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Re:Love vs. legalism in Vaishnavism?

From the Bhakti List Archives

Venkatesh K. Elayavalli • August 13, 1999 


Dear Al,

SaraNAgati, as prescribed by Sri Vaishnava Acharyas including Ramanuaj
and present day Acharyas, does not require any sort of rituals. Sri
Periya vachan pillai, one of the greatest commentators among Sri
Vaishnava acharyas, outlines the methods by which a true sishya can
surrender to God. He says that, each  vaishnava should learn the meaning
of Bhagavad Gita, Divya prabhantham etc., from his Acharya after
initiation into the tradition. This will happen only if both the Acharya
and the student have faith in each other's commitment. He goes on to say
that, even if a student is not bright and fails to understand the
meaning of Divay Prabhandam, just associatoing himself, in the right
spirit, with those who understand the DP, will be sufficient for GOD's
grace. Learning from, and serving, an Achrya is even better.

So, whenever you get an opportunity, please associate with people who
understand DP and help others understand the text as well. Being an
active participant on this list may be the first step.

Thanks,

--

Venkatesh K. Elayavalli             Cypress Semiconductor
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