# 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](https://vedabase.io/en/library/sb/4/16/1/)) 

Thus, to understand and apply *sastra* we must first consult a 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.