What is the Right Perspective on Scriptures?
A continuation of an analysis of the correct place of scriptures in spiritual life discussed in When Rites Go Wrong Krishna has more to say about materially oriented scriptures and religion (though he just mentions the Vedas): “The Vedas are such that their scope is … Continue reading
Messiahs vs. Avatars
Q: What is meant by “messiah” versus “avatar”? How are Jesus and Krisna similar and how are they different? Are they both Messiahs? Are they Avatars? “Messiah” is a Hebrew word meaning “anointed one” as does the Greek word Christos from which “Christ” is derived. Almost … Continue reading
Unhappy Pleasure Seeking and the Antidote
The conclusion of When Rites Go Wrong “To those attached to enjoyment and power, whose thought is stolen away by this kind of talk, resolute insight in meditation is not granted” (Bhagavad Gita 2:44). Prabhavananda: “Those whose discrimination is stolen away by such talk grow … Continue reading
When Rites Go Wrong
“Addicted to many specific rites aimed at the goal of enjoyment and power.” Bhagavad Gita 2:40 Lord Krishna in the Gita is not speaking only of the people outside India. Throughout the subcontinent right now millions are streaming in and out of temples, paying money … Continue reading
How to Avoid Ignorance Disguised as Wisdom
A continuation of Fool’s Gold in Religion, about how to discern between wisdom and ignorance in religion. A profile of ignorance Krishna has already told us that the sole purpose of yoga is the realization of the Self and the liberation that produces. It is not … Continue reading
Fool’s Gold in Religion
Seeing should not always be believing “All that glitters is not gold” is especially true in the realm of religion. I can never hear that adage without remembering a walk I once took with the Russian Orthodox (OCA) Archbishop of Chicago. We were just wandering … Continue reading