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Evolution of Theism, Bhaktivinoda, and more...

Brian Peterson - January 17, 2009 2:50 am

Hey all,

 

I recently read "The Evolution of Theism" and found it to be very enlightening. I didn't know much about Sankara, Ramanuga, or Madva.

 

However, after reading, and also reading more about Bhaktivinoda Thakur, I have a question: I know ISKCON is very big into the idea of an unbroken disciplic succession going back ad infinitum, but how does one directly link Lord Caitanya directly to Bhaktivinoda? I know these conversations aren't necessarily the most important to have when discussing spiritual matters as I feel people are inspired by God for different reasons at different times. But I guess I'm just trying to figure out what Gaudiya Vaisnavism was like before Bhaktivinoda. Was it always as "progressive" as his view of it? Or did he bring a new flavor that had been missing since Caitanya. Essentially, I guess I'm looking for a bit of a history lesson. :Applause:

 

Thanks in advance.

Syamasundara - January 17, 2009 3:17 am

Swami's book "Sri Guru Parampara" will clarify a lot of your doubts, but I think it's out of print. Do you know anyone near you who might have it? Maybe a digital version of it is available online.

Babhru Das - January 17, 2009 3:43 am

I don't know if it's available anywhere, but I second the recommendation. Today at ISKCON Alachua, a godbrother named Prabhupada das gave Bhagavatam class, and he cited Sri Guru-parampara. He made nice comments about Swami being favorable to ISKCON's mission (duh!).

Nitaisundara Das - January 17, 2009 4:51 am

There are also some good talks on the website:

 

History of the Gaudiya Sampradaya

Bhaktivinoda Parivara: Harinama and Diksha initiation

 

There are 5 talks on Bhaktivinoda's appearance or dissapearance festivals. The Bhaktisiddhanta ones will probably be relevant as well. They are in the Holy Days>Saints section.

 

Unfortunately the book is out of print. I would bet anything you could get it on amazon though.

Braja-sundari Dasi - January 17, 2009 1:44 pm

There was discussion about this book in classroom section on TV. I don`t remember though if whole book was posted there.

Babhru Das - January 17, 2009 2:14 pm

Good thinking, Braja! Much of the book (if not all) is posted in the discussion here.