Guru, Sadhu and Sastra

Understanding Krishna consciousness and its application through spiritual masters (guru), saintly persons (sadhu), and scriptures (sastra) is the sound methodology that has been employed since time immemorial.

“Sadhu-sastra-guru: one has to test all spiritual matters according to the instructions of saintly persons, scriptures and the spiritual master. The spiritual master is one who follows the instructions of his predecessors, namely the sadhus, or saintly persons. A bona fide spiritual master does not mention anything not mentioned in the authorised scriptures. Ordinary people have to follow the instructions of sadhu, sastra and guru. Those statements made in the sastras and those made by the bona fide sadhu or guru cannot differ from one another.” (SB 4.16.1)

Thus, in order to understand and apply sastra we have to first consult guru. In our modern context we would identify Srila Prabhupada as the pre-eminent siksa-guru (one who instructs and guides, without formally initiating) of all devotees. We must understand how he applied sastra, how he differentiated principles from details, and what he preserved and adapted in his time. Deeply understanding the mood and mission of Srila Prabhupada can help one remain relevant and simultaneously authentic. But there will be debates amongst individuals who have different understandings, and thus we must also discuss these matters amongst sadhus. When sincere Vaisnavas come together and sincerely search for the truth based on the statements of sastra and the directions of Srila Prabhupada, we can be hopeful that an appropriate conclusion will be reached.