Prabhupāda’s Attempts to Spread Kṛṣṇa Consciousness
Śrīla Prabhupāda’s life is a beautiful testament to the power of a single, surrendered soul attempting to execute the will of the Lord. He embarked on a monumental global mission, displaying deep personal care for his disciples while attributing all success to Kṛṣṇa. By studying his humble endeavors, we find the inspiration and courage to dedicate our own lives to this divine mission.
Fulfilling the Desire of the Predecessors
Śrīla Prabhupāda repeatedly emphasized that his vast global achievements were simply humble attempts to serve the order of his spiritual master. He felt that by trying sincerely, Kṛṣṇa supplied the necessary help and loving representatives to make the mission successful.
- At the last stage of my life, at the age of seventy years, I made an attempt that... Our predecessors, they wanted, and they wanted me also to do that. So my other Godbrothers they could not do very well. So let me try.
- I made a little attempt and Krsna has sent so many representatives like you to help me.
- There is no credit for me, but it is only a teeny attempt, and humble attempt. So if one man could do, if you say, some success, why not all of us?
- We took up the mission of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura and Bhaktivinoda Thakura to preach the cult of Caitanya Mahaprabhu all over the world, under the protection of all the predecessor acaryas, and we find that our humble attempt has been successful.
Presenting the Transcendental Literature
To respiritualize the world, Śrīla Prabhupāda dedicated his nights to translating the timeless Vedic wisdom. His attempt to present texts like the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam and Bhagavad-gītā was his compassionate gift, providing perfect knowledge to those seeking the ultimate truth.
- I (Prabhupada) am attempting to present Srimad-Bhagavatam in the English language by the order of my spiritual master, Srimad Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura.
- Even in this feeble health also, I am working four hours at least, at night. And they are also helping me. So this is our individual attempt.
- Our attempt, in presenting Bhagavad-gita As It Is, is to present the mission of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Krsna.
- We hope that people will derive the greatest benefit by studying Bhagavad-gita As It Is as we have presented it here, and if even one man becomes a pure devotee of the Lord we shall consider our attempt a success.
Constructing Temples for Global Preaching
Although initially content to simply write and publish books, the overwhelming loving response of his young disciples inspired Śrīla Prabhupāda to construct temples worldwide. These centers of bhakti-yoga served as spiritual homes where anyone could feel his presence and learn to become a pure devotee of the Lord.
- Actually my mission is to establish hundreds and thousands of temples like the one which I have established in London and other places, and I wish that every Indian who has a little love for Krishna may cooperate with me in this attempt.
- After taking sannyasa I was more engaged in writing my books without any attempt to construct temples or to make disciples like my Godbrothers. I was not very much interested in these matters because my Guru Maharaja liked very much publication of books.
- When I went to foreign countries, I lived according to the same principle (never attempting to construct mathas), but when Europeans and Americans began to give money profusely, I started temples and Deity worship. The same principle should still be followed.
- We are also following in the footsteps of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu by attempting to construct a temple in Vrndavana for our disciples throughout the world to visit.
Inviting Cooperation for the Mission
Śrīla Prabhupāda saw his movement as a loving, collaborative family endeavor. He deeply appreciated the service of his followers and continually invited everyone to cooperate in this grand attempt, knowing that together they could alleviate the suffering of humanity.
- I am a Sannyasi and as duty bound I have attempted this heavy task for benefit of all human beings and I am seeking your valued cooperation.
- This movement of Krsna consciousness is an attempt to enlighten the whole world on the spiritual platform. We are trying to do this. Please try to help us.
- My Guru Maharaja wanted me to spread this Krishna Consciousness Movement in western world, and you are all helping in this great attempt.
- Now you are to give the finishing touch because you are most affectionate disciple of His Divine Grace. I think Srila Prabhupada wants that in this great attempt by my humble self your valued service may also be dovetailed.
Conclusion
By studying these heartfelt statements, we can intimately feel Śrīla Prabhupāda's deep reliance on Kṛṣṇa and his predecessors. His humble attempts, whether translating late into the night or calling out for cooperation, are the foundation of our worldwide spiritual family. When we read his words, we are directly invited to assist him and take up our own sincere attempts to push forward this glorious mission.
Dive Deeper into Śrīla Prabhupāda's Vani
Śrīla Prabhupāda lives within his instructions. This article is a summary of the profound truths found in the Vaniquotes category My Attempts (Prabhupada). We invite you to visit this link to study the complete compilation and experience Śrīla Prabhupāda's teachings in their direct, verbatim form.