→ Gouranga TV - The Hare Krishna video collection
Aditi Dukhana Prabhu at Kirtan Mela Mayapur 2014 Day 3
New Vrindaban’s Transcendental Throwback Thursday – 03/13/14
→ New Vrindaban Brijabasi Spirit
New Vrindaban’s Transcendental Throwback Thursday – 03/13/14.
Each week we highlight an earlier era of ISKCON New Vrindaban.
This week’s challenge: In the photo, there are approximately 20 devotees whose faces are recognizable. How many can you identify?
Extra Credit: What are the names of the elephant and her caretaker?
Post your guesses on the “who, what, when & where” in the comment section at the New Vrindaban Facebook Page.
Technical stuff: We share the photo Thursday and confirm known details Sunday. Let’s keep it light and have a bit of fun!
Special request: If you have a photo showing New Vrindaban devotees in action, share it with us and we’ll use it in a future posting.