Prabhupada, Los Angeles, April 26, 1973: ..This is the beginning of creation. Those who are finding out the original cause of material creation, they should know this fact, that creation takes place when there is spirit soul. That means living. The matter is not created. Matter is created by the spirit soul. Not the soul is created by matter. Full Lecture
“The irreducible Complexity of the Eye is one of the most important Subjects that Darwinists have not been able to explain”
Harun Yahya: With its perfect, irreducible complexity, the eye is one of the most important subjects that neither Darwin nor the Darwinists who came after him have been able to explain. With his primitive, 19th century level of knowledge Darwin was sufficiently alarmed to say that the eye “gives me a cold shudder.” Under the influence of that increasing alarm, present-day Darwinists have sought the solution in claiming that the eye is not irreducibly complex at all.
That is the claim of Celal Sengor. Claiming that even unicellular protozoa have light-sensitive structures, Sengor, suggests that these are primitive eyes, and that complex eyes evolved from these so-called primitive eyes. But this suggestion is invalid because;
– A light-sensitive cell is not, as Sengor and other Darwinists maintain, a primitive eye. In the same way that Darwinists cannot explain the emergence of single-celled protozoa, neither can they account for the light-sensitive structures they possess.
Indeed, even Darwin, who was not totally aware in his day of the complexity of the structures in question, made the following admission: How a nerve comes to be sensitive to light, hardly concerns us more than how life itself originated. i
– In order for “sight” to be able to arise, even in its simplest form, it is essential that some of a living thing’s cells become light-sensitive, that these possess the ability to transfer that sensitivity to electrical signals, that a special nerve network from these cells to the brain form and that a “visual cortex” capable of analyzing this information appear in the brain.
– A light-sensitive cell is not the first or a primitive eye. The idea that a complex eye gradually evolved from this cell is a deception. The eye of the trilobite, which lived 530 million years ago in the Cambrian Period when all the characteristics of living things and complex life forms appeared, is IDENTICAL to the perfect faceted eye of the present-day fly and dragonfly. ALL THAT LIVED BEFORE THAT TIME WERE BACTERIA. There is no question of any light-sensitive cell or any transition from it.
– The perfect human eye is far too complex that makes it impossible for all its components to have evolved separately. The 40 separate parts that make up the eye have to exist together in order for the eye to see.
– The retina is described as the most complex tissue in the body. Millions of cells bind together on the retina to constitute a miniature brain. It is impossible for even the retinal layer in the eye alone to have come into being spontaneously and by chance.
– The cornea and the retina constantly move in tiny circles just about a thousandth of a millimeter in diameter. If those movements alone were to stop, the light-sensitive cells in the retina would immediately freeze and stop sending information to the brain. That would lead to the image being perceived disappearing within seconds.
– Just the absence of ocular fluid is enough for the eye to stop working.
– The reason why images are of such a quality is that the movements and colors in the images are constantly refreshed, right down to the finest detail, and “a slice of motion” takes place at an unbelievable speed, without our ever being aware of it.
– The efficiency and flawlessness of our eyes and brain are incomparably greater than that of any device or equipment invented to date.
– The 40 different parts that make up the eye act together to collect 1.5 million electrical signals in one millisecond deliver them to their destination and interpret them. Dozens of super-computers would have to be flawlessly programmed and work together, never making a mistake, in order to perform the same function.
Darwin, troubled even with his 19th century level of knowledge and technology, made the following admissions:
To suppose that the eye with all its inimitable contrivances for adjusting the focus to different distances, for admitting different amounts of light, and for the correction of spherical and chromatic aberration, could have been formed by natural selection, seems, I freely confess, ABSURD IN THE HIGHEST DEGREE. ii
The eye to this day gives me a cold shudder, but when I think of the fine known gradations, my reason tells me I ought to conquer the cold shudder. iii
The recur to the eye. I really think it would have been dishonest, not to have faced the difficulty. iv
If it could be demonstrated that any complex organ existed, which could not possibly have been formed by numerous, successive, slight modifications, my theory would absolutely break down. v
Richard Dawkins, similarly alarmed in the face of such an extraordinary and irreducibly complex organ as the eye, confesses:
But it must be gradual when it is being used to explain the coming into existence of complicated, APPARENTLY DESIGNED OBJECTS, like eyes. For if it is not gradual in these cases, IT CEASES TO HAVE ANY EXPLANATORY POWER AT ALL. Without gradualness in these cases, we are back to miracle, which is simply a synonym for the total absence of explanation.iv
i Charles Darwin, Origin of Species, New York: New York University Press, p. 151
ii Charles Darwin, Origin of Species, Onur Publishing, Ankara, 1996, p.198
iii Francis Darwin, The Life and Letters of Charles Darwin, Vol. II, p. 67
iv Francis Darwin, The Life and Letters of Charles Darwin, Vol. II, p. 84
v Charles Darwin, The Origin of Species, Chapter VI. “Difficulties of the Theory.”
vi Richard Dawkins, River Out of Eden, New York: Basic Books, 1995, p. 83
28 Nisan 2009
I find it interesting that you base your faith on a designer just because we cannot explain (for now) all the intermediate phases that led to the human eye as we know it. Surely it’s not comparable to a modern devices because technology is so relativily recent.
What if someday we can prove without doubt how the eye has evolved from simple light-sensitive cells to complex organ… What will you do?
As Prabhupada said, ‘post dated blank cheque’!
Hope you haven’t been holding your breath for the past 5 years!
@Martin Brodeur… Of course the eye is comparable to modern technology – Man’s inventions only mimic Nature, that’s where we get all our ideas from. Computers are only modelled on the network of billions of synapses, neurons, ganglia etc inside our tiny brains. Liquid Crystal Displays are the same technology as what gives flowers their colour. The modern Power Grid is nothing but controlled lightning using copper wires and optical fibre instead of ionised air pathways.
No-one on Earth in their right mind would base their faith in a Designer just because there’s a missing link in Darwinism. Intelligent design is rather a more plausible, if not obvious choice – except perhaps to those folk swindled and indoctrinated by the Government propaganda machine aka the Public Education System (for many, Intelligent Design is the only sane possibility).
Most of us can think for ourselves, and we’re not falling for it. You on the other hand seem quite content to accept as truth a theory that has gaps in it, missing vital proofs, and yet you challenge OUR deductive processes?
The result of your ”deductive process” is that the oceans and rivers are polluted with toxic waste and pesticides. Birds and fish stomachs are full of plastic created by material scientists (to create a better world!). So called “scientists” are just slaves of Multinational Corporations who have turned the planet into a toxic waste dump and many animals are on the point of extinction. There is more poverty, more scarcity, crime, and despair created by so-called science (bad science) to create more inequality, all for the financial benefit of a handful of people.
The FDA is full of biotech “scientists” trying to push GMO rubbish into the food supply to make people sick so that they can sell them a lifelong supply of drugs.
Bhakti is the only REAL SCIENCE because it promotes ‘simple living and high thinking’ and a direct perception of reality through mantra meditation.
Sudarsana Prabhu,
I very much appreciate you sharing your insights. You have a gift for writing.
What do you think any reasonable person can do nowadays to escape the madness which surrounds us? Of course, chant Hare Krishna, worship Srila Prabhupada and develop oneself spiritually. But in this world, where can one live free from all this ever-increasing chaos? Many ISKCON farm projects have folded or become compromised. There doesn’t seem to be any place for Prabhupada-centered devotees to live together simply. It seems that it’s every man for himself. (Maybe that’s the way it’s always been.) It also appears like the you-know-what is going to hit the fan soon, thanks to the psychopathic demons (so-called) in charge. It doesn’t look like a pretty sight for all of us, I’m afraid. Any thoughts?
Hope to read more of your writing – maybe articles/books? You have the talent and realizations.
Dear LW prabhu,
Thank you for those kind words, although I am most unworthy of your compliments.
I agree with you that the world is in a steep decline (and it’s only going to worsen) and there’s a growing uncertainty and fear about the future. I am sure that a more simple rural lifestyle is the way forward (as Srila Prabhupada has so often prescribed) so I am looking to make a change hopefully in the next few years, or even sooner. I think a lot can be achieved with a few like-minded people rather than a situation which involves too many personalities. Better to keep it simple and personal.
As I have an inclination towards art and design (and not farming) I have been busy over that last few years formulating a project which follows the (tried and tested) design principal of ”form follows function” to create and facilitate a plan to educate the public, whilst also distribute Srila Prabhupada’s books.
Such a rationale would of course have all the elements which are ‘in keeping with’ and ‘in line’ with Srila Prabhupada’s trancendental instructions. With the Supreme Lord’s blessing I am ready to take this to the next level. It all depends on the desire of the Lord.
This is all fairly complicated stuff with specially designed buildings and dioramas and would take a great deal of time to explain but if it is Sri Krishnas plan that I just end my days doing bhajana and chanting the Maha Mantra, then that’s also a favorable result.
To answer your question more directly about ‘escaping the madness’ I think that in many ways Krishna Consciousness is like climbing a mountain….The further you ascend the mountain the less people there are! While the majority are down below in the market-places, hustling and bustling with careers, family life, etc. It would also be more advantageous to leave the city and suburbs behind as it is increasingly becoming less sustainable and more degraded as time progresses.
Ys Sudarsana
Sudarsana Prabhu,
Thank you for your reply. Best wishes and Krishna’s blessings to you in all your endeavors.
You write: “I think that in many ways Krishna Consciousness is like climbing a mountain….The further you ascend the mountain the less people there are!”
How true. As Jesus taught, wide is the gate which leads to destruction and narrow the gate which leads to heaven – and few find it. Or as Krishna declares, “manusyanam sahasresu kascid yatati siddhaye …”
As for rural living, it sounds ideal; but from personal experience, it’s not an easy life. To have a functioning community, or even a minimally productive family farm, one has to work very hard from early morning until late in the evening to make a go of it. In fact, it’s really a young man’s job. If one is older, then it might be best to consider plugging into something that’s already working, otherwise the task of “farming” is overwhelming. Not to discourage you in any way, but a lot of people and devotees think that running off to the country is somehow going to solve everything, and it doesn’t. It’s great to drive out to the country on weekends, but trying to survive out there by the sweat of one’s brow is another thing altogether. Remember the big move towards the country and “communes” back in the 60s and 70s? Didn’t last too long once the kids found out what it really entails. (It wasn’t long before a lot of those same people became computer programmers, etc., because it’s a lot easier.) Anyway, whatever you do, I wish you well.
Once again, please consider writing articles if you ever feel inclined. You have a way with words which make your writing both interesting and potent. It’s a preaching avenue open to you if you ever wish to pursue it.
Haribol!
LW Prabhu,
Yes, you are right prabhu! Farming is a young mans job. I have just recovered from an operation and turned 63 last week, though I am in good shape for my age, I don’t imagine myself busting my hump doing hard farm work all day. What I have in mind is ‘semi rural’ land with a public space (at the entrance) and a private space (at rear) for residences. Public space would incorporate dioramas, gardens and walkways, maze, restaurant (al-fresco), mini farm yard (to promote animal protection/vegetarianism) and book/gift shop and retreat. By charging a small fee (for diorama museum /retreats/cooking classes) devotees could make a simple living by attracting the general public (by use of ‘madhukari’) as is the traditional process for brahmanas to collect funds and at the same time distribute many of Srila Prabhupada’s books.
Australia is a huge country so it is better to have the public visiting a museum as it is a ”neutral space” also a “public space” and therefore truly ”non-sectarian”. Another point is that if devotees wore ”devotional dress” (whatever that means!) you would probably eliminate 95% of your potential visitors as this really ‘freaks ordinary people out’ (especially in Australia so I would not go down that road as it just alienates people. Srila Prabhupada also sanctioned ‘respectable western dress’ and this would also encourage mainstream society to follow the principals laid down by Srila Prabhupada, to practice Krishna Consciousness in their own homes as opposed to becoming ”institutionalized and controlled”.
Just by creating a ‘beautiful garden’ the public will pay to come and see it (as I have seen on some television ‘garden programs’) and together with other elements this would be the best use of our energy and power to engage the public in friendship and understanding, at the same time distribute Srila Prabhupada’s books. It does not need to be a monumental ”multi-million dollar” affair but only a ”labour of love” which everyone can contribute in their own way, always having Srila Prabhupada at the centre and respectful devotee association.
The world is now in a decline and a world war is imminent, and because of this the Governments of the world are CREATING SCARCITY so that they will have plenty of ‘cannon fodder’ for the wars ahead.
The demonic Multinational Banks and Corporations want more and more of the wealth so they push the Governments to make war so “THEY CREATE SCARCITY” and LIES about ”THREATS” and “TERROR” from others. A few decades ago the richest 1% had 8% of the world’s wealth now they have 23%. In actuality there is no scarcity as this is just ” POLITICAL THEATRE! to create fear, destroy free speech, destroy human rights, dismantle unions, dismantle healthcare and civil rights.
There is no such thing as ‘wealth creation’ money is ‘USURPED’ that’s all.
Bengal Rice Famine 1942
Under the rule of the Demons SB 1. 3. 28 L.A. 03/10/1972
Srila Prabhupada…….
“You have no experience of this,but I have got experience, Or (perhaps also) some of the Indians that are present….In 1942, the Government created an artificial famine. Artificial Famine! The Government began to purchase food grains, the politicians. At that time the war was going on, so Mr Churchill’s war was ”Keep the people in scarcity and they will voluntarily come forward and become soldiers” That was the policy “You have NO money so another venue is opened. Yes you become soldier! You will get so much money!” People out of poverty would go there. That was the policy. So this policy was executed that the government began to purchase rice and I mean to say, commodities which are basic necessities and ……any price, any price they can offer. Because the currency that is in their hand – they can print so-called paper (fiat currency), one hundred dollars and pay you and you become satisfied: “Oh!, I have got one hundred dollars!” But it is a piece of paper. The cheating is from the government. Why will not the people learn how to cheat?” “so this is going on. This is called Demonic. Demon means living for their own sense satisfaction. They are prepared to do anything wrong. Just like this Kamsa”…………………..
Srila Prabhupada…….
“There is no question of scarcity or poverty. There is no question. We create (food). These demons, they create scarcity!”
Srila Prabhupada……….
“Government means, nowadays, ALL RASCALS. They are elected by rascals. That is the difficulty. Everywhere you go, you will meet only rascals”
Srila Prabhupada. Rameshvara interview………
“Yes, it’s a fact that there are conspiracies and the whole material society is being manipulated by a handful of vested interest groups, demons, rakshasas who take birth on this planet just to control and manipulate”.
By getting away from the urban (or suburban) living environment one minimizes ones dependence (as in the next decade it’s estimated another 40% of employment will be lost) and vulnerability as things worsen but this doesn’t mean we have to walk around a farm in gumboots all day, digging potatoes!
The 70s was a different time, you could go to university for free or get a job anywhere (well here in Australia anyway!) but now it’s a “race to the bottom” there is no denying it.
I was talking to ‘computer trained’ employment adviser the other day and he said that ”computer programmers” only have a job for around 5 years (and diminishing) as the new ones coming into the industry are learning all the new stuff (from school) and constantly replacing the ‘existing’ ones. So it is looking more negative as this modern ”culture” becomes more rotten and decaying.
Thank you for your encouraging words prabhu. I find that at present I have not the time to devote to writing articles as I would like but hope to in the near future. (I was ‘out of action’ for a while before my operation so there are many things that have been left unattended). I find this ‘forum’ quite manageable and useful as the climate is changing day by day, as opposed to ‘book writing’ which is kind of ‘set in stone’ and limited. Srila Prabhupada’s books are all we need really so what could I write that is of any importance? If we can help each other see all the “developments” and “changes” that are happening on a daily basis through the light of Srila Prabhupada’s Vani then that hopefully will be of some help in understanding the situation we all find ourselves in.
Y s
Sudarsana
Sudarsana das Prabhu: By charging a small fee (for diorama museum /retreats/cooking classes) devotees could make a simple living by attracting the general public (by use of ‘madhukari’) as is the traditional process for brahmanas to collect funds and at the same time distribute many of Srila Prabhupada’s books.
Mahesh: Prabhu It is very ENCOURAGING to see that you are looking positive in the direction of serving Srila Prabhupada. If one ACTUALLY wants to SERVE Srila Prabhupada then Krsna gives intelligence and ALL FACILITIES:
IF WE STRICTLY TRY TO SERVE THE SPIRITUAL MASTER, HIS ORDER, THEN KRSNA WILL GIVE US ALL FACILITIES
Bg 10.10 T The Opulence of the Absolute
tesam satata-yuktanam
bhajatam priti-purvakam
dadami buddhi-yogam tam
yena mam upayanti te
To those who are constantly devoted and worship Me with love, I GIVE THE UNDERSTANDING by which they can come to Me.
691209DB.LA Lectures
So in his life he was akhanda brahmacari. Bhaktivinoda Thakura had many other sons, and he was the fifth son. And some of his other brother also, they did not marry. And my Guru Maharaja, he also did not marry. From the childhood he is strict brahmacari, Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Gosvami Maharaja. And he underwent very severe penances for starting this movement, worldwide movement. That was his mission. Bhaktivinoda Thakura wanted do this. He, 1896, Bhaktivinoda Thakura wanted to introduce this Krsna consciousness movement by sending this book, Shree Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, His Life and Precepts. Fortunately, that year was my birth year, and by Krsna’s arrangement, we came in contact. I was born in a different family, my Guru Maharaja was born in a different family. Who knew that I will come to his protection? Who knew that I would come in America? Who knew that you American boys will come to me? These are all Krsna’s arrangement. We cannot understand how things are taking place. In 1936… Today is ninth December, 1938(68). That means thirty-two years ago. In Bombay, I was then doing some business. All of a sudden, perhaps on this date, sometimes between 9 or 10 December. At that time, Guru Maharaja was indisposed little, and he was staying at Jagannatha Puri, on the seashore. So I wrote him letter, “My dear master, your other disciples, brahmacari, sannyasi, they are rendering you direct service. And I am a householder. I cannot live with you, I cannot serve you nicely. So I do not know. How can I serve you?” Simply an idea, I was thinking of serving him, “How can I serve him seriously?” So the reply was dated 13th December, 1936. In that letter he wrote, “My dear such and such, I am very glad to receive your letter. I think you should try to push our movement in English.” That was his writing. “And that will do good to you and to the people who will help you.” That was his instruction. And then in 1936, on the 31st December–that means just after writing this letter a fortnight before his departure–he passed away. But I took that order of my spiritual master very seriously, but I did not think that I’ll have to do such and such thing. I was at that time a householder. But this is the arrangement of Krsna. IF WE STRICTLY TRY TO SERVE THE SPIRITUAL MASTER, HIS ORDER, THEN KRSNA WILL GIVE US ALL FACILITIES. THAT IS THE SECRET. Although there was no possibility, I never thought, but I took it little seriously by studying a commentary by Visvanatha Cakravarti Thakura on the Bhagavad-gita. In the Bhagavad-gita the verse vyavasayatmika-buddhir ekeha kuru-nandana, in connection with that verse, Visvanatha Cakravarti Thakura gives his commentary that we should take up the words from the spiritual master as our life and soul. We should try to carry out the instruction, the specific instruction of the spiritual master, very rigidly, without caring for our personal benefit or loss.
So I tried a little bit in that spirit. So he has given me all facilities to serve him.
Sudarsana Prabhu writes: “. . . and together with other elements this would be the best use of our energy and power to engage the public in friendship and understanding, at the same time distribute Srila Prabhupada’s books.”
The devotees are not blind to what is happening around them, but they are unafraid (for themselves) because they have complete faith in the words of Krishna in the Bhagavad-gita when He assures us that if we surrender unto Him, we have nothing to fear (“ma sucah”). He will protect us from all danger. But instead of trying to run away and hide from the increasingly hellish conditions of modern society, he tries to help the lost souls return to Krishna’s shelter (as you are so rightfully planning to do).
“Even you are fearless, you should not be fool. Because, if you know that ‘There is danger, I must be very careful,’ that is intelligence. That is not fearfulness. Besides that, a devotee like Prahlāda, he’s fearless, but he’s fearful for others. That is stated. Just like the mother. She knows that she’ll not catch fire, she’ll not fall down in the water, but she is always anxious to see her child that the child may not fall into the water, may not catch fire. She’s working in her own way, but always fearful of the child. Similarly, a Vaisnava, he’s not fearless for himself, but because he’s sympathetic, because he knows that all these rascals, they are wrongly wasting their time, therefore he’s anxious, fearful. Para-duhkha-duhkī. They are unhappy by seeing others unhappy. For themselves, there is no unhappiness. That is their grace. And Vaisnava is fearless, even if he’s sent to hell, he’s not unhappy. Because wherever he goes, he’ll chant Hare Krishna. So actually he has no fear, fearfulness . . . Therefore those who do not take risk, they do not remain within this material world. They go to the Himalaya, go to the forest. They are afraid of being contaminated. But more liberal devotees, they take the risk and ‘Never mind, I shall go to hell. Let me do something for Krishna. Let others may understand something of Krishna.’ That is their magnanimity, taking the risk of going to hell, still, giving the information, ‘Just try to understand Krishna.’ So such persons are exalted. Because they are taking their own risk to serve Krishna. That at least one man may understand Krishna. And others, they are flying, flying away, fleeing away, ‘No, no. We are not going to take risk.’ . . . Gosthyānandī and bhajanānandī. Bhajanānandī means they are interested for their own welfare, and gostyānandī, he wants to see that more devotees are there. That is the difference . . . They’re… And, on account of his being so, taking the risk, he is immediately very dear to Krishna. That is declared in the Bhagavad-gītā, na ca tasmān manusyesu kaścin me priya-krttamah (BG 18.69). ‘Anyone who is trying to broadcast My message, My glory, he immediately, there is no more dearer than him anyone.’ So one should take this risk.”
(Srila Prabhupada Morning Walk Conversation, June 13, 1974, Paris)
Wishing you much success in your noble endeavors to help others escape from the ever-increasing madness which surrounds us today as Kali-yuga progresses unabatedly towards worldwide destruction, chaos and death.
Mahesh Raja and LW Prabhu’s,
Both of your comments are ‘right on the button’ and the most encouraging replies that I have received to date. Could this be the beginning of something which is the plan of Srila Prabhupada? I sincerely hope that the blessings of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu will manifest and some momentum can be forthcoming in the formation of some future preaching strategy and empowerment of the devotee community for a future with security, simplicity and spiritual fulfillment.
Just to clarify a particular point about ‘devotional dress’. I am not suggesting that we ‘replace’ devotional dress with ‘western dress’ no! I am only suggesting that ‘western attire’ may be a way of creating a ‘neutral space’ for the purposes of attracting ‘the mainstream public’, so they feel they are in a ‘public space’ (diorama museum, mini farmyard, restaurant…etc). In this way they won’t be thinking ”This isn’t my religion” or ” I don’t belong to this particular religion” or ” I do not want to be preached to” and thoughts like that………because as most persons (myself included) are conditioned souls and most identify with certain religious groups, belief systems, doctrines, cultures, philosophies (even atheism) this ‘compartmentalizes’ their consciousness so they become immediately dismissive of the ‘external’ trappings of ‘religious dress’.
I sincerely hope you can appreciate this point, because my training as a ‘conceptual designer’ tells me that this is a sound rationale.
Meanwhile the devotee is thinking “Although I am wearing this ‘western dress’ (as I would rather wear my devotional attire) this seems to be attracting more ‘mainstream people’ to stroll the gardens, see the dioramas of Lord Krishna’s at the Vedic Museum, take some nice prasadam at the restaurant and receive a Bhagavad Gita (original addition of course!) and also contribute a small entry fee (diorama museum) whereas If this was just a ‘temple’ they probably would not come at all in such numbers as they would immediately see that it is a place of worship (as opposed to their place of worship) and NOT A PUBLIC SPACE!”
In a similar way do know one devotee who, although he wants to teach Bhakti Yoga and Maha Mantra, but has a Hatha Yoga school. Now some might say that he is “watering down the philosophy or something like that” but it is a fact that THIS ATTRACTS THE PEOPLE and from this point he can then encourage them to ‘take the next step’ and ‘take yoga to a higher level’ etc. by engaging in some devotional service (Bhakti Yoga) and chanting Maha Mantra. The Hatha is essential for him to be able to fund his facility and anyway Hatha is also compatible (though not essential) for devotees also.
So in this regard as the proposed public space is only for the duration of ‘business hours’, devotional dress is still worn for temple functions, Harinama, programs etc. So if this process, does attract more persons being a ‘public space’ I would actually see this ‘wearing of western dress’ as a ‘SACRIFICE’ and in this way create a positive result and take people on the journey in a more gradual way, whilst creating trust in the process. The next step would be cooking classes, weekend retreats etc and on and on it goes!
So yes! LW Prabhu, I am ready to ‘Take the risk’ right now!, except the risk is virtually nil with a constructive rationale and diligent planning. I can sell my house right now, no problem but I’m not a ‘one man band’ and cant do it on my own. As Srila Prabhupada has stated ”There is strength in numbers”
So I would be happy to answer any of your questions on these points.
Yours in the service of Srila Prabhupada
Sudarsana
Sudarsana Das: Meanwhile the devotee is thinking “Although I am wearing this ‘western dress’ (as I would rather wear my devotional attire) this seems to be attracting more ‘mainstream people’ to stroll the gardens, see the dioramas of Lord Krishna’s at the Vedic Museum, take some nice prasadam at the restaurant and receive a Bhagavad Gita (original addition of course!) and also contribute a small entry fee (diorama museum) whereas If this was just a ‘temple’ they probably would not come at all in such numbers as they would immediately see that it is a place of worship (as opposed to their place of worship) and NOT A PUBLIC SPACE!”
Mahesh: It is a VERY good idea to somehow BRING people to Srila Prabhupada the PURE devotee ignite that Krsna Consciousness in the forgotten souls. If you have Srila Prabhupada bhajans playing in background in sweet melody – that sound vibration will help these souls ALSO. The thing is YOU have to judge your OWN health AND circumstances FIRST – we are not getting younger. I am nearly 60 myself— and life does not get easier. In UK we have got COLD DAMP Climate and the body takes long time to recover from flu, back pain etc. It is best to take on something you CAN manage WITH EASE. Australia – North some places Climate is very nice Tropical. Nityananda Prabhu in Fiji has taken a BIG task IN OLD AGE—- but he has got his family— and other devotees come settle down to manage, take part in his BIG project. I like the SIMPLE life program he has – growing wide variety of fruit trees from all over the world, planting crops, tending cows, small Temple village atmosphere to attract people to Krsna Consciousness.
So —-It CAN be done. The focus is SERVICE TO SRILA PRABHUPADA.
Suggestion: Go GRADUAL step-by-step. The plan is VERY GOOD. Right ideas. You got the motivation. SINCERE heart for SERVING Srila Prabhupada. The FACT is we all need to do our SERVICE to Srila Prabhupada and have to have ENTHUSIASM to build on something. We are ENTHUSED if we can COMPLETE a task to SATISFACTION.
It is best to die IN SERVICE to Srila Prabhupada remembering Srila Prabhupada’s instructions:
SB 5.5.20 P Lord Rsabhadeva’ s Teachings to His Sons
However, it is also advised, mahiyasam pada-rajo-‘bhiseka–one has to serve the mahiyan, one who is very spiritually advanced. Mahat-sevam dvaram ahur vimukteh: BY SERVING THE MAHAT, THE EXALTED DEVOTEE, ONE’S PATH FOR LIBERATION IS OPEN
TLK Vs 20 Spiritual Attachment and Material Detachment
Mahatma is a synonym of sadhu. IT IS SAID THAT SERVICE TO A MAHATMA, OR ELEVATED DEVOTEE OF THE LORD, IS DVARAM AHUR VIMUKTEH, THE ROYAL ROAD OF LIBERATION. Mahat-sevam dvaram ahur vimuktes tamo-dvaram yositam sangi-sangam (Bhag. 5.5.2). Rendering service to the materialists has the opposite effect. If anyone offers service to a gross materialist, or a person engaged only in sense enjoyment, then by association with such a person the door to hell is opened. The same principle is confirmed here. Attachment to a devotee is attachment to the service of the Lord because if one associates with a sadhu, the sadhu will teach one how to become a devotee, a worshiper and a sincere servitor of the Lord. These are the gifts of a sadhu. If we want to associate with a sadhu, we cannot expect him to give us instructions on how to improve our material condition, but he will instruct us how to cut the knot of the contamination of material attraction and how to elevate ourselves in devotional service. That is the result of associating with a sadhu. Kapila Muni first of all instructs that the path of liberation begins with such association.
Adi 1.35 The Spiritual Masters
The SERVICE of the spiritual master IS ESSENTIAL. If there is no chance to serve the spiritual master directly, a devotee should serve him by remembering his instructions. THERE IS NO DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE SPIRITUAL MASTER’S INSTRUCTIONS AND THE SPIRITUAL MASTER HIMSELF. IN HIS ABSENCE, THEREFORE, HIS WORDS OF DIRECTION SHOULD BE THE PRIDE OF THE DISCIPLE.
Note: actually—–I went to see some Dioramas in Soho St Temple front shop display Restaurant, London say – early 1980’s how the spirit soul accepts another body – this was very nice. Gives a powerful message. Devotees INSIDE were very materialistic not welcoming at all. They were wearing saffron robes dandas etc but NOT devotional attitude. But the Shop window front Diorama was was VERY good. It showed HOW the soul accepts another body from baby to boyhood to death. I went upstairs to the Temple room and a devotee was pointing his child towards me and saying “here is a Karmi”. I was wearing Tie, Jacket that time I was actually working in London and not in devotional life at the time. But I took it that these people are insulting. Dioramas are excellent idea for preaching and there is Krsna book pastimes, Bhagavad-Gita, Srimad Bhagavatam sooooo many ideas. Srila Prabhupada wants this:
760614gc.det Conversations
Prabhupada: He’s busy there, but somebody may go there and learn from Bharadvaja how to make dolls and prepare it here. One room. There are so many big, big rooms.
Madhavananda: Yes, I was thinking.
Prabhupada: Make diorama. People will come to see.
Madhavananda: They like those things very much.
Prabhupada: Instead of so-called library, reception, you make doll room. These big, big rooms. All big glass case…
Madhavananda: Yes. They would like that very much.
Prabhupada: Yes.
Madhavananda: Because already this is like a historic museum.
Prabhupada: Yes.
Dear Mahesh Raja Prabhu,
As I am also from UK (Birmingham then Manchester) I remember how cold it was also, that is why when I was 10 (because I got pneumonia) my parents brought me out to Australia, where I am at present. One thing that I recall quite vividly is that at Christmas time the big department stores in Manchester (Marks & Spencer’s and the like) used to have dioramas in the big front windows at street level (Santa’s workshop helpers an’ stuff like that) with all sorts of mechanical, movable contrivances and lighting effects. This had quite an impression on me being a small child and I was absolutely fascinated by how they made all the objects animate and move.
In a similar way when viewed in a dimly lit ‘race’ when the (Krishna lila, etc) dioramas are lit up (like a stage set) unlimited scenes can be created using different coloured lighting and filters drawing ones vision like a movie screen. As people and children are very fond of stories, so many enchanting scenes can be created to leave a lasting impression (samskara) on the viewer (also a soundscape could also be downloaded on their I phone as they are viewing) with a narrative incorporating a moral and/or philosophical underlying message for the viewer to ponder.
Most persons and children will appreciate a nice story or a beautiful scene instead of something which is too philosophical or confrontational, like ‘the man with the cows head chopping off the mans head from the cows body’. That one might be better for the ‘mini farm-yard’ (maybe!!!!)
Much of what can be used like artificial plants, solar electricity, lighting, small motors etc can be easily sourced from e bay at very low cost (from China) for very low cost making it much more convenient than it used to be.
Yours in the service of Srila Prabhupada…
Sudarsana
Words of wisdom from Mahesh Raja Prabhu:
” It is best to take on something you CAN manage WITH EASE … The thing is YOU have to judge your OWN health AND circumstances FIRST … We are ENTHUSED if we can COMPLETE a task to SATISFACTION.”
And from Srila Prabhupada:
“You are doing your best to serve Krishna, that is very much appreciated, so do not lose enthusiasm out of frustration, that will spoil everything. Krishna Consciousness means we should always be satisfied and happy, not that we must work something impossible, becoming overburdened, and then because we are unhappy by so much trouble we lose enthusiasm altogether and give up all hope. No, if too much endeavour is there, that is to be avoided. By all means we must preserve our spiritual status, that is the point, not that we are mad after big buildings, many devotees, life-members, this, that — no, these are only ways to engage the devotees so that they may apply the principles of devotional living to some kind of work for practical realization of these principles. It is not the result of the work we want. If only one person daily, if we sincerely preach to such one person in a day, that is sufficient, never mind big, big programmes.”
[Srila Prabhupada Letter, December 19, 1972]
Please take of yourself and your own spiritual life first and foremost, Susarsana Prabhu. May Krishna and Prabhupada guide you and engage you nicely according to your individual capacity and situation. Srila Prabhupada once commented that if no one comes to hear, then we’ll “preach to the four walls.” It’s all for pleasing and glorifying Krishna. The results are up to Him. Best wishes in all your endeavors to serve Srila Prabhupada and Lord Sri Krishna.
Dear LW Prabhu,
Your contribution is much appreciated and valued with your own deep understanding of Srila Prabhupada even though living in this ‘suburban landscape’ I find myself in, can seem so mundane and increasingly crazy. I guess it’s the deterioration of the Kali Yuga which at present seems like a ‘the worst is yet to come’ scenario, but not to worry I’m not going to ‘throw myself off a building’ or despair about it. I appreciate that I have my own space here with good neighbors and If it is Sri Krishnas desire I am always just content to chant the Maha Mantra and be happy!
Appreciate your thoughts…….
Daso Smi
Sudarsana
Correction. The following sentence should have read:
“Please take of yourself and your own spiritual life first and foremost, Sudarsana Prabhu.”
(Sorry, getting old!)
Your love for Srila Prabhupada will save you wherever you are. Prabhupada always appreciates such love and devotion, and he will never let you go.
Dear Mahesh Raja Prabhu,
Thank you for those words of wisdom. As the saying goes ”Where there’s a will, there’s a way” so this Idea has been ‘gnawing away at me for years’ ever since I heard about the diorama displays created when Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakur Maharaja was physically present which were said to have quote ”caused a sensation”! at the time.
So ever since then I have been working on a universal system which is uniform, low tech, (or high tech), low cost, practical, ease of storage, ease of shipping and handling, encapsulated (dust free, vermin free, maintenance free, lightweight) interchangeable (in minutes) and can be illuminated using natural light (for a low-tech option).
The building can also be low- tech and is a simple but unique design incorporating an ‘internal race’ and can utilize natural light, eliminating the need for electricity.
By the use of molds multiplicity is possible making ‘mass production and shipping’ a viable and low cost solution for worldwide application. For city application (with no available permanent facility) the dioramas can be stored at a ”container storage depot” and set up at halls, pavilions, and indoor facilities by using a collapsible ‘race’ and incorporating the buildings own light source.
So that is a basic bit of information which may go some way to explain what I mean and although this is a very detailed concept, it is NOT designed to ‘break the bank’ but can be very cost effective and most importantly can generate much needed income (whilst at the same time enchant and attract souls to the limitless pastimes of Sri Krishna, Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, Srila Prabhupada and so many exalted personalities (from Sastra who’s stories can be told in this trancendental beautiful, enchanting 3D artform).
Vaisnava Dasanudas
Sudarsana
Sudarsana Prabhu,
Thank you for sharing your vision. Wow, you’re enthusiastic! I wish I was too, but I guess that I’m now a little too pessimistic or doubtful about the future of modern society. I think that something big is looming on the horizon and that soon they will strike big time leaving the world ecomomy and lifestyle in tatters. So I’m not so commited to the idea of big expensive projects at this time. However I offer you all encouragement. You must follow your heart in Prabhupada’s service. Krishna will help you.
If you want a better overall picture of how their plan has been unfolding for decades, go to YouTube and watch, “Iron Mountain, a blueprint for tyranny.” It’s about 20 years old and a little slow going (ignore the Christian slant, if you will) – expecially for the first 1//2 hour or so. But if you can stick it out, you’ll see how brilliantly they planned it and are now executing it. Then when you read the daily headlines (see below) you’ll know exactly how things are unfolding. I have to admit, these guys are intelligent. They have duped almost the entire population of the world and they are tightening their controls every single day.
“Al Gore spreads environmental gospel before climate talks:
Miami (AFP) – Nobel Peace Prize winner Al Gore is busily training an army of organizers to go out and spread his environmental gospel ahead of key climate talks in Paris later this year.
The modern world is collapsing around us and WE MUST CHANGE OUR WAYS, according to the former US vice president, who has led the training of more than 5,000 people in the last 18 months.”
He’s doing his part. The video spells it out nicely. They’re damn serious about their demoniac plans (unfortunately for the people of the world). Srila Prabhupada wanted to save them (and us) all.
Thanks for the wonderful Prabhupada quotes as well. Srila Prabhupada said on many occasions that modern society is doomed (without Krishna consciousness). He meant what he said, and whatever he said will come to pass.
Once again, best of luck and Haribol!
Haribol, LW Prabhu,
Thanks for the info about the “Iron Mountain” vid. I saw the first 20 minutes or so, but then ran out of ‘data credit’ so will have to re-visit at a later date as the youtube stuff always ‘chews up’ the credit a lot faster.
The presenter of the vid that Balarama Prabhu put me onto also has ”iron Mountain” on her ‘must see’ list also (and made several references to it in her presentation) so I will definitely make a point of viewing the remainder.
Vaisnava Dasanudas
Sudarsana
Yes, Prabhu. If you can see that one, it will help you to see how things are unfolding exactly according to plan. Almost every news item from day to day will take on a whole new meaning. But please don’t worry:
“A pure devotee is not afraid of anything. In all circumstances he keeps himself fit and steady. According to Sreemad Bhagbat fear of a conditioned soul is due to his intimate association with the material nature the external separated energy of the Personality of Godhead. The conditioned soul thinks always perversely due to his forgetfulness of Godhead, and therefore there is always an anxiety as to what is going to happen next moment. But the devotee is always fearless because he knows well that nothing can happen without the sanction of Godhead directly or indirectly and as such everything that comes from Him is considered by the devotee as His grace. Even in the most reverse position he (the devotee) stands without any fear and accepts all odds as His blessings in different forms.”
[Back to Godhead, Volume 1, October, 1944]
Dear LW prabhu,
Al Gore, is a eco-hyporcrite and does what many ex-Presidents (and ex vice-Presidents) do which is travel the ‘Global Lecture Circuit’. Like Bush and Clinton raking in millions of dollars and pushing their bogus ”Charities and Foundations” as they all attend the same ”Country Clubs” and are all pals together.
Gore’s ”An Inconvenient Truth” has, long ago been exposed as a fraud to create a ‘worldwide global carbon tax’ and increase the acceptance of GMO Agichemical Corporate Monopolies.
These guys like to create the impression that they are ”philanthropists” but they are just money grabbing mouth-pieces for large corporations which favor the expansion of US (British and Euro) policy of “divide and conquer”. They use these bogus ”foundations” as a front to present a smiling face of Uncle Sam while their country continues to bomb, slaughter and scheme to control and plunder the Third World on behalf of Giant Conglomerates, Banks and Oil Corporations.
Remember what Srila Prabhupada said about “Politicians!”
Daso Smi
Sudarsana
Hare Krsna Sudarsan prabhu,
Yes, spot on with your analysis. You might also like to check out information on the following link.. very good analytical confirmation of all the stuff we already know. I’m only half way through but imho, very good presentation.
SILENT WEAPONS FOR QUIET WARS.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMGXfOAFLbs
Yours in Srila Prabhupada’s service.
Balaram das (Australia).
Thanks for that Balarama Prabhu,
Yes, very informative vid! These guys are so demonic even the ‘presenter’ found certain revelations difficult to believe, in the initial stages. Another vid I saw recently is ”911 Mysteries” (part 1&2). The evidence that is presented is pretty compelling and mind-blowing. This is fascism on par (or worse) than anything Hitler could have dreamt up! We are in for a bumpy ride alright.
daso Smi
Sudarsana