“It was a mistake to knight the first eleven gurus with these exalted titles, and it contributed to the 'exclusive club' mentality...”

— PANCHA TATTVA
      Doesn't like honorific titles

Dear CHAKRA Readers,

I would like to express concern that the GBC resolution regarding ultra-honorific titles for ISKCON gurus is not being properly observed (see CHAKRA article "Delhi temple defiant of GBC resolutions?"). Srila Prabhupada, in keeping with his guru maharaja Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, established a Governing Body Commission to manage the society. Their resolutions should be honored and obeyed.

My personal understanding of ultra-honorific titles has gradually developed over the years. As a grand-disciple I was unaware, due to devotional immaturity, that bestowing these names obscured and diminished the positions of the spiritual master’s godbrothers. It was a mistake to knight the first 11 gurus with these exalted titles, and it contributed to the ‘exclusive club’ mentality that temporarily blocked other very qualified devotees from accepting disciples.

Some of the neglect of the GBC resolution may be due to force of habit. Whatever the case, the grand-disciples should be conscious of their duty to the follow the instructions of the GBC, and break their old habits.

The grand-disciples shouldn’t think that their initiating gurus are being knocked down a peg or two. Rather, they should recognize that reserving the ultra-honorific ‘pada’ title for His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada is a fitting acknowledgment of his unique status as Founder-Acharya and perpetual param siksha guru of ISKCON. The best, and most meaningful, way to show respect to the spiritual master is by strictly following his instructions, rendering devotional service with enthusiasm and determination, and giving honor and respect to all Vaisnava devotees of the Lord.

Your servant,
Pancha Tattva dasa

© CHAKRA 28-Sep-1999

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