Mistakes in Krishna Consciousness
I initially believed that after writing so many spritual books, I would not need to write anything further. However, as I became more attached to ISKCON Rajkot temple and deeply connected with the teachings of Mahavishnu Goswami Maharaj under the guidance of Vaishnavseva Prabhuji, the temple president, I realized that I had made several mistakes in understanding Krishna Consciousness. These realizations have led me to suggest to all my readers, whether experienced or new devotees, to read this, "Mistakes in Krishna Consciousness." I feel that these are common errors that many devotees, even those with years of experience, might be making unknowingly, thinking they are on the right path. This material addresses those subtle misconceptions that may go unnoticed but are crucial to recognize and correct in our spiritual journey.
Mistake 1: We Can Connect Directly with Krishna without Guru
Mistake 2: Motivation is Bhakti
Mistake 3: Bhakti = System of Rules and Regulation
Mistake 4: Success is Measured by Results
Mistake 5: Focus on Efforts
Mistake 6: Full Knowledge Attracts Krishna’s Love
Mistake 7: Giving Krishna is Giving Krishna’s Knowledge
Mistake 8: Always Maximize for Krishna
Mistake 9: Real Guru is Always Well-Known
Mistake 10: Bhakti is Entertaining
I have made many mistakes along my spiritual journey, but I am sharing the 10 most common errors that I believe many devotees, including myself, often make. While I am still learning and far from perfect, I have realized that we should not strive for perfection, but rather prioritize on continuous improvement.
Mahavishnu Goswami Maharaj never allowed any trace of ego to grow in his devotees. Like a balloon, Maharaj would burst the ego at the right time, ensuring it didn’t inflate. His focus wasn’t merely on building temples, but on constantly observing how his devotees thought and behaved. If even a small percentage of ego arose from any service or work done, Maharaj would immediately smash it, keeping his disciples humble and focused on pure devotion.
Mistake 1: We can Connect directly with Krishna without Guru
Hare Krishna.....
Temple leaders often seem to focus on management, but true leadership involves having a long-term vision that transcends mere administration. There was an instance when I brought some plants and pots for the temple garden at ISKCON Rajkot. When Vaishnavseva Prabhuji, the temple president, saw this, he asked me with whose permission I had brought the plants. I questioned why I needed permission to perform service for Krishna. Instead of asserting his position as temple president, he replied that because he had wholeheartedly served his guru, Mahavishnu Goswami Maharaj, I should follow his guidance. This response made me realize that despite having read many of Srila Prabhupada’s books, I had not truly served a guru. I accepted that I should follow Vaishnavseva Prabhuji, who had served Maharaj with full dedication, just as Maharaj had served Srila Prabhupada wholeheartedly.
We are servants of the servant of the servant. Krishna states in the Bhagavatam that those who serve His devotees are His true devotees. We should not aspire to serve Krishna directly; rather, Krishna values our service under the guidance and direction of senior Vaishnavas, acting as interns in His service. Just as in the material world, where meeting a celebrity personally is not easy due to the many levels one must go through, similarly, in our spiritual life, to truly assist and please Krishna, we must work and perform our duties under the direction of senior devotees.
Once I approached Vaishnavseva Prabhuji, the temple president of ISKCON Rajkot, to offer a donation of just a small amount, his response was deeply thoughtful and caring. Before accepting the donation, he asked me if I had first ensured that my family's needs were satisfied. He emphasized the importance of fulfilling one's responsibilities at home before making offerings. This level of care and concern is indeed rare in this world. In many places, donations are quickly accepted, and receipts are issued without such consideration. However, Vaishnavseva Prabhuji's approach reflects a deeper understanding of duty and compassion, which is in line with the teachings of our spiritual tradition.
From this experience, I learned that true leaders focus on preaching (spreading genuine love), as it is through preaching that connections are made. It was through such association that I became connected with the ISKCON temple, and I realized that to the best of my capacity, I should strive to serve under the directions suggested by the senior-most authorities in the temple.
We should not think that temple leaders are only responsible for the management of temple formalities. We must understand that in the absence of Srila Prabhupada and our Guru Maharaj, the guidance and association of these temple leaders are crucial for our spiritual progress. They (Leaders) are direct reprehensive of Krishna. Even if we might be better in terms of material qualifications, management expertise, or skills, it is still essential to follow them. It is our duty to serve them and seek their blessings. By doing so, we align ourselves with Krishna's will and continue to grow in our Krishna Consciousness under their expert direction.
Mistake 2: Motivation is Bhakti
Once, I was given the opportunity to take the Srimad Bhagavatam class at ISKCON Rajkot. I approached the class like a motivational speaker, filling the audience with encouragement and energy. However, after my class, the temple president took the microphone and corrected me in front of the crowd, imparting some key learning points:
- Motivation is not Bhakti: In motivational speaking, the focus is often on the belief that we can achieve everything through our own abilities. However, in Bhakti, we must remember that our true focus should be on seeking Krishna's bliss. Even when we genuinely need something, we should humbly ask Krishna, "If it pleases You, please grant this to me. If not, I accept Your will." Our attitude should always be one of pleading for His mercy. I.e. Hankering for Bliss
- Trust in Krishna: Devotees have complete trust in Krishna, knowing that He provides whatever is truly needed without our asking. Our reliance should always be on His will and His mercy, rather than on our own efforts.
- We are here to improve not prove: We must understand that the information we share in a class is meant first for our own learning. Giving a class or preaching to others does not imply that we know everything; rather, it is an opportunity for us to learn and apply these teachings in our own lives. Our approach should not be to dominate the audience with the firepower of our knowledge. We should share knowledge with humility and love, presenting the teachings in a way that is gentle and respectful. This approach is very different from the aggressive style of motivational speakers, who often perceives the audience as uninformed and discouraged, positioning themselves as the sole authority or "knower" of everything. This approach can lead to an unintended dominance over the crowd, rather than genuine guidance or inspiration. Instead of trying to force or snatch results, we should inspire others naturally and lovingly, allowing them to embrace the teachings with their own hearts and understanding.
Mistake 3: Bhakti = System of Rules and Regulation
The system at the temple, such as attending Mangala Arati, which requires waking up at 4 AM, and chanting the Hare Krishna Maha mantra in a group afterward, is indeed a structured routine. However, this system is not Bhakti if it is not performed with love. We must understand that whatever we do should be done with love. If we attend Mangala Arati simply because we fear that if we don’t, we will have to wash toilets consequently, then where is the love for Krishna in that? It’s better to do less but to do it with genuine love. The system itself is not Bhakti, but developing and expressing love for Krishna is true Bhakti. Remember that while a system is necessary, it should be infused with love; otherwise, it loses its true meaning because, at the end of the day, Bhakti is a voluntary act of devotion. At ISKCON Rajkot, I have observed that the authorities genuinely care for the devotees and strive to help them understand the importance of their spiritual practices. They take the time to check on devotees who might be missing Mangala Arati, inquiring if it’s due to staying up late at night, excessive use of mobile phones, or other reasons. The senior devotees personally guide them, explaining why attending Mangala Arati is so important and sharing the benefits they have experienced from it. This approach naturally encourages neophyte devotees to develop love and enthusiasm for attending Mangala Arati.
In this context, numbers are not as important as quality. As Srila Prabhupada often said, in a real diamond shop, the number of buyers may be fewer, but they are seeking genuine quality, unlike the many buyers who flock to shops selling artificial diamonds.
I once asked a devotee from another center what motivates him to attend Mangala Arati at 4:30 AM, and he said that if he didn’t, he wouldn’t get breakfast prasadam. But the real spirit of Mangala Arati is to feel the excitement and joy that "Wow, I am going to see Krishna!" That zeal must be present to truly experience the bliss and benefits of it. Bhakti, or devotional service, is indeed a voluntary act of love and surrender to Krishna. As Maharaj often emphasizes, it is crucial that this service be performed with genuine enthusiasm and affection. When we try to force others—especially new devotees—into practices like attending Mangala Arati at 4.30 AM or chanting 16 rounds of Hare Krishna Maha Mantra without allowing them the space to develop a natural love for these activities, it can lead to frustration and disinterest. Maharaj advises that it is better to perform fewer devotional activities with sincerity and love than to mechanically follow rituals without any inner connection. The goal is to gradually cultivate genuine enthusiasm and love for Krishna, even if it means starting with smaller commitments like chanting 1 round of hara krishna maha mantra daily. Eventually, the love and devotion will grow, leading to more spontaneous and heartfelt service.
Mistake 4: Success is Measured by Results
Success is Measured by Efforts not Results - Result oriented service to Krishna is not the key; rather, your own genuine efforts for Krishna with love and enthusiasm is the key. Maharaj often teaches that in spirituality, 1+1 equals 1, and 1-1 also equals 1. This means that whatever seva we do is equal in Krishna's eyes, provided we make our genuine efforts. When we complete our seva, we should not think that we have done 1+1=2, but instead, we should forget it, understanding that 1-1 still equals 1. We should never think, "Oh, I did so much for Krishna." No, at the end of the day, we have done nothing on our own; we are simply instruments in the hands of Krishna and our Guru.
Once, a devotee from the USA told Srila Prabhupada that he felt fortunate to have the opportunity to serve at the temple because of his past karma. Prabhupada corrected him, saying that it was not due to his past karma, which had led him to be born as a hippy in the USA, but rather it was due to the blessings of the Vaishnavas that he was now able to serve Krishna.
Once, I mentioned to the ISKCON Rajkot temple president, "Why do you worry so much about seva? Krishna will take care of everything for us." He replied, "No, we should not think like that. We must put forth our best genuine efforts for Krishna. It’s true that Krishna will handle everything, but if we do not make the effort, that service will be given to someone else, not to us. Krishna does not have any shortage of devotees, so while it’s correct that Krishna will manage everything, you could be left out of the opportunity. Someone else with more enthusiasm will be given the chance to serve Krishna. Therefore, love with enthusiasm is essential."
"Prayers should be offered without any expectation of results, trusting that Krishna will provide whatever is needed. Keep faith that Krishna always gives what is truly required."
Mistake 5: Focus on Efforts (Tapasya)
Tapasya, or austerity, is actually a byproduct of devotion, not the main focus. We may think that walking from place to place without shoes to please Krishna or fasting completely (even without taking a drop of water) on Ekadashi is necessary to please Him. While these practices are good, the energy to perform them should come naturally to a devotee; it should not be forced or based on artificial standards.
There is an incident where a student of Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Maharaj became very weak on Ekadashi due to not eating anything. Maharaj gave him full Ekadashi prasadam and sent him out to preach. This teaches us that we should follow our guru’s instructions and not create an artificial mood of austerity by our own mind.
When love is present, you naturally gain the energy and enthusiasm to perform your efforts with dedication and austerity. The main focus, however, should be on improving our behavior with the help of Guru (Mentor), Sadhu (association with the devotees) and shastra (Srila Prabhupada's books); as true progress comes from refining one's character alongside one's actions.
As we gradually grow in our Bhakti, the power of tapasya is bestowed upon us by Krishna's mercy, known as vairagya—the ability to renounce without losing energy or enthusiasm. True renunciation is a natural outcome of sincere devotional service.
Mistake 6: Full Knowledge attracts Krishna’s Love
Maharaj's teachings emphasize that full knowledge alone does not attract Krishna’s love; rather, it is pure devotion that captures His attention. Radha Rani, the Vrajavasis, and the Gopis of Vrindavan were not materially qualified nor were they dependent on Vedic Knowledge. Their love and attachment were solely directed towards Krishna. Even Krishna mentions in the Bhagavad Gita that one can understand Him through the Vedas, yet the ultimate conclusion of all Vedic knowledge is to know Krishna Himself.
"Our preaching should resonate with the heart, not just the mind"
Srila Vyasadeva, after compiling the Vedas, realized that the essence and conclusion of all Vedic knowledge is transcendental loving service towards Krishna, Vyasadeva did not fully convey the importance of developing loving relationships; which is why he composed the Srimad Bhagavatam, focusing entirely on behaviour.
Maharaj teaches us that we should be humble in our approach to spiritual life, carrying a broom in one hand and the Srimad Bhagavatam in the other. Mere theoretical knowledge or bookish understanding will not lead to spiritual advancement. Instead, practical application of that knowledge through service and devotion is essential.
For instance, Maharaj once guided a student who was eager to preach in schools and colleges but neglected other forms of service. Maharaj advised him not to speak about what he merely read, but to share what he practiced and lived by (realization). The essence of spiritual life is not in accumulating degrees or certifications, but in living a life of devotion, even if one is illiterate, as demonstrated by Gaur Kishor Das Babaji Maharaj. Although illiterate, he was highly advanced in devotion and imparted the rasa of bhakti to his full knowledgeable disciple: Srila bhaktivedanta Saraswati Maharaj, who was known for his vast Vedic knowledge; by the age of 7, Srila bhaktivedanta Saraswati Maharaj had already demonstrated an extraordinary level of Vedic scholarship and was able to recite and explain complex verses from the Bhagavad Gita and other scriptures.
Initially, I thought that by reading all the books about Krishna and ISKCON, I would finish them and understand everything about Krishna, just like in school when we thought that once exams were over, we would never need to touch the books again. But as I started my business, I realized that learning never truly ends—it is a continuous process. If we want to grow, we must always continue to learn.
The same realization applies to spiritual learning. When we begin reading spiritual books or taking a course, we often think that once we finish, we will have understood everything. But this is not the case—spiritual learning is also an ongoing journey. Maharaj says that even one shloka of the Srimad Bhagavatam contains the essence of the entire Bhagavatam. Remember, we should never stop learning but should stop for a while and meditate on how to apply what we learn. The Srimad Bhagavatam is not just theoretical; it is a guide for our behavior.
In essence, there are two sides to the coin: one side is behavior, and the other is Krishna. The more we refine our behavior, the closer we come to Krishna. So, we must ensure that our reading is not just for sharing knowledge to others but first and foremost for improving ourselves and applying the teachings in our lives. Once we have personal realizations, we can then share them with others.
If we do not follow this principle of continuous learning and application, we risk becoming proud of our theoretical knowledge and turning into mere philosophers who lack the ability to apply these teachings practically in life.
Earlier, I believed that mental speculation meant anything that did not align with the Bhagavad Gita Knowledgebase. However, I have come to understand that this is not entirely true. Even if you tell others to attend Mangala Arati daily at 4:30 AM but do not do it yourself, it becomes a form of mental speculation. Similarly, if you preach the Bhagavad Gita but become unstable in adverse situations, then your teachings are just another form of speculation.
Under the direction of the guru, we may be asked to preach or distribute books, and in those cases, we should humbly try to share the books and encourage others to chant. However, we must always remind ourselves that we are not truly qualified to preach the philosophy. Even if we do share it, we should reflect deeply and think a thousand times about how we can personally apply what we are saying. We will only see the true results of the teachings when we live by them.
Preaching is not limited to sharing philosophy verbally; every action can be connected to preaching. For example, if we clean the temple floors well, visitors may be attracted by the cleanliness and feel drawn to the spiritual atmosphere. But we must always remember that anyone who becomes attracted is not drawn because of us, but because of Krishna and Guru's mercy. We are simply instruments, and if ego enters our preaching, it is certain that we will fall from bhakti.
Falling from bhakti means losing the emotional connection with Krishna and losing enthusiasm when given different services. We should remain attached to Krishna, seeing all services as equal and accepting service changes happily. For instance, in the temple, I have seen a devotee who managed the sweet stall very well, but when his service changed and a new devotee was given the responsibility—despite not having prior experience—things initially did not go as smoothly. Yet, over time, everything settled perfectly.
In my case, I was in charge of the Tulasi stall and doing well, but when my service changed, the new devotee also performed excellently. Even if things do not go well at first, our authorities are not attached to the results. They desire the devotees to improve their behavior. The focus is on transcendental loving devotional service, not the outcome.
Mistake 7: Giving Krishna is giving Krishna's Knowledge (Philosophy)
Philosophy that is not first applied in one's life is called "dry" or mere mental speculation. Maharaj emphasized that spiritual teachings must be practiced sincerely by the speaker before they are shared with others. When philosophy is not lived and practiced, it lacks real impact. It becomes like a lifeless theory with no power to inspire transformation in the hearts of others.
Giving Krishna is = Giving Genuine Love (Practical Security)
When we give material charity, such as feeding the poor, it is certainly an act of kindness, but it does not necessarily spark genuine love. Genuine love is expressed when we care for someone's eternal welfare, not just their temporary needs.
Maharaj often taught that material charity, though beneficial, has its limitations. You may feed a beggar today, but after one meal, the beggar's hunger will return, and you may not be able to feed him every day. The resources of an individual are limited. In contrast, when we give people Krishna, they receive something eternal—a connection that will nourish their soul and liberate them from the cycle of birth and death.
To illustrate this, let's consider the analogy of Mukesh Ambani and his son Anant Ambani.
Imagine Anant Ambani, the son of one of the wealthiest men in India, somehow loses his way and ends up at your door. Although you could feed him, which would temporarily satisfy his hunger, the true expression of love and care would be to help him return to his father, Mukesh Ambani, who has the resources to take care of him completely. Just feeding him without guiding him back to his father would not be a complete act of love.
This analogy mirrors our situation in the material world. Every living being is like Anant Ambani, who, though rich in potential (as a soul), is lost in the material world and separated from Krishna, the Supreme Father. If we truly love others, we will not just give them material aid or dry philosophy; we will help them reconnect with Krishna, who can provide for their needs eternally. This is because Krishna is the source of all wealth, knowledge, and happiness.
Srila Prabhupada, the spiritual master of Maharaj, taught that when we distribute prasadam (food offered to Krishna) or encourage others to chant the holy name, we provide them with a direct connection to Krishna. This connection purifies their hearts and gradually awakens their dormant love for Him. In this way, we are not only meeting their immediate needs but also guiding them towards their eternal well-being. Furthermore, the daily study of Srimad Bhagavatam imparts vital knowledge, which is essential for transforming one’s consciousness and behavior. Offering opportunities for seva at the temple allows individuals to engage in devotional service, further deepening their spiritual connection with Krishna.
While we share knowledge, we must remain aware that we are sharing it, but also remember the importance of constantly improving ourselves by applying the teachings. We should not stop sharing, but as we do so, we must humbly strive to live by those teachings and continuously seek to improve with the blessings of Gurudev and Krishna. The goal is not only to share knowledge, but also to provide a platform and association where devotees can regularly practice and fully realize the teachings.
By regularly associating with others, offering them prasadam, and sharing our realization of Krishna Consciousness, we are cultivating genuine love. We are helping them understand that their true father, Krishna, is waiting to embrace them and provide for them in ways that go beyond material needs.
Once, I was given the responsibility of managing the ISKCON Youth Wing events. As part of this task, I coordinated with 350+ individuals, inviting them to join our youth programs. In our first event, about 60 people attended, and the attendance was similar for the second event, with around 60+ people participating again. I reported this to the authorities, including the temple president. Despite their busy schedules, they managed to view parts of the first program, and for the second event, although they were traveling and unable to attend, they reviewed a brief video clip of about two minutes.
After viewing the short clip of audience, the temple president advised me to check if the attendees from the first program also attended the second one. Upon reviewing the attendance sheet, I was surprised to discover that only about six people from the first event attended the second one. The rest of the attendees were completely new.
This experience taught me a valuable lesson: our approach to these programs needs to focus more on fostering association rather than just gathering a crowd. The ultimate goal is not just the number of attendees but the quality of their engagement. We need to understand why people do not return, identify the obstacles they might be facing, and ensure they are progressing in their spiritual practice, such as chanting their rounds.
The key to these events is genuine association. It’s not merely about attracting a large number of people; it’s about how we care for them and guide them on their spiritual (and material) journey. Genuine love and concern for each participant are essential aspects of this process. This realization emphasized the importance of nurturing relationships and creating an environment where everyone feels supported and encouraged in their spiritual growth.
Even if we feel unqualified to share philosophy, or if others are not ready to listen, we can still humbly and politely offer them a small book by Srila Prabhupada to read and we can simply encourage them to chant and be happy. Maharaj often emphasized the power of chanting the holy names, saying that even if someone was not inclined to chant, he would chant for them.
Maharaj used to say, "Don't worry, I will chant for you," and he would regularly inform them, many times over the phone, that he had chanted on their behalf. Gradually, many people who came into Maharaj's association began chanting themselves and experienced tremendous benefits in their lives. This humble and compassionate approach softened their hearts and connected them with Krishna through the maha-mantra:
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare
Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare
Maharaj used to say, "If you pray for others, then someone else will pray for you." Therefore, we should first pray for the non-devotees, as this is most pleasing to Krishna. When we selflessly pray for the spiritual welfare of others, Krishna becomes very happy, and in turn, we receive His blessings.
In this way, Maharaj’s love and care for others helped them begin their spiritual journey, even when they were initially reluctant.
Srimati Radharani is most dear to Krishna because she is constantly praying for all of us. Her love and compassion for every soul are boundless. She may not speak any words or share philosophy with us, but through her pure devotion and selfless prayers, she is always working for the spiritual welfare of all living beings, making her the dear most to Krishna.
Mistake 8: Always Maximize for Krishna
It is important to understand the principles of simplicity and mindfulness when engaging in devotional service. Let me share with you a personal experience that beautifully illustrates this point.
In my home, there is a room where I have set up a small temple with Deities. Out of a desire to offer the best comfort to Krishna, I would switch on a large fan in the room, thinking that just as I need a fan, Krishna must also need one. However, after some time, I discussed this practice with our temple president, who offered me some enlightening advice.
He explained that while it is admirable to want to serve Krishna with the best of what we have, we must also be mindful not to waste resources unnecessarily. He pointed out that using such a large fan in a small temple room was, in fact, wasting energy. Instead, he suggested that I buy a small, portable fan that would be sufficient for the temple’s size. By doing this, not only would I save energy, but I would also be practicing the principle of simplicity in my service to Krishna.
This simple change had a profound impact on my understanding of devotional service. It taught me that our offerings to Krishna should not be about maximizing material indulgence, but rather about minimizing waste and using resources wisely. The portable fan I bought served the purpose perfectly, and I realized that Krishna is more pleased with our thoughtfulness and austerity than with unnecessary extravagance.
This principle applies to many areas of our lives. For example, when preparing prasadam, it’s important to cook just enough so that nothing goes to waste. While it’s wonderful to prepare ample prasadam if we can distribute it to others, we must always ensure that nothing is wasted. If we end up with excess prasadam that no one consumes, then the very purpose of offering it to Krishna is undermined. Wastefulness does not please Krishna; rather, it is the careful and thoughtful use of resources, with the intention of minimizing waste, that aligns with true devotional practice.
Similarly, when buying anything for Krishna or the temple, we must strike a balance between quality and economy. It’s essential to offer the best quality within our means, but that doesn’t mean we should spend extravagantly just because the purchase is for Krishna. Negotiating wisely, researching thoroughly, and making prudent decisions are all part of managing our resources in a way that pleases Krishna. Because every penny ultimately belongs to Krishna, we are merely caretakers of His resources. It is our responsibility to manage and utilize these resources wisely, ensuring they are used in a manner that pleases and serves Krishna.
Mistake 9: Real Guru is always Well-Known
A real Guru is not necessarily defined by their popularity or the number of followers they have, but by the quality of the association they provide to their disciples. The essence of a Guru's role is not to amass followers but to uplift and guide those who seek spiritual advancement. In this context, the association of a Guru is crucial because it helps in the spiritual growth of the disciple. This association can come from various types of Gurus, such as the Diksha Guru (initiating spiritual master) or the Shiksha Guru (instructing spiritual master).
The true measure of a Guru’s effectiveness is seen in how they inspire their disciples to follow spiritual instructions with sincerity. A bona fide Guru does not focus on attracting people for the sake of increasing their popularity or presence on social media, but rather, they concentrate on genuinely helping their followers develop in Krishna consciousness.
Moreover, the association provided by a Guru is not limited to imparting theoretical knowledge of the Vedas. A true Guru also provides practical guidance on how to apply Vedic principles, as taught in the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam, to solve everyday challenges. Whether the challenges relate to finances, career, business, or other aspects of material life, a Guru’s association should empower the disciple to apply these spiritual principles practically. This integration of spiritual wisdom with material responsibilities ensures that the disciple can navigate life’s challenges while advancing in spirituality.
It is essential to understand that Bhakti, or devotional service, encompasses all aspects of life. Bhakti does not neglect or discard one’s material duties. Instead, it teaches how to perform these duties in a way that is harmonious with spiritual growth.
I often thought that family duties were a major hurdle in life, but Maharaj taught us that our attachment to family is based on karma bandhan and past karma. Based on this karma bandhan, they may have many expectations from us in this life, as we might have taken from them in the past. Therefore, we should fulfill the needs of our family and maintain good relationships with them. However, the key is to worship Krishna, for when Krishna is pleased, everyone is pleased. The more we sincerely do this, the faster we can cultivate true detachment.
The real Guru facilitates this process, ensuring that each disciple becomes spiritually empowered and capable of guiding others. This way, the movement grows in strength and spiritual purity, even if it doesn't appear large in numbers of followers to one.
In the Vedic way of preaching, the "Each One Teach One" approach is the most approved method. A true guru's focus is to make his disciple capable enough to grow spiritually and uplift others. This is the authentic path, where a guru guides his disciple to become strong in knowledge and devotion, so that they too can help others on their spiritual journey.
"Each one teach one" emphasizes that the phrase does not literally mean teaching only one person, but rather the importance of personal association in teaching and spreading spiritual knowledge. While group preaching is encouraged and necessary when directed by authority, the key objective remains to personally connect with individuals and help them develop in their spiritual life.
On the other hand, we often see "One Teaches to Many Crowd" type of guru is becoming more popular. These gurus may speak to large crowds, but often do not provide individual care or attention to the progress of their disciples. Such a system lacks the deep, nurturing relationship that is vital for spiritual growth. As a result, disciples are unable or lack the capability to pass on the knowledge to others or future generations. Due to the poor understanding of Vedic wisdom among the disciples, newcomers are not attracted, and the entire Vedic way of living gradually declines. Consequently, we become part of a society where behavior is degraded.
I encountered a devotee in the temple who was new to Bhakti. His enthusiasm was admirable, but his primary focus was only on preaching to large audiance. He often expressed the belief that all other services, like cleaning, cooking, or taking care of the Deities, were secondary, emphasizing that preaching was the most important aspect of devotional life. His goal was to start his own YouTube channel, where he could spread Krishna's teachings to a larger audience.
Our temple authorities, while not denying him the opportunity, lovingly advised him to first focus on personal spiritual practice, because acara (personal conduct) comes before pracara (preaching). They reminded him that "purity is the force," and without internal spiritual purity, external preaching efforts will never be effective. He was given opportunities to engage in book distribution and even to teach Bhagavad Gita classes. However, these didn’t satisfy him; he desired to preach to larger crowds. Feeling unfulfilled, he eventually left the temple and went to Vrindavan, where he found a community that shared his approach.
In Vrindavan, he got the chance to start his own YouTube channel, where he began uploading videos on the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam. He felt fortunate and was proud to no longer be involved in what he saw as menial services, such as cooking or cleaning, believing that his only duty now was to create videos and preach.
One day, he called me and joyfully told me how he no longer had to engage in what he considered less important temple services. He was happy that now he could focus solely on preaching through his YouTube channel. However, not long after, a person from his audience messaged in his whatsapp group, expressing how he was struggling to apply the Bhagavad Gita. This person humbly requested some personal time, perhaps just a few minutes or half an hour daily, to clear his doubts and seek guidance.
To my shock, the youtuber devotee replied to this request by saying that his time was better spent preaching to thousands of people rather than attending to just one individual. He argued that he could create a new video that would reach many, instead of dedicating time to one person. Gradually, as more such requests came and were dismissed, his approach began to alienate people who sought a personal connection. Eventually, his efforts dwindled, and he faced failure.
This experience brings to light an essential lesson: The essence of Bhakti lies in personal association and sincere service. Real transformation in spiritual life happens through heart-to-heart connections, not merely through content production.
The temple authorities’ initial advice was spot on—acara must come before pracara. Personal conduct, humility, and genuine service to others are the foundation upon which effective preaching is built. Without it, preaching lacks depth and fails to touch hearts.
The word "Upanishad" comes from the Sanskrit roots "upa" (near), "ni" (down), and "shad" (to sit). Together, these imply "sitting down near," specifically sitting down near a guru or spiritual teacher to receive knowledge. When a disciple fully surrenders to the spiritual master, all the essential knowledge of the Vedic scriptures is automatically bestowed upon them by the mercy of the Krishna. This is the greatest secret to gaining all knowledge, as it is revealed through the sincere service and devotion to the guru's instruction.
"There was once a disciple of Srila Prabhupada who worked as a typist and found it difficult to chant because he had no time. Srila Prabhupada told him, 'For you, your typing is your chanting.'"
"Where in the Vedas is it written that typing becomes chanting? It is through full surrender to the spiritual master that such things happen. When a disciple fully surrenders to the guru, Krishna provides full blessings, and even one’s daily work, like typing, becomes an act of devotion."
There was once a tea seller who had a strict and determined attitude, selling tea right outside the ISKCON temple, fully aware that tea was banned inside. Maharaj, with his boundless compassion, did not chastise him. Instead, he approached the man with kindness and remarked, "Your tea business is very good". The disciples of Maharaj initially thought that Maharaj would scold the tea seller but maharaj’s gentle words touched the tea seller, and over time, he began to soften. With great care and patience, Maharaj continued to associate with him, eventually inviting him to attend Bhagavad Gita classes. Slowly, the tea seller’s heart changed. He realized the deeper meaning of life, and out of his own will, gave up his tea business. Inspired by Maharaj’s guidance, he started a vada pav stall instead.
Krishna's blessings followed, and his vada pav business flourished. What began as a small venture grew into a successful chain of shops. The once stubborn tea seller had transformed into a dedicated devotee, all due to the loving association of Maharaj.
In the true Vedic tradition, a bona fide guru provides regular association or creates a system where disciples can continuously associate with him, either directly or through a well-established community. It is not just about addressing a crowd; the guru must care deeply for the progress of each disciple and guide them personally.
If a diksha guru (initiating spiritual master) is unable to provide regular quality association, but a siksha guru (instructing spiritual master) offers this guidance and care, then the siksha guru becomes the bonafide spiritual master for that disciple. True spiritual life is sustained by quality association, and the guru's role is to ensure that his disciples are properly guided on their path back to Krishna.
Thus, the bona fide Guru might not be the most famous or have the largest following, but they are the ones who provide the real essence of spiritual association, helping their disciples advance step by step in the path of devotion while also ensuring that their material life is managed expertly. This is the perfect preaching method one can follow and can become the path darshak guru (“Guiding Guru" or "Path-Showing Guru.") to their friends and family in this Krishna Consciousness way.
As mentioned by Srila Prabhupada, even if only one person becomes a successful devotee, it is considered a great success. The focus is not on numbers but on the depth of the disciples' Krishna consciousness.
Mistake 10: Bhakti is Entertaining
It is important to understand that Bhakti, or devotion, is not for our entertainment or enjoyment. The essence of Bhakti lies in sincere dedication and service to Krishna, which must be performed with a sense of responsibility, austerity, and under the guidance of a spiritual master. When devotion becomes a means for self-enjoyment, it loses its purity and purpose.
His Holiness Mahavishnu Goswami Maharaj emphasized that true Bhakti requires penance and austerity. Without these elements, our devotional activities may degrade into mere entertainment, devoid of spiritual substance. The purpose of Bhakti is to serve Krishna selflessly, understanding that He is the ultimate enjoyer, and we are to be enjoyed by Him.
Maharaj often pointed out that we should not engage in devotional activities with the expectation of material returns or personal enjoyment. Instead, we should focus on performing our duties with dedication, knowing that Krishna is the Supreme Beneficiary of all our actions. The byproducts of Bhakti, such as peace, success, happiness, and spiritual realizations, naturally manifest, but they should not be the primary motivation for our practice.
At an elevated stage of devotion, we should refrain from composing our own songs for Krishna. Creating or promoting songs sung by non-Vaishnavas can be harmful to our spiritual growth. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu teaches that just as milk touched by the tongue of a poisonous snake becomes contaminated, similarly, Spritual songs sung by those who do not follow Vaishnava principles can spoil our devotion. Such songs, even if they seem appealing, will not support our spiritual advancement and may instead hinder our progress. Instead, we should focus on repeating the prayers and songs composed by the topmost devotees, such as the prayers of Prahlad Maharaj, Kunti Devi, Arjuna, and others, as written in the Srimad Bhagavatam. These prayers are imbued with deep realizations and pure devotion, making them ideal for nurturing our own spiritual growth and connection with Krishna.
Furthermore, while some may engage in devotion in ways that might seem unconventional, such as listening to Kirtans set to modern or rock-style music, it is crucial not to criticize them. Everyone is at different stages of spiritual development, and what might be a stepping stone for one may not be suitable for another. However, it is always beneficial to strive for higher standards in our devotional practice, aiming for purity and depth.
Book distribution, while a vital service, should be seen primarily as a platform to facilitate the spread of Krishna consciousness. In our endeavors to distribute books, it's crucial to understand that not everyone will be immediately receptive to Krishna consciousness or even inclined to purchase a book. The act of book distribution should be seen as a platform, much like a restaurant along a highway. People come to the restaurant when they are hungry, driven by their own need, not because the restaurant seeks them out. Similarly, in book distribution, our sincere efforts with enthusiasm are essential, but the true impact will be on those who are spiritually hungry, those who are suffering in this material world and seeking relief. It is this suffering that creates the hunger for spiritual knowledge, which may inspire them to engage with the books we offer.
While it is important to show the books to many people, we must accept that only those who are spiritually hungry will be drawn to them. Our goal is not to force everyone to become devotees, as that can lead to artificial means of convincing others, which may deviate us from pure preaching. Instead, we should focus on maintaining our own purity—keeping our "garden" clean—so that our own lives and actions naturally attract others.
As A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada instructs, our efforts should inspire others to become like us, not the other way around. The purity of our actions, our sincerity in maintaining our spiritual practices, will automatically draw people towards Krishna Consciousness.
As Maharaj states, "Without penance, your Bhakti is entertainment." We should continuously pray to Krishna for the strength to practice renunciation—not necessarily by abandoning things but by not being attached to them. This attitude ensures that our devotion remains genuine and free from the illusion of self-centered enjoyment.
Maharaj would also remind us that while spiritual programs and gatherings can be beneficial when they are centered on genuine devotion and scriptural study, we must be cautious not to be misled by events that prioritize entertainment over spiritual substance. The real purpose of these gatherings should always be to deepen our understanding and practice of bhakti, rather than to merely entertain the senses.
These are the 10 most common mistakes I realized, and I shared them for your benefit. For more questions and answers, I suggest you use Get ISKCON AI Vedic Answers: HH Mahavishnu Goswami Free AI application
https://chatgpt.com/g/g-UsnfpRGdy-get-iskcon-ai-vedic-answers-hh-mahavishnu-goswami
I also encourage you to read more of Srila Prabhupada's books, chant the Hare Krishna maha-mantra daily, and be happy:
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare
Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare
By doing so, you will experience great peace material and spiritual progress.
Koti Koti Dandvat Pranam....
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