A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada: A Revered Krishna Saint and Spiritual Beacon
Introduction:
Who was Swami Prabhupada?
Abhay Charanaravinda Bhaktivedanta Swami, better known as A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, has been a transformative figure in the realm of spiritual teachings. Born on 1 September 1896 and departing this world on 14 November 1977, his impactful journey spanned over eight decades. During this time, he founded the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), commonly referred to as the Hare Krishna movement, and left an indelible mark on the world, particularly in the propagation of Krishna consciousness and the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita on a global scale.
Early Life and Spiritual Calling:
Born in Kolkata, India, Swami Prabhupada’s spiritual journey began in 1922 when he met his spiritual master, Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura. Sarasvati Thakura was a renowned religious scholar and founder of sixty-four Gaudiya Mathas, or Vedic institutes. He asked Srila Prabhupada to dedicate his life to disseminating the teachings of Lord Krishna, particularly to the English-speaking world. This meeting shaped Swami Prabhupada’s life, and he embarked on a spiritual journey, translating and spreading the teachings of Lord Krishna worldwide.
In 1944, Srila Prabhupada began publishing a magazine named “Back to Godhead.” His initiation into the Gaudiya Math followed soon in 1947. His initial works included writing a commentary on the Bhagavad Gita and assisting in the work of the Gaudiya Math, single-handedly managing the editing, typing, and proofreading.
Establishing ISKCON:
It wasn’t until 1965, however, that Srila Prabhupada voyaged to New York City to establish ISKCON at the age of 69. His primary mission was to promote Krishna Bhakti (devotion to Krishna) based on teachings found in the Bhagavad Geeta and other sacred Hindu scriptures. From 1966 to 1977, he traveled around the world 14 times, spreading Krishna consciousness and establishing ISKCON centers in various countries.
Literary Contributions
Prabhupada’s literary contributions are monumental. He translated more than 60 editions of Vedic scriptures – Bhagwad Geeta, Chaitanya Charitamrita, and Srimad Bhagawatam – into English. His books have been translated into more than 80 languages and are being distributed worldwide. In 1972, he established the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust, which has become the world’s largest publisher of spiritual books. According to the World Sankirtan Newsletter, more than 550 million copies of Vedic literatures have been distributed so far.
Legacy and Influence
Prabhupada’s teachings have influenced millions of people worldwide to become followers of the Sanatan Dharma. His followers continue his legacy by maintaining and developing numerous religious, educational, and social welfare projects. His enduring impact on Krishna consciousness is seen in the widespread faith in Lord Krishna and the Bhagvad Geeta around the world.
His interpretation and commentary on critical Hindu scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita and the Srimad Bhagavatam (Bhagavata Purana) have significantly impacted the global understanding of Hindu philosophy. His followers continue his legacy by maintaining and developing numerous religious, educational, and social welfare projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where was Srila Prabhupada born?
Srila Prabhupada was born in a Bengali Kshatriya goldsmith family in Kolkata, India.
2. what does “srila” mean?
The term “Srila” is a title of respect and reverence used in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition, a denomination of the Vaishnavism tradition within Hinduism. In the context of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the title “Srila” acknowledges his profound spiritual insights, his dedication to the teachings of Lord Krishna, and his significant role in spreading Krishna consciousness worldwide.
3. When did Swami Srila Prabhupada go abroad for the first time?
Swami Srila Prabhupada first went abroad in 1965 when he traveled to New York City, USA, at the age of 69.
4. What movement did Swami Srila Prabhupada start?
Srila Swami Prabhupada started the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), also known as the Hare Krishna movement.
5. How many books did Srila Swami Prabhupada write?
Swami Srila Prabhupada translated and commented on over 60 volumes of sacred Vedic scriptures, including the Bhagavad Gita, Chaitanya Charitamrita, and Srimad Bhagavatam.
6. Where did Swami Prabhupada use to stay?
Srila Prabhupada travelled extensively to spread Krishna consciousness. He stayed in various places around the world, including India and the United States. He spent his final days in Vrindavan, India.
7. Who was the guru of Swami Prabhupada ji?
Srila Prabhupada’s spiritual master was Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura, a renowned religious scholar and the founder of sixty-four Gaudiya Mathas, or Vedic institutes.
8. What is Goloka Dham/Golok Dham, according to Swami Prabhupada ji?
According to A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Goloka Dham (also known as Goloka Vrindavan) is considered the highest spiritual realm, the eternal abode of Lord Krishna. It is described in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition, which Prabhupada was a part of, as a place of eternal bliss and knowledge, where every word is a song, every step is a dance, and every moment is filled with the loving exchange of service to Krishna.
In Goloka Dham, GOD Krishna is said to engage in his eternal pastimes with his most intimate devotees. It is depicted as a realm filled with transcendental cows and beautiful forests, where GOD Krishna, along with his consort Radha Rani and his cowherd friends, engage in various divine pastimes.
Prabhupada often emphasized that the ultimate goal of Krishna consciousness is to attain love of God and return to Goloka Dham, where the soul can participate in these eternal, blissful spiritual activities. He taught that this can be achieved through the practice of bhakti-yoga, especially by chanting the Hare Krishna mantra, following the four regulative principles, and engaging in devotional service to Lord Krishna.
9. Did Swami Prabhupada ji have a family?
Yes, before becoming a monk, Srila Prabhupada was married and had a family. He was married to Radharani Devi when he was 22, and they had a son together. However, after his wife chose not to join him in his spiritual pursuits, Prabhupada took up vanaprastha (retired life) and later sannyasa (renounced life), dedicating his life entirely to spiritual practice and teaching.
10. What were four rules/principles of Swami Prabhupada?
Swami Prabhupada, the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), established four regulative principles that his followers are expected to adhere to. These principles are based on traditional Hindu teachings and are intended to help devotees live a pure and spiritually focused life. The four rules are:
1. **No Meat Eating**:
This includes not eating meat, fish, or eggs. The principle is based on the concept of ahimsa, or non-violence, and the belief that all living beings are sacred.
2. **No Illicit Sex**:
Sex is only permitted for procreation within the bounds of marriage. This principle is intended to help devotees control their senses and maintain purity of mind and body.
3. **No Gambling**:
Gambling is seen as a distraction from spiritual practices and a source of potential conflict and dishonesty.
4. **No Intoxication**:
This includes avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs. The principle is based on the belief that these substances can cloud the mind and hinder spiritual progress.
In addition to these four principles, devotees are also encouraged to chant the Hare Krishna mantra daily. These rules and practices are seen as essential for spiritual advancement in the Krishna bhakti tradition.
Conclusion
The teachings of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada continue to guide millions towards a path of spirituality and self-realization. His emphasis on devotion to Krishna and selfless service to humanity has left an indelible mark on global spirituality. His life and contributions, from his birth in Kolkata to his establishment of ISKCON and the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust, have left a lasting legacy in the world of Krishna devotion. His teachings continue to inspire millions of people worldwide, making him a truly revered Krishna saint and a spiritual beacon.
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