I May - Prabhupāda’s Humility and Dependence on Kṛṣṇa
The phrase "I may" in Śrīla Prabhupāda's vocabulary is a window into his profound humility and his absolute surrender to the will of Kṛṣṇa. As a pure devotee, he never claimed to be the absolute controller; rather, he viewed himself as an instrument in the hands of his spiritual master. This expression often appeared when he discussed his global travels, his health, and most poignantly, the inevitability of his departure from this world. By stating that he "may pass away at any moment," Śrīla Prabhupāda was not expressing fear, but was instead instilling a sense of responsibility in his disciples. He wanted them to understand that the survival of the Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement depended on their sincerity and their adherence to his instructions. Whether he was narrating a story to clarify a point of śāstra or planning the next phase of his translation work, Śrīla Prabhupāda's use of "I may" reminds us that while we must plan and act with full energy, the ultimate result rests in the hands of the Supreme Lord.
Prabhupāda on Urgency and the Future
Knowing that his time in the material world was limited, Śrīla Prabhupāda focused on preparing his disciples to carry the torch of Kṛṣṇa consciousness. He urged them to take over management so he could concentrate on his books and ensure the movement's longevity.
- I may pass away at any moment. This movement should go on, you see, this movement started by Caitanya Mahaprabhu, then accelerated by Gosvamis, and then again Visvanatha Cakravarti.
- I have appointed this GBC body to relieve me from the burden of administration, so I may concentrate on my writing and translation of books.
- I am an old man and I may shift away from the scene at any moment; but I am very much hopeful of my disciples who are so sincerely helping me.
- I am laboring so hard that before I leave this body, I may give you some books who you can enjoy after my death. So utilize it. Read every sloka nicely, try to understand the meaning, discuss amongst yourselves.
Prabhupāda on Reliance and Kṛṣṇa's Will
Śrīla Prabhupāda's plans were always flexible and subservient to Kṛṣṇa's desire. He often used "I may" when discussing his travel schedules and temple projects, demonstrating a perfect balance of intense endeavor and total dependence on the Lord.
- I will have to go from here to Vancouver or Montreal to take my immigration visa, and from Vancouver I may go directly to Santa Fe, and from Santa Fe, I may go to Los Angeles. Then I shall prepare my next program. Let us see what Krishna desires.
- Concerning my house in Mayapur, I have requested Saurabha in Bombay to postpone any idea for beginning the house until we have the master plan of the city. I may decide to move the location away from the front gate to a more secluded place.
- As I have already informed you I am going to Paris the second week of May and Bhagavan das is arranging for a tour of Geneva, Rome and Sweden. I may also visit cities in Germany if you will arrange for that.
- Certainly at that time I shall drive on my Rolls Royce car with great pleasure at least for three months. Pray to Krishna that I may execute my touring program without any disturbance.
Prabhupāda on Humility and Service
Despite his monumental achievements, Śrīla Prabhupāda remained deeply humble. He often described himself as an insignificant instrument, praying for the capacity to properly serve his spiritual master and the mission of Lord Caitanya.
- Although my Guru Maharaja ordered me to accomplish this mission, I am not worthy or fit to do it. I am very fallen and insignificant. O Lord, now I am begging for Your mercy so that I may become worthy, for You are the wisest and most experienced of all.
- I am simply an instrument in the hands of my Spiritual Master. I do not know how far I have got the capacity to carry His order, but I may say that I have a sincere desire to do it. This is Parampara system.
- I may give initiation very easily, but what can I do? I am prepared to go to hell for service of Lord Caitanya.
- My father also trained me and instructed me to his best capacity, and he prayed for me that Radharani may be pleased upon me, and I think by my father's blessings and grace, I may have come to this position.
Prabhupāda on Personal Guidance and Association
Through his letters and lectures, Śrīla Prabhupāda used "I may" to offer intimate guidance, correct misunderstandings, and reassure his disciples that physical distance was no barrier to his presence and care.
- I may remind you that I am always with you.
- I am glad to know that you are working hard to expand the Krishna Consciousness propaganda in Boston. I may say that this practical devotion is the secret to understanding the Sastras.
- So far as your fraternal quarrel is concerned, I may recite in this connection one story.
- I may say in this connection that so much difficult process for purifying the atma is very easily done, by chanting this Hare Krsna. Because the sound, this transcendental sound vibration, is nondifferent from Krsna.
Conclusion
Śrīla Prabhupāda's use of "I may" encapsulates the dynamic nature of a pure devotee's life—one that is characterized by intense activity, meticulous planning, and profound humility. By acknowledging that his plans were subject to the higher will of Kṛṣṇa and his Spiritual Master, he taught his disciples the true meaning of being an "instrument." Most importantly, his frequent reminders of his own mortality served as a powerful call to action, urging his followers to take responsibility for the mission of Kṛṣṇa consciousness. His "I may" was never an expression of doubt, but rather a scientific acknowledgment of the soul's dependence on the Supreme, coupled with a compassionate desire to leave behind a robust foundation for the spiritual benefit of all humanity.
Dive Deeper into Prabhupāda's Vani
Śrīla Prabhupāda lives within his instructions. This article is a summary of the profound truths found in the Vaniquotes category I May (Prabhupada). We invite you to visit this link to study the complete compilation and experience Śrīla Prabhupāda's teachings in their direct, verbatim form.