GOA BHAKTI FESTIVAL DAY 1
"FOLLOW YOUR HEART or follow an ancient book?"
This is a false dilemma. The unredeemed heart is corrupt and will lead us on an endless journey through the cycle of birth and death, as it has in our many previous lifetimes until this present day. Following some ancient text also leads to confusion arising from multiple conflicting interpretations. Therefore, Manu has advised:
vidvadbhih sevitah sadbhir
nityam advesarāgibhih
hrdayenābhyanujnāto
yo dharmas tam nibodhata
Manu Samhita 2.2
"Learn that dharma which is adhered to by the saints who are erudite in the Vedas, always virtuous in conduct, free from hatred for any living being and devoid of worldly attachments. That dharma is joyfully approved by the heart (because the direct experience of inner transformation confirms the veracity of the path)."
By accepting the guidance of Sri Guru, the living embodiment of the Vedic wisdom, one avoids the crisis of scriptural interpretation and the self-deception of an impure heart. Yet simultaneously, the heart confirms and approves of the devotional life, as the heart is restored and enchanted by unfolding realization.
(Excerpt from GOA BHAKTI FESTIVAL DAY 1 with Sri Prem Prayojan Prabhu Feb 1st 2025.)
Hundreds of inquisitive seekers came to be immersed in Vedic wisdom and exuberant chanting of the Holy Names. After a serene contemplation on the nature of the soul and vigorously dancing in transcendental kirtan, the guests imbibed the sacrament of purifying prasadam, a vegetarian feast offered with love to Sri Krsna.
