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Introduction xix
acquiesce: “Yes, this is what we need to hear. This kind of
guidance is good for us.”
My basic argument is that the attempt to incorporate within
ISKCON any viewpoints or belief systems derived from
mainstream society risks compromising the authenticity of
the saṅkīrtana movement and disconnecting us from Śrīla
Prabhupāda’s mercy. I espouse that the traditional Indian way
of life is the best for human stability and peacefulness – for
making the best bargain out of a bad situation – and that only
the Vedic system is really suitable for facilitating progress in
Kṛṣṇa consciousness.* I particularly state this position: female
followers of Śrīla Prabhupāda should adopt the role of mother
rather than master.
Much of what is stated herein is especially applicable to the
current situation in India, and will be more germane and
intelligible for devotees who live there – although nearly all
of these points would have been obvious to past generations
everywhere, and still will be obvious to the few remaining sane
persons in these culturally challenged times.
Unfortunately, it cannot be expected that everyone will accept
everything in this book – especially since one of its purposes is
to counteract the erroneous propaganda that Śrīla Prabhupāda
treated men and women equally in all respects. Even devotees
who generally appreciate the recommendations herein might
circumstantially be unable to follow them. For instance, many
devotees are virtually locked into modern society, certain
women are practically obliged to go to work, some couples
are unable to beget children, and some devotees who never
wanted to divorce are presented with no other choice by their
recalcitrant spouse.
* Seminar: A Traditionalist Approach to Kṛṣṇa Consciousness
<www.bvks.com/7224>