Approaching a Spiritual Master - an essential subject

In order to learn more about a certain subject, we submit ourselves to the appropriate authority to impart their knowledge to us. Similarly, to become an expert in spiritual topics, we should approach a genuine spiritual master. This is confirmed by our Vedic literatures which state that "in order to learn the transcendental science, one has to approach the Spiritual Master", and a spiritual master means one who has heard correctly from his Spiritual Master (in the disciplic succession which starts with Lord Krishna).

Srila Prabhupada's books, lectures, conversations and letters offer a comprehensive presentation of this essential subject as seen in the Vaniquotes Approaching a Spiritual Master category. An introduction from his books is given below in the following 8 quotes.

Quotes from Srila Prabhupada's books


vanipedia.org 		One has to approach a bona fide spiritual master to receive the knowledge. Such a spiritual master should be accepted in full surrender, and one should serve the spiritual master like a menial servant, without false prestige. Satisfaction of the self-realized spiritual master is the secret of advancement in spiritual life. (Bhagavad-gītā 4.34)



vanipedia.org 		The inquisitive student must approach a qualified spiritual master to receive transcendental knowledge by surrender, submissive inquiries and service. Knowledge received by submissive inquiries and service is more effective than knowledge received in exchange for money. (Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 2.5.1)



vanipedia.org 		The professional heads of various spiritual societies or communities often may not have attained to this standard of spiritual perfection and so may not possess the qualifications required for being a spiritual master. It is therefore no use to approach such professional spiritual masters as a matter of formality or custom. Attainment of spiritual perfection can never be possible without undergoing spiritual discipline. (Message of Godhead, Chapter 2)



vanipedia.org 		It is the duty of a disciple approaching a spiritual master to inquire about his constitutional position. In conformity to that spiritual process, Sanātana has already asked, "What am I, and why am I suffering from the threefold miseries?" The threefold miseries are called adhyātmika, adhibhautika, and adhidaivika. (Teachings of Lord Caitanya, Chapter 3)



vanipedia.org 		If we really want to see things in their true perspective, it is necessary for us to establish a relationship with a preceptor who can really open our eyes and lift us from the clutches of nescience. This process of approaching the spiritual master is an eternal verity. No one can do without abiding by this eternal rule. (Message of Godhead, Chapter 3)



vanipedia.org 		If we are really anxious to know the principles of eternal life or life after death, and if we really want to see things in their true perspective, it is necessary for us to establish a relationship with a preceptor who can really open our eyes and lift us from the clutches of nescience. This process of approaching the spiritual master is an eternal verity. No one can do without abiding by this eternal rule. (Message of Godhead, Chapter 2)



vanipedia.org 		It is imperative that one approach the spiritual master, for by such association one proportionately develops his consciousness toward the Supreme Personality of Godhead. The highest perfection of such consciousness is called Kṛṣṇa consciousness. (Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 4.21.35)



vanipedia.org 		There are many stories and incidents in Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam that are described figuratively. Such allegorical descriptions may not be understood by unintelligent men; therefore it is the duty of the student to approach a bona fide spiritual master for the direct explanation. (Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 5.13.26)


Approaching a Spiritual Master - explore more within this category.

Vanipedia has now over 903 introductory articles compiled from Srila Prabhupada's books under the series titled Essential Subjects. All these articles can be seen in the Table of Content on the right side of this article and also here in this Umbrella Category. Browse through them to relish the breadth and depth of Srila Prabhupada's teachings - There is a subject for everyone.


   
 

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