STEPS TO PRAYERFUL READING

The spiritual foundation of ISKCON are Srila Prabhupada’s books, which present the most scientific and the most authentic understanding of spiritual reality in a very simple way. Srila Prabhupada has also written numerous small books that present the philosophy in a short, concise and easy to understand manner. Examples include: ‘Chant and Be Happy’, ‘Easy Journey to Other Planets’ and ‘The Perfection of Yoga’ to name a few.

At the time of creation, Lord Krishna imparted spiritual knowledge to Lord Brahma, and through disciplic succession, this transcendental knowledge is still flowing through our spiritual teachers Srila Prabhupada’s books are carrying that knowledge and they represent the words of Lord Krishna through which we can understand that there is a spiritual world beyond this material world. From reading these books, we gain spiritual strength to tolerate the turbulence and miseries of this world; and to position ourselves to navigate through our journey of self-realization and God realization. Even if you read just one line or one paragraph, it will change your life.

Find a quiet spot where you can be alone and be able to read for an uninterrupted amount of time

Humble Attitude

Approach the books with a need to acquire knowledge and a need to receive guidance

Offer Prayers Read Slowly Find Interesting Words

You may offer a personal prayer to those who you will associate with before you start to read This will help to make meaning out of what you read and to see the relevance of it in your life

The purpose of your reading is not quantity – it is quality with meaningful association. Therefore, it is important to read slowly

Read until a word or a phrase or a key point catches your attention Stop there, repeat it to yourself a few times, and meditate on it for a sufficient amount of time

Find Again

Start reading again until another phrase or point strikes you. You can repeat the process as many times as you like depending on how much time you have. When you are reading, discover what is nourishing you.

Offer Obeisances Apply

Start reading again until another phrase or point strikes you. You can repeat the process as many times as you like depending on how much time you have. When you are reading, discover what is nourishing you.

Try your best to apply the teachings and realizations to your life If possible, discuss your realizations from the scriptures with someone else as devotees relish Krishna in different ways