INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR KRISHNA CONSCIOUSNESS
Founder-Acarya: His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
GOVERNING BODY COMMISSION
GBC BODY MEETING RESOLUTIONS 1995 Sri Dham Mayapur
1. That Sesa dasa is accepted as assistant GBC.
2. THAT Bir Krishna Goswami is accepted as a candidate for GBC for the Southeastern USA zone.
3. THAT Bhaktivaibhava Swami is accepted as assistant GBC.
4. THAT Naveen Krishna dasa is approved to become a full GBC.
5. THAT Bhakti Raghava Swami is accepted as acting GBC.
6. THAT Rohini Suta dasa is accepted as a full GBC.
7. THAT Param Gati Swami is accepted as acting GBC.
8. THAT Radhanatha Swami is accepted as acting GBC.
9. THAT Ramai Swami is accepted as assistant GBC.
10. THAT the following officers are elected:
a. Badrinarayan dasa is elected as GBC Chairman. He will also serve as chairman for the duration of this meeting, filling the vacancy left by Jagadisa Goswami’s resignation.
b. Bhakti Tirtha Swami is elected as GBC vice-chairman.
c. Naveen Krishna dasa is elected as GBC secretary.
11. Proposal Name: Re-Organization of Education Office/Board ID# VI-1
A.
1. THAT the members of the GBC Education Sub-committee are: Bhurijan Dasa, Bir Krishna Swami, Badrinarayana Dasa, Kavichandra Swami, Gaura Govinda
Swami, Dhanvantari Swami (replacing Bhakti Bhusan Swami if approved as an Assistant GBC) and Bhaktarupa Prabhu (Treasurer).
2. The GBC Sub-committee will meet in Mayapur annually to serve as an interface between the GBC Body and the Office of Education and deal with educational matters assigned to it by the GBC Body.
3. THAT Bhurijana Dasa is appointed Chairman of the GBC Education Sub-Committee.
B.
1. THAT Muralivadaka Dasa is appointed “Director of the Office of Education.” He may organize a worldwide committee to attain the goals of this office which are to:
(a) give child protection training & recording (WHAT?)
(b) serve as a center for help and information
(c) develop strategies and goals for ISKCON education worldwide
(d) oversee the “Office of Accreditation & Curriculum Development ”
(e) oversee the allocation of the education budget.
C.
1. THAT Urmila devi dasi is appointed “Accreditation & Curriculum Development Coordinator.” She will develop standards for accrediting schools and the writing & printing of the curriculum.
2. THAT a committee of Bir Krsna Swami, Bhakti Tirtha Swami, and Badrinarayana dasa will meet with Muralivadaka Dasa and Urmila devi dasi to implement
this revised system.
12. Proposal Name: GBC Official Archives ID# VI-7
a) THAT the GBC Correspondence Secretary establish and supervise an official document archive in Sri Mayapur Dhama. The Correspondence Secretary is
empowered to publish detailed rules, guidelines, and fee schedules for operating the archive.
b) THAT any ISKCON devotee may place a document in the archives upon payment of a fee and issuance of a receipt. Certified copies of documents may be
issued to the holder of a receipt or any ISKCON temple officer upon payment of a fee..
c) THAT duplicates should be made and kept in Mayapur by the Correspondence Secretary.
13. Proposal Name: Child Protection Guidelines ID# VI-3
a) THAT The local GBC should be advised if a Temple President knowingly arranges for a confirmed child abuser to be supported by a temple, or live on temple property without first notifying the householder community as per ISKCON laws. The local GBC is to supervise the situation to be sure the Temple President follows the following GBC guidelines:
“In no case should a confirmed perpetrator remain in the local community unless the local ISKCON authorities obtain the written authorization of no less than three-quarter of the parents of children at the project or in the community. The local government authorities and/or the ISKCON Board of Education will make the final determination of the appropriate degree of segregation. (1990-119.4)”
b) THAT every GBC make sure the temples presidents in his zone are made aware of this resolution and GBC guidelines.
14. PROPOSAL NAME: SANNYASI ANNUAL COMMITMENT ID# IV-18
I. THAT sannyasis who are not GBC’s or ISKCON Managers shall annually submit in writing to the GBC a “service program” report they are committing themselves to for the following year. This report shall include the following:
a) what devotional services they intend to do;
b) where they intend to perform their services;
c) when they intend to be in different places, if not always in the same zone;
d) anything else they would like the GBC to know.
II. THAT these Sannyasis shall also submit their “annual devotional service progress” report explaining in brief the highlights, achievements, and any obstacles in their devotional service during the previous year.
III. THAT the above two reports shall be submitted to the Sannyasa Minister, on behalf of the GBC, one month prior to the GBC meeting.
15. PROPOSAL NAME: MINOR PROPERTY LAW REVISION ID# I-11
THAT Section 2.2.2 of ISKCON Law 93-54 shall be amended to read: “It is not allowed for any private individual or non-ISKCON entity to hold equity in any structure built on ISKCON property if that equity constitutes a legal encumbrance on that property.”
16. PROPOSAL NAME: ZURICH RELOCATION ID# N-5
THAT the GBC Body gives its blessings to ISKCON Zurich to relocate Their Lordships Sri Sri Jagannath, Baladeva and Subhadra Devi and Sri Sri Gaura-Nitai to a new location in Zurich.
17. PROPOSAL NAME: EXPANDING INITIATING GURUS ID# V-20
THAT devotees first initiated by Srila Prabhupada and second initiated by Srila Prabhupada’s disciples may, with the written consent of the mantra guru, be accepted as a candidate for initiating spiritual master like any other Srila Prabhupada disciple.
18. PROPOSAL NAME: FOUNDER ACARYA BUILDING PLAQUES ID# N-14
a) THAT either before or during the Srila Prabhupada Centennial, all ISKCON temples and prominent buildings which don’t already have Srila Prabhupada’s
name enscripted upon them, shall install a plaque stating Srila Prabhupada’s full name as the Founder-Acarya of the International Society for Krishna
Consciousness.
b) THIS shall also apply to the prominent buildings of the BBT, BI and any other society founded by Srila Prabhupada or affiliated to ISKCON.
c) THE BBT shall mention Srila Prabhupada as the Founder-Acarya.
d) THE Communications Ministry shall give a standard format and wording for these plaques upon request.
19. PROPOSAL NAME: LEGAL, TAX, FINANCIAL COMPLIANCE ID# I-12
a) THAT every Temple President is to insure his temple is operating at acceptable standards in all legal, tax, and accounting matters according to
local law.
b) THAT competent lawyers and accountants (retained or volunteer) be engaged to review current standards and guide ISKCON temples to come up to acceptable
standards by January 1, 1996.
c) THAT the Ministry of Finance will provide minimum standards for legal, tax and accounting procedures for ISKCON, which apply whenever local law does not require compliance at least to these minimum standards. The Ministry of Finance shall also give an annual report to the GBC to verify this compliance. Where needed, the local GBC shall assist the Ministry to ensure that temples in their zone are in compliance.
20. PROPOSAL NAME: TEMPLE DEITY WORSHIP STANDARDS ID# II-6
a) THAT the book “The Method of Deity Worship fir the International Society for Krishna Consciousness” is approved by the GBC Body.
b) THAT all devotees engaged in Deity worship in ISKCON temples with installed Deities should study and take guidance from this book.
c) With the approval of this book, the previous 1983 Resolution 25.2.2 may be updated by the ISKCON Law Revision Committee.
21. PROPOSAL NAME: MANOR CAMPAIGN THANK YOU ID# VI-5
THAT the GBC makes the following statement:
“The GBC would like to thank the devotees and members of the Society in the United Kingdom who have served so valiantly in keeping Bhaktivedanta Manor open as a place of public worship. Foremost we would like to thank Akhandadhi Das, the Temple President, who made his life one with the Manor Campaign for the last decade. Thanks also goes to Frank Ward, a friend of the Society and local councilor; Naresh Chada and the Hare Krsna Temple Defense Movement; the Patrons Council; Sruti Dharma Das, Pranabandu Das and the United Kingdom Life Membership preachers; Atmanivedana Swami; Riddha Das Adhikary; all congregational members; and others not individually mentioned. Their dedication and determination is an example to the members of ISKCON world-wide and a great source of pleasure to Srila Prabhupada who was concerned that his followers maintained what he had given them”.
22. PROPOSAL NAME: SANNYASA APPLICATION NO.2 ID# N-15
THAT sannyasa candidates must meet personally with the Sannyasa Committee in Mayapur before receiving final approval for taking sannyasa, unless exempted
by the Sannyasa Minister.
23. PROPOSAL NAME: MURLI KRSNA DASA REINSTATEMENT ID# N-8
THAT Murli Krsna Dasa be admitted as a member of ISKCON for a one-year probationary period. He is to maintain regular contact with the ISKCON temple in Boston during the probationary period. If the Boston temple authorities, through Niranjana Swami, give a favorable report to the GBC Body in 1996 on Murli Krsna Dasa, he may be fully reinstated in 1996.
THAT these same conditions apply if Murli Krsna Dasa moves to another location within the next year, (i.e. he should maintain regular association with ISKCON devotees in his area). These devotees should submit a report through their GBC representative.
24. PROPOSAL NAME: SANNYASA APPLICATION NO.1 ID# N-14
THAT candidates for sannyasa must submit their applications in accordance with the GBC Rules of Order and include along with the statement by a GBC member listing the candidate’s qualifications to take sannyasa, a letter written by the candidate explaining his reasons for wanting to accept
sannyasa.
25. PROPOSAL: PRAHLADANANDA SWAMI SANNYASA MINISTER ID# N-5
THAT Prahladananda Swami is re-appointed Sannyasa Minister.
26. PROPOSAL NAME: CONTINENTAL TRAINING SEMINARS ID# V-18
THAT GBC Zonal Secretaries and GBC Global Ministers/Monitors, in cooperation with Continental Leaders, will organize and personally participate in training seminars once a year in 1) North America; 2) South America; 3) Europe/Africa; 4) India/Asia; 5) CIS; and 6) Australasia. Each seminar will be of approximately four to six days and will be called “ISKCON Conventions.” ISKCON Foundation and its staff will be the Coordinators of these conventions.
27. PROPOSAL NAME: JAYAPATAKA SWAMI CO-GBC FOR BRUNEI ID# IV-11
THAT Jayapataka Swami be appointed Co-GBC for Brunei.
28. PROPOSAL NAME: CIS GBC CHANGES ID# IV-30
1. THAT Gopal Krishna Goswami be appointed Co-GBC for Southern Russia.
2. THAT Rohini Suta Dasa be appointed Co-GBC for Volga.
3. THAT Bhakti Vaibhav Swami be appointed Assistant GBC to Niranjana Swami for Belarus to replace Prabhavisnu Swami.
29. PROPOSAL NAME: KRISHNALOKA PROJECT (SURAT) id# IV-14
THAT Krishnaloka Project at Gangapur (Surat) be accepted as an ISKCON temple. Jayapataka Swami will give advise on the finer legal points to bring the project under ISKCON authority. Gopal Krsna Swami is the GBC as Surat is in his zone.
30. PROPOSAL: ISKCON Policies Manual ID # V-16
THAT Kalakantha dasa will review and organize the existing ISKCON law revisions work thus far done by the Constitutional Committee to form a draft booklet of ISKCON current law. On May 23rd and 24th, 1996 this draft will be reviewed in Alachua in person by the Law Revisions Committee including Kavicandra Swami, Jaya Pataka Swami, Naveen Krishna dasa, Ravindra Swarupa dasa, and one devotee lawyer such as Balavanta dasa or Sesa dasa. They shall be empowered to finalize the compilation, including editing, definitions and whatever else needed to complete the law revision. This review group will cause this to be published and mailed out to temple’s worldwide as the official updated booklet of ISKCON law.
THAT after the official booklet of ISKCON laws is published, it shall be updated after every annual GBC meeting and provided to ISKCON GBC’s, temple presidents and others within three months of Gaura Purnima.
31. PROPOSAL: ISKCON Leadership Definitions and Constitution ID # V-2
THAT Sesa dasa will join the constitutional team to review the official ISKCON law-book and from this create a draft constitution for ISKCON. The final draft of this constitution will be completed by September 1, 1995. This draft constitution will be sent to all GBC members by letter, FAX or COM as a correspondence proposal to be finally voted upon before December 1, 1995, thus providing ISKCON with a constitution before the centennial year begins.
32. PROPOSAL: Congregational Development Ministry ID # V-7
THAT the GBC body establishes a Ministry for Congregational Development to help achieve ISKCON’s goals in this vital area. Jaya Pataka Swami shall be the minister.
33. PROPOSAL: Implementation of Temple Stapak Sastra ID # II-3
THAT it is advised as a guideline that all ISKCON temples with installed deities may immediately begin and maintain a stapak sastra using a long-lasting hard-bound book suitable for establishing a legacy. Each temple’s historical events should be recorded in the stapak sastra by the Temple President and Head Pujari after due consideration and mutual agreement. The stapak sastra should be maintained on the altar as the Deities’ personal paraphernalia. Suggestions for entries are:
a) Formation of the temple.
b) Special lilas and instructions given by the Founder Acarya, Srila Prabhupada.
c) Special history of the Deities e.g.: how They were named, how They came,Their standard of service, Their extraordinary lilas, etc.
d) Accomplishments of the devotees and temple e.g.: winners of Christmas marathons.
e) Temple’s annual history.
f) The last words of retiring Temple Presidents.
34. PROPOSAL: Funding Mayapur Panca-Tattva ID # VI-9
THAT Sridhara Swami will do a fund-raiser during the Navadvipa Mandala Parikrama for the Panca Tattva temple in Mayapur. GBC members and others are also invited to contribute.
35. PROPOSAL: Sannyasa Waiting List ID #’s IV-24, 26, 31-35
THAT Balabhadra dasa be placed on the three year sannyasa waiting list.
THAT Kadamba Kanana Rasa Parayana dasa be placed on the one year sannyasa waiting list.
THAT Ramacandra dasa be placed on the five year sannyasa waiting list.
THAT Mahamantra dasa be placed on the two year sannyasa waiting list.
THAT Gauranga dasa be placed on the five year sannyasa waiting list.
THAT Gaura Narayana dasa be placed on the five year sannyasa waiting list.
THAT Paratha Sarathi dasa (French) be placed on the one year sannyasa waiting list.
36. THAT Vedavyasa Priya Swami be pre-approved to have his sannyasa re-confirmed from a bonafide ISKCON guru of his choice. He must also sign an oath of allegiance to ISKCON.
37. THAT Vrndavana Swami be preapproved to have his sannyasa re-confirmed after his accepting a bonafide ISKCON guru of his choice for first and second
initiation. All three initiations are authorized to be given at the same time, at the discretion of the initiating guru who he accepts. He must also sign an oath of allegiance to ISKCON.
38. THAT Nityo Dita Swami be pre-approved to have his sannyasa re-confirmed from a bonafide ISKCON guru of his choice. He must also sign an oath of allegiance to ISKCON.
39. THAT Umapati Swami be authorized as an initiating guru in ISKCON.
40. THAT Varsana Swami be authorized as an initiating guru in ISKCON after signing an oath of allegiance to ISKCON and affirming that he has renounced all allegiance to Kirtanananda.
41. PROPOSAL: GBC Newsletter V-15
THAT the GBC Executive Committee will edit and oversee a quarterly GBC newsletter to go to all ISKCON temples throughout the world. The newsletter will be drafted and produced by ISKCON Foundation. Cost to the GBC will be U.S. $1200. ISKCON Foundation will donate staff, time and equipment.
42. PROPOSAL: Deity Protection I-2
THAT all temples must make arrangements for the protection of installed Deities immediately. This is to include adequate protection during darsana times when the curtain and doors are open. Locking iron gates are recommended. All GBC men must include details on how the Deities in each temple in their zone are being protected in their 1995 Annual Report. [This is already an ISKCON law but it should be implemented by the 1996 Centennial.]
43. PROPOSAL: France–GBC Question IV-3
THAT Bhakti Charu Swami shall resign as GBC of France. The GBC Executive Committee requests Bhakti Charu Swami and Bhakti Svarupa Damodar Swami to
encourage their disciples to remain in France and work cooperatively with the ISKCON institution there.
44. PROPOSAL: Kirtan Melodies II-2
THAT the Minister of Culture, Bhakti Charu Swami, shall organize a committee of senior devotees to review Srila Prabhupada’s instructions on kirtan melodies. Then a cassette tape and sheet music shall be made with sample melodies and songs for specific melodies. An examination shall be prepared of different melodies for different times.
45. PROPOSAL: Property Improvements N-19
THAT before making any improvements on an ISKCON property the local management shall comply (where applicable) with building, health and fire codes. Building permits shall be obtained as required by local law before commencing the work. The local Zonal Secretary shall oversee that this guideline is being adhere to.
46. PROPOSAL: Increasing Correspondence Proposals V-20
THAT In order to expedite GBC business, concentrating on the preaching vision and avoiding distractions, the GBC Body shall process as many correspondence
proposals as possible, especially in the realm of legal, administrative, financial, social, behavioral and philosophical areas of discussion. For 1995-1996, these proposals shall be processed through the GBC Secretary, Naveen Krishna dasa. All proposals first shall be sent to the Chairman who decides in consultation with the Executive Committee which proposals go to correspondence and which do not. In accordance with existing policy, any proposals not completed at the end of the GBC meeting shall be submitted to the Chairman and his Executive Committee for further action.
47. PROPOSAL: Private Residences N-18
THAT to have a “private” residence on an ISKCON property, someone must have a written legal agreement signed with the proprietary ISKCON entity. The agreement shall include the following:
1. The property shall remain legally unencumbered.
2. In case any improvements are ever to be made on the residence, they shall comply with these guidelines:
a. That they comply with the ISKCON Law on making “property improvements”;
b. That it shall state whether the improvement is a donation, or aclaimed asset of the resident. In the case of a claimed asset, the limit and nature of any compensation shall be detailed so as to avoid any legal complication in the future.
c. That the written permission of the competent local authorities shall be taken prior to making any improvements.
3. The resident shall maintain the spiritual standards of ISKCON.
4. Reasonable clauses for vacating the resident if required.
5. Any other clauses needed for maintaining good relations and avoiding legal or practical problems between the occupant and ISKCON.
48. PROPOSAL: Debt-Free Temples N-1
THAT :
1. As a general principle of management temple presidents and temple administrations shall keep ISKCON temples free from debts. No external debts should be created by any temple administration. This shall be implemented in the following manner:
a. Except for BBT book consignment purchases and deferred payment short-term purchases which can be timely met by the temple from its normal cash flow, all other purchases and expenses should be made on cash basis, otherwise prior to incurring a debt one should obtain the written permission of the local GBC Zonal Secretary.
b. Immovable property purchases on mortgage or time payment done with concerned property as only collateral and after taking requisite permission as per ISKCON laws on property are exempt.
c. Purchases of vehicles or other movable assets such as equipment of machinery should only be done with the concerned vehicle as collateral and not endangering other assets of default. If purchasing a vehicle will compromise a major portion of the temple cash flow, or there is danger of defaulting, then permission of the local GBC Zonal Secretary shall be taken in writing prior to creating the debt.
d. Any debt which could endanger the immovable properties in case of default shall also require the permission of the property trustees in writing prior to creating the debt, and if the property has installed Deities, then the permission of the GBC body shall be required.
2. GBC Zonal Secretaries shall insure that their temple presidents and
administrations learn to follow the principle of keeping the temple free of
debts, and are following this principle.
3. The GBC Zonal Secretary to the GBC body shall include in his annual report:
a. Any deviation from following this principle and what steps have been taken to correct it.
b. Any debts for which permission have been given and current status of the debt.
4. In urgent cases during the year the GBC Zonal Secretary shall inform the GBC Executive Committee of any blatant disregard of this principle or action which is placing the temple entity into significant debt risk for which the Zonal Secretary is not able to prevent or correct.
5. Temple presidents and administrations which deviate from this principle shall be liable for remedial or disciplinary action including:
a. Imposing restrictions on ability to spend (additional signers, etc.);
b. Censuring;
c. Placing on probation and/or reducing to an acting status;
d. Removal in extreme or chronic cases.
49. Proposal: Prema Dhvani Correction II-9
THAT the GBC body informs ISKCON temples around the world that if “nitya lila pravistha” is chanted in the beginning of the Jayadhvani prayers, the words “paramhamsa” and “parivrajakacarya” should not be used. If “nitya lila pravistha” is not chanted, the words “paramahamsa” and “parivrajakacarya” are appropriate.
50. Proposal: Bhaktarupa Prabhu/GBC Dispute III-1
THAT Jaya Pataka Swami draw up a detailed job description for the GBC Correspondence Secretary. Such description shall include, at the very least, restrictions similar to those contained in the second half of last year’s resolution concerning Bhaktarupa dasa.
THAT the GBC Body does NOT accept the resignation of Bhaktarupa dasa as Correspondence Secretary and encourages him to continue in this service.
51. Fallen Sannyasa Gurus IV-19
THAT those who have taken sannyasa from a sannyasi in ISKCON who was in good standing but later fell from sannyasa are recommended to take sannyasa reinitiation by an authorized ISKCON sannyasi.
That anyone who took sannyasa outside of ISKCON whose sannyasa guru has fallen, but wants to serve as an ISKCON sannyasi must take sannyasa re-initiation from an ISKCON sannyasi.
52. Property Law Revision N-17
THAT the last sentence of Resolution #19 of 1981 be changed as follows: “The North American Continential Committee is responsible to see that a standard uniform legal plan is implemented”.
53. M.M. De Case III-13
THAT the GBC:
1) Confirms that the case affects India only
2) Directs the Indian Continental Committee and Indian BBT trustees to settle this issue
54. Property Trustee Change Approvals N-23
THAT Section 3.2.2. of ISKCON Law 1993-54 be modified as follows:
In the event of the death or failure to act for any reason of any of the said Property Trustees, a successor initiated disciple of ISKCON who is following strictly all the rules and regulations of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness as detailed in Srila Prabhupada’s books, and provided that there are never less than three or more than five Trustees acting at one time. No objections to the appointment must be obtained in writing from the local GBC’s, and the Monitoring Executor for the property in question must certify in writing that the change is in accordance with ISKCON Law and Executors Committee Policies. The Trustees shall be responsible to notify the Executor Committee of any changes so effected by sending copies of all relevant documents to the Secretary.
55. THAT Sukadeva Swami be pre-approved to have his sannyasa re-confirmed after his accepting a bonafide ISKCON guru of his choice for first and second initiation. All three initiations are authorized to be given at the same time, at the discretion of the initiating guru who he accepts. He must also sign an oath of allegiance to ISKCON. In the meantime he can remain in the sannyasa asrama.
56. N.V. Sannyasis O-2
THAT Bhaktisiddhanta Swami, Candra Mali Swami, and Candra Sekhara Swami, all formerly connected with New Vrindaban, now connected with ISKCON, may carry on as sannyasis under ISKCON authority, and they should come to Mayapur next year so that their situation can be discussed.
57. THAT to live on ISKCON property, Satadhanya dasa must first have a “risk assessment.” If he receives a “low to no risk” approval, he can live on ISKCON Mayapur property. The assessment should be done by experts approved by Yasoda dasi.
58.THAT the GBC approves the compilation of rules called “Gurus and Initiation” submitted by the ISKCON Rules Revision Committee as follows:
59. THAT the above resolution is amended as follows: “1.3.5. Objecting GBC Communicates First With Candidate, Council” is deleted. GBC men are only required to submit their objections regarding a proposed ISKCON initiating spiritual master to the Executive Committee.
60. New Vrindaban / ISKCON I-5
THAT:
a. the GBC body welcomes back all devotees of New Vrindaban who have rejected the authority of Kirtanananda Swami and who again wish to be a part of ISKCON;
b. ISKCON is willing to help the New Vrindaban community in any way possible;
c. ISKCON World Review will publish an article informing the society how New Vrindaban is following proper standards;
d. The GBC will send a document to New Vrindaban explaining what it means to be part of ISKCON and encouraging them to rejoin. It will also state that the
GBC body intends to work in a cooperative and non-disruptive fashion with New Vrindaban should they want to rejoin ISKCON.
e. Bhakti Tirtha Swami and Radhanath Swami shall be co-GBC for West Virginia. They shall act as liaison between the GBC body and New Vrindaban during the
transition to full ISKCON affiliation.
61. P.R. Issues VI-4
THAT:
1) Each temple, underground or banned regions excepted, shall produce and disseminate a two-page (minimum) newsletter at least monthly which is sent to
all the congregational members. The main elements should be positive presentations of ISKCON’s philosophy and achievements of ISKCON locally, nationally
and internationally and should also include glorificatoin and recognition of:
a. Deserving active members of the congregation, recognizing their services and contributions.
b. Local ISKCON members and leaders including temple president, preachers, etc.
c. Other ISKCON leaders, gurus, sannyasis, preachers, etc. as thought appropriate, including their noteworthy achievements.
2) Each newsletter shall also contain a monthly financial report. Expenses are described in terms of temple functions and projects according to the principles of functional accounting. (Contact ISKCON Foundation for specifics on functional budget and newsletter recommendations.)
3) Wherever possible every temple shall form an advisory board according to the guidelines established by the ISKCON Foundation. Some of the important
advisory board functions include:
a. Monthly meetings to understand the needs, concerns and interests of the greater ISKCON community and local congregation.
b. To improve the quality and effect of the newsletter, temple programs and other outreach programs including the congregational preaching, festivals, Food for Life programs, educational programs and all preaching.
c. To discuss confidentially the detractors and come up with goals and strategies to better to deal with reputation mangement and to empower the advisory board members to work with the greater community on behalf of ISKCON.
4) Each temple should empower the other mature leaders of the congregation such as nama hatta leaders, gathering organizers, etc. with ISKCON materials
to answer questions that may arise due to opposing elements.
5) Each temple shall utilize the following and other resource and promotional materials as far as possible:
a. Back to Godhead
b. ISKCON World Review
c. Hare Krishna Today Video Magazine
d. Centennial Materials
e. International Newsletters
62. New Oath Proposal N-10
THAT the following revised Oath of Loyalty be accepted:
A. OATH OF LOYALTY
As a devotee, officer and leader within the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), I shall abide by the following:
1) To accept His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada as the Founder Acarya and Supreme Authority of ISKCON. To follow his teachings,
instructions and directions.
2) To accept the Governing Body Commission of ISKCON as the representative of his will and the ultimate managing authority of ISKCON.
3) To abide by the Society’s spiritual rules, namely no illicit sex, no intoxication, no gambling, no meat-eating and chant a minimum of sixteen rounds of maha-mantra japa every day. To follow the principles set forth in Srila Prabhupada’s books.
4) To accept that all ISKCON’s funds, assets and properties under my control or direction, including anything ISKCON may have acquired under my direction,
is the sole property of ISKCON and in the event of my death, resignation or other relinquishment of all ISKCON responsibilities, all these shall accrue solely to ISKCON and at all times I shall have no claim on them whatsoever.
B. PROCEDURES FOR TAKING OATHS:
1) All members of the GBC, ISKCON gurus, Sannyasis, Regional Secretaries, Temple Presidents, Temple Vice-Presidents, Temple Board of Directors, Project
Leaders (such as ISCOWP, BI, etc.), and other ISKCON managers shall complete the approved ISKCON Oath of Loyalty in the following manner:
a. A signed Oath certified by the appropriate legal authority prescribed for giving testimony of a declaration (Notary Public, Judicial Magistrate, Commissioner of Oaths, etc.) in the locaton shall be deposited with the GBC Corresponding Secretary. This shall be renewed once in five years or whenever there is a change in their responsibilities.
b. The GBC’s shall make the above Oath orally, in a group, before the Deities in Sridham Mayapur during the course of their annual meetings.
c. Every Temple President, Regional Secretary, Temple Officer, etc. shall take the Oath orally before the Deities of the Temple every year. The Oath shall be administered by a local GBC Zonal Secretary. Optionally the Oath may be taken at ISKCON Sridham Mayapur during the Gaura Purnima Festival
period).
d. Other leaders not covered above shall also make an annual oral declaration of the Oath before an ISKCON Deity administered by the GBC authority or liason assigned.
C. This resolution shall overide and replace all previous legislation on Oaths for ISKCON leaders. This doesn’t replace the additional Oath that ISKCON gurus must also take.
63. PROPOSAL NAME: Ministry of Indian Community Relations ID#: IV-29
THAT a portfolio of Indian Community Relations be established under the direction of Naveen Krishna dasa with the following functions:
(1) To propose guidelines for ISKCON’s dealings with its Life Members,
(2) To receive complaints and suggestions from Indian members and congregations,
(3) To help resolve disputes and make reports and recommendations to the GBC Executive Officers involving ISKCON management and Indian Life Members
and congregation,
(4) To establish local committees of ISKCON Indian friends and members to handle these kind of issues. Committees to be approved by local ISKCON
management.
(5) Initially, for the next two years, pursue the above purposes in a few particular centers as requested by the local Zonal GBC’s.
THAT Subhavilas dasa be appointed Global Coordinator for Indian Community Relations for establishing the above portfolio.
64. THAT the GBC gives their approval and blessings for ISKCON devotees to coolaborate with the Indian Heritage Research Foundation (IHF) in their production of the Indian Heritage Encyclopedia as proposed by the Bhaktivedanta Institute staff. Bhaktisvarupa Damodara Swami will be the chief co-ordinator and Rasaraja dasa (assisted by Rajahamsa dasa) will be the liaison with the IHF. The following devotees shall write their respective articles on ISKCON: Satsvarupa dasa Goswami, Hridayananda dasa Goswami, Ravindra Svarupa dasa, Garuda dasa, Lokanath Swami, Jayadvaita Swami, JayaPataka Swami, Bhakti Charu Swami, Subhag Swami, Mukunda Goswami, Drutakarma dasa, Sadaputa dasa, Rasaraja dasa, Rajahamsa dasa and Bhaktisvarupa Damodar Swami.
65. THAT Gaura Mandala Bhumi dasa be appointed Candidate for GBC for Indonesia and Indo China (Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam).
66. THAT the GBC approves of the paper entitled “On My Order” which establishes as ISKCON law the final siddhanta on Srila Prabhupada’s desire for continuing the disciplic succession after the departure of His Divine Grace.
67. THAT:
1) the acceptance of Vasudeva dasa’s resignation should be rescinded ad he should be re-admitted to the GBC;
2) Subhavilas dasa should visit Fiji to explore possible means to repair relations with Vasudeva dasa and his family;
3) Subhavilas dasa shall report the outcome to the GBC body via correspondence;
4) New of this resolution will be carried to Fiji by Subhavilas dasa.
68. THAT Bhakti Bhusana Swami will be GBC for Southern and Central Brazil, with Dhanvantari Swami as Regional Secretary for the Central Zone. Dhanvantari Swami will be proposed in the future for GBC if accepted by the leaders.
THAT Guru Prasada Swami will be GBC for North and Northest Brazil. Somaka Swami and Jagat Vicitra dasa will be Regional Secretaries for that area.
THAT this is a temporary arrangement for one year allowing Bhakti Bhusana Swami and Guru Prasada Swami time to consult with the leaders and presidents
to arrive at a final arrangement next year.
69. THAT:
1) If needed or desired, an ISKCON Rural Community outside India may be permitted to alienate or encumber a portion of its properties subject to one or more of the following conditions:
a. The temple project has excess land which ISKCON cannot fully develop in the foreseeable future;
b. ISKCON property is endangered by a large mortgage, inability to conform to government regulations, or any other cause.
c. The community needs to facilitate householders in order to build up the project in a manner which will not be detrimental to the Deity’s interests.
2) If any of the above conditions exists, approval to alienate or encumber may be sought as follows:
a. The local administration and zonal secretary must explain to the property trustees how the Rural Community’s property fits under one or more of the
above mentioned conditions.
b. In their application the local administration and zonal secretary must also explain how they plan to protect the Deity’s and ISKCON’s interests
providing the following information:
(1) Which properties will remain ISKCON’s and the Deities’ possessions, including lands for Temple, Deity gardens, asramas, brahminical and other temple devotees’ lodging, non-encumbered rental or income earning assigned homesteads, temple’s cows, temple’s agricultural lands, temple owned gurukula, temple administration, preaching facilities, utilities, roads and any other similar areas. These lands and properties will be designated “Deity property”.
(2) Which properties are to be alienated from ISKCON and how they will be used. Such uses could include sale, rental or any encumbered allotment of land for homesteads, privately owned cottage industries, private agriculture and dairy, community government, and any other use not against Krishna conscious principles. These lands and properties will be designated “Non-Deity property”.
(3) How income earned from the alienation shall only be utilized for removing danger to the property by paying off pending mortgages or BBT capital loans, fulfilling government regulations, constructing temple buildings, etc., to ISKCON’s and the Deities’ capital benefit.
(4) Evidence that there are devotees ready and able to invest in buying or renting alienated land.
(5) A proposed scheme or covenant on land sale to prohibit use of land for purposes against the principles of Krishna consciousness (as legally
as possible).
(6) Statement that the land price is equal to or greater than the local fair market value for such property.
(7) A land use sketch showing where the lands designated in (1) and (2) above will be situated.
(8) Any other supporting information.
c. If the property trustees unanimously approve of the proposal and the Deity is situated anywhere on the ISKCON property, the proposal in the above format must be forwarded with the trustees’ recommendation to the executors committee. The executors committee may then approve the proposal demarcating “Deity property” [non-alienable], and “Non-Deity property” [alienable], by 2/3 majority. If a simple majority approve, but less than 2/3, the executors committee may forward the proposal to the GBC body for resolution.
d. After the proposal is approved, the project may be designated as an ISKCON Village Community and the property trustees alone can approve proposals from the local management to alienate or encumber land not designated as the Deity’s. The property trustees shall insure that proceeds from the alienation are invested according to the approved plan.
e. In their order, the executors committee shall give specific instructions to insure proper execution and provide safeguards to protect the capital assets as per the approved scheme.
70. THAT the GBC shall send a three man committee to Toronto to investigate the complaints about the temple management. The Committee shall consist of Bir Krsna Swami, Naveen Krishna dasa and Bhakti Tirtha Swami.
71. THAT:
1) Someone who has been connected with the Krsna consciousness movement for more than one year either as a congregational member or a mature child brought up in a Krishna conscious devotee’s household shall be allowed to accept an ISKCON guru as a siksa guru and be accepted as an aspirant for shelter and initiation in the future, provided the temple president or gurukula principal (for gurukula students) gives his approval and, in the case of a minor child, a parent gives approval.
2) Someone who has accepted an ISKCON guru as siksa guru and is an “aspirant for shelter and initiation” may cultivate a personal spiritual relationship with the spiritual master and by taking personal guidance try to further progress in Krsna consciousness.
3) Someone who has accepted an ISKCON guru as siksa-guru and is an “aspirant for shelter and initiation” and who wants to subsequently accept another ISKCON guru as siksa guru, etc. should inform both gurus and follow the procedure as provided for in paragraph #1 above.
72. THAT the following statement is accepted as ISKCON’s position statement on the environment:
Fostering a more simple and natural way of life is one of the founding principles of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. The members of the Society are therefore committed to helping solve the planet’s environmental problems. These include water pollution, air pollution, toxic waste, nuclear and chemical accidents, destruction of wildlife, and desertification. While appreciating the good intentions of those working to solve these problems by individual and group efforts of a material nature, we believe the environmental crisis is ultimately a spiritual one requiring a spiritual solution. The environmental crisis is a product of a society that has become overly dependent upon destructive industrial technology. This dependency is rooted in reductionist science, which has removed God and the soul from the forefront of human concern. When people forget that nature is the propriety of God, they are driven to exploit it unlimitedly for their own material gratification.
Scholars of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness are therefore introducing an alternative culture based on the Vedic teachings of ancient India. This philosophical system acknowledges the fundamental reality of a nonmaterial conscious self, or soul, present in each individual. All souls have their source in a Supreme Conscious Self, God. Nature also emanates from God as a perfectly balanced system capable of sustaining all living things. When humans fail to properly understand their total identity as body-mind-soul and the connect of nature with God, the system becomes unbalanced.
Ultimately, we would like to see society move toward a more natural economy, in which people are not dependent upon the present environmentally destructive system. They would instead live in smaller, self-sufficient economic units, based on simple living and high thinking. These villages, towns, and small cities would provide for basic needs locally and offer secure lifetime employment. To this end, the International Society for Krishna Consciousness is gradually developing rural communities all over the world and a town for 20,000 in Mayapur, India. To reduce the urge to excessively exploit and consume material resources, ISKCON teaches people methods for experiencing nonmaterial happiness from the soul. Chief among these is the time-honored practice of Hare Krishna mantra meditation. Without elevating desires from material to spiritual, the basic impetus to environmentally destructive behavior will remain intact. We recognize the major detrimental effect of the meat industry, particularly the cattle industry, has on the environment. ISKCON’s model programs for protecting cows and using bulls for transport and agriculture, based on the Vedic spiritual teachings, are thus environmentally beneficial. Such programs are now operating in ISKCON rural communities around the world. The spiritual vegetarian diet followed by ISKCON members saves scarce resources and has a far less negative impact on the environment than a meat-based diet. Since its founding in 1966, ISKCON has provided over 900 million vegetarian meals through its restaurants, temples, and Food for Life program (for the homeless, hungry, or disadvantaged). The Society has also sold over 10 million vegetarian cookbooks. While working to make this world a better place, ISKCON also encourages people to understand their identity as spirit souls and return to the spiritual world, which is the natural environment of the soul.
73. THAT:
1) A: In obedience to the instruction of His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the GBC directs that the members of ISKCON should respect all senior Gaudiya Vaishnavas outside ISKCON, but should not intimately associate with them, personally or through printed or recorded media, for guidance, teaching, instruction, or initiation as their presentation of Krishna consciousness often differs from that of Srila Prabhupada in emphasis, balance and other aspects of both teaching and practice.
B: This resolution is intended to apply categorically to all ISKCON members. ISKCON leaders’ first responsibility is to give considerate direction, guidance, and counseling to any ISKCON devotees personally affected by this resolution so as to bring them back to the path set by Srila Prabhupada.
In any case, those who continue to act in violation of this resolution are subject to sanctions by temple presidents and GBC zonal secretaries, who may exercise their discretion to prohibit any such devotees from living on ISKCON properties or participating in ISKCON functions. Those who persist in violating this resolution are cautioned they may be reported to the GBC Executive Committee for immediate action or action at the following year’s annual GBC meeting. The Executive Committee is hereby given authority for the 1995-96 GBC year to suspend any violator from ISKCON.
2) That the members of ISKCON should regularly study Bhagavad-gita As It Is, Srimad-Bhagavatam, Caitanya-Caritamrta, and the other books given by His
Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. The recent proliferation in ISKCON of literature focusing on “rasika-bhakti,” intimate Radha-Krsna
lila, and other subject matters suitable only for highly advanced souls, represents a departure from Srila Prabhupada’s orders and obstructs the smooth spiritual progress of ISKCON devotees. ISKCON members should therefore avoid collecting, reading, discussing, or distributing such literature.
3) That the GBC body expresses its appreciation and gratitude to the devotees around the world who recognized (and impressed upon the GBC body) the need,
in the “rasika bhakti” controversies, to guard ISKCON and its devotees from swerving even slightly from the lotus feet of His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada and his unadulterated teachings.
4) The concerned devotees will prepare a document to correct any philosophical misconceptions that have arisen in ISKCON as a result of their statements and actions. The paper shall deal with, among others, statements made at the Visvarupa Mahotsava, Vrndavana Istagosthi, and in Following in the Footsteps, and will be sent to all GBC members to use in correcting deviations wherever they may appear. The final draft will be approved by Harikesa Swami, Jayadvaita Swami, Ravindra Swarupa dasa and Suhotra Swami.
MEMORANDUM FROM THE GBC
The following brief description is offered to GBC members to use at their discretion. It is the authorized GBC account of how the GBC body has addressed the “rasika bhakti issue” during this year’s meetings.
The Governing Body Commission considers it necessary to provide some information to the members of ISKCON concerning a problem which has been facing our Society and the way that problem is being resolved. Srila Prabhupada created the Governing Body Commission to act as the instrument of his will to protect ISKCON.
1) It was apparent that some ISKCON members had become overly involved in confidential topics of rasika bhakti under the influence of Gaudiya Vaisnavas outside of ISKCON. The GBC responded to devotees’ concerns by investigating and carefully considering the matter during this year’s annual meeting. The history and findings are detailed below.
2) The GBC discussed the matter in great detail with some involved senior devotees. It was seen that no unusual or deviant practices, like artificial siddha pranali, were being engaged in, but in fact some straying from Srila Prabhupada’s instructions was having detrimental and potentially far-reaching malefic effects on the movement. Initially the devotees involved didn’t fully realize the gravity of the matter. Deep philosophical and personal discussions with GBC members led to a change of heart and to profound realizations about what Srila Prabhupada desired in this regard. The whole matter was then discussed openly in a very cooperative and positive manner.
3) Initially it may seem astonishing that even responsible and senior devotees, who are normally quite cautious about anything even slightly different from Srila Prabhupada’s teachings, could act in this way. In fact it is not expected that a GBC member or guru would do so. In the course of the GBC’s investigation, frank and open discussions revealed that over a period of many years an affectionate relationship can gradually develop with an outside Gaudiya Vaisnava. Especially when most of what he teaches is not different from Srila Prabhupada, the significance of gradual shifts in emphasis and subject matter over the course of time may not be readily apparent. The GBC found that those senior members with whom they were concerned were in fact all serious devotees who had a sincere desire to be Krishna conscious and loyal to Srila Prabhupada, but were gradually, and almost unnoticeable to them, being led in a way that upset the balance established by Srila Prabhupada. It was also seen that they were all strict devotees who carefully observed the regulative principles. The GBC and those involved all came to the conclusion–a conclusion subsequently endorsed bythe Temple Presidents and other ISKCON managers–that the society requires clear guidance regarding both the taking of intimate association with Gaudiya Vaisnavas outside of ISKCON and the giving of undue emphasis to topics regarding rasika bhakti. This guidance has been offered in the form of ISKCON laws.
4) When the concerned GBC members realized the gravity of the issue, they expressed deep regret and offered sincere apology to the GBC and the ISKCON managers. They offered to resign from the Governing Body Commission, and they submitted themselves to be engaged in Srila Prabhupada’s service in whatever
manner the GBC saw fit. It was clear that Srila Prabhupada was transcendentally present and that His Divine Grace was personally resolving any discrepancies in his sincere devotees’ hearts. Considering their humility and sincerity in the light of Srila Prabhupada’s instructions in similar cases, the Governing Body Commission requested them to remain on the body and help push forward Srila Prabhupada’s movement with renewed enthusiasm and dedication. Srila Prabhupada had acted directly and through his representatives to maintain the integrity, purity, and spiritual strength of ISKCON.
5) The problem at hand has not, of course, been restricted to those whom the GBC was able to deal with directly. In its own way, the matter has gradually spread, affecting devotees in a variety of places. The GBC will try to do all within its capacity to help such devotees to fully take shelter of the direct teachings of Srila Prabhupada and the association of Srila Prabhupada’s followers in ISKCON and to stem any detrimental effects in ISKCON. The senior devotees who had been involved particularly have volunteered to help in this regard. Temple Managers must also be careful that no subtle influences from outside ISKCON adversely affect the devotees under their care. Some resolutions in this regard have been passed.
6. The GBC doesn’t want to alarm anyone with this report. The matter seems to have been resolved on the higher level, but since rumors and concocted stories may spread, an official account is offered to the ISKCON Managers whocan decide the extent to which it needs to be explained to the devotees in general. Foreseeing that in a spiritual movement problems are bound to arise, Srila Prabhupada instituted the Governing Body Commission on the order of his spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur, to protect the movement from danger. Srila Prabhupada said we are in a vast ocean of kali-yuga and the ocean is filled with dangers. His Divine Grace cautioned us about taking intimate association and instructions from outside Gaudiya Vaisnavas. At the same time His Divine Grace said to maintain cordial, respectful, and friendly relations with a hope for future cooperation. To balance these two instructions we must deeply study Srila Prabhupada’s teachings and be firmly grounded in his vision. Association with outside Gaudiya Vaisnavas should be conducted under authorized supervision and in
conformity with ISKCON law in order to ensure that Srila Prabhupada’s teachings, practices, emphasis, and respect are uncompromised.
7) The GBC is grateful to the sincere devotees involved for their introspection, their ability to hear from their godbrothers, and for their strong determination to work unitedly with their godbrothers in carrying on Srila Prabhupada’s mission. In so doing they have shown their sincerity and character. Srila Prabhupada said that obstacles are the stepping stones to success. By the causeless mercy of Srila Prabhupada and dedication to his instructions we can pass all tests. ISKCON devotees may see these experiences in a positive light and take good instructions from them. Although detractors will always criticize, Srila Prabhupada said that we must continue marching forward.
74. THAT Danavir dasa be placed on the two year sannyasa waiting list.
75. THAT up to ten guests will be invited to attend the GBC meetings in Mayapur at the annual session. They will be observers in the plenary session and participants in the committee meetings. The chairman, vice-chairman and secretary of the ISKCON Managers Meeting elected from the previous years meeting will be automatically included. The ISKCON Managers shall appoint five others from among their own members. The remaining guests will be chosen by the Executive Committee from persons requested by individual GBC members. Individual GBC members will send a prioritized list of temple president invitees to the GBC Executive Committee in writing by 31st December in order to be accepted for consideration. Executive Committee may ask observers to leave during confidential discussions. Observers pay their own expenses.
76. THAT Radha Govinda Maharaja is hereby authorized to initiate as soon as the Executive Committee is satisfied that 1) there is no danger of ISKCON’s name arising from a court case in which he has been named, and 2) he has delivered a letter of apology to Jayapataka Swami for re-initiating one of his disciples.
77. THAT Giridhari Swami is accepted as an assistant GBC.
78. THAT the GBC Body requests Mahamana dasa to take up the responsibility of temple president of the Krishna-Balarama Temple in Vrndavana.
79. THAT:
1) Vaikuntha is that place from which no one ever falls down. The living entity belongs to Lord Krsna’s marginal potency (tatastha-sakti). On this we all agree. The origin of the conditioned life of the souls now in this material world is undoubtedly beyond the range of our direct perception. We can therefore best answer questions about that origin by repeating the answers Srila Prabhupada gave when such questions were asked of him:
“The original home of the living entity and the Supreme Personality of Godhead is the spiritual world. In the spiritual world both the Lord and the living entities live together very peacefully. Since the living entity remains engaged in the service of the Lord, they both share a blissful life in the spiritual world. However, when the living entity, misusing his tiny independence, wants to enjoy himself, he falls down into the material world.” (Srimad-Bhagavatam 4.28.54, purport)
No ISKCON devotee shall present or publish any contrary view as conclusive in any class or seminar or any media (print, video, electronic, etc.).
2) In resolving philosophical controversies, the teachings, instructions, and personal example of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada shall be the first and primary resource for ISKCON devotees. We should understand Vedic literature, the writings of previous acaryas, and the teachings of current bona fide acaryas outside ISKCON through the teachings of Srila Prabhupada. Where we perceive apparent differences, we may attribute them to our own lack of understanding or (more rarely) to “differences among acaryas.” When acaryas apparently differ, we shall defer to what is taught by His Divine Grace, our Founder-Acarya.
3) The GBC rejects the speculation that Srila Prabhupada, while teaching about the original position of the jiva, did not mean what he said. The GBC finds this speculation unwarranted, poorly supported, unintentionally offensive to Srila Prabhupada, and, as a precedent, dangerous. The GBC therefore directs that, effective immediately, the book “In Vaikuntha Not Even the Leaves Fall” shall be prohibited from sale and distribution at all ISKCON centers and by all ISKCON entities. The GBC members and temple presidents shall be responsible for carrying out this resolution. The GBC appreciates Satyanarayana dasa’s willingness to withdraw the book.
80. THAT the GBC suggests that devotees interested in apparent logical contradictions surrounding the “fall of the jiva” read the following paper on the topic, which Srila Prabhupada had sent to devotees in Australia in 1972 to resolve controversies that arose among them about this topic. The paper came as an attachment to a letter from Srila Prabhupada to Madhudvisa dasa dated June 6, 1972.
Crow And Tal-Fruit Logic
We never had any occasion when we were separated from Krsna. Just like one man is dreaming and he forgets himself. In dream he creates himself in different forms: now I am the King discussing like that. This creation of himself is as seer and subject matter or seen, two things. But as soon as the dream is over, the “seen” disappears. But the seer remains. Now he is in his original position.
Our separation from Krsna is like that. We dream this body and so many relationships with other things. First the attachment comes to enjoy sense gratification. Even with Krsna desire for sense gratification is there. There is a dormant attitude for forgetting Krsna and creating an atmosphere for enjoying independently. Just like at the edge of the beach, sometimes the water covers, sometimes there is dry sand, coming and going. Our position is like that, sometimes covered, sometimes free, just like at the edge of the tide. As soon as we forget, immediately the illusion is there. Just like as soon as we sleep, dream is there.
We cannot say therefore that we are not with Krsna. As soon as we try to become Lord, immediately we are covered by Maya. Formerly we were with Krsna in His lila or sport. But this covering of Maya may be of very, very, very, very long duration, therefore many creations are coming and going. Due to this long period of time it is sometimes said that we are ever-conditioned. But his long duration of time becomes very insignificant when one actually comes to Krsna consciousness. Just like in a dream we are thinking very long time, but as soon as we awaken we look at our watch and see it has been a moment only. Just like with Krsna’s friends, they were kept asleep for one year by Brahma, but when they woke up and Krsna returned before them, they considered that only a moment had passed.
So this dreaming condition is called non-liberated life, and this is just like a dream. Although in this material calculation it is a long, long period, as soon as we come to Krsna consciousness then this period is considered as a second. For example, Jaya and Vijaya. They had their lila with Krsna, but they had to come down for their little mistake. They were given mukti, emerging into the Brahmasayujya after being killed three times as demons. This Brahmasayujya mukti is non-permanent. Every living entity wants pleasure, but Brahmasayujya is minus pleasure. There is eternal existence only. So when they do not find transcendental bliss, they fall down to make a compromise with material bliss. Just like Vivekananda founded so many schools and hospitals. So even Lord Brahma, he is still material and wants to lord it over. He may come down to become a germ, but then he may rise up to Krsna consciousness and go back to home, back to Godhead. This is the position.
So when I say Yes, there is eternal lila with Krsna, that means on the evidence of Jaya-Vijaya. Unless one develops full devotional service to Krsna, he goes up only up to Brahmasayujya but falls down. But after millions and millions of years of keeping oneself away from the lila of the Lord, when one comes to Krsna consciousness this period becomes insignificant, just like dreaming.
Because he falls down from Brahmasayujya, he thinks that may be his origin, but he does not remember that before that even he was with Krsna. So the conclusion is that whatever may be our past, let us come to Krsna consciousness and immediately join Krsna. Just like with a diseased man, it is a waste of time to try to find out how he has become diseased, better to spend time curing the disease.
On the top of the tree there is a nice tal-fruit. A crow went there and the fruit fell down. Some panditas–big, big learned scholars–saw this and discussed: The fruit fell due to the crow agitating the limb. No, the fruit fell simultaneously with the crow landing and frightened the crow so he flew away. No, the fruit was ripe and the weight of the crow landing broke it from the branch, and so on and so on. What is the use of such discussions? So whether you were in the Brahmasayujya or with Krsna in His lila, at the moment you are in neither, so the best policy is to develop your Krsna consciousness and go there, never mind what is your origin.
Brahmasayujya and Krsna lila–both may be possible, but when you are coming down from Brahmasayujya or when you are coming down from Krsna lila, that remains a mystery. But at the present moment we are in Maya’s clutches, so at present our only hope is to become Krsna conscious and go back to Home, back to Godhead. The real position is servant of Krsna, and servant of Krsna means in Krsna lila. Directly or indirectly, always we are serving Krsna’s lila. Even in dream. Just like we cannot go out of the sun when it is daytime, so where is the chance of going out of Krsna lila? The cloud may be there, it may become very gray and dim, but still the sunlight is there, everywhere, during the daytime. Because I am part and parcel of Krsna, I am always connected. My finger, even though it may be diseased, remains part and parcel of my body. Therefore, we try to treat it, cure it, because it is part and parcel. So Krsna comes Himself when we forget Him, or He sends His representative.
Awakening or dreaming, I am the same man. As soon as I awaken and see myself, I see Krsna. Cause and effect are both Krsna. Just like cotton becomes thread and thread becomes cloth, still, the original cause is cotton. Therefore, everything is Krsna in the ultimate sense. When we cannot contact Krsna personally, we contact His energies. So there is no chance to be outside Krsna’s lila. But differences we see under different conditions. Just like in the pool of water and in the mirror the same me is reflecting, but in different reflections. One is shimmering, unsteady, one is clear and fixed. Except for being in Krsna consciousness, we cannot see our actual position rightly, therefore the learned man sees all living entities as the same parts and parcels of Krsna. Material existence is impersonal because my real personality is covered. But we should think that because I am now covered by this clay, I am diseased, and we should think that I must get to business to get myself uncovered, not wonder how I got this way. Now the fruit is there, take it and enjoy, that is your first business. God is not bound by cause. He can change, He is the Cause of all Causes. Now don’t waste your time with this “Kaka taliya nyaya,” crows and tal-fruit logic.
81. THAT Lokasaksi dasa’s resignation as GBC is accepted.
82. THAT Jagadisa Goswami’s resignation as GBC is accepted.
83. THAT the GBC Body shall pay Rs. 58,717.80 for the completion of the GBC conference room.
84. THAT the GBC will replace Bhaktarupa dasa’s services as Legal and Corresponding Secretary. Naveen Krsna dasa will arrange to cover his GBC secretarial duties from Alachua; Bhakti Charu Swami and Jaya Pataka Swami will arrange to cover his legal services from Mayapur. The Executive Committee is authorized to arrange for Bhaktarupa dasa’s smooth transition to his next service. Jaya Pataka Swami, Bhaktarupa dasa and Manjari-devi dasi will compile and send a complete check-off list to the Executive Committee to insure this smooth transition.
The GBC thanks Bhaktarupa dasa for his seven years of secretarial and legal services. He has been instrumental in improving ISKCON through his service to the GBC and we are sure he has greatly pleased Srila Prabhupada.
85. THAT 1996 GBC meetings will end three days before Navadvipa Mandala Parikrama so that GBC members may have time to oversee the final preparations for the Hare Krishna World Convention programs and seminars.
86. Every country is encouraged to send one representative to take part in Srila Prabhupada’s Maha Vyasa-puja celebration in Calcutta.
87. The Sahasra Tirtha Jala sponsorship program is approved as a fund-raising scheme for the Centennial.
88. Every temple sponsors at least one kalash for the Calcutta Sahasra Tirtha Jala Maha Abhisheka of Srila Prabhupada (qualification as ISKCON temple to be
certified by local GBC).
89. The GBC suggests that the BBT pays $0.10 to the Centennial Global Ministry for each Lilamrta book sold to temples.
90. The GBC approves a budget of US $1,000,000 for the Centennial Ministry for the period from April 1995 to March 1997, subject to review by Sridhara Swami, Harivilas dasa and Executive Committee.
91. THAT the GBC Zonal Assignments for 1995-96 are as follows:
Badrinarayan Das:
GBC for Southern California, Nevada, New Mexico, Colorado, Idaho, Utah, Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas
co-GBC with Romapada Swami for Illinois and Missouri
co-GBC with Virabahu for Los Angeles
Bhakti Bhusana Swami:
GBC — Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Southern and Central Brazil
Bhakti Caru Swami:
GBC for Madagascar, Comoro Islands, and Seychelles
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for West Bengal
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami and Prabhavisnu Swami for Bangladesh
co-GBC with Giriraj Swami and Bhaktitirtha Swami for South Africa, Mauritius and Reunion
co-GBC for Mayapur and Calcutta (*)
Bhakti Raghava Swami:
GBC — Ontario, Quebec and Maritime Provinces
co-GBC with Hari Vilas for Western Canada, State of Washington, and Alaska
Bhakti Swarup Damodar Swami:
GBC — Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Tripura, Assam, Meghalaya
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami and Prabhavisnu Swami for Tirupati
co-GBC with Prabhavisnu Swami for Burma
co-GBC with Gopal Krsna Goswami for Kuruksetra
co-GBC with Paramgati Swami, for France, except Dole
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami and Gopal Krishna Goswami for Andhra Pradesh, except Tirupati
Bhaktitirtha Swami:
co-GBC with Kavicandra Swami for Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Sierra Leone, Benin, Togo, Liberia, Camaroon, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Zaire, Gabon, Rio Muni, Central African Republic, and Congo
co-GBC with Radhanatha Swami for West Virginia
co-GBC with Ravindra Svarupa for Detroit and Gita Nagari
co-GBC with Bhakticaru Swami and Giriraja Swami for South Africa
Bhaktivaibhava Swami:
Assistant GBC to Suhotra Swami for Czech Republic and Slovakia
Assistant GBC to Prabhavishnu Swami for SIberia and Far East Russia
Assistant GBC to Niranjana Swami for Ukraine
Assistant GBC to Niranjana Swami and Prabhavishnu Swami for Belarus
Bhurijana Das:
co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami for West Uttar Pradesh (including Vrindaban), Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh
Giridhari Swami:
Assistant GBC to Tamal Krishna Goswami for Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Hong Kong, China, Korea, Taiwan, and the Philippines
Giriraj Swami:
GBC — Swaziland, Lesotho, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Mozambique, Malawi, Zambia, Angola, and Cape Verde Islands.
co-GBC with Bhakti Caru Swami for Mauritius and Reunion
co-GBC with Bhakti Caru Swami and Bhaktitirtha Swami for South Africa
co-GBC with Paramgati Swami for Spain and Portugal
co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami, Radhanatha Swami, and Sridhara Swami for Bombay
co-GBC with Hari Vilas for Pakistan
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Sri Lanka
Gopal Krsna Goswami:
GBC — Goa, Delhi, Maharashtra (other than Bombay), Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, and Rwanda
co-GBC with Sridhara Swami, Radhanatha Swami, and Giriraj Swami for Bombay
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami and Bhaktisvarup Damodar Swami for Andhra Pradesh, except Tirupati
co-GBC with Radhanatha Swami for Poona and Kuruksetra
co-GBC with Prabhavisnu Swami for East Uttar Pradesh and Southern Russia
co-GBC with Bhurijan Das for West Uttar Pradesh (including Vrindaban), Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh
co-GBC with Ravindra Swarup for Washington DC
co-GBC with Niranjana Swami for Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tadjikistan, and Kirghizistan
co-GBC with Rohini Suta for Golden Circle cities (Russia), and Azerbaijan
Gour Govinda Swami:
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Orissa
Guru Prasad Swami:
GBC for Colombia, Northern and Northeast Brazil, Arizona, Central America, Mexico, and Trinidad
co-GBC with Virabahu for Venezuela
Harikesa Swami:
GBC — Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland, Faroe Islands, Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia, Macedonia, Yugoslavia, Lichtenstein, and Dole, France.
co-GBC for Mayapur (*)
co-GBC with Niranjana Swami for Moscow and St. Petersburg
Hari Vilas Das:
GBC — Turkey, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Iran, North and South Yemen, Afghanistan, Morocco, Algeria, Tunesia, Libya, Egypt, Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti, Gambia, Senegal, Mauritania, Mali, Burkino Faso, Niger, Chad, Northern California, Oregon, Jammu and Kashmir, Hardwar and Rishikesh
co-GBC with Bhaktiraghava Swami for Western Canada, State of Washington, and Alaska
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, and Oman
co-GBC with Harikesa Swami and Rohini Suta for Armenia
co-GBC with Giriraj Swami for Pakistan
Hrdayananda Das Goswami:
Minister of
Jayapataka Swami:
GBC for Bolivia, Karnataka, Kerala, Pondicherry, Maldives, Bhutan, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Tennessee, North and South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama,
Mississippi, Louisiana
GBC Minister of Congregational Preaching
co-GBC with Virabahu for Ecuador, Chile, and Peru
co-GBC with Prabhavisnu Swami for Bihar, Sikkim, Nepal, Malaysia, Brunei, and Tamil Nadu
co-GBC with Prabhavisnu Swami and Bhaktiswarup Damodar Swami for Tirupati
co-GBC with Bhaktiswarup Damodar Swami for Tripura, Assam, and Meghalaya
co-GBC with Prabhavisnu Swami and Bhakticaru Swami for Bangladesh
co-GBC with Kavicandra Swami for Thailand, and Singapore
co-GBC with Bhakti Caru Swami for West Bengal other than Mayapur
co-GBC with Gour Govinda Swami for Orissa
co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami and Bhaktisvarup Damodar Swami for Andhra Pradesh, except Tirupati
co-GBC with Giriraj Swami for Sri Lanka
co-GBC with Hari Vilas for Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, and Oman
co-GBC with Radhanatha Swami for Belgaum, Karnataka
co-GBC for Mayapur and Calcutta(*)
Kavicandra Swami:
GBC — Indonesia, Japan, Vietnam, Laos, Israel, Cambodia, Hawaii
co-GBC with Bhaktitirtha Swami for Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Sierra Leone, Benin, Togo, Liberia, Camaroon, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Zaire, Gabon, Rio Muni, Central African Republic, and Congo
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Thailand, and Singapore
Madhu Sevita Das:
GBC for Italy
co-GBC with Suhotra Swami for Belgium, Luxembourg, Holland, and Cyprus
Mukunda Goswami:
GBC Minister of Communications
Navina Krishna Das:
GBC Minister of Management and Finance
Niranjana Swami:
GBC — New England, Festival of India, Lithuania, Estonia, and Moldova
GBC, assisted by Bhaktivaibhava Swami, for Ukraine
co-GBC with Prabhavishnu Swami for Latvia
co-GBC with Harikesa Swami for Moscow and St. Petersburg
co-GBC with Rohini Suta for Russia west of Nijney Novgorod and north of Voronesh, except for Moscow and St. Petersburg areas
co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami for Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tadjikistan, and Kirghizistan
co-GBC with Prabhavishnu Swami, assisted by Bhaktivaibhava Swami, for Belarus
Paramgati Swami:
co-GBC with Bhaktiswarup Damodar Swami for France, except Dole.
co-GBC with Giriraja Swami for Spain and Portugal
Prabhavisnu Swami:
GBC, assisted by Ramai Swami, for Australia, New Zealand, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, and New Caledonia
GBC, assisted by Bhaktivaibhava Swami, for Siberia and Far East Russia
co-GBC with Bhaktisvarup Damodar Swami for Burma
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Bihar, Sikkim, Nepal, Malaysia, Brunei and Tamil Nadu
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami and Bhaktiswarup Damodar Swami for Tirupati
co-GBC with Gopal Krsna Goswami for Eastern Uttar Pradesh and Southern Russia
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami and Bhakticaru Swami for Bangladesh
co-GBC with Niranjana Swami for Latvia
co-GBC with Rohini Suta for Ural Mountain Region and Volga Region of Russia
co-GBC with Niranjana Swami, assisted by Bhaktivaibhava Swami, for Belarus
Radhanatha Swami:
GBC for Bombay Chowpatti, Rishikesh
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Belgaum, Karnataka,
co-GBC with Bhaktitirtha Swami for West Virginia
co-GBC with Sridhara Swami, Giriraja Swami, and Gopal Krishna Goswami for Bombay
co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami for Poona and Kuruksetra
Ramai Swami:
Assistant GBC to Prabhavishnu Swami for Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, New Caledonia, and Solomon Islands
Ravindra Svarupa Das:
GBC — Michigan (except Detroit), Pennsylvania (except Gita Nagari Farm), Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia
co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami for Washington DC
co-GBC with Radhanatha Swami for Ohio
co-GBC with Bhaktitirtha Swami for Detroit and Gita Nagari Farm
Rohini Suta Das:
GBC — Georgia
co-GBC with Niranjana Swami for Russia west of Nijney Novgorod and north of Voronesh, except for Moscow and St. Petersburg areas
co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami for Golden Circle Region of Russia and Azerbaijan
co-GBC with Hari Vilas for Armenia
co-GBC with Prabhavishnu Swami for Ural Mountain Region and Volga Region of Russia
Romapada Swami:
co-GBC with Sridhara Swami for New York and New Jersey
co-GBC with Badrinarayan for Illinois and Missouri
Sesa Das:
Assistant GBC to Guru Prasad Swami for Trinidad
Assistant GBC to Virabahu for Caribbean except for Trinidad
Sivarama Swami:
GBC — England, Scotland, Wales, Channel Islands, Ireland, Hungary
Sridhara Swami:
GBC Minister of Life Membership
co-GBC with Romapada Swami for New York and New Jersey
co-GBC with Giriraj Swami, Radhanatha Swami, and Gopal Krishna Goswami for Bombay
Suhotra Swami:
GBC – Greece, Cyprus, Poland, Bulgaria, Romania and Albania
GBC, assisted by Bhaktivaibhava Swami, for Czech Republic and Slovakia
co-GBC with Madhu Sevita for Belgium, Luxembourg, and Holland
Tamal Krsna Goswami:
GBC — Polynesia
GBC, assisted by Giridhari Swami, for Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Hong Kong, China, Korea, Taiwan, Philippines, and Polynesia
co-GBC for Mayapur and Calcutta (*)
Virabahu Das:
GBC for Florida, Guyana, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic and balance of Caribbean except for Trinidad
co-GBC with Badrinarayan for Los Angeles
co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Peru, Ecuador and Chile
co-GBC with Guru Prasad Swami for Venezuela
* co-GBC’s for Mayapur are Jayapataka Swami, Harikesa Swami, Tamal Krishna
Goswami, and Bhakticaru Swami