VAISNAVA ETIQUETTE Part 2

For those who want to live the lifestyle of the initiate, more quotes and instructions from His Divine Grace. Srila Prabhupada has commented that anyone who actually lives as a Vaisnava, he will accept as his disciple. Of course, a person must have self-discipline and commitment. It is highly recommended to first read VAISNAVA ETIQUETTE Part 1 before reading this one, but that is each individuals choice of course.

From Prabhupada's pure translation of Chaitanya Charitamrita, Antya Lila, 4, 132 &133, we read:
"If one transgresses the laws of etiquette, people make fun of him, and thus he is vanquished in both this world and the next." -- "By observing the etiquette, you have satisfied My mind. Who else but you will show this example?"

Further he explains:

apane acara keha na kare pracara
pracara karena keha na karena acara

“Some behave very well but do not preach the cult of Krishna consciousness, whereas others preach but do not behave properly. CC Antya 4.102

[It should be recognized that the time period when these books were translated, the dictionary definition of the word cult meant "culture."]

acara pracara namera karaha dui karya
tumi sarva guru tumi jagatera arya

“You simultaneously perform both duties in relation to the holy name by your personal behavior and by your preaching. Therefore you are the spiritual master of the entire world, for you are the most advanced devotee in the world.” CC Antya 4.103

“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 brahamanas are described in the 18th Chapter of Bhagavat Gita 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." ~SP Letter 12/7/75

"in the Skanda Purāṇa, which says, "Persons who are decorated with tilaka or gopī-candana [a kind of clay resembling fuller's earth which is produced in certain quarters of Vṛndāvana], and who mark their bodies all over with the holy names of the Lord, and on whose necks and breasts there are tulasī beads, are never approached by the Yamadūtas." The Yamadūtas are the constables of King Yama (the lord of death), who punishes all sinful men. Vaiṣṇavas are never called for by such constables of Yamarāja. In the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, in the narration of Ajāmila's deliverance, it is said that Yamarāja gave clear instructions to his assistants not to approach the Vaiṣṇavas. Vaiṣṇavas are beyond the jurisdiction of Yamarāja's activities." ~ Nectar of Devotion [Bhakti Rasamrita Sindhu], Chapter 9
"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, everyone should feel himself as servant, and not think himself prabhu because he is being called prabhu. This will make the relationship congenial." ~ SP Letter to Himavati Devi Dasi, June 14, 1968

“It is nice that you are doing preaching work there, but you should know that such practices like stealing are against the principles of Krishna consciousness. I always want that my students should be very ideal in character and not discredit our society.” SP Letter (10/28/68)

“I have received one complaint from an Indian devotee at Mayapur, Prabharupa Das Brahmacary, that he is maltreated by our American devotees. Kindly inquire into this matter and do the needful. Either Indian or foreign whoever joins us they are not under any obligation, our only tie is Love of Godhead. It should be our definite policy that nobody is ill-treated that he may go away. We recruit a person to join us after spending gallons of blood. Everyone comes for reformation, you cannot expect everyone to be perfect, and rather it is our duty to make everyone perfect as far as possible. So we shall be very much cautious and careful in this connection.” ~ SP Letter - 8/23/73

~~~**~~~

Chaitanya Caritamrita, Madhya Lila 24.324-345

"Folding his hands, Sanatana Goswami said, “My Lord, You ordered me to write a directory about the activities of Vaishnava.""

“I am a most lowborn person. I have no knowledge of good behavior. How is it possible for me to write authorized directions about Vaishanva activities?”
"SanatanaGosvami then requested the Lord, 'Please personally tell me how I can write this difficult book about Vaishnava 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 becauseyou are the Supreme Personality of Godhead Yourself and whatever youdirect is perfect.”

Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu replied, “Whatever you want to do you willbe able to do correctly by Lord Krishna’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 aspiritual master, one can be assured of the spiritual master’sposition. Similarly, the spiritual master can also be assured of thedisciple’s position. The Supreme Personality of Godhead, Krishna,should be described as the worshipable object, and you should considerthe (bija) mantra for the worship of Krishna, Rama, or any otherexpansion 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, and 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 Krishna.”

"Also describe the Deity worship, wherein one should offer food to Krishna at least five times daily. One should indue time place Krishna 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 Vrindavana, 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 Vaishnava. 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, circumambulating, and offering obeisances. All these should be carefully studied."

“Other items to be considered are the method of performing purascarana (purification), taking Krishna-prasada, giving up unofferedfood and not blaspheming the Lord’s devotees.”

“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 ofSrimad-Bhagavatam.”

“You should describe the ritualistic duties of every day, and you should describe the fortnightly duties – especially observing Ekadasi fast, which comes every fortnight.”

“You should recommend the avoidance of mixed Ekadasi and the performance of pure 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 Vaishnava behavior, the establishment of Vaishnava 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 Vaishnava. 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.”

"I have thus given a synopsis of the Vaishnava regulative principles. I have given this in brief just to give you a little direction. When you write on this subject, Krishna will help you by spiritually awakening you."
~~~**~~~
"If we are really Krsna conscious, then our business is to repeat the words of Krsna. That's all. What is the difference between a Krsna's representative and non-representative? The representative of Krsna will simply repeat what Krsna says. That's all."- Srila Prabhupada, Bhagavad-gita 1.20 , London, 07/17/73

“Yes, a new man may commit blunders in the beginning, but that does not mean we may be too impatient with him. After all, training means the man does not know, so you should train him nicely. A Vaishnava is expected to be humbler than the blade of grass, so when you train some new man you should not get agitated with him. After all, we are preachers, and we do not expect our audience or candidates completely respondent to our call. If everyone is trained [already] then what is the use of our preaching?” ~ SP Letter to Upendra 3/11/69

“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 sannyasi is addressed as His Holiness.” (SP letter to Rayarama 91/30/67)

“It doesn’t matter what we are, grhasthas or sannyasis, the point is to be paramahamsa, completely surrendered to Lord Krishna.” SP Letter to Upendra 8/4/70

"Regarding general state of affairs at Amsterdam temple, I can understand there is some disturbance among you, but that is not to be taken very seriously. Real business is preaching work. And if there is full attention on this matter only, all other businesses will be automatically successful. Fighting amongst ourselves is not at all good, but if our preaching work is neglected, or if we fall down in following the regulative principles — such as rising before four, chanting 16 rounds, like that — if these things are not strictly observed, then Maya will enter and spoil everything. So my best advice to you is to strictly observe these things yourself and be the example so that all others may follow. We should not criticize each other as Vaishnavas, because there is fault in everyone and we may be ourselves subject to criticism. Best thing is to be above suspicion ourselves, and then if we see discrepancies and make suggestions, the others will automatically respect and take action to rectify the matters. Otherwise the whole thing is doomed if we simply go on fighting over some small thing. So try to organize things and preach together in this spirit and that will please me very very much.” ~ SP Letter to Madhumangala (11/18/72)

"Just like these boys and girls, they were adhīra. Now they are dhīra. Adhīra. Adhīra means without any responsibility, doing all nonsense. Actually they are rich nation's sons and daughters. They are doing ev..., but now they have become dhīra. "No illicit sex, no meat-eating, no intoxication, no gambling. Yes, sir." This is dhīra. You are already intoxicated. You are already illusioned in this material world. If you still go on drinking, where is the possibility of knowledge? You must have sober brain to understand. So this is going on. Therefore my appeal to all the sober men: to understand this Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement and join it for the benefit of his personal self, for the benefit of his country, for the benefit of the whole human society." ~ SP lecture, Delhi India, 11-10-73
“Regarding some misbehavior, that we have to check by training peacefully. Your attitude of tolerance and kindness is very nice, so train them in this way.” ~ SP Letter to Bhavananda 10/28/70

"Our chanting is the medicine and our prasadam is the diet for curing material disease.” (SP letter to Dayananda 68/10/37)

"According to Vedic principles, the wife of another man is considered one's mother, and sexual relations are strictly forbidden with one's mother, sister and daughter. If one indulges in illicit sexual relations with another man's wife, that activity is considered identical with having sex with one's mother. This act is most sinful. The same principle holds for a woman also; if she enjoys sex with a man other than her husband, the act is tantamount to having sexual relations with her father or son. Illicit sex life is always forbidden, and any man or woman who indulges in it is punished in the manner described in this verse." ~ Srimad Bhagavatam 5.26.20

[In addition to chanting 16 rounds daily, Prabhupada's requirement for the initiated disciple is no illicit sex life, no intoxication, no meat eating, & no gambling. These 4 are known as 'regulative principles.' They're purpose is to elevate us above animal propensities so we can better understand, & advance, in transcendental qualities of Krishna Consciousness.]
“Your humble repentance is just like a Vaishnava 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 Vaishnava symptoms.” ~ SP Letter to Gargamuni 2/5/69

[NOTE: This must be used properly, by both involved. No one should think it opens the door to offend another, then chastise the other if they do not respond as described. Nor does the recipient tolerate more than they can realistically tolerate. Both can be a cause of falldown. However, to start developing honest levels, would be good. Krishna Consciousness is about 'self' purification, not focusing on where others need purifying. Of course, associate with those who follow properly, but focus on purifying self. When we become very 'absorbed' & busy in activities with Krishna, like the parent always taking care of their child doesn't have much time or interest to get terribly angry, dovetailing it in service to God can be a way out of such difficulties. As long as we do not hand over power of our life to another. Bhakti Yoga means self control. Only let those in, who won't try to take that away & blame God.]
“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 Sudama 7/29/72 Respect for sannyasi

[NOTE: Since early on, we've seen sanyasis fall down in different ways. How then, are regular devotees to act? If the sanyasi is still wearing saffron, caring dunda, & sincerely endeavoring, I myself will not risk an offense. I will bow, will offer all respects. It is to their soul & to Paramatma. Now, this is not to make falldowns acceptable, simply those in positions of power are the ones who should take responsibility & deal with that aspect. Our aspect is to protect our spiritual creeper. Prabhupada did give the instruction to stop giving sanyasi initiation because it's too hard for kali yuga devotees to maintain. But that too, is not really our business -its theirs. Just, good to know. Trying to control those we have no power over, will only increase lowering of our own consciousness. How to act? If even we respect an ant, why not respect a fallen devotee? Then avoid associating.] “This Krishna 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 Shivananda (9/14/68)

“Regarding your second question about greeting karmis, if a karmi is a friend, you just greet him HareKrishna, 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 Arundhati 6/16/69

“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 Krishna 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 Vaishnavism. We cannot misrepresent ourselves for the purpose of taking monies from the public, but as everything is undertaken forthrightly in a Krishna Consciousness way, then Lord Krishna will be pleased to provide all facilities for aiding our sincere service.” ~ Letter to Sridama 7/8/70

“If you have any specific grievance, please let me know but don’t 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.” SP Letter to Yamuna Devi & Harsharani 1/15/68 “Anyway, do things in good sense, without any disturbance. We have to make progress very soberly, and I am always at your service when ever required.” SP Letter to Satsvarupa (8/19/69)
"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 Nārada 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 Kṛṣṇa. These important functions will make one happy within this material world." ~ SB 4.8.34

ENGAGE IN PRACTICAL SERVICE

Human nature drives us toward work. Seldom can that be avoided. 

Possibly a few who are affluent have avoided, though usually upon closer examination we can see, while it may be different, they too must work. 

That is the nature of the material world, as well as the nature of the spirit soul. Because even the soul desires to “do something.” 

People will either serve themselves or they will serve others including God, but it is natural to want to serve. 

If the work is for self alone, then one must next accept karmic reactions [good included]. 

Even good work causes us to return to the material world to reap its rewards. Oh, we should still be good :-), simply we need to take it further and on up to the transcendental. Lord Krsna explains: 

"Work done as a sacrifice for Vishnu [Krsna] has to be performed. Otherwise work binds one to the material world." Bhagavad-gita 3.9.

Here we can see this as true according to God’s words. Who wants rebirth? To be 13 years old was NOT fun and I don’t want to go through that again. ha. 

Solution? Chant Hare Krishna and serve His transcendental picture on your Home Altar. It's fun, it's easy, and increases your own inner sense of peace. God, being nondifferent from His name and transcendental form, is right there in that lovely photo on your home altar. It is simply a matter of realization, which will come in time. 

One does not have to change employment, unless you're engaged in a bad karma job like a cook of meat products, or a bartender/waitress at a bar, etc. [If so, look for a new job.] 

Aside from things like that, if you're an artist, draw for Krsna; if you're a writer, write the glories of Krsna. When going to our jobs, even if one can't do so directly, we can “think” of Krishna. 

No one can stop what you put into your thoughts, so even at work, or standing in line at the grocery story, you can mentally chant the Maha Mantra, or think of a pretty Krishna pic you like, or something else. These are all forms of meditation.

"The Padma Purāṇa recommends: "Somehow or other always think of Viṣṇu, without forgetting Him under any circumstances. Actually this is the most basic of all regulative principles. For, when there is an order from a superior about doing something, there is simultaneously a prohibition. When the order is that one should always remember Kṛṣṇa, the prohibition is that one should never forget Him. Within this simple order and prohibition, all regulative principles are found complete." ~ Nectar Of Devotion, ch 2

Next, taking to spiritual life does not mean to become irresponsible. Instead, to do things with right consciousness. 

The example is there that one person may be mowing the lawn and the Krishna-devotee is also mowing his lawn. But one is freeing their self of karma by the activity - while the other is binding himself. Why? The man [in this case] is grumbling, angry because he has to mow this stupid grass. The devotee on the other hand is chanting or thinking "Hare Krishna," pleasantly singing this beautiful song to himself - or thinking of the beautiful, transcendental form of Krishna - in that way freeing himself. The outward appearance may look the same, but what is going on within, the type of consciousness that is there, makes a vast difference.

The purpose of spiritual knowledge is to bring us closer to God, or Krsna. “bhaktya mam abhijanati: "I can be known only by devotional service." (Bhagavad-gita (18.55). 

Devotional service helps us develop love & attachment to God. Knowledge guides us in correct action. 

Spiritual knowledge directs us to satisfy the desires of Krsna and our soul through practical engagements in His loving service. Without practical application, theoretical knowledge is insufficient.

So we first serve God in front of our Home Altar, then chant some japa and/or sing the Maha Mantra. We may also wish to read something inspiring by Prabhupada.  

If time is limited, or for other reasons, we can make it as short as necessary - I believe in being practical. :-) Simply, don’t leave God/Krishna out of the equation if you want to get the best results.

"Simply by chanting one holy name of Hari, a sinful man can counteract the reactions to more sins than he is able to commit." S.B. 6.2.7 P
  
"Even if he be distressed or degraded, any person who chants the holy name of the Lord, having heard it from a bona fide spiritual master, is immediately purified. Even if he chants the Lord's name jokingly or by chance, he and anyone who hears him are freed from all sins. " S.B. 5-25-11

"The chanting of the holy name of Lord Visnu is the best process of atonement for a thief of gold or other valuables, for a drunkard, for one who betrays a friend or relative, for one who kills a brahmana, or for one who indulges in sex with the wife of his guru or another superior. It is also the best method of atonement for one who murders women, the king or his father, for one who slaughters cows, and for all other sinful men. Simply by chanting the holy name of Lord Visnu, such sinful persons may attract the attention of the Supreme Lord, who therefore considers, "Because this man has chanted My holy name, My duty is to give him protection." S.B. 6.2.9-10

“Even if one chants the Hare Krsna maha-mantra offensively, one can avoid offenses by continuously chanting without deviation. One who becomes accustomed to this practice will always remain in a pure transcendental position, untouchable by sinful reactions. " - Srimad-Bhagavatam 6.3.32

From the above quoted various perspectives, all bases are covered. What more can we ask for? We’ve got it all. 

Of course, one can not misuse it. A person can’t intentionally commit an offense, create bad karma knowingly, then think they will simply chant Hare Krishna and it will all be washed away. That’s not how it works. Matter of fact, that can backfire. Rather, one must be honest and sincere; then all benefits will come to them.

SUPPLEMENTARY

There are many more practices that will help increase your spiritual energy. Here are two essential ones:

1-Study “original” editions of Srila Prabhupada’s books. One may wonder “What’s the big deal with original vs. other versions since his time on earth?” That’s something I myself do not feel like getting into repeatedly, but you can read about it and come to your own conclusions.

And here is a link to free, unchanged, unedited, original books.

Moving on, Prabhupada committed so much time to translate these ancient literature's so we could understand ancient Vedic text, and be able read them. (They’re in Sanskrit, he translated them into English.) They are filled with transcendental sound vibration, liberating pastimes. 

Books such as Bhagavad-gita As It Is, Sri Isopanisad (Mantras), Nectar of Instruction (Mantras), Krishna Book & Srimad-Bhagavatam, Bhaktirasamrta Sindu (Nectar of Devotion), Chaitanya Charitamrta, etc. 

To read the writings of the cent-per-cent fully realized pure devotee guru is indispensable for significant spiritual advancement. By reading Prabhupada’s “unchanged” books a person can come to their own conclusions about his teachings. Try to schedule in time regularly to read such shastra, even if it is just five or ten minutes.

2-Associate with devotees of Prabhupada and Krishna. Whomever we associate with, we become like. Srila Prabhupada taught association is large percentage of our advancement. So reach out. Even online, try to get to know and develop friendships specifically with devotees of Lord Sri Krishna and genuine followers of Prabhupada! :)  Recommended so one can gain a sense of the devotees feelings who had Prabhupada’s association back in the day.  [Wonderful stories of devotees personal experiences with him!]

3-Join bona fide Blogs AND E-groups :). Specifically, those which put Prabhupada at the center.  

SUBSCRIBE to this blog to keep up with the most recent quotes of Prabhupada...and more. 

On the various Egroups, and now on facebook, post nectar [not argumentation], then actually live the lifestyle! It’s a great place to make devotee friends on a variety of levels, exchange spiritual stories, inquire, etc. Don’t be afraid you might ask something foolish; we all did, and do! Join the club. ha It’s always a learning process. No one is above a blunder, myself included. Kindness and heart are the spiritual qualities to focus on. We learn by doing, by sharing.

The beauty of all that has been presented here is that you can take as much as you like or leave what you don’t, even return later and see if anything has modified, or not. Krsna Himself promises in Bhagavad-gita (2.40), "There is no loss or diminution in this endeavor, and even a little advancement on this path protects one from the most fearful type of danger." That fear is the repeated cycle of birth and death. So bring Krsna into your daily life, and guaranteed, you ‘will’ feel the benefit!


UPDATE: Yahoo has closed their e-groups, though kept them as e-lists. Less active. There is still facebook. Just be very careful to avoid argumentation there. Pick your association wisely, as Prabhupada instructed. :)


In case you didn't see it yet, there's more ways for practical service here.

Chant Hare Krishna and Be Happy! :-) [George Harrison Interview.] http://www.harekrishna.com/col/books/YM/cbh/ 

Turn Food into Prasadam [spiritual foodstuffs]

1. 

KARMA-FREE EATING

Anyone can learn how to eat without causing further karma, and beyond that, freeing themselves of karma. No need to join any organization to learn what monks and nuns know. Just a sincere desire to apply the knowledge.

In other places there the explanation that mantra carries prana. Now we add to that, the power of transcendental pictures. These should not be minimized in the mind. While to some, they may look like any other very nice photo or painting, we should recognize that material senses don't see all or know all. 

Spiritual paintings or photo's are more potent than most realize. And that is part of it – realization. Prabhupada has they are windows into the Spiritual Sky. What we may not immediately have realization of spiritually, we can use our intellect to gain philosophical realization about, within our brains. 

Whether we feel it or not, whether we experience it or not, using our intellect we can understand God IS present in His pictures. He doesn’t need our belief to be there. Like gravity, He exists with or without our belief. :)

Next, through Gods sublime power and transcendental energies, Krishna can change matter to spirit. By placing an iron rod into fire, we all know that soon the rod becomes as hot, acting like the fire. Similarly, food prepared for Krishna, then offered to Him with sincere love and devotion, will become spiritualized. Such food is known as Krishna “prasadam” [pronounced praa-sHad-aam]. Meaning: "the mercy of Lord Krishna." 

To eat prasadam is a basic part of bhakti yoga. In other types of yoga one must unnaturally suppress the senses, whereas in bhakti-yogi one can engage his or her senses in a variety of enjoyable spiritual activities, such as the taste of delectable food offered to Lord Krishna. 

In this way, one’s senses gently and progressively become spiritualized, thus a person can experience increasing transcendental pleasure through engagement in devotional service. These spiritual delights undoubtedly exceed any material experience.

Quote via Lord Caitanya: 

"Everyone has tasted these foods before. However, now that they have been prepared for Krishna and offered to Him with devotion, these foods have acquired extraordinary tastes and uncommon fragrances. Just taste them and see the difference in the experience! Apart from the taste, even the fragrance pleases the mind and makes one forget any other fragrance. Therefore one should know that the spiritual nectar of Krsna's lips must have touched these ordinary foods and imparted to them all their transcendental qualities."

The perfection of vegetarianism is to eat only that which is offered to Lord Krishna. Oh, it’s nice to be a vegetarian, and it is pious. Please consider there is still some degree of life, even within a vegetable, that must die for us to eat and survive. What to do? 

There is an easy, spiritual solution. By offering our vegetarian food to Krishna with mantra, we free ourselves from any karmic reaction of taking the life of even a plant. 

Furthermore, because we offered it with love, we can now experience an arousing of our soul's original rapport with God, Lord Sri Krishna. Details on how to do that, follows.

The HOW TO’s of FORMULATING and OFFERING PRASADAM

Purchasing & Preparing Food

Upon walking the aisles of a grocery store, trying to pick foods to offer to God, it can be difficult to recognize what can be offered and what cannot. 

"If one offers Me (Krishna) with love and devotion a leaf, a flower, a fruit, or water, I will accept it." ~ Bhagavad-gita 9.26

We now have a code, here and elsewhere, thus stating not to offer meat, fish, and eggs, because these are all living entities of various types. But do offer God sattvic/pure foods prepared from vegetables, fruits, nuts/seeds, beans, grains, and milk products. This action of offering, will increase our love and devotion as well as connection to Him. 

Both coffee and caffeinated tea are not acceptable considering these contain a drug. Some people like the flavor of such beverages, so if you still want to drink them, simple – start out by using the caffeine-free coffee or Postum or herbal teas. There is actually a large variety of coffee substitutes these days. 

…There’s always a solution when we want a solution. :)

You may wish to know that many companies impart meat, fish, and egg products into foods you’d never expect contained them. Not all that appear vegetarian, are vegetarian. So you need to become a bit of a label reader in this age of kali. 

Example: A number of yogurt and sour cream companies include gelatin, which is made out of hooves, horns, even bones from animals who have been butchered. Additionally, unless the package states otherwise, cheese often contains rennet which is an enzyme extracted from the stomach tissues of slaughtered calves. 

However, there are relentless cheeses, usually in health food stores. Not all in those stores are rennet-less either, so ask. They don’t mind.

Attempt as much as would be doable, trying to use fresh, natural, (veggie) organic ingredients.

It is essential to be hygienic when preparing food to offer up to God. Maintain a clean kitchen, wash your hands thoroughly and as soon as you go into your kitchen. Now during the preparation process, we do not taste. The meal is not for us but for the pleasure of God, so we keep it free of bacteria that comes from the mouth, hands, etc. However, know that what we offer God, God gives back. So we can partake of His remnants. He is so kind that he leaves it all for us, merely it becomes spiritualized.

Next, position the various portions of the food on special plates and cups reserved particularly for this function. [You can use anything and do not have to get mine, but if you are going to get something anyway, I need a job so please do it through my link. Thanks.] Plates and cups can be small, usually are, and only require small portions placed upon them anyhow. Simply they’re only for the Lord and no one else is to eat off of them. They belong to God. :-) 

Now, if you don't have a special plate or plates, just do your best finding plates no one ever ate off before, and are clean. But eventually need to upgrade. :) Heck, go to the dollar store to get started. They have affordable beginners cups/plates etc. These days they often have specialty isles in Wall-Mart or similar stores, with some inexpensive silverware. Hopefully over time you’ll see how enjoyable it is to serve Krishna in this way, thus getting more and more into it, eventually able to afford some nice silver or at lest stainless steel plates and cups for the Lord. ......Yes, I realize I might be, what appears as undermining my own need for employment, but hopefully you will at least get some incense through me. :)

 

Offering

Offering food has an invisible, mystical and spiritual effect. It may be invisible to us, but on a spiritual level the food has “changed.” It has been accepted by the Supreme Lord, due to a person’s love and sincere effort. Therefore we receive great benefit! How does one do this?

A basic method to offer food is a simple prayer, with folded hands or on knees. Example: "Dear Lord Shri Krishna, please accept this foodstuff," plus chant the "Hare Krishna" mantra 1 or 3 times.

If you want to take it further, learn and chant each of the Sanskrit prayers 1 or 3 times. [You don't need to chant the English too, but it is good to learn what it means…gradually is fine.]) Some have taken these mantra's/prayers along with them on paper while making their offering, learned it that way. Don’t make it a difficult or stressful thing, but fun! Because it is.

A few simple pronunciation helpers:

“v” is usually pronounced like a ‘w’ (except if it appears at the beginning of a word).

Letter “E” at the ‘end’ of the word is often “A,” as in “say” or “tay.”

c is sometimes pronounced as ‘ch’

The Sanskrit spelling as Krsna is pronounced Krishna. :-)

Caitanya is pronounced Chaitanya.

Just try your best “with heart.” In the beginning of the Hare Krishna Movement, many would criticize the devotees to Prabhupada because they did not pronounce the Sanskrit perfectly. He would always defend us, saying we are trying, and spoke about sincerity

I’ve tried to help with the pronunciation by sometimes darkening the next syllable.

It's not, plus auspicious, to add the ringing of a bell.

1. Prayer to Srila Prabhupada:

nama om vishnu-padaya krsna-presthaya bhutale

Srimate bhaktivedanta-svamin iti namine

"I offer my respectful obeisances unto His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, who is very dear to Lord Krsna, having taken shelter at His lotus feet.

namas te sarasvate deve, gaura-vani-pracarine

nirvesesa-synyavadi- pascyatya-desha tarine

Our respectful obeisances are unto you, O spiritual master, servant of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Gosvami. You are kindly preaching the message of Lord Caitanya deva and delivering the Western countries, which are filled with impersonalism and voidism."

2. Prayer to Lord Caitanya:

namo maha-vadanyaya, krsna-prema-pradaya te,

krsnaya krsna-caitanya, namne gaura-tvise namah

"O most munificent incarnation! You are Krishna Himself appearing as Sri Krsna Caitanya Mahaprabhu. You have assumed the golden color of Srimati Radharani. and You are widely distributing pure love of Krsna. We offer our respectful obeisances unto You."

3. Prayer to Lord Krsna:

namo brahmanya-devaya, go-brahmana-hitaya ca,

jagad-hitaya krsnaya, govindaya namo namah

"I offer my respectful obeisances unto Lord Krsna, who is the worshipable Deity for all brahmanas the well-wisher of the cows and the brahmanas and the benefactor of the whole world. I offer my repeated obeisances to the Personality of Godhead, known as Krsna and Govinda."

It’s a good idea to wait a few minutes after offering, politely giving the Lord time to partake. [He really doesn't need time, its more for respect, getting it thru to ourselves, and to avoid thinking its ours the nanosecond the offering is complete.]  

Simultaneously, as one who raised children, and having friends with little kids, no child should be in the background waiting out of hunger. In such cases, & other times when waiting is impractical, simple rise and transfer the “maha” or the Lord’s food from His plates to a large serving container (not a person’s eating plate). Wash with special cloth, the Lords plates and put them away. Now, what was removed directly from the altar is especially potent. Its all prasadam. The portion in the pots, salad bowls, etc. - all prasadam. But foods directly from the Lord plate is called “maha pradsad” and is extra potent.

Be practical, just be sincere of heart and stay focused while making the offering. That’s why it can (sometimes) be better to do a short, simple offering if we are less likely to be interrupted, or our minds less likely to wander - than to do something fancy with our mind off to Hawaii or thinking about the laundry, that annoying person at work, something else. Or Sundays could be a day to do it bigger. Mix it up, just come to a clear decision before starting the week, month, even the day.

The purpose of preparing and offering food to Krishna is to express your love and appreciation of Him. Krsna accepts your devotion, not the mechanical aspect of an offering. However, that doesn't mean we shouldn't make offerings etc at times we’re not overflowing with love, No. Remember, love is a verb. We offer, sing, etc regardless of how we feel or don’t feel. Actually this is the way we will become elevated and “will” feel it. And that we should do so sincerely to the best of our ability for that day or time, is to our advantage. The “Supreme” Personality of Godhead, Krishna, is complete in and of Himself--He doesn't require one thing--but out of His enormous love He lets us offer Him food in order for use to develop our love and connection with Him, thus it becomes reciprocal.

Once the food has been offered and transferred from Gods special dinnerware, His dishes and utensils (with separate cloth other than those used for humans dirty dishes), if you wish you can invite visitors or family to honor/consume the prasadam!! :-) Because Krsna accepts it, it is non-different from Him, and for that reason by eating it you’ll automatically become purified. This may be a hard concept for some to understand. Keep in mind, it is spiritual - very different from out average comprehensions.

All which you offer up to Krishna on your home altar becomes prasadam - mercy of the Lord. Incense, flowers, water, food, even cloth upon the altar—all you offer for Krishna’s joy becomes spiritualized. As we offer the Lord something with authentic love and devotion, He returns it, and we can enjoy it as prasadam! :) Also, He enters into the offering making the remnants non-different from Himself. You can deeply respect the things you've offered, and can share them with others too. Giving out of prasadam is a wonderful activity! 

For a free online veggie cookbook click here---->> on “The Higher Taste” 

Why Start a Temple? 

How To Use YOUR HOME ALTAR

A home altar actually has many purposes, many things you can use it for - and that is it’s beauty! In this section we will discuss such uses. 

An altar is a meditative place of peace, a sanctuary for you, and a place to make your spiritual connections. 

For those just learning this, if so inclined, can offer your beautiful pictures of the Lord - some incense, etc (recommended). Here’s how:

Standing to the right side of the altar (your left), you can make circles with the incense around Their entire Transcendental picture. 

OR, if you want to get a bite more detailed over time, just make:

-four little circles starting at Their feet, 

-then 2 to the waist, 

-then 3 to the head, 

-lastly 1 – 3 times around entire picture. [Temples do 7, at home it's up to you].

If you want to also offer a flower individually, it’s done the same way. Simultaneously chanting, which is described below.

Water can be offered just by placing the cups [Theirs only] in front of Them, and then saying mantras or prayers. [Below]

All of this sets the mood, supercharging the atmosphere (and you!) with higher vibrations of spiritual energy. 

Though not always necessary, just know this option exists.

Vedic prayer. It has power and not some mere ritual or wishful thinking. 

 Even from a basic understanding, and something many do not know, Mantra carries prana. Tho more importantly, it connects us with God. Either way you win. :)

Therefore by sitting cross legged (but really any method of sitting or even standing is fine) in front of your altar, in your special place of peace, then chanting with sincerity, thus a Vedic prayer/mantra can increase your abilities to heal self and others, on any level. 

CHANTING & MANTRAS

We can look at mantra chanting from various points of view. They work on every level so will briefly touch on those, and wish to state I myself am interested in the spiritual aspect. Yet, the following is interesting. 

From the more material scientific point - to pronounce a word creates various types of vibrational frequency. This is a scientific fact. The frequency of the word vibrates in the brain within the cerebral cortex. When that sound is a spiritual sound, then even materially it has benefits, and has been found to form what’s known as a feedback loop while the brain is producing such sound, thus the brain listens to it, next responding with a deeper level of awareness and personal empowerment. 

Even we notice, an opera singer can break glass with the mere sound vibration of their voice, the decibels of an airplane too loud has punctures ear drugs as has some rock music, etc. Matter of fact, scientific studies have shown that plants exposed to hard rock music for significant periods of time withered and eventually died, whereas plants exposed to classical music thrived! Certainly sound vibration has power! We merely need to use it rightly. 

And form the subtle material auric body point - mantra is a mystical formula composed of the original Sanskrit language of the mystical Spiritual Sky. 

Now, for those curious about chakras and its relationship to this: Speech originates in the Muladhara Chakra. Through desire it moves upward and crosses the navel or Svadhisthana Chakra, continuing on up to the Solar Plexus or Manipura Chakra, on further to the heart or Anahata Chakra. Here it transforms into Pasyanti and Madhyama to finally reach the throat or Visuddha Chakra. This causes it to take audible form of sound vibration called vaikhari. This vaikhari has been categorized into 50 alphabets of Sanskrit starting from “a”(A) and ending with “ksh.” 

Everything, even our physical body, “starts” from the more subtle auric body (which includes chakras). If we get sick, it first hits our auric body only to later move through into the physical. Though ‘later’ could be anywhere from a few minutes to years, accordingly. However, it still must first meet up with, and transfer through, the chakras and auric body. 

Thus, healing will also start there, and sound vibration known since time immemorial by great sages and yogis of India to definitely effect these different chakras and our aura, will therefore be healing to body/mind/soul when used. 

However, memorizing the details of how it all functions and unfolds is all very complex and not necessary. It works whether you are paying attention to it or not, just as your heart keeps beating whether you understand the physiological details of how it does its job or don’t understand it. It’s so much easier to just chant from a spiritual perspective which takes care of everything in the first place. 

So most important is the spiritual point, because when our body ultimately passes over we will not need any of the other, therefore they will also eventually die away. Whereas, the effects and benefits regarding the spiritual potency of a mantra will never go away. It's beneficial eternally. 

Though it’s not necessary to move into an ashrama to learn this. Anyone can practice the Yoga of Mantra Meditation within the peaceful realms of their home. Spiritual life, like anything else, means practical activity. The key is to accept the guidance of scripture/shastra and the pure jagat guru Srila Prabhupada. 

True spiritual knowledge empowers us. We actually become strong on many levels, including psychologically, and with achievement of our desires. This is also why we need to become humble. The power we get from a real and genuine connection with the Supreme Being is more potent than any can even begin to imagine. Not to worry, God isn’t about to send you jumping on a bandwagon. Ha 

Simultaneously we are expected to remain sincere, honest, and try to be humble. With that said, we can do much good for the world and ourselves as we engage in ancient, Divine, Vedic mantra chanting.

Mantra Meditation actually give us direction in all aspects of life, healing the heart, healing the body (various levels) and especially healing the soul. 

Results? It brings much peace, happiness, and the opportunity to never take birth again but instead -- rejoin Lord Sri Krishna in the Spiritual Sky. 

Thus we can put some valid effort into organizing our lives in such a way as to follow Krishna's teachings as much as one can at any one point in time - gradually, gently aiming for increase - on a practical level. 

Simply we try to do our best. Then it will be possible for us to rise to the transcendental plane even while living in the material world. We can be in the world, but not of the world, though this often takes time, yet is achievable.

The first principle of chanting is to understand, and use, the transcendental vibration of the Hare Krishna Maha-mantra. 

Others may be added after this one is used, as Maha translates as "great;" mantra translate as "sound that liberates the mind from ignorance." There is no mantra as great or as powerful as this Maha Mantra:

Hare Krsna, Hare Krsna, Krsna Krsna, Hare Hare/Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.

There are no restriction, no hard and fast rules. You don’t have to become an initiated disciple. You can just chant these holy names of the Lord anywhere, any time. 

Although there is additional benefit to set a specific time of the day to regularly chant. Early morning hours are ideal as they are astrologically but especially spiritually considered to be auspicious and blocking of malefics. However, anytime of day will offer powerful benefits, as it is more in accord with heart and sincere endeavor.

Now chanting the Maha Mantra can be done in two ways: 

1. A. Singing the mantra, called kirtana (aloud)

 

B. singing the mantra as a bhajana (aloud but more quietly)

Both of these both are usually done in a group though not limited to that.

2. Chanting or saying the mantra to oneself, called japa (which literally means "to speak softly")

Focus on hearing the sounds of the holy names. Just stick with it and remain aware. While chanting, enunciate it clearly, approaching Krsna in a prayerful spirit. 

If your mind roams, don’t beat yourself up, simply draw it back to the resonance of the Lord's divine names. Chanting this Maha Mantra is a prayer to Krsna. It means:

"O energy of the Lord, O all-attractive Lord Krishna O Supreme Enjoyer, please engage me in Your service."

The more you are focused and genuine as chant Hare Krishna, the more spiritual growth you will build.

Because Krishna is forgiving, loving, and kind, thoughtfully He has made returning “Home” extremely e-a-s-y in this age of Kali-yuga, that we may get out of the material world in 1 birth [it was considerably more complicated in previous ages] simply by enjoying the pleasure of chanting His names. All of His powers are within His Names, because He IS non-different from them, or “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was God.”] Merely, invisible to our material eyes. It’s simply a matter of realization. the mantra.

"There is no difference between chanting the Hare Krsna mantra and meeting Krsna eye to eye, face to face. Simply one has to realize." ~ Prabhupada lecture, 1-12-73, Bombay, India

Thus we begin to understand that the names of God and God Himself are one and the same. Accordingly, we are directly associating with God and receiving sweet purity when chanting Hare Krishna and Rama. 

Endeavor to chant in a humble state of mind, a meditative mood, and with devotion. According to ancient Vedic literature, Lord Krishna is personally dancing on your tongue when you chant His holy name. How wonderfully blissful! :-)

 

Whilst chanting unaccompanied (though can be done with others desirous to do the same), and you wish to chant more than just a few mantras, use a strand of 108 small beads. 

These are called “japa” beads and highly recommended. They help to maintain a tally of how many mantras you chanted, as well as increases the ability to focus your attention on the sound vibration of these sacred Names. 

There’s 108 gradated beads plus one big bead known as the head bead. 

Start chanting on a bead next to the head bead, rolling it gently between thumb and middle finger of right hand while simultaneously chanting the complete Hare Krsna mantra (16 syllables). 

Then shift to the following bead and do again. Like this, blissfully chant on all of the 108 beads till you arrive at the head bead once more. This is called “one round” of japa. After that, and avoiding chanting on the head bead, simply turn the beads around and begin your second round upon the last bead you chanted on. 

The time line for one round generally averages between 5-7 minutes, but time is really not so important, just a guide. Take however long you need.

Once a devotee receives spiritual initiation they vow before God and Guru to chant a minimum sixteen rounds “Hare Krsna mantra” daily. Of course more can be added on any particular day you feel enlivened, a holiday, etc. Simply the initiated need to be sure and maintain sixteen.

For the uninitiated, even if you can chant only one round per day, the idea is commit to chanting that round, finish it every day. 

After some practice or time (or sooner) you may feel you could chant more than one etc round, then add to the number you were chanting daily. 

Again and for anyone, on days of inspiration it’s perfectly ok and even a good idea to chant more than your selected number, due to enthused feelings, returning next day to lesser number of rounds, as long as we do so consciously. 

What if we slip and have trouble maintaining a certain amount of chanting? Remember, don’t beat yourself up, just do what you can and “keep on keepin’ on.” :) Returning next day (etc) to the number of japa you have set for yourself.

Beads are holy so don't let them touch ground or put anywhere unhygienic. If it accidentally happens, relax. Just touch them to your forehead with a sincere apologetic mood, and a “Hare Krishna.” :-) 

That beads can be kept clean it's good to carry them inside a particular pouch called a “bead bag.” Someday I’ll have to figure out how to describe a sewing pattern for that, but beads can be used without one. Just be conscious and take care of them.

You can string your own beads: 

Just purchase 109 graded wooden beads and some strong string or thin rope or some have even used [new, clean] fishing line. String 108 of the beads. 

This next point is important. In between each beads place a knot. Every time. This signifies Personalism. 

String all your beads bringing the almost finished product together at the top, taking both cords, and string them thru the head bead. 

Your now have your own set of japa beads!

If you would like to buy Japa Mala:

WHITE TULASI MALA: 108 Beads, knotted after each bead [that's important.] Prayer beads. Currently $7.74. Click here for updated details.

NOTE: Most mala need to be soaked in OIL a couple weeks before using, or they may crack much more quickly. You can use any type of oil, tho Sesame is often used. I used Olive Oil once. It did the job but me and my beads smelled like olives for quite a while. ha Anyhow, if you choose to use Sesame oil, please get it through me here: AYURVEDIC BANYAN BOTANICALS CERTIFIED ORGANIC SESAME OIL, $15.99 as of now.

TULASI WOOD SUPERIOR GRADE MALA 

Hand Carved. Very light brown in color. Bead size 7-8mm approx. Lovingly knotted by artisans in India. 108 beads plus one tassel mala - mala length 42 cms approximately. Go here.

Next, aside from japa beads, you can also SING the Maha Mantra in kirtana. While its perfectly fine to sing alone, and recommended as the insects even benefit (!), therefore what to speak of you! But kirtana is generally performed with others. A melodious kirtana with family or friends is sure to enliven everyone. Devotees use traditional melodies and instruments in the temple, but you can chant to any melody as for example was done by George Harrison and others, using any musical instruments to accompany your chanting. As Lord Caitanya said, "There are no hard and fast rules for chanting Hare Krishna."

 

If you would like to experience some of these various forms of singing (transcendental sound vibration in song form), in a moment I will give good links that offers a variety of music:

“Explanation of Hare Krishna Mantra (not music but very interesting!)

"Singing of the Hare Krishna Mantra - very nice."

“Govinda [produced by George Harrison,sung by Yamunna dd]

“Sanskrit song about the Spiritual Master” [Here it is sung, when making offerings it is not sung but spoken.]

"Too cute! :) Child sings Hare Krishna in such a sweet mellow tune."

“Chanting on beads (not music - chant your japa along with Prabhupada just like we do at temple.)”

"MANTRA CHOIR" Whether knowing the words or not, this is worth listening to and so moving!"Giri Govardhana" another name of Krishna.

Lots of choices! Possibly more to come when time allows me to do so. :) Check back for updates or additions.

Enjoy your spiritual senses. They are real. There is some misunderstanding, at times, that we must turn off all senses. However, this is inaccurate. And impossible, because they came from God. Simply in the material world, with that all around us, is where we turn to please our sense. The basic explanation based on Prabhupada's teachings, is that we were made to be happy, to experience pleasure, and if we do not get it from our higher senses, we must get it somewhere so we turn to material senses. Now knowing we can still have pleasure with Krishna, we can do it differently. 

Spiritual life is so much fun I never 'got it' why some like to make it miserable. ha We eat sublime prasadam, dress unique [tho technically you can dress however you wish], smell offered incense,  and boy can we sing! ha I don't mean we have to have great voices, that's even irrelevant. But we should belt it out, and take joy Krishna's names. And some of the younger generation have been having a bit of fun with that. :)

Often a person discovers japa and kirtana, when performed in front of an altar - a special place - becomes more personal, plus boosts efficiency. Simultaneously, there are no hard and fast rules, singing is fun! Here's a Sweet song for peace amongst us all. English - sing along. :)

Sing the Maha Mantra to the walls, to the wind, to the cat outside your window or goldfish in a bowl. What if some can’t hear? Ahhhh but the soul always hears. 

Let yourself go, any style as there is no one way it must be sung. Some prefer classic, while others get inspired with something different. And some combine both while others do not. And all are perfectly fine. 

Discover what gets your mojo going ha, and do it! Experience the bliss of singing the Maha Mantra! 

When I lived in the ashrama I was told to even sing it to the walls, ha, as even bacteria, or something else, will benefit. :) And once again, so will the singer.