In our human existence, we are blessed with higher intelligence, which we must use to constantly examine our behavior, particularly in the spiritual realm. The spiritual path is one where guidance is not always readily available, making us vulnerable to misdirection. Therefore, it is crucial to seek out the teachings of pure devotees like Srila Prabhupada. Though Prabhupada is not physically present, he remains alive and vibrant in his books. These scriptures provide a safe refuge, shielding us from the deceit and distractions of the world.
Engaging with these holy texts—especially the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam—deepens our faith and clears our lives of inauspicious influences. As Prabhupada often recited, “Nasta-prayeshv abhadreshu,” meaning that almost all inauspicious things are eradicated by regularly hearing the Bhagavatam and chanting the holy names.
A striking example of this transformative power comes from the story of a Russian devotee. This devotee, who once worked as a butcher, found his life completely changed by the magic of Prabhupada’s books. One day, while on his way to work, he noticed a Bhagavad Gita advertisement in the metro and decided to purchase a copy. As he read it during his bus ride, he came across Prabhupada’s instructions to chant the Hare Krishna mantra. Though he had only chanted a few times, the impact was immediate and profound.
Despite being a butcher by trade, he felt compelled to stop consuming meat, though he continued to sell it. However, this initial step set him on a path of rapid transformation. The more he read and chanted, the more he felt the weight of his actions. Eventually, he decided to close his butcher shop altogether, understanding that his work was laden with sinful reactions.
Driven by a desire to further his spiritual progress, he traveled to Moscow, where he joined a Krishna temple. There, he learned that a pilgrimage to India would accelerate his spiritual journey. Without sufficient funds to travel, he took a job on a train that took him all the way to Vladivostok. From there, he boarded a steamer bound for what he believed was Bombay, India. To his surprise, he ended up in Sydney, Australia. Unfazed, he continued his devotional practices and settled in Brisbane, where he became known as “Jiv Jago,” a name he adopted as his own spiritual identity.
This devotee’s story highlights the transformative power of Prabhupada’s books. His life, once steeped in violence and ignorance, was completely turned around through the simple yet profound act of chanting and reading. The constant “hammering” of these spiritual practices is necessary; one reading is not enough. We must engage with these texts and the holy names again and again, reinforcing the divine impressions they leave on our hearts.
Just as a child observes and mimics the actions of their parents, these spiritual practices leave lasting “snaps” or impressions in our minds. These impressions, like photographs, are stored in our consciousness and guide us in times of difficulty. By giving ourselves and our children the best “snaps”—engaging in chanting, reading, and other devotional activities—we ensure that these divine impressions will lead us to spiritual success.
Lessons to Be Learned:
- The Transformative Power of Spiritual Literature:
Prabhupada’s books have the power to completely transform lives, even those deeply entrenched in material activities. Regular engagement with these scriptures purifies the mind and directs one toward spiritual progress. - The Importance of Consistency:
Spiritual practices like chanting and reading must be done consistently. It is through repetition that these practices leave lasting impressions that guide us through life’s challenges. - Trust in Divine Guidance:
Even when circumstances seem confusing or difficult, as in the Russian devotee’s unexpected journey to Australia, trust that Krishna’s guidance will lead you to where you need to be.
Prayer:
Oh Lord Krishna,
Thank you for the guidance and wisdom provided through the teachings of Srila Prabhupada.
May we constantly immerse ourselves in the reading of your divine words,
And through them, purify our lives of all inauspicious influences.
Help us to remain consistent in our spiritual practices,
So that we may always carry the divine impressions of your name and form in our hearts.
Guide us on our journey, wherever it may lead,
And let our lives be transformed by the magic of your holy presence.
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare,
Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.
This story reminds us that no matter where we start, the power of devotion and the teachings of great souls like Prabhupada can lead us to a life of spiritual fulfillment and divine connection.
