Srila Prabhupada Lilamrita - Chapter 3

Srila Prabhupada Lilamrita - Chapter 3
Here are the *key points* extracted from the chapter- 3 of Srila Prabhupad Lilamrita
“A Very Nice Saintly Person”
*The Meeting of Abhay (Śrīla Prabhupāda) and Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī*
1. *Introduction to Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī:*
Abhay’s friend, Narendranath Mullik, convinced him to meet Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī, a prominent Vaiṣṇava sādhu.
As part of the Gaudiya Math, Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī was renowned as a great devotee of Lord Caitanya Mahāprabhu.
2. *Skepticism and First Impressions:*
Abhay (later Śrīla Prabhupāda) was initially reluctant to meet him, skeptical due to his previous experiences with sādhus.
Upon meeting, Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī immediately urged Abhay and his friend to spread the teachings of Lord Caitanya worldwide-even before any formalities or discussions.
3. *The Philosophy of Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī:*
He emphasized that *Kṛṣṇa consciousness is independent of political or social conditions* and is the most urgent matter, even more important than India’s ongoing independence movement.
He explained the illusory nature of identifying with nationalism or political movements, asserting that such concerns are temporary, whereas Kṛṣṇa consciousness addresses eternal reality.
Real welfare is spiritual welfare-helping human beings reestablish their relationship with Kṛṣṇa is the highest good.
4. *Abhay’s Transformation:*
Although initially presenting a nationalist argument (that independence was necessary for spreading Indian culture), Abhay was deeply impressed by Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī’s conviction, erudition, and presentation of Vaiṣṇava philosophy.
Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī’s emphasis on the eternal nature of Kṛṣṇa consciousness deeply resonated with Abhay, awakening and enhancing his dormant Kṛṣṇa consciousness.
5. *Immediate Respect and Commitment:*
Abhay recognized Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī as his spiritual master in his heart, though not officially at the time.
After the meeting, Abhay reflected that the message of Lord Caitanya was in the hands of a highly capable and saintly person.
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*The Life of Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī*
1. *Birth and Early Life:*
Born in 1874 as Bimala Prasada, the son of renowned Vaiṣṇava teacher Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura.
Showed great spiritual inclination from childhood, including receiving a divine blessing from Lord Jagannātha’s garland as an infant.
By age 7, he had memorized the Bhagavad-gītā and could explain its verses.
2. *Education and Erudition:*
Studied Sanskrit, mathematics, astronomy, and philosophy, earning him the title *"Siddhānta Sarasvatī"* for his scholarly contributions.
Authored and published numerous articles and books, including works defending Vaiṣṇavism against caste-based discrimination.
3. *Spiritual Awakening and Dedication:*
Took initiation from Gaurakiśora dāsa Bābājī, who encouraged him to preach the Absolute Truth.
Took a personal vow to chant the Hare Kṛṣṇa mantra a *billion times,* living austerely in Māyāpur and dedicating himself to devotional service.
4. *Advocate for Pure Vaiṣṇavism:*
Challenged caste brāhmaṇism and pseudo-Vaiṣṇavism, emphasizing that devotional service and spiritual qualifications, not birth, determine one’s spiritual status.
Successfully represented Vaiṣṇavism in public debates, solidifying its standing among spiritual practitioners.
5. *Preaching and Mission:*
Continuing his father’s missionary work, Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī sought to spread Lord Caitanya’s teachings universally, seeing Kṛṣṇa consciousness as relevant for all humanity, not a sectarian or nationalistic movement.
He prophesied the global spread of kīrtana and Lord Caitanya’s teachings.
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*Impact on Śrīla Prabhupāda (Abhay Charan)*
1. The meeting profoundly influenced Abhay, who appreciated the purity and authority of Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta's teachings.
2. Bhaktisiddhānta’s call to preach Lord Caitanya’s message sowed the seeds for Abhay’s future role as the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), fulfilling the prophecy of spreading Kṛṣṇa consciousness globally.