Vedic Views on World News

AT LEAST 74 KILLED IN EGYPT SOCCER RIOT

2012-02-02T00:12:00.005-03:00

AT LEAST 74 KILLED, HUNDREDS
HURT IN EGYPTIAN SOCCER RIOT

www.voanews.com - Egyptian health ministry officials say at least 74 people were killed and hundreds of others injured Wednesday in violence following a soccer match in the northern city of Port Said, on the Mediterranean coast. Fans of the home team, al-Masry, swarmed the field after a rare win against al-Ahly, Egypt’s top team. They threw rocks, fireworks and bottles at opposing fans and players. Live television footage showed fans running onto the field and chasing al-Ahly players, setting off clashes and a stampede. The footage also showed images of a fire in the stadium. The head of Egypt’s ruling military council, Field Marshal Mohamed Tantawi, ordered two helicopters sent to Port Said to fly out some of the visiting team and its fans. The helicopters will transfer the injured to military hospitals. Egypt’s state prosecutor has ordered an immediate investigation into the violence and the country’s football association called for an indefinite suspension of the annual championship.

Soon after the violence, another match in the capital, Cairo, was halted by the referee after receiving news of the violence in Port Said, prompting fans to set parts of that stadium on fire. Violence at soccer matches across North Africa has increased significantly since political unrest sweeping across the region began more than a year ago. Egypt is not immune to soccer violence. In April, the ineffectiveness of the police force also was on display when thousands of fans ran onto the field before the end of an African Champions’ game between local club Zamalek and Tunisia’s club Africain. The hundreds of police on duty at Cairo International Stadium could not stop the violence then either. Activists quickly scheduled rallies Thursday outside the headquarters of the Interior Ministry in Cairo to protest the inability of the police to stop the bloodshed. TV footage showed Al-Ahly players rushing for their locker room as fistfights broke out among the hundreds of fans swarming on to the field. Some men had to rescue a manager from the losing team as he was being beaten.

At least 74 people were killed and 248 injured after soccer fans rushed the field in the seaside city of Port Said following an upset victory by the home team over Egypt's top club, setting off clashes and a stampede as riot police largely failed to intervene. It was a bloody reminder of the deteriorating security in the Arab world's most populous country. The root-cause of unrest and discord is ignorance of our real-self. We should find a common ground which unites us all.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

There is an outbreak of conflagration of group clashes throughout the world. ... When there are different centers of interests, nobody can avoid clashing of individuals, groups, nations etc. As for example, if circles are drawn with different centers, circumferences will cross, but if there is one center of interest there may be smaller or bigger circles but there will be no crossing. According to Lord Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu there should be knowledge of the real self, real interest and one center of interest. Supreme Lord Sri Krishna who is ‘Achyuta’ can only be the common center of interest from whom all the spirit souls have emanated. If we pour water at the root of the tree, whole tree is nourished with all its parts, in like manner, by serving Krishna we serve all.

Śrīla Bhakti Ballabh Tirtha Mahārāja :
“Strongest Spiritual Force on Earth”
Statements at a press conference, 12-29-2000, Mumbai.
Sree Chaitanya Gaudiya Math - http://www.sreecgmath.org

EUROPE SHIVERS IN GRIP OF DEADLY COLD SPELL

2012-02-01T08:52:00.000-03:00

UKRAINE SAYS DEATH TOLL
FROM COLD WEATHER AT 43

London (CNN) - Eastern Europe shivered Tuesday in the coldest conditions seen this winter, with below-freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall leading to deaths, frostbite and widespread travel disruption. Ukraine and Poland are among the worst affected countries, with lows in Kiev and Warsaw of -17 and -16 degrees Celsius (1 and 3 degrees Fahrenheit) respectively, far lower than the average for this time of year. Ukraine’s Emergency Situations Ministry said 30 people have died as a result of the cold since Friday. 21 of the dead were homeless people, whose bodies were discovered on the streets and four died in their homes. More than 600 people had sought treatment for frostbite and hypothermia over the past 5 days, with more than 500 of those treated in the hospital. Thousands of people have sought refuge at government-run shelters as the temperatures have plummeted.

About 1,590 heated tents operating across the country are offering warmth, tea and hot meals to those in need. Another 150 are due to be set up shortly. Meanwhile, schools and colleges in Kiev have canceled classes until Monday because of the cold, city authorities said. In Poland, the interior ministry urged people to look out for the elderly and homeless, saying temperatures were set to drop further as the week goes on, especially at night. Romania and Bulgaria were among the first Eastern European nations to be affected by cold and heavy snow. In Slovakia, a 63-year-old man was found dead outside his house in the northern village of Sunava on Monday, the Slovak news agency SITA reported. In Serbia, one person has died and two are missing after heavy snowfall in the territory of Uzice. Travel and electricity supplies have been disrupted, and a state of emergency has been declared in a number of districts.

Ukrainian officials say the death toll from a severe cold spell that has hit Eastern Europe has risen to 43 people, most of them homeless. Over 600 others were hospitalized with hypothermia and frostbite. Temperatures dropped to minus 30 C (minus 22 F) prompting authorities to close schools and nurseries and causing power outages and blocked traffic. Knowing that these environmental conditions are cyclical, we should tolerate them as part of our karma and learn to do the best with what we have.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Krishna strongly suggested that Arjuna should take the noble path of tolerance in relation to the dualities of hot and cold, etc., knowing them to be mere fluctuations of the mind. ... Material happiness invariably turns to unhappiness in its absence. Thus one should tolerate both happiness and distress knowing them to be one and the same in the ultimate issue. From a world of apparent variety one must learn to identify with its underlying unity. Srimad-Bhagavatam teaches us further about tolerance. Not only is tolerance necessary if we are to distinguish ourselves from the body and mind, it is also required if we are to know God. One who acknowledges that his happiness and distress in life are that which he is due-his prarabdha karma-and thus tolerates these two, is the rightful heir to the kingdom of God.

Śrīla Bhakti Vedanta Tripurari Mahārāja :
“Tolerance: the Ornament of the Saints”
Śrī Caitanya Sanga - Vol. I, No. 3 - October 30, 2003
http://www.swami.org/pages/sanga/1999/1999_3.php
http://swami.org/ - http://www.swami.org/index.html

PERU EARTHQUAKE INJURY NUMBERS RISE

2012-01-31T10:11:00.001-03:00

PERU 6.3 -MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE
INJURES 145 AND DAMAGES MANY HOMES

(CNN) - The number of people confirmed injured in an earthquake in Peru rose to 145, civil defense officials in the South American nation said Tuesday. The number of homes damaged or destroyed rose to 277, they said. Civil defense officials have been distributing tents to families whose houses were affected by the quake early Monday morning, they said Tuesday. The magnitude 6.3 quake hit about 15 kilometers (9 miles) southeast of Ica, at a depth of 39.2 kilometers (24.4 miles), according to the U.S. Geological Survey. It affected power in the region, but as of Tuesday, it had been restored in the districts of Parcona, Tinguina, Ocucaje and Ica, officials said. While residents remain jittery, there were no known fatalities on Monday, Civil Defense officials said. Most of the injured had gone home by Tuesday morning, although six remain in hospitals, they said.

Among the damaged buildings was the Cathedral of Ica, which had already been damaged in a 2007 earthquake. The jolt caused people to flee their homes in Ica, the port of Pisco, and the towns of Palpa, Nasca and Canete. Dozens of Ica residents spent the night in parks and gardens fearing aftershocks. The quake epicentre depth was 24 miles, according to the USGS. The reading was based on the open-ended Moment Magnitude scale used by US seismologists, which measures the area of the fault that ruptured and the total energy released. Peru is in the “Pacific Ring of Fire,” which is the site of 85 per cent of global seismic activity. A 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck the same region in October, leveling dozens of buildings and leaving some homeless. In 2007, an 8.0-magnitude quake struck southwestern Peru, killing more than 500 people and injuring more than 1,000.

At least 145 people were injured and about 300 homes were damaged after a 6.2-degree earthquake shook Peru early Monday morning. Most people were injured when they fled their homes in panic, or when they were struck by collapsing walls. Lot of residents spent the night in parks and streets due to fears of possible aftershocks. Despite the occasional upheavals, the Earth is the foundation and support of everything; its mountains are compared to the bones of the Lord’s universal form.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

The Earth exhibits qualities that can easily remind us of the Lord’s qualities. ... The Earth is tolerant and continues to support us even though we abuse her by drilling for oil and strip-mining her body, and by spilling the blood of her children upon her in war. In a similar way, Krishna continues to be the friend of all living beings, even those who blaspheme Him and try to cause Him pain. ... The Earth can sometimes change her face from that of a benign solid object to one of sudden anger in the form of quakes and volcanoes. Similarly, Krishna’s face, normally graced with a sweet, gentle smile, can sometimes show loving anger, such as when His incarnation Balarama caused an earthquake in ancient Delhi to bring the rulers there to their senses.

Śrīmati Urmila devi dasi :
“Earth: A Meditation” - March/April 2010
http://urmila.me.uk/
http://www.krishna.com/earth-meditation

NEW MIDEAST TALKS HIT AN IMPASSE

2012-01-30T16:03:00.001-03:00

PALESTINIAN PRESIDENT SAYS ISRAEL
SPOILED ROUND OF TALKS ON BORDER

http://www.voanews.com - The latest international effort to revive the Middle East peace process has run into trouble. Israeli and Palestinian leaders are blaming each other after five rounds of exploratory talks this month in Jordan hit an impasse. The aim of the talks is to revive direct peace negotiations that have been deadlocked for three years. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said Israel did not offer detailed proposals on the future borders of a Palestinian state. In remarks published by the Palestinian news agency, Abbas accused Israel of defying international guidelines for peace and foiling the talks. His comments were echoed by Palestinian Prime Minister Salaam Fayyad. “It is time to recognize the failings of this process. It has failed and the process is in bad need of serious direction,” he said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pointed a finger at the Palestinians. He told the Israeli Cabinet the Palestinians refused to even discuss Israel’s security needs. Netanyahu said the signs are not very good, but he hopes that the Palestinians “will come to their senses” and return to the negotiating table. The United States and European Union have also urged the Palestinians to continue the talks, saying negotiations with Israel are the only way to achieve a two-state solution and peace. President Abbas says he will make a final decision on whether or not to continue the exploratory talks after consulting with the Arab League later this week. For the past month, the sides have held Jordanian-mediated exploratory talks at the urging of the Quartet of international Mideast mediators - the U.S., the U.N., the E.U. and Russia.

The Israeli and Palestinian leaders blamed each other for the impasse in newly launched peace efforts. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas accused Israel of spoiling the low-level talks, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the Palestinians “refused to even discuss” Israeli security needs. The goal of the talks has been to resume formal peace negotiations, with the aim of forging an agreement this year. We are running after peace, but without the association of sadhus it is just an illusory peace.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Those who are going down and down, going to hell and those who are ignorant, he doesn’t know what the life is. They think life is only to eat and drink and sleep and mate. No. No. Life is not like that. Life is to know the Supreme Lord, see the Supreme Lord, hear the Supreme Lord, sing the glories of the Lord, sing the glories of the sage. Then you will be happy. Then you will be satisfied. Then you can enjoy peace. Peace cannot be enjoyed without the association of a sadhu. Without the blessings of the sadhu, without the blessings of the sage we cannot enjoy peace, we cannot enjoy happiness. Only if you will be repeating of Divine Name you could become happy. All throughout the life you will be happy. You will be happy. If we hear one, we are chanting so many times namam, Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna.

Śrīla Bhakti Vaibhava Purī Mahārāj:
Lecture at Pula, Croatia on July 2, 1999
http://www.bvml.org/SBVPGM/P070299.html
Śrī Krishna Chaitanya Mission - http://www.purimaharaj.com/

RUNNING FOR A CAUSE CAN BOOST MOTIVATION

2012-01-29T12:13:00.001-03:00

THE 21ST ANNUAL SUSAN G. KOMEN
RACE FOR THE CURE BREAST CANCER

www.coloradoan.com - Is there a special cause that is close to your heart? Perhaps it is fighting cancer, helping children, protecting the environment or advocating for animals.
Maybe there is an event that has touched you personally or one about which you feel very passionate. Examples could range from commemorating the tragedy of 9/11 to honoring someone you care about on Memorial Day. Have you ever considered using your running abilities to support a cause that is important to you? There are many opportunities to participate in events that support a variety of organizations. Running for a cause is a great way to stay motivated and it adds another dimension to your personal running goals. Several causes have huge events every year with a variety of ways to support the organization and participate. Breast cancer research is one of the biggest with races of various lengths as well as multi-day events all around the country.

There are races that benefit abused children, veterans, at-risk youth, animals, environmental causes, disease research and many more organizations doing great work. There also are races that commemorate meaningful events. One example is the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon, which is a tribute to the victims, family members and survivors of the bombing and supports the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum. The Bolder Boulder is held every year on Memorial Day and you can run in memory or honor of someone. There are a variety of races all around the country honoring the victims and heroes of 9/11. Perhaps you would enjoy participating in one of the many Fourth of July races and celebrating our country’s independence and freedoms. A few of the large organizations even have programs that will help you train for an event while also fundraising for a cause.

More than 20,000 packed downtown West Palm Beach for the 21st annual Susan G. Komen South Florida Race USA, for the Cure on Saturday morning in the USA. If there is a cause or event about which you care, there is likely a way you can combine your running with getting involved and helping. What a great opportunity to do something good for yourself while at the same time helping a worthy cause! One of the greatest services to others is the Sankirtan movement to rescue people from this mortal world.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Śrīla Rupa Goswami, Sanatana, Raghunatha, Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati, etc., are gopis who have come for sankirtan, to preach. Then we can see that when a gopi or a manjari comes to this world, it is to accomplish this task. Sankirtan is what Mahaprabhu Himself is doing in this world. With great longing He wants to embrace all souls and he leaves all His interests when He takes sannyasi to save the others. Krishna also says in Bhagavad Gita Chapter 12 verses 6-7 that He immediately saves us if we serve Him. ... That is sankirtan. Sankirtan means total and immediate relief for oneself and for others. ... Śrīla Prabhupada insisted so much that we should preach. All his faith was put into seva and preaching, and of course in the Nama chanting and the adoration of the Deities.

Śrīla Atulananda Ācārya :
“The Moon Mahaprabhu Gauracandra”
Chat with Guru Atulananda - 16 of March 2003
http://www.vrindanews.com/chat/moon_mahaprabhu_toprint.html
http://www.atulanandadas.cl/

LIBYA PRISONERS MAKE NEW TORTURE ALLEGATIONS

2012-01-28T10:15:00.000-03:00

LIBYAN REVOLUTIONARIES
ACCUSED OF WIDESPREAD TORTURE

www.bbc.co.uk - New evidence has emerged that supporters of the former Libyan leader, Col Gaddafi, have been tortured while in detention. The BBC has been told by inmates at a jail in Misrata that they were beaten, whipped and given electric shocks. The head of the city’s military council has dismissed the allegations. United Nations human rights chief Navi Pillay has called on Libya’s transitional government to take full control of all prisons. The allegations come exactly 100 days after Col Gaddafi’s violent death at the hands of former rebels. Earlier this week the medical charity Medecins Sans Frontieres said it was suspending its work in one Misrata detention centre because of an alarming rise in torture cases. The BBC’s Gabriel Gatehouse managed to get access to that prison. Inmates told him they had been subjected to prolonged beatings and were whipped with electric cables.

International human rights groups have said such incidents are widespread in Libya. “The torture is being carried out by officially recognised military and security entities as well as by a multitude of armed militias operating outside any legal framework,” a spokesman for London-based Amnesty International said on Friday. The people running the Misrata detention centre are aware of inmates being taken away to be tortured, but were powerless to stop it. Many detention centres are controlled by militias unaccountable to the government. The UN human rights chief, Navi Pillay, expressed concern about the treatment of prisoners, but especially sub-Saharan Africans who the militias assume to have been fighting for Col Gaddafi. “There’s torture, extrajudicial executions, rape of both men and women,” she told the AP news agency.

Three months after the killing of Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi, concerns are mounting about the torture of prisoners held by Libyan militiamen. “Patients were brought to us in the middle of interrogation for medical care, in order to make them fit for more interrogation. When you patch people up and then they get taken back to be tortured again in the same evening, you become part of the process,” said Medecins Sans Frontieres’ director. Rape, torture and murder must be stopped in this world.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Everyone wants to be happy and live in peace, but how can this be peace when so many other entities suffer from the most painful experiments in so-called scientific laboratories? ... This does not include the widespread torture of people by people. Political prisoners are often tortured by rulers or their military to keep people in line with the particular agenda of the regime. Some leaders have such a mentality that they enjoy keeping their subjects in a miserable condition. Or there is torture and fighting of people for being of a different religion. This type of thing goes on much more than we think, and has been going on for hundreds of years. ... These reactions affect many millions of people every day around the world, and it is nothing more than the workings of nature as it reflects the consciousness of the people who inhabit this world.

Dr Stephen Knapp (Śrīpad Nandanandana dasa) :
“Karma of the Nation”
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/karma_of_the_nation.htm

INDIA MARKS REPUBLIC DAY

2012-01-27T13:21:00.001-03:00

INDIA CELEBRATES
63rd REPUBLIC DAY

www.voanews.com - India celebrated its 63rd Republic Day Thursday with a parade showcasing its military and air power, and its rich and diverse cultural heritage. In New Delhi, India displayed missiles that can carry nuclear warheads, while fighter jets, long-range aircraft and helicopters flew overhead. Thousands of people turned up at Rajpath (King’s Avenue) to watch the colourful parade amid tight security. India’s Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and military officials laid wreaths at a memorial for those who gave their lives to defend the nation. Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, in the country on an official visit, was the guest of honor. Some 25,000 security personnel guarded the Indian capital against possible attacks from militant groups. Security was also stepped up in Indian-controlled Kashmir. India’s Republic Day commemorates the adoption of a democratic constitution on January 26, 1950.

On Thursday morning, Delhi resembled a fortress with a multi-layered security ring in place at Rajpath, where President Pratibha Patil unfurled the Indian flag and took the salute of marching contingents, news agency Press Trust of India reported. Officials said 160 closed-circuit cameras were installed between Rajpath and Red Fort, the route of the parade. Anti-aircraft guns were placed at several places and helicopters hovered over the parade route. At the parade, the army displayed its tanks and missile launchers. The nuclear capable Agni-IV missile with a range of 3,000km (1,864 miles), was cheered by the public, reporters said. Smaller parades have also been held in the state capitals. It is informed that 40,000 policemen were keeping vigil in the financial capital, Mumbai, which has seen several high-profile militant attacks in recent years.

India has celebrated its 63rd Republic Day showing off its latest weapons, even tanks and missile launchers, at a military parade in the capital, Delhi. Thousands of people attended the parade. Hundreds of soldiers marched and more than 25,000 policemen and paramilitary forces guarded the streets. Smaller parades were also held in the state capitals. In India there is still the wonderful cultural heritage of Vedic knowledge, the one who studies and practices it gradually increased his spiritual enlightenment.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Thus whoever takes birth in the land of Bhārata-varsha attains all the facilities of life. He may take advantage of all these facilities for both material and spiritual advancement and thus make his life successful. After attaining the goal of life, one may distribute his knowledge and experience all over the world for humanitarian purposes. In other words, one who takes birth in the land of Bhārata-varsha by virtue of his past pious activities gets full facility to develop the human form of life. ... In this verse the word lakshita-lakshanām indicates that the human body attained in Bhārata-varsha is very auspicious. Vedic culture is full of knowledge, and a person born in India can fully take advantage of Vedic cultural knowledge and the cultural system known as varnāśrama-dharma.

Śrīla A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda :
Śrīmad Bhāgavatam - Canto 4: “Creation of the Fourth Order”
Chapter 25: “The Descriptions of the Characteristics of King Purañjana”
Verse 13 - Bhaktivedanta VedaBase

TIBET GOVT IN EXILE CONDEMNS “GRUESOME” CHINA CLASHES

2012-01-26T13:22:00.001-03:00

CHINESE POLICE FIRE ON TIBETANS
AS VIOLENT PROTESTS SPREAD

Ganzi, China (Reuters) - Ethnic tension simmered in remote corners of China’s southwestern Sichuan province on Thursday after security forces fired on demonstrators in a series of deadly clashes that Tibet’s government in exile condemned as “gruesome”. The flareups were perhaps the bloodiest spate of Tibetan-linked violence in China since early 2008, when riots and protests erupted in Tibet’s capital, Lhasa, and spread to other restive regions in China’s western border regions including Sichuan, Qinghai and Gansu provinces. Lobsang Sangay, the prime minister of Tibet’s government in exile in Dharamsala in India, denounced the shooting by police on hundreds of Tibetan protesters in western Sichuan this week that he said had killed six and injured more than 60. The protests have become violent in recent weeks.

On Tuesday, at least one Tibetan was killed in a clash in Seda County, known as Serthar in Tibetan, when police opened fire on protesters, leaving the town square “covered in blood” and tear-gas canisters, according to the Washington-based International Campaign for Tibet. Another group, Free Tibet, said at least two Tibetans had been killed and many wounded during protests in Seda. Calls to the Seda public security bureau went unanswered. Two Tibetans were shot dead by police on Monday in a separate protest in Luhuo Township, known as Drango or Draggo to Tibetans, also in the mountainous western reaches of Sichuan province, according to Tibetan rights groups and observers. On the other hand, China will remain “resolute in maintaining normal social order,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said in a Jan. 24 statement.

China police opened fire on a crowd of protesters in a Tibetan region during a clash. At least two Tibetans were killed and several wounded. Another case of the longstanding underlying ethnic tensions between Tibetan communities - some of whom have called for the return of the Dalai Lama - and Han Chinese authorities whom they accuse of stifling Tibetan traditions, religious freedoms and their unique way of life. We must abandon hatred, and adopt the way of love and respect to all beings.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

The purpose of any true spiritual path is to raise our consciousness to the point of allowing us to directly perceive the spiritual dimension. Being spiritual means to recognize one’s spiritual identity and practically see the transcendental essence of all others. It also means to see that we are all parts and parcels of God and to respect each other in that light. ... The point is that the more spiritual we become, the more we can perceive that which is spiritual. As we develop and grow in this way, the questions about spiritual life are no longer a mystery to solve, but become a reality to experience. It becomes a practical part of our lives. ... The Vedic system is practically non-denominational. It is not for any one culture or ethnic group. It is for all of humanity and is called Sanatana-dharma.

Dr Stephen Knapp (Śrīpad Nandanandana dasa) :
“Yoga and How to Get Started”
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/yoga_and_how_to_get_started.htm

FRACKING GETS ITS OWN “OCCUPY” MOVEMENT

2012-01-25T09:31:00.001-03:00

ENVIRONMENTAL GROUPS RALLY
FOR NEW YORK BAN ON FRACKING

Albany, N.Y. (AP) - Health and environmental groups rallied at the Capitol on Monday to call for a legislative ban on hydraulic fracturing of natural gas wells, saying no amount of regulation can adequately safeguard water supplies from contamination. “Fracking is the most important environmental issue this state has faced in the past 100 years,” Sen. Tony Avella, sponsor of a bill to ban hydraulic fracturing, said at the rally in the Legislative Office Building next to the Capitol. “There is no possible regulation or series of regulations that can stop the one incident that pollutes our water supply for 1,000 years.” Organizers said about 600 people from around the state traveled to Albany and registered to lobby state lawmakers for various bills related to the practice known as fracking, which stimulates gas production by injecting wells with millions of gallons of chemically treated water to fracture shale.

The state Department of Environmental Conservation has refused to consider new shale gas wells since 2008, when it began an environmental impact review of fracking. Industry groups, who point to a decadeslong history of safe gas drilling in New York, have said the regulations proposed by the DEC are so strict they would effectively shut down shale gas development in the state because of the high cost of compliance. The rally featured chants of “No fracking way” and signs calling for “Renewable energy now.” A group of residents from Middlefield in Otsego County held a banner supporting a “home rule” bill, which clarifies the right of towns to enact zoning ordinances that prohibit fracking and discourage industry-funded lawsuits against such bans. Middlefield is fighting a lawsuit against its local fracking ban.

Health and environmental groups calling for a legislative ban on hydraulic fracturing of natural gas wells have rallied in Albany (USA). The technology known as “fracking” stimulates gas production by using chemically treated water to fracture shale with the tremendous risk of contamination to the drinking water supply and the entire ecosystem. We must start urgent action in awakening consciousness and ending the dangerous and self-destructive habit of exploiting our natural resources.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Nature is one of the manifestations of God; if we mistreat the environment, if we live irresponsibly, in any moment we will be sucked into an abyss. God is in each tree, each plant. The waters of the Earth are the veins of the Lord. We should proceed with absolute compassion and responsibility, because by not taking care of other living beings, our present planet will become a complete desert. Polluted waters cause the leukemia of the ecosystem. Mother Earth heals you, she allows you to build houses, sustains you, gives you drinkable water; that is our dear Mother Earth. ... All the elements created by the Lord are different representations of His powers, and the combination of all the components produces food for us, the conscious beings.

House of Wisdom :
“Eco conscience - Recommendations”
http://www.houseofwisdom.org/english/advices_eco_conscience.htm
http://www.houseofwisdom.org/english/index.html

SOCCER PLAYER’S INJURY BLAMED ON TOO MUCH SEX

2012-01-24T13:05:00.001-03:00

MODEL GIRLFRIEND OF MILAN STAR
BLAMES HIS INJURIES ON TOO MUCH SEX

www.goal.com -The girlfriend of AC Milan midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng has revealed that the player’s injury woes of late could be down to the amount of sex the couple have. The club confirmed recently that the player will be out of action for up to a month due to amuscular problem. However, Melissa Satta, a model, TV presenter and actress, has stated that Boateng’s poor injuryrecord is the result of their bedroom antics. “The reason why he [Kevin-Prince Boateng] is always injured is because we have sex seven to 10 times a week,” the 25-year-old told Vanity Fair. “I hate foreplay, I want to get straight to the point,” she added. “My favourite position is on top so I can take control.” Milan are yet to speak out in regards to Satta’s comments although the Rossoneri did release an official statement on their website to validate the injury.

Boateng, whose fellow countrymen begin their the African Cup of Nations participation early next week, injured himself during last weekend’s 1-0 defeat to Inter and is a doubt for the Champions League date with Arsenal due to a muscle strain. A statement from the Rossoneri read: “Boateng has sustained a muscular lesion in his left thigh and the estimated time of recovery is around four weeks, unless there are complications.” But his girlfriend has claimed his antics in bed may be the cause of his constant injury. The 24-year-old will likely be sidelined for Milan’s next eight games, including their Champions League Last-16 home leg against Arsenal on February 15. Boss Massimiliano Allegri has set his sights on the attacking player’s return for his side’s domestic encounter against Juventus on February 26.

The former Ghana international player is currently sidelined for a month with a thigh injury, but his model girlfriend, Melissa Satta revealed the real reason behind his ailment: too much sex. The club has not commented on his girlfriend's “medical evaluation”, but surely he doesn't mind not being able to play for a month because he will have more time to enlarge his lesion peril. People having a primitive mentality based on the desire to enjoy money, sex and social prestige are called “bhukti-kāmī”.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

In the various species of life there are various facilities for material sense gratification. Different species are distinguished by differently formed senses, such as the genitals, nostrils, tongue, ears and eyes. Pigeons, for example, are given the facility for almost unlimited sex. Bears have an ample opportunity for sleeping. Tigers and lions exhibit the propensities for fighting and meat-eating, horses are distinguished by their legs for swift running, vultures and eagles have keen eyesight, and so on. The human being is distinguished by his large brain, which is meant for understanding God. ... The Lord facilitates sense gratification (mātrā-prasiddhaye) so that the living entities will gradually understand the futility of trying to enjoy without Him.

Śrīla A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda
Śrīla Hrdayananda dasa Goswami
Śrīmad Bhāgavatam - Canto 11: “General History”
Chapter 3: “Liberation from the Illusory Energy”
Verse 3 - Bhaktivedanta VedaBase

CHINA CELEBRATES YEAR OF THE DRAGON

2012-01-23T15:56:00.000-03:00

CHINESE NEW YEAR OF THE DRAGON
WELCOMED IN AROUND THE WORLD

www.mirror.co.uk - Celebrations for the Year of the Dragon begin today and last for 15 days. Millions of ethnic Chinese, Koreans and Vietnamese across Asia have rung in the New Year of the Dragon with fireworks, feasting and family reunions. From Beijing to Bangkok and Seoul to Singapore, people hoping for good luck in the New Year visited temples and lit incense, setting off fireworks and watched street performances of lion and dragon dances. In London, Chinese New Year will officially be marked on January 29 with a parade and a performance in Trafalgar Square. Among the 100-strong performers will feature Shanghai Song and Dance Troupe and the National Music Orchestra of Jilin Province. For many, the Lunar New Year is the biggest family reunion of the year for which people endured hours of cramped travel on trains and buses to get home.

In ancient times the dragon was a symbol reserved for the Chinese emperor, and it is considered to be the most auspicious and powerful of the 12 signs of the zodiac, one associated with high energy and prosperity. It’s also the only mythical creature in the Chinese astrological stable that includes horses, rats and pigs. This year is considered especially auspicious because it is the year of the water dragon, something that happens once every 60 years. “The dragon is a symbol of power and superior control,” says Stephen Chu, president of the Mississauga Chinese Business Association, west of Toronto. “It’s not evil. The dragon is a good symbol.” It also represents change and mobility. “Dragons seem to be a change year, and usually from bad to good,” says Paul Ng, a feng shui master in Richmond Hill, Ont., north of Toronto.

Chinese New Year celebrations have begun throughout the world. Colorful parades and spectacular fireworks usher in the Year of Dragon, which symbolizes courage and prosperity. According to the Chinese Zodiac, the Year of Dragon comes after the Year of Rabbit and is followed by the Year of Snake. In the Rig Veda, there is a description of the battle between Lord Indra, the king of heaven, and an asura named Vrtra who had taken the form of a mighty Dragon and stole all the water in the world for himself.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

I will declare the manly deeds of Indra, the first that he achieved, the Thunder wielder. He slew the Dragon, then disclosed the waters, and cleft the channels of the mountain torrents. Like lowing kine in rapid flow descending the waters glided downward to the ocean. Impetuous as a bull, he (Indra) chose the Soma and in three sacred beakers drank the juices. Maghavan (Indra) grasped the thunder for his weapon, and smote to death this firstborn of the dragons. ... When Indra and the Dragon strove in battle, Maghavan gained the victory for ever. ... The waters bear off Vrtra's nameless body: the foe of Indra sank to during darkness. Guarded by Ahi (Vrtra) ... the waters stayed like kine held by the robber. But when he (Indra) had smitten Vrtra, opened the cave wherein the floods had been imprisoned.

“The Hymns of the Rigveda”
Book I - Hymn XXXII - “Indra”
Translated by Ralph T. H. Griffith
2nd edition, Kotagiri (Nilgiri) 1896
http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/rigveda/rv01032.htm
http://www.hinduwebsite.com/sacredscripts/hinduism/rigveda/indra_1.asp

DUTCH TEEN CIRCUMNAVIGATE WORLD

2012-01-22T09:44:00.003-03:00

DUTCH TEEN LAURA DEKKER COMPLETES
HISTORIC SOLO SAIL AROUND THE GLOBE

(CNN) - Some 518 days after she first set off alone in her sailboat, 16-year-old Laura Dekker glided into a Caribbean port on Saturday to complete her historic, and controversial, voyage around the globe. The Dutch citizen arrived in Sint Maarten around 3 p.m. (2 p.m. ET). While other teens have made similar sea voyages - some of them without stopping, as Dekker did - the Dutch girl unofficially appears to be the youngest to do so sailing alone. In 2010, Australian Jessica Watson finished a non-stop, unassisted solo circumnavigation days before her 17th birthday. Her route was less than 21,600 orthodromic (or, in the same direction for a great circle) nautical miles, which is the length of the equator and the distance generally used for round-the-world sailing records. Dekker states on her website that she traversed about 27,000 nautical miles on her own solo voyage aboard her 38-foot yacht, which she has dubbed Guppy.

The teenager made a trip with stops that sound like a skim through a travel magazine: the Canary Islands, Panama, the Galapagos Islands, Tonga, Fiji, Bora Bora, Australia, South Africa and now, St. Maarten, from which she set out on Jan. 20, 2011. She had altered her route and headed around South Africa toward Sint Maarten to avoid pirates. The trip almost didn’t happen - not because of problems at sea, but rather due to a high-profile legal fight by Dutch authorities to prevent the teen from setting sail, for her own safety. In October 2009, a Dutch court ruled the girl couldn’t sail around the world because she was not considered experienced enough to do so. But it left the door open for a future trip, deciding that she could depart if she fulfilled certain requirements the court had established for her. Laura did what the authorities require, and she finally arrived in St. Maarten after struggling against high seas and heavy winds.

Laura Dekker, 16, arrived in the island of Sint Maarten after her voyage around the globe. She was at sea or in port for 518 days and traversed 27,000 nautical miles. “There were moments where I was like, ‘What the hell am I doing out here?’ but I never wanted to stop,” she said. “It’s a dream, and I wanted to do it.” She also fought against Dutch authorities who didn’t want her to sail. Tapah (austerity) and Acāpalam (determination) are good for everyone because in the end our efforts are rewarded.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

“To serve the spiritual master the disciple should learn cleanliness, austerity, tolerance, silence, study of Vedic knowledge, simplicity, celibacy, nonviolence, and equanimity in the face of material dualities such as heat and cold, happiness and distress.” Tapah, or “austerity,” means that despite the irrational impulses of the mind, one should remain fixed in executing his proper duty in life. Specifically, one must control burning anger and the urge for wanton sex life. If a human being does not control the impulses of lust, anger and greed, he loses his power to understand his actual situation. Human life is a golden opportunity to solve the overwhelming problems of birth, death, old age and disease. ... One must remain in his prescribed duty and not become impatient or unregulated due to the waves of lust, anger and greed.

Śrīla A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda
Śrīla Hrdayananda dasa Goswami
Śrīmad Bhāgavatam - Canto 11: “General History”
Chapter 3: “Liberation from the Illusory Energy”
Verse 24 - Bhaktivedanta VedaBase

MALAWIAN WOMEN ATTACKS FOR WEARING PANTS

2012-01-21T09:43:00.001-03:00

ATTACKS ON WOMEN IN TROUSERS,
MINISKIRTS SPARK PROTEST IN MALAWI

Blantyre, Malawi (AP) - It’s been 18 years since the late dictator Hastings Kamuzu Banda’s “indecency in dress” laws were repealed in Malawi, but mobs of men and boys in the largely conservative southern African country have recently been publicly stripping women of their miniskirts and pants. Friday, hundreds of outraged girls and women, among them prominent politicians, protested the attacks while wearing pants or miniskirts and T-shirts emblazoned with such slogans as: “Real men don’t harass women.” “Some of us have spent our entire life fighting for the freedom of women,” Vice President Ms Joyce Banda told the protesters. “It’s shocking some men want to take us back to bondage,” she added. The attacks took on such importance that President Bingu wa Mutharika went on state television and radio on the eve of the protest to assure women they were free to wear what they want.

The president ordered police to arrest anyone who attacks women wearing pants or miniskirts. He said in a local language, Chichewa. “I will not allow anyone to wake up and go on the streets and start undressing women and girls wearing trousers because that is criminal.” During Hastings Kamuzu Banda’s 1963-1994 dictatorship, women in Malawi were banned from wearing pants and short skirts. Banda lost power in the country’s first multiparty election in 1994 and he died three years later. While Banda is gone, strains of conservatism remain in the impoverished, largely rural nation. Some of the street vendors who have attacked women in recent days claimed it was un-Malawian to dress in miniskirts and pants. Some said it was a sign of loose morals or prostitution. The protesters were wearing pants, miniskirts and leggings in a show of solidarity as they gathered to condemn the attacks.

Malawian women protested about attacks on women for wearing trousers. Some women were beaten and stripped by vendors on the streets for wearing pants, leggings and miniskirts, instead of dresses. They accused women of defying cultural norms and attacked them claiming they did not follow the tradition. Women have also been attacked for wearing trousers in Kenya, South Africa and Zimbabwe. Puritanical mentality is based on external materialistic issues, not on spiritual considerations.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

If we truly believe, even theoretically, that we “are not this body,” then why do we care whether our bodily duties are “higher” or “lower” than someone else’s? Such things are temporary, external, and don’t touch the real self. ... Most difficulties with understanding the position of women can be solved if we understand that all of us have two duties: material and spiritual. The spiritual duties, the nine processes of devotional service, are equally available to every human being regardless of age, gender, race, intelligence, health, etc. etc. ... Why not just accept the body we have for this life, and work with it so as to please Krishna and make our life peaceful, so that we can concentrate our time and energy on what’s truly important-loving and remembering Krishna.

Śrīmati Urmila devi dasi :
“Prabhupada's Views on Women”
http://urmila.me.uk/
http://www.chakra.org/discussions/WomenNov29_02.html

ARGENTINA OUTRAGED AT CAMERON’S ‘COLONIALISM’ REMARKS

2012-01-20T06:33:00.000-03:00

UK PRIME MINISTER ACCUSES ARGENTINA
OF ‘COLONIALISM’ TOWARDS FALKLANDS

www.bbc.co.uk - Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner has demanded renewed talks about the future of the islands - which Argentina calls Las Malvinas. But Mr Cameron told MPs they would stay British for as long as the islanders wanted, and Argentina’s demands for that to change were “like colonialism”. The issue was discussed at a National Security Council meeting on Tuesday. This year is the 30th anniversary of the Falklands War, which was prompted by an Argentinian invasion of the islands. Most Falkland Islanders wish to retain British sovereignty and 14 June is marked as Liberation Day in the capital, Port Stanley. Argentine leaders have reacted with fury after UK Prime Minister David Cameron accused Argentina of “colonialism” for continuing to claim sovereignty over the Falkland Islands. “It’s totally offensive, especially coming from Great Britain,” Argentine Interior Minister Florencio Randazzo said.

President Fernandez has repeatedly requested talks on the islands’ future and accused the UK of “arrogance” for refusing to negotiate. She has accused Britain of “taking Argentine resources” from the islands and the waters around them. Tensions have risen in recent years over oil exploration around the Falklands. In December, the Mercosur grouping of countries, which includes Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil and Paraguay, announced that it would ban ships sailing under the Falkland Islands flag from docking at their ports. The islands were discussed on Wednesday during a visit by UK Foreign Minister William Hague to Brazil. Mr Hague knows that “Brazil and other South American nations support Argentine sovereignty over the Malvinas and that we support the UN resolutions calling on Argentina and Britain to discuss the issue,” Brazilian Foreign Minister Antonio Patriota told reporters.

British PM Cameron has accused Argentina of “colonialism” for continuing to claim sovereignty over the Falkland Islands. In response, Argentine Foreign Minister Timerman said Great Britain was a country “synonymous with colonialism”. Little remains of colonialism and Great Britain, an empire in decline, decides to re-write history. The sayings of politicians try to historical “re-arranging the furniture”. This cheating tendency is called vipralipsa, ‘the desire to deceive.’

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

This is called samsāra-dāvānala. Even in ordinary transactions between two people, there is invariably cheating because the conditioned soul is defective in four ways - he is illusioned, he commits mistakes, his knowledge is imperfect, and he has a propensity to cheat. Unless one is liberated from material conditioning, these four defects must be there. Consequently every man has a cheating propensity, which is employed in business or money transactions. ... A philosopher accuses an economist of being a cheater, and an economist may accuse a philosopher of being a cheater when he comes in contact with money. In any case, this is the condition of material life.

Śrīla A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda :
Śrīmad Bhāgavatam - Canto 5: “The Creative Impetus”
Chapter 14: “The Material World as the Great Forest of Enjoyment”
Verse 26 - Bhaktivedanta VedaBase

GLOBAL WARMING THREATENS CHINA’S ADVANCE

2012-01-19T11:47:00.002-03:00

CHINESE REPORT SPELLS OUT
CLIMATE CHANGE THREAT

www.smh.com.au - Global warming threatens China’s march to prosperity by cutting crops, shrinking rivers and unleashing more droughts and floods, says the government’s latest assessment of climate change, projecting big shifts in how the nation feeds itself. The warnings are carried in the government’s “Second National Assessment Report on Climate Change,” which sums up advancing scientific knowledge about the consequences and costs of global warming for China - the world’s second biggest economy and the biggest emitter of greenhouse gas pollution. Global warming fed by greenhouse gases from industry, transport and shifting land-use poses a long-term threat to China’s prosperity, health and food output, says the report. Water, either too much or too little, lies at the heart of how that warming could trip up China’s budding prosperity.

With China’s economy likely to rival the United States’ in size in coming decades, that will trigger wider consequences. “China faces extremely grim ecological and environmental conditions under the impact of continued global warming and changes to China’s regional environment,” says the 710-page report, officially published late last year but released for public sale only recently. Even so, China’s rising emissions of carbon dioxide, the main greenhouse gas from burning fossil fuels, will begin to fall off only after about 2030, with big falls only after mid-century, says the report. Assuming no measures to counter global warming, grain output in the world’s most populous nation could fall from 5 to 20 percent by 2050, depending on whether a “fertilisation effect” from more carbon dioxide in the air offsets losses, says the report.

China, with 1.34 billion people, already emits a quarter of the world’s CO2, with the United States the world’s second largest greenhouse gas emitter. As the temperatures continue to rise, the negative consequences of climate change on agriculture will be increasingly serious. Without effective measures in response, by the latter part of the 21st century, climate change could still constitute a threat to the world’s food security. We are living in one of the most precarious situations of humanity.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Today we see the condition of the world. Never before in history has the world been in a more dangerous situation. We have made progress through technology and science. We have cured diseases such as small pox. We made vaccinations for polio and breakthrough in open heart surgeries to keep people living after major heart attacks. These are good things. But at the same time, what are we doing on the other side. We are creating other diseases due to pollution and other unnatural styles. … And with all the toxic chemicals in the soil, in the ocean, in the rivers and in the air, if you look at it realistically the world is in a hopeless state. Politicians don’t want to tell you and we don’t want to hear about it, because we are just caught up in our petty pursuance of fulfilling our greed. It is a big problem.

Śrīla Radhanath Swami Mahārāja :
“The Real Significance of Bhumi Puja”
Lecture at Govardhan Farm, Wada - 2nd October 2009
http://www.radhanathmaharaj.net/node/80
http://www.radhanath-swami.net/ - http://radhanathswami.info/

ETHIOPIA FORCES THOUSANDS OFF LAND

2012-01-18T08:00:00.000-03:00

RIGHTS GROUP: ETHIOPIA
FORCIBLY RESETTLED 70,000

Addis Ababa (AP) - Ethiopia has forcibly moved tens of thousands of semi-nomadic people in the country’s west to barren villages and threatened, assaulted and arrested those who resisted, an international rights group said in a report. The Human Rights Watch report said that Ethiopia last year resettled about 70,000 people in its western Gambella region after the first of a three-year “villagization” program. The rights group said it suspects people have been moved to lease out farmland to investors, and not just to lift them out of poverty. It said that security forces “repeatedly threatened, assaulted, and arrested villagers” who resisted relocation. It also reported rape, killing of cattle and burning of houses among rights violations. Instead of the promised improved life with “access to basic socio-economic infrastructures,” locals found new villages that lacked food, farmland, schools and health clinics, HRW said.

The watchdog said its report is based on 100 interviews in 2011 with residents in Gambella and in a refugee camp in Kenya. The organization called upon the Ethiopian government to suspend its program until all promised facilities have been provided for. The government in Addis Ababa rejects HRW’s allegations. Ethiopia’s minister of federal affairs denounced the allegations in a letter to Human Rights Watch as “downright fabrications” of a “politically motivated” organization. He wrote that Human Rights Watch “willfully ignores the fact that more than 50,000 people are utilizing services from the newly built” villages. HRW says it has evidence that some 70,000 indigenous people in the western Gambella region were relocated against their will to new villages that “lack adequate food, farmland, healthcare and educational facilities”.

Ethiopia’s government has been accused by US-based Human Rights Watch of forcing tens of thousands of its poorest people off their fertile land so it can be leased to foreign investors. Indigenous peoples, like the pastoral Nuer and agrarian Anuak, are being forcibly relocated to new villages that lack adequate food, clean water, farmland, schools, clinics and other basic facilities. When there is no sense of justice or mercy, governments utilize violence against their own people to simply serve their selfish purposes.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

We are all brothers and sisters in this world. We are all visiting the planet earth for a very short time. We all have a certain amount of pains and pleasures to experience in this short visit. And the human being specially will accumulate either positive or negative reactions for everything they will do in this lifetime. And after they leave this body, very soon we will get the just compensation for what have been our deeds in this lifetime. So it is in all of our interests that we do not commit any injustice to anyone and instead of creating hellish conditions in our greed to gain more power and money. We should remember that in our next lifetime we will be subjected to the same injustices we are creating for others today.

Śrīla Bhakti Aloka Paramadvaiti Mahārāja :
“Attacks on Innocent Considered Most Sinful”
http://www.vrindanews.com/articles/attacks_on_innocent.html
http://www.vrindanews.com/ - http://www.gurumaharaj.net/

FATAL BUILDING COLLAPSE IN BEIRUT

2012-01-17T10:23:00.002-03:00

AT LEAST 27 KILLED MANY INJURED
IN BEIRUT BUILDING COLLAPSE

Beirut (AFP) - At least 26 people were killed when an old six-storey building in the Lebanese capital collapsed, officials said on Monday, with more people still trapped under the rubble. A dozen people were also injured, none of them seriously. Civil defence chief General Raymond Khattar told AFP the bodies recovered by rescuers who worked through Sunday night and Monday included those of seven Lebanese, six Sudanese, two Filipinos and two Egyptians. Among the dead was a 15-year-old Lebanese girl, and those hurt included her grandmother as well as a 73-year-old Lebanese man, at least two Sudanese, an Egyptian and a Filipina. The building housed some 50 people, many of them labourers from Sudan and Egypt, Khattar said, adding that at least eight people were known to have escaped as the building came down.

A Syrian labourer at a nearby building site said debris started falling from the building in the early evening before the entire block came crashing down. “We saw small pieces of stone falling down but no one paid any attention at the start,” he told AFP. “Then large chunks of stone started falling and people began screaming for everyone to get out. Within minutes, the building was on the floor.” Bilal Hamad, the head of Beirut municipality, urged all residents to alert authorities should they suspect any danger in their neighbourhoods and said a team of experts would soon begin to inspect buildings across the capital, many of which are built illegally or have had storeys added without proper permits. There was speculation that heavy rain may have contributed to Sunday’s disaster, making the building more prone to collapse.

At least 27 people died and several people were injured when a five-storey building collapsed unexpectedly in the Lebanese capital Beirut. Rescuers are continuing their search of the site in the Ashrafiyeh district for a further 16 people believed to be buried beneath the rubble. It is said the building was extremely run-down and the owner had recently warned tenants to move out. We are daily surrounded by many dangers; there are risks at every step, so we should choose the Lord as our protector.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

A firm confidence that the Supreme Lord will protect us in all circumstances is needed. In fact, who is saving us from all the dangers and calamities that are hovering around us every moment? In time of a severe trial, all of our acquisitions or our nearest relations fail. There is no power anywhere in this universe that would do any harm to a person whose Protector is the Supreme Lord. On the contrary, the entire population and resources of the whole universe, cannot save him, if he is disowned by the Lord. This firmness in his belief makes him steady ever the more. This spirit of confidence saves him from the unsteady nature of the mind. … It makes the life of a striver light and easy, and his journey remarkably smooth and pleasant.

Śrīla Bhakti Vaibhava Purī Mahārāj:
“Guru and Atma Nivedan”
“Firm Confidence in the Lord”
Bhakti Vigyan Nityananda Book Trust
Śrī Krishna Chaitanya Mission - http://www.purimaharaj.com/

CHAOS IN ITALIAN CRUISE SHIP SINKING

2012-01-16T08:27:00.000-03:00

LIKE SCENE OUT OF FILM ‘TITANIC,’
CHAOS CONSUMED LISTING SHIP

Porto Santo Stefano, Italy (CNN) - The 3,200 passengers aboard the Costa Concordia cruise liner were enjoying a night of entertainment and relaxation off Italy’s Mediterranean coast. Then, at about dinnertime, the lights went out, an ominous scraping sound moaned through the hull, and the ship tilted to one side. The 1,500-cabin luxury vessel, which was also carrying about 1,000 crew members, had run aground on a rocky sandbar off the tiny island of Giglio. Chaos overwhelmed passengers and crew alike when, as the ship listed and water rose as if it were a scene from “Titanic,” everyone realized that only one side of the ship’s lifeboats and rafts were reachable. Amid screams, the crew appeared helpless, according to one passenger who had to make a ladder of rope to save himself and his wife. The worst part came when a lifeboat crew member told everyone, “Women and children first.”

“All these families who were clinging to each other had to be separated,” said Benji Smith, who was on the Concordia for his honeymoon with his wife, Emily. The couple lives in Boston. After helping passengers, some crew members jumped overboard and swam ashore. At least three lifeboats apparently malfunctioned due to technical or crew error, Smith said. Life rafts were “twisting and turning,” and the crew pulled in some rafts and put the people back on the ship, but the crew never returned for them, Smith said. With the ship’s staircases flooded, “we made ladders out of ropes to climb down from the outer fourth deck to the third deck,” Smith said. “We waited clinging to those rope ladders for 3½ hours” before being picked up by a lifeboat, he said. Smith said he and his wife never heard from any of the officers or captain during the incident. The couple was eventually transported by bus to a hotel in Rome.

Panic spread as people scrambled to find lifeboats in the dark as the ship quickly leaned to one side. Passengers complained about how the cruise ship staff handled the crisis when disaster struck. A sixth body was being pulled from the wreckage of the stricken Costa Concordia as the ship’s captain was accused of “significant human error”. Mankind is by nature afflicted with the four flaws or defects, even the greatest scholars cannot free themselves of them.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

The conditioned soul has four defects: (1) bhrama (‘the tendency to error’), (2) pramada (‘inattention’), (3) karanapatava (‘the inadequacy of the senses’) and (4) vipralipsa (‘the desire to deceive’). Any conditioned soul has these defects. Bhrama means the tendency to think something that is true to be false and vice versa. The word pramada means ‘inattention.’ Even when the senses do their job, the mind is not entirely attentive and so makes further errors. Karanapatava means the incapacity of the senses to properly perceive anything. And the last fault is quite devastating; it is vipralipsa, ‘the desire to deceive.’ Even though we don’t really know what the truth is, we say, ‘I have seen.’ So these are the conditioned souls’ four defects.

Śrīla Bhakti Promode Puri Mahārāja :
“Sri Guru Pranali - Siddha Pranali”
Conversation at Gopinatha Gaudiya Matha,
Cakra Tirtha, Jagannatha Puri, Sept. 28, 1998
http://bvml.org/SBPPG/sgp-sp.html

THAI MAN MARRIES HIS DEAD GIRLFRIEND

2012-01-15T11:04:00.006-03:00

THAI MAN MARRY HIS GIRLFRIEND
DESPITE SHE’S BEEN DEAD FOR DAYS

Pattaya Daily News - The news of a North Eastern Thailand tv director marrying his dead fiancée became viral on the social media with 50,000 sharing the news on-line. The news became the “Talk of the town” on Facebook and YouTube after “ Chadil Deffy “ or Deff Yingyuen, stated his love for his late girlfriend, Sarinya or “Anne” Kamsook. Much to the surprise of his friends, on January 4, Deff posted the message on his Facebook page, inviting his friends to a wedding-cum-funeral rite for his longtime girlfriend at a local temple in Surin Province. The couple had been together for a decade and made a promise to get married before the bride died in a car accident. Deff said their wedding was postponed due busy schedules and his studies before he was going to settle down in matrimony with Sarinya.

This bizarre wedding ceremony together with the funeral of the corpse of the bride was held at Tri Vivek temple Moo 9 Baan Sadao Tambon Nabua , Amphur Muang, Surin province. The corpse of the bride was Ms. Sarinya or “Ann Kamsuk” age 29, from Surin province. The bridegroom, known by his nickname “Dave”, is director of television programs. Both of them fell in love while studying at the Eastern Asia University ten years ago and had planned to get married but the woman had died on the evening of January 3, 2012. During the funeral ceremony, the groom is seen in a black smart suit putting a ring on the finger of his late girlfriend. This was posted on the Facebook and YouTube and it spread like wildfire. There were many wreaths from her friends and relatives and from actors, singers and fellow students.

A young man, Chadil Duffy, and long-time girlfriend Sarinya had agreed to marry, but before they had the chance, she died unexpectedly. However, Duffy, intent on following through on his promise to his girlfriend, and last week he has married his dead girlfriend. Depending on sensibilities, one may have a number of reactions to this unique story of tragedy and love, yet one thing is certain: in our current conditioned state, the material attachment for the gross body is very hard to overcome.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Sukadeva Gosvami told Maharaja Pariksit that every living entity is actually most attached to his own self. Outward paraphernalia such as home, family, friends, country, society, wealth, opulence and reputation are all only secondary in pleasing the living entity. ... The next important object of affection, after his own self, is his material body. A person who has no information of the spirit soul is very much attached to his material body. ... The attachment to the body is there only because the “I,” the spirit soul, is within the body. Similarly, when one is further advanced, he knows that the spirit soul is pleasing because it is part and parcel of Krishna. Ultimately, it is Krishna who is pleasing and all-attractive. Without being an expansion of Krishna, nothing can be attractive.

Śrīla A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda :
“Krishna, The Supreme Personality of Godhead”
Chapter 14: “Prayers Offered by Lord Brahma to Lord Krishna”
Bhaktivedanta Book Trust International

VAN DER SLOOT GETS 28 YEARS FOR MURDER IN PERU

2012-01-14T11:41:00.001-03:00

JORAN VAN DER SLOOT GIVEN 28 YEARS
PRISON FOR MURDER PERUVIAN WOMAN

Fox News - The self-confessed killer of Peruvian college student Stephany Flores was convicted of aggravated homicide and petty theft. The prosecution had requested a 30-year sentence, which was reduced to 28 years for having subjected himself to what is called an “anticipated conclusion,” whereby he declared himself guilty and accepted all charges put forth by the Public Ministry of Peru. He was also charged just over $74,000 in reparations. Van der Sloot’s sentence will conclude on June 10, 2038, after which he will be expelled from the country. Van der Sloot acted bored and disconnected during his two hearings, an attitude many interpreted as disrespectful to the court. During his plea, he said he “felt badly” and “regretted” what had happened. Asked if he accepted the sentence, Van der Sloot, standing in a green T-shirt and faded jeans in a hot Lima courtroom, said he would appeal.

Van der Sloot met Flores, 21, at a poker tournament in Lima the night before her murder. Her badly beaten, decomposing body was found in his hotel room two days later. The murder grabbed international attention because van der Sloot was already the only suspect in the presumed death of 19-year old Holloway, who vanished in Aruba. He was detained twice in Aruba, but released because of lack of evidence. He was never charged with the murder because Holloway’s body was never recovered. The Flores case, on the other hand, was loaded with a weight of evidence, and he admitted that he killed Stephany. Van der Sloot and Flores fought after returning to his hotel room to play on-line poker. It is said she received a message from someone who had been at the poker tournament, warning her of van der Sloot’s alleged murder of Holloway, so he reacted and brutally beaten and strangled Flores with a bloody shirt.

The 24-year-old Dutch national Joran van der Sloot was sentenced to 28 years in a Peruvian prison for the 2010 qualified murder and robbery of 21-year-old Stephany Flores. He was in Lima for a poker tournament, where he found himself on a losing streak. The professional poker player lured the young woman to his hotel room for a game of online poker, then he reacted with rage and beat her to death. The Mahabharata states that gambling is one the vices which lead to a man’s downfall.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Gambling opens the door to all types of deceit. Whoever doesn’t dedicate his life to gambling understands that all work and each responsibility have its own fruit. To gamble means not to know why one is living. Responsibility and honesty get lost simultaneously when playing with money. The illusion of betting is that one can win something good, effortlessly. The idea of good luck contradicts the law of karma. Time that is lost in gambling should be devoted to improving family relationships, because the family is our best treasure. One has no right to put others in anxiety; the well-being of one’s beloved family is at risk. No one will find blessedness in games of chance, nor in material gain.

House of Wisdom :
“Gambling - The real fortune is inside of you”
http://www.houseofwisdom.org/english/index.html
http://www.houseofwisdom.org/english/advices_society_realfortune.htm

VIDEO OF MARINES DRAWS U.S. CONDEMNATION

2012-01-13T10:46:00.000-03:00

MARINES GUILTY OF SHOCKING
ACT AGAINST TALIBAN IDENTIFIED

Washington (Washington Post) - The Obama administration on Thursday strongly condemned a viral video that depicts Marines desecrating corpses as U.S. officials tried to prevent a popular backlash in Afghanistan and forestall damage to nascent peace talks with the Taliban.

As the images of Marines urinating on three bloodied bodies circulated around the globe, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta denounced the video as “utterly deplorable” and called Afghan President Hamid Karzai to assure him that the incident would be thoroughly investigated. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton expressed “total dismay” at the apparent behavior by Marines.

“Actions like those are not only illegal but are contrary to the values of a professional military and serve to erode the reputation of our joint force”, said Gen Martin Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The video, which runs for less than a minute, depicts four Marines in combat gear laughing and joking as they urinate on three male bodies lined up on the ground next to a toppled wheelbarrow. The caption refers to the corpses as “dead Talibans,” but it was unclear whether they were civilians or fighters killed after a battle. A Marine official said investigators were questioning two individuals whom they had preliminarily identified as being in the video. The Marine Corps is “fairly confident” that all four were members of the 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines, the official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity.

Two of the soldiers appearing in a shocking video showing marines urinating on corpses of the Taliban militants have been identified. “This conduct is entirely inappropriate for the US military and does not reflect the standards of values our armed forces are sworn to uphold,” Defence Secretary Leon Panetta said in a statement. This apparent desecration of the dead is an immoral behavior that goes against military code of conduct and should be internationally repudiated.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

The prime protector of the citizens in the Sanskrit language is called a Kshatriya. This word means warrior, but primarily as one who protects people from kshat or unhappiness. Such a Kshatriya is said to display the characteristics of bravery, courage, vigilance, charity, the ability to display his prowess, and not retreating from battle. (Mb. 6.42.43) Kshatriyas should take up their weapons only to protect others, such as individuals and the community at large. (Ramayana 3.10.3) A Kshatriya must exhibit the appropriate conduct toward his subordinates. He can exercise control of the other classes in society and is thus called a statesman. He thus must exhibit impartiality in executing his duties without favoritism or disdain toward anyone. He must have consideration for the benefit of all.

Dr Stephen Knapp (Śrīpad Nandanandana dasa) :
“Purpose and Function of Government
According to Mahabharata”
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/purpose_of_government_according_to_mahabharata.htm
http://stephenknapp.wordpress.com/2009/06/30/purpose-and-function-of-government-according-to-mahabharata/

INTERFAITH PANEL OFFERED BY JEWISH FEDERATION

2012-01-12T12:13:00.001-03:00

HAVDALLAH, COMMUNITY DINNER
AND INTERFAITH PANEL DISCUSSION

www.chattanoogan.com - The Jewish Federation from Chattanooga city in the US state of Tennessee will host a Havdallah, a community dinner, and an interfaith panel discussion on life and the afterlife on Saturday, Jan. 21, at 7 p.m. at the Jewish Cultural Center, 5461 North Terrace Road. The evening will begin with Havdallah, a very short ceremony that marks the symbolic end of the Sabbath (Shabbat in Hebrew) and/or religious holidays. Havdallah ushers in the new week and during the ceremony, individuals use all five senses, tasting wine, smell spices, seeing and feeling the flame of a special braided candle, and hearing special Havdallah blessings. Following the ceremony and a community dinner, members of an interfaith panel will present how each of his religions deal with life and the afterlife.

Each of the members of the interfaith panel will exhibit each religion’s view by answering the following questions: - How does his faith define/interpret the word, “heaven?” - How does his faith define/interpret the word, “hell?” - What are the views/beliefs/understandings of his faith regarding sin? - What are the views/beliefs/understandings of his faith regarding reward and punishment? The evening will conclude with a facilitated question-and-answer session with the audience. Members of the panel include Rabbi Bill Tepper (Mizpah Congregation), Imam Plemon ElAmin (representing the Muslim community), Father Stavros Ballas (Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church), and Reggie Lisemby (Brainerd Baptist Church).

The Jewish Cultural Center at Chattanooga, USA, offers classes and exhibits rooted in Jewish values; however, all programs are open to everyone regardless of religious affiliation. In a world of constant struggle between religions, this interfaith panel discussion is a right path towards mutual understanding. Besides, the rapid rise of fundamentalism threatens the religious freedom for all of us. That is why interfaith dialogue is more important now than ever.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

The purpose of Interfaith is to create an understanding about the other systems and their rudimentary values to enforce mutual respect, even though not reverence … Due to continuous engagement in scientific and economic pursuits, west has lost its immunity in self and social control, which has made it the first and the worst vulnerable region for ethical degradation. ... In the present context of Interfaith, cultural exchange, in its level-headed way, can tremendously lubricate collective survival mechanism. Festivals and art forms of every faith and system are to be demonstrated with their essential messages, so that it can kindle involvement in their own people and others. This get together shatters the cloud of selfishness and egoism, thereby binding everybody with inborn love.

Śrīla S.A.R. Prasanna Venkatachariar Chaturvedi Swamy :
Acarya of Ramanuja Sampradaya
“International Conference on Interfaith”
“Culture, Philosophy, Literature and Religion”
http://saranagathi.org/blogs/members/chaturvedi
http://www.sriramanujamissiontrust.org

WORLD TICKS CLOSER TO ‘DOOMSDAY’

2012-01-11T13:19:00.006-03:00

DOOMSDAY CLOCK MOVES ONE
MINUTE CLOSER TO CATASTROPHE

www.news.cnet.com - The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists announced Tuesday that it has moved its “Doomsday Clock” to five minutes to midnight. The group says inadequate progress on stopping the spread of nuclear weapons and continuing inaction on climate change are the reasons for the move. The clock had been set at six minutes to midnight for the past two years. It previously was set at five minutes to midnight from 2007-2010. “It is five minutes to midnight. Two years ago, it appeared that world leaders might address the truly global threats that we face. In many cases, that trend has not continued or been reversed. For that reason, the BAS is moving the clock hand one minute closer to midnight, back to its time in 2007.”

In pushing the hypothetical hands of time one minute closer to our proverbial destruction, the BAS blamed the lack of progress in reducing nuclear arms and addressing the issue of climate change. The group says in a statement that two years ago, there was reason for optimism “that world leaders might address the truly global threats we face. In many cases, that trend has not continued or been reversed.” “The world still has over 19,000 nuclear weapons, enough power to destroy the world’s inhabitants several times over,” said Jayantha Dhanapala. Further, the world has fallen behind in adopting climate change agreements designed to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by requiring coal producers to capture their CO2 and encouraging the world to invest more heavily in alternative energy sources, such as solar and wind power.

The Doomsday Clock, which represents just how close the world is to a global catastrophe, has been moved closer to midnight (destruction) due to the proliferation of nuclear weapons and continuing inaction on climate change. Unless societies begin building alternatives to carbon-emitting energy technologies, the world is doomed to a warmer climate, harsher weather, droughts, famine, water scarcity, rising sea levels, loss of island nations, and increasing ocean acidification.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

It is practical, to destroy the water, to destroy the air, to destroy the ground, with pollution, nuclear waste, very realistic is it not? ... What is the cause of all these problems? One thing. There is one cause for all of these problems in the world if you examine properly: People are discontent. The more they have, the more discontent they become. ... The scientists and the technologists are thinking, if only we can make a very, very luxurious type of lifestyle, then everyone will be content. Now we have our big skyscrapers and people are jumping off to commit suicide. Now we have our big, big airplanes and the terrorists are putting their bombs in them. We have our rocket ships and they are exploding in mid air. Spending billions of dollars of tax payer’s money, for what, looking for some contentment, some peace in life. Who has found it?

Śrīla Radhanath Swami Mahārāja :
Class on Śrīmad Bhāgavatam 8.19.21
“Vamandev Begs Forgiveness from Bali Maharaj”
http://www.radhanathmaharaj.net/content/vamandev-begs-forgiveness-bali-maharaj-radhanath-swami
http://www.radhanath-swami.net/ - http://radhanathswami.info/

WHAT MYSTIFIES DR. HAWKING? WOMEN

2012-01-10T16:43:00.000-03:00

ONE LAST MYSTERY FOR PROF
STEPHEN HAWKING: WOMEN

msnbc.com - As famed physicist Stephen Hawking turns 70, the subject that most occupies his thoughts is not how the universe arose from nothing, or how he’s been able to live with neurodegenerative disease for so long. Here’s what he thinks about most: “Women. They are a complete mystery.” That’s the bottom line from New Scientist’s interview with Hawking, timed to coincide with this weekend’s birthday celebration at Cambridge. The theorist is almost completely paralyzed due to his decades-long struggle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, and had to provide his answers by laboriously twitching his cheek to operate a computerized speech-translation system.

But it’s his brief comment on women that attracted the most attention: How could it be that a scientist who has plumbed the deepest mysteries of the cosmos finds himself mystified by women? Like the real-life Einstein, Hawking has had an active romantic life, marked by two marriages. (Einstein’s second marriage ended with the death of his wife and cousin Elsa; Hawking’s ended in an ugly divorce.) Hawking’s disease does not affect his sexual ability or his potency, and the fact that he’s fathered three children is evidence of that. Even as he approaches the age of 70, Hawking seems to have kept his playful, pleasant, mischievous character. That may help explain his latest comment about the mystique surrounding women, as well as his own mystique.

He may be one of the world’s most eminent scientists, but one thing remains a mystery to Professor Stephen Hawking - women. When asked what he thinks most about during the day the physicist, who has recently turned 70, said: “Women. They are a complete mystery.” Prof Hawking made his comment about women in an interview with New Scientist. Originally, family system in Hindu society protected women. They always knew that someone loved and cared for them.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

In the Hindu scripture Manu Shastra, it is recommended that a woman always remain under the protection of a man. As a child, she may be under the supervision of her father; after marriage, her husband may protect her; and if she becomes widow, she must live with her son. This has been resisted by some as a sign of weakness and inferiority of women, but such a practice may also provide much-needed security for weak and vulnerable females - this was especially so in the ancient times, when hard manual work was required for daily existence. ... Women were considered too precious and too vulnerable to be left alone. Even today, Hindu society generally abhors the idea of women living on their own. Yet the tragic reality is that the injustices and humiliations of both the lower caste and the female sex did continue for thousands of years - human weakness prevailed.

Dr. Hiro Badlani:
“Hinduism - Path of the Ancient Wisdom”
Chapter 9: “Vedas through the Passage of Time”
http://hinduismpath.com/
http://hinduismpath.com/book-contents/chapter-9/

ANOTHER TEENAGER CYBERBULLIED TO DEATH

2012-01-09T11:25:00.006-03:00

BULLIED TEEN GIRL KILLED
BY BUS HOLDING SUICIDE NOTE

www.examiner.com - On January 6, 2012, mourners flocked to St. Ann’s Church to pay final respects to 15-year-old Amanda Diane Cummings. According to relatives, she was a popular girl bullied by a group of mean girls at high school. While some family members knew she was being tormented, the bullying was not reported to school officials at the teen’s urging.
After a recent breakup with a boyfriend and constant bullying, the pretty high school sophomore walked into the path of an oncoming city bus at about 7:30 P.M. on December 27, 2011. According to reports, a suicide note was found on her person. She succumbed to her injuries six days after the incident, on January 2, 2012.

While friends and family say she was kind to everyone and always had a smile on her face, hundreds of hurtful and hateful messages and images continued to be posted on her Facebook page not only while she was alive, but while she was in a coma fighting for her life and even they are still being published after her death! Like traditional bullying, cyberbullying is a serious issue that can result in low self-esteem, anger, depression, absenteeism, bad grades and as in this case, suicide. As electronic bullying continues to increase, perhaps more states will finally enact tough anti-bullying laws that will protect children from online and offline bullies? It was reported in 2010 that one out of five middle-school students claim that they were victims of cyber bullying in the USA.

Amanda Cummings, 15, died after being struck by a bus as she was carrying a suicide note. She was a sophomore at High School, where she was being bullied by her classmates. The bullies were posting inappropriate and cruel things on her Facebook wall, even while she was in the hospital. Cyber bullying is a great danger if social networking sites turn into areas for insults and taunts. Sometimes an intense hatred awakes in the soul, so we see others as enemies and we want to see them suffering.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Attracted to maya, the soul becomes bewildered. Then he is not attracted to pure spirit. ‘It is ‘I’ and ‘It is mine’ are the two conceptions maya thrusts upon the soul. Then the soul thinks, ‘This material body is mine’ and ‘I am this body’. In this condition the soul loves persons who bring pleasure to his material body and hates persons who thwart the bringing of pleasure to his material body. Thus the bewildered soul becomes a slave of love and hatred. The bewildered soul thinks others are either his friends or his enemies in three ways: 1. saririla (in relation to material bodies), 2. samajika (in relation to society and social groups), and 3. naitika (in the context of ideas). That condition of life is called samsara (enslavement in the world of repeated birth and death).

Śrīla Saccidananda Bhaktivinoda Thākura :
“Jaiva-dharma” (The Universal Religion)
Chapter Three: Naimittik Dharma Asampurna, Heya, Misra O Acirasthayi
http://bvml.org/SBTP/index.htm
http://bvml.org/SBTP/JD/index.html#3

SRILA BHAKTI KUMUD SANT MAHARAJ´S DEPARTURE

2012-01-08T11:15:00.002-03:00

ONE MORE STAR OF THE GAUDIYA
SKY FADED FROM MUNDANE SIGHT

www.sreecgmath.org - Most Revered Siksha Guru Sri Srimad Bhakti Kumud Sant Goswami Maharaj leaves His dear disciples, associates and followers in separation grief yesterday. This is a great loss not only to the Gaudiya Vaishnavas but to the entire world. He took His last breath at 1.05 AM IST yesterday in a private nursing home. Earlier Srila Maharaj was admitted to the hospital as He had problem in respiration due to severe cold few days ago. Doctors also diagnosed that He had fever, sugar and liver problem. These external things just became apparent cause but ultimately it was His desire to be part of the mid-night eternal pastimes of the Lord.

He is the last disciple of Nitya-lila Pravista Om Vishnupad 108 Sri Srimad Bhakti Siddhanta Saraswati Goswami Thakur Prabhupad, the Founder of world-wide Sri Chaitanya Math, Sri Gaudiya Math and Sri Gaudiya Missions to leave this planet.

At 9.45 AM IST Srila Maharaj’s transcendental body was brought to the Math in Behala, Kolkata and was placed in front of the Deities. He was performed Arati, Pushpanjali. Countless devotees of various organizations visited the math and offered flowers to His body. Later He was shifted to the bhajan kutir in the 2nd floor where devotees stood in queue to get their turn to have darsan of His transcendental body.
The grief of the devotees cannot be phrased and expressed in any language of the world.

His service to the Vaishnava literature is also worth, with His books like “Samlape Shiksha”, “Patre Upadesh”, “Geeta Siddhant Sar”, “Sant Vani”, “Sri Gauranga Mahaprabhur Jiveni”, “Sadhan Kan”, “Damodar Vrat Mahatmya”, “Bhakti Geeti” and “Diksha” which have been casting divine light on the royal path of pure devotion.

One of the brightest stars in the Gaudiya sky, Srila Bhakti Kumud Santa Goswami Maharaj took His last breath yesterday in a private nursing home in Calcuta, India. His transcendental body will be taken to Narma near Medinipur where He appeared. From there He would be taken to Sri Chaitanya Ashram in Kharagpur. Later He would be taken to Keshiari where He established Sri Gauranga Math and the final samadhi will take place there. Santa Maharaja’s glories will be heard all over.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Srila Santa Maharaja was an outstanding preacher through his life. He was very dear to his godbrothers and to his Spiritual Master. Srila Santa Maharaja left the world in Calcutta where he had spending the last years in his bed, deeply absorbed in the welfare of all living entities. Despite of his state of being absent minded from the mundane affairs, he still received thousands of visitors and even initiated many new sannyasis into the preaching invitation his gurudeva made to the whole world. … Srila Bhakti Kumud Santa Maharaja has established many beautiful mandirs in India and also traveled around the world preaching the glories of Lord Caitanya in England, Germany and USA. … He joined Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur Prabhupada’s Mission when he was still a young boy and, as he told me personally, Srila Bhakti Pramode Puri Maharaja had been a tutor for him in his early stages of math’s life.

Śrīla Bhakti Aloka Paramadvaiti Mahārāja :
“Srila Bhakti Kumud Santa Maharaja”
VINA - Vaishnava Internet News Agency
Sunday, January 8, 2012
http://vinacc.blogspot.com/2012/01/srila-bhakti-kumud-santa-maharaja-by.html
http://harekrishnaworldnews.blogspot.com/2012/01/srila-bhakti-kumud-santa-maharajas.html

THE INFLUENTIAL UK VEGETARIAN SOCIETY

2012-01-07T09:38:00.001-03:00

THE VEGETARIAN SOCIETY, ATTRACTS
VISITORS FROM ALL OVER ENGLAND

UK (messengernewspapers) - A Victorian mansion just off leafy Dunham Road in Altrincham is home to an organisation whose appeal is so far and wide, it gets more hits on its website from overseas than it does at home (England). It is the Vegetarian Society - a 165-year-old charity which has always had its roots in Manchester since forming in 1847, but has been in its current home for the past 43 years. The society’s patrons include the doyen of vegetarian cookery Rose Elliot and Paul, Stella and Mary McCartney. It employs 30 staff - none of whom eat meat - and has an annual turnover of 1.3 million pounds sterling (US$ 2 million). “There are vegetarian societies all over the continent, but we’re the oldest and the biggest,” said CEO Dr Jon Green.

“We’re an educational charity and make information available so people constantly contact us asking for advice. We don’t preach to people, that would be counter-productive. I personally believe the world would be a better place if we didn’t eat meat - but our role is to show what it means to be vegetarian, how to eat vegetarian food and how great it is to eat as a vegetarian.” As well as receiving funding from all the usual sources such as membership and legacies, it also receives a fee for underwriting vegetarian cuisine in supermarkets - you will find the logo on 8,000 products. Today there are two million vegetarians in the UK, with the society having 12,000 members. 75 % of those members are women and most - according to a recent survey - cite animal welfare as the main reason for abstaining from eating meat.

“Vegetarianism was a bit different back in the 1800s as people’s religious views played a part as well as concern for animal welfare, health and the environment. However, the basic principles are the same today - eating as a vegetarian is good for us and the environment and causes minimal damage to the animals we share the planet with,” said CEO Dr Jon Green from The Vegetarian Society, in Altrincham England.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Until around the mid-twentieth century, most of us were taught that meat contains essential amino acids that could not be obtained in vegetarian foods. It was thus implied that a vegetarian diet was inferior and incomplete. But now the tables have turned - without any controversy, medical opinion now favors a vegetarian diet. Meat is often considered a relatively toxic substance for human consumption. Health authorities worldwide agree that heart attacks, cancers, and many other diseases are more prevalent in the meat-eating population than in the vegetarian population. ... Vegetarian food is considered a complete diet, especially if there are sufficient dairy products and nutrient foods like soya in the diet.

Dr. Hiro Badlani:
“Hinduism - Path of the Ancient Wisdom”
Chapter 48: “Vegetarianism”
“The Compassionate Way of Living”
http://hinduismpath.com/
http://hinduismpath.com/book-contents/chapter-48/

THE 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS AND EPIPHANY

2012-01-06T09:37:00.001-03:00

THE 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
ENDS ON THREE KINGS DAY

www.examiner.com - On January 6, many religious people still celebrate the Epiphany or Three Kings Day which is the 12th day of Christmas. This is the day in which the biblical three wise men reached baby Jesus, Mother Mary and earthly father, Joseph, in the Bethlehem manger. Epiphany is the climax of the Advent/Christmas Season and the Twelve Days of Christmas, which are usually counted from the evening of December 25th until the morning of January 6th. The essence of Epiphany is the revealing of God to the Gentiles. In the incarnation, God's light shines on all persons and all nations. Today, is no ordinary day, but the day baby Jesus was visited by three kings bearing gifts to the newborn King; the gifts were Frankincense, Myrrh, and Gold. The three kings, Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthasar follow the star which appeared in the night sky not knowing where this journey would take them. During their travels they encounter danger and many difficulties along the way.

The three kings discover that they must each give up what they hold most dear. The star leads the Magi to a shelter house for animals in the town of Betlehem in Judea. There they find the newborn King, baby Jesus, lying on straw in a manger. They return home joyful and eager to share the truth with others. This is the story of the Epiphany.
The term epiphany means "to show" or "to make known" or "to reveal." These 12 days give us time to meditate on the true meaning of Christmas and give thanks for the blessings that the holiday season brings. It is a time to reflect on Christmas memories of family, children, traditions, holiday foods, and special gifts. There is something special about a lit-up Christmas tree in an otherwise darkened room, while pondering the wonder of our Lord Jesus Christ born in a manger.

Today, January 6, is Epiphany also known as Three Kings Day. The ‘12 Days of Christmas’ you have heard sung about in Christmas songs are commonly known as the days that it took for the three wise men to travel to see the baby Jesus and presented Him with gifts: gold, frankincense and myrrh. In this story there is a clear parallel to baby Krishna who was also presented with gifts that included sandalwood and perfumes - about three thousand years earlier in Vrindavana, India.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

The native land of the three saints has frequently been placed in the Arabian area or, as the attribute of origin ‘from the East’ rather leads one to expect, in the Indo-Iranian region. The Indian thesis of their origin is nowadays steadily gaining adherents. ... But where did the Magi come from? What is East, seen from Jerusalem? ... It was perfectly natural for the rishis from India offer the traditional gifts of gold, incense and myrrh.” Vedic custom is to offer presents to a newly born child. See SB 10.5.10, etc. Later, during anna-prasana samskara (rite of passage, “first grains”) at six months of age, children are offered various items like rice, gold, coins and books to choose from and thus show their inclinations in future life.

Vedic Knowledge Online - Vedic Connections
“Ancient Vedic World - Christianity”
“3 Wise Men of Bible were from India”
http://www.veda.harekrsna.cz
http://www.veda.harekrsna.cz/connections/Christianity.php#6

TAPPING SPIRITUALITY TO RESET CORPORATE GOALS

2012-01-05T12:29:00.001-03:00

MANAGEMENT EXPERTS TO HOLD
SPIRITUAL MEETING IN BANGALORE

www.dnaindia.com - The global economic meltdown, for which corporate greed in the developed world is blamed, seems to be prompting management experts to bank on spirituality to reset goals for businesses. More than 100 management experts from about 60 countries will meet in Bangalore next week to “address for the first time (in India) the spiritual side of corporate management,” Ramnath Narayanswamy, economics professor at the Indian Institute of Management-Bangalore (IIM-B), has said. The management experts and practitioners will be attending the three-day conference, titled The International Spirituality Conference, which starts on January 9. IIM-B and the Journal of Management, Spirituality and Religion (JMSR) are organising the programme.

Narayanswamy and Yochanan Altman, professor of management and JMSR founding-editor, are the conference directors. The conference is supported by BEM Bordeaux Management School, France, the Institute of Labor Studies, Barcelona, and the Business and Design Lab of the University of Gothenburg, Sweden. On the role of spirituality in management, the JMSR says: “The remarkable explosion of scholarship in the field of management, business, organisations and work provides the opportunity for more specialised interest areas.” “Two areas whose time has come are that of spirituality and religion, and their role in shaping organisations,” the journal said. The Bangalore gathering is the second such conference after the one held in Vienna in December 2010.

The conference will discuss the role management plays in shaping an organisation’s decision-making models and managing resources efficiently in the context of spirituality and religion. ‘Spirituality is intimately connected with ‘purpose’ and ‘meaning’, not so much ‘religion’, and corporate work can be fulfilling if steeped with purpose. Meanwhile there is also an urgent need for businesses to be ethical, inclusive, compassionate and moral,’ Narayanswamy said.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

In Vedic times, it used to be the intellectuals who understood spiritual knowledge and the Absolute Truth, and had direct experience of it. Such people had the practical knowledge to give direction and bring stability to society; to give society a brain. A brainless society is without real direction. In such a society, everyone works in any way possible for economic development, acquiring whatever superficial prizes and heights that mean the most, while being ignorant of the true goal of life. ... This is the materialistic form of consciousness. This easily leads to activities that may pollute the earth and its atmosphere, not only environmentally but also morally, economically, politically, and in so many other ways. ... Thus, in some way, the whole world becomes affected.

Dr Stephen Knapp (Śrīpad Nandanandana dasa) :
“The Vedic Prophecies”
Chapter 3: “The Beginning of Kali-yuga”
“The Basic Pattern of Events for the Future in Kali-yuga”
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/vedic_prophecies.htm

MERCURY AMALGAM: ENVIRONMENTAL POISONING

2012-01-04T08:35:00.003-03:00

GOLD RUSH IN PERU LEADS TO
MERCURY CONTAMINATION CONCERNS

www.pbs.org - In collaboration with the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting, PBS special correspondent in Peru, Steve Sapienza, reports about environmental concerns over mercury contamination at extensive gold mining operations in the remote regions of the Peruvian Amazon. Sapienza says: “Recent spikes in gold prices have lured 10 to 15 million people worldwide into the business of small-scale gold mining. But rising global demand for gold has also fueled demand for a far less prized metal, mercury. The toxic metal is used by millions of miners every day to separate and collect gold from rocks and soil. Miners say mercury is easy to use, readily available, and cheap. The United Nations Environment Program estimates that small-scale miners use up to 1,350 tons of mercury each year, making it the single largest use of mercury worldwide. In south-eastern Peru, the gold rush has attracted some 20,000 small scale miners to the pristine rain forest and rivers of the Madre de Dios region.”

“The devastation caused by widespread mining is easy to spot, with huge swathes of the forest turned to barren desert, but the damage caused by the heavy use of mercury is harder to detect. Mercury from small-scale mines travels widely, settling in sediments and moving up the food chain into fish, fish-eating wildlife and humans. Scientists and medical researchers only recently started to measure the impact of mercury here. Mota is a very popular fish around the region. You will find it on a lot of dinner tables, a lot of restaurant menus. This fish is at the top of its food chain. And what that means is it consumes a lot of smaller fish. And a lot of these small fish have mercury in them. And through a process known as biomagnification, this fish accumulates a lot of mercury. In fact, if a person consumes two servings of this fish per week, they’re getting seven-and-a-half times the safe limit of mercury, according to the World Health Organization,” Sapienza explains.

Gold-mining operations in remote regions of the Peruvian Amazon have stirred major environmental and health concerns over mercury contamination in fish, fish-eating wildlife and humans. Miners mix the soil with mercury, often using their hands and feet, creating a clump of amalgam that contains gold. And yet most miners are unaware of the dangers posed by mercury to the environment and to their own health. We are part of the earth, and she is part of us, so we should live a natural life.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

The biological well-being of our Mother Earth, along with the character of mankind, are becoming ruined by the materialistic way of life. Still, as the current residents of this planet, we are the ones responsible for establishing solutions for the future. ... Humanity has tried everything in the last few thousand years. Every economic and political system, as well as the industrialized, technological information age has failed to improve the human character and create a just environment. ... Change is unavoidable. We always want to be progressive and successful. Now is our last chance to do the right thing. In theory it is easy. Accept a spiritual way of life which does not allow those who follow this path to do any harm to others.

Śrīla Bhakti Aloka Paramadvaiti Mahārāja :
“Vaishnava Ecology”
http://www.vrindanews.com/wisdoms/index.html
http://www.vrindavan.org/English/about/VaishnavaEcology.html

LET A CLEAN YAMUNA FLOW INTO BRAJ

2012-01-03T11:01:00.002-03:00

FIGHT FOR THE YAMUNA RIVER
REACHES INDIAN PARLIAMENT

Delhi (ISKCON News) - After a whole year of active protesting and lobbying by sadhus, devotees, and environmentalists, it looks like the fight for the Yamuna River is finally reaching its peak, with the issue snowballing its way into Indian Parliament on December 18th. Major TV stations in India broadcast a heated three-hour debate in which fifteen to twenty members of Parliament challenged the government as to what it was going to do about the sacred river, declared ‘dead’ by the Ecological Department of India. The outraged politicians included former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav. There’s been widespread public anger for the past year due to the fact that while the Yamuna emerges clean from Yamunotri, its source in the Himalayas, there is barely a drop of the original sacred river left by the time it reaches Braj, Lord Krishna’s birthplace.

That’s because eighty-five per cent of it is held back by an irrigation dam in the state of Haryana, while 3.6 billion liters of Delhi City sewage and industrial waste is emptied into it every day. Back on April 15th this year, one thousand protestors finished a month-and-a-half long march at the common protest ground of Jantar Mantar in Delhi, where they were joined by another 19,000, some of whom went on a six-day hunger strike to get the government’s attention. The protest was led by sadhu and environmentalist Ramesh Babaji and members of his Maan Mandir organization; Bhanu Pratap Singh, head of the 100,000 strong Bhartiya Kisan Farmer’s Union; and ISKCON devotee and businessman Radha Jivan Dasa. Now, with Parliament finally taking notice of the issue, worshippers of Yamuna Maharani are seizing the opportunity with both hands and can be able to save Lord Krisna’s beloved river.

What flows by the name of “Yamuna Ji” in Braj-Vrindavan today is none but the sewage of Delhi drain and other polluted drains. The protestors have a clear demand: Let a clean Yamuna flow into Braj. They are requesting Delhi to build a 22 kilometer canal for its waste, which can then be cleaned for irrigation, rather than using the Yamuna. Million of pilgrims take their holy sip and dip in this “water” and Braj’s Deities are being bathed with it; so, if you agree with this protest, please sign "Save Yamuna Petition" here : http://www.saveyamuna.org/sign-yamuna-petition

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Many of the Lord’s transcendental, spiritual activities relate to water. ... Sometimes a flood devastates the universe, and Krishna assumes the form of a golden fish to play in the water. Tied to a horn on His head is a boat carrying sages, Vedic knowledge, and seeds to replenish the world after the flood. During this pastime, Krishna enjoys His play within the water as well as His loving relationship with the great sages. Krishna in His original form often sports in water with His friends and beloveds. For His water pastimes He chooses rivers such as the Ganges and Yamuna, who are also goddesses pure in love for Him. Krishna also plays in lakes and ponds filled with lotuses and swans and surrounded by jeweled pavilions. These bodies of water are persons, devotees of His, alive with love and bliss.

Śrīmati Urmila devi dasi :
“Water - A Meditation”
“Water Pastimes” - July/August 2008
http://urmila.me.uk/
http://www.krishna.com/water-meditation

TORTURED AFGHAN GIRL TO GO TO INDIA FOR TREATMENT

2012-01-02T10:50:00.003-03:00

15-YEAR-OLD TORTURED AFGHAN GIRL
SENT TO INDIA FOR MEDICAL TREATMENT

Kabul (AP) - A 15-year-old Afghan girl severely tortured for months by her in-laws in an attempt to force her into prostitution will be sent to India for medical treatment. Sahar Gul’s mother-in-law and sister-in-law were arrested and her husband was being sought, an Afghan official said Tuesday. The case has shocked Afghanistan, though rights activists say serious abuses against women and girls in the conservative society are common. President Hamid Karzai has said that whoever used violence against Gul will be punished. According to officials in north-eastern Baghlan province, the in-laws kept Gul in a basement for six months, ripped her fingernails out, tortured her with hot irons and broke her fingers. Police freed her last week from a basement at her husband’s home last week after her uncle called the local police.

“Her nails were pulled out, she has injuries in all parts of her body, there are signs of burning on her body, she was suffering from different kinds of injuries,” spokesman for the provincial police chief said. Her mother-in-law and other members of the family were reportedly involved in what he described as “criminal activities,” which he said included selling alcohol and prostitution.
According to reports, “they tried to force her into prostitution and she did not agree. This was one of the reasons that they detained her in the basement for six months,” the spokesman said. The public health and women's affairs ministers visited Gul at the hospital. Women's rights in Afghanistan remain a problem area in a country with a strict patriarchal culture.

A 15-year-old Afghan girl, Sahar Gul, was brutally tortured by her husband’s family. She was burned with cigarettes and had chunks of her flesh cut out with pliers in an attempt to force her into prostitution. Running away from an abusive husband or a forced marriage are considered ‘moral crimes,’ for which women are now imprisoned in Afghanistan. This is one of the worst cases of violence against Afghan women. All women are mothers, ill-treatment to women is great disrespect to Lakshmi Devi.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Goddess Lakshmi is the consort and shakti, or potency, of Lord Vishnu. Lakshmi, or Sri when she is especially known as the goddess of beauty (though sometimes considered to be separate entities), is the Goddess of fortune, wealth, power, and loveliness. Wealth means not only money, but also the higher values and qualities of life. The power of the mind and intellect is also a must if one wants to be truly wealthy, which includes spiritual wealth. ... As the spouse of Lord Vishnu, she appears whenever He does in each of His appearances, such as Vamana, Parashurama, Rama, or Krishna. In each of these appearances, she appeared as Padma or Kamala, Dharani, Sita, and Rukmini respectively. They are inseparable.

Dr Stephen Knapp (Śrīpad Nandanandana dasa) :
“Lakshmi, The Goddess of Fortune”
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/lakshmi_goddess_of_fortune.htm

GREAT CELEBRATIONS TO WELCOME 2012

2012-01-01T03:13:00.001-03:00

TO WELCOME NEW YEAR 2012
CELEBRATIONS AROUND THE WORLD

http://www.bbc.co.uk - A multi-million dollar firework display heralded in the New Year in Sydney, while the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, was illuminated in colours in a similar display in Dubai. Celebrations have also been taking place in Europe, with crowds gathering in many cities to count down to 2012. In London, around 250,000 gathered to watch fireworks over the River Thames. Revellers in Spain greeted the New Year by eating 12 grapes in time with the chimes at Madrid’s central Puerta del Sol clock in a national tradition, while hundreds of thousands partied in Berlin to live music in the landmark Brandenburg Gate. In Tokyo, people released helium balloons in front of the Tokyo Tower at midnight with notes attached listing their hopes for 2012.

Many wished for a better year, following the earthquake and tsunami that brought devastation to the north-east of Japan in 2011. A downbeat tone was reflected in the new year’s message of German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who said 2012 would be more difficult than 2011, but hoped Europe’s debt crisis would bring its member states closer. In France, President Nicolas Sarkozy, issued a similar warning, but tried to remain upbeat. Thousands of people gathered in Red Square in Moscow to witness a firework display at midnight. In Madrid, thousands of people gathered at six indoor “macro-parties” the authorities had organised in big venues across the Spanish capital. In Brazil, revellers enjoy a fireworks display on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro, while hundreds of thousands gathered at New York’s Times Square for the ceremonial ball-dropping at midnight.

A New Year can be a time for new beginnings. New Year’s resolutions are one way to make changes in our life; however, proclaiming a resolution for the upcoming year is something many of us do but very few of us stick with. Some experts say resolutions are worth it if you make them realistic and have an action plan to stick with them. So, cheers to you and best wishes for a Happy New Year full of service to the Lord which will allow you to keep and renovate your vows.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

We use the pretext of the New Year to take new energy in the service, since the devotee is always renewing his vows. In fact, in each moment he does so, because frequently the mind proposes to him to leave his vows. Therefore there is continuous renovation of vows. This is a special moment that we use for singing more Hare Krishna. ... So now it is about having a heart. We still have not developed it yet, but Bhakti is for this. It is like people who go to the gym to develop muscles, or who go to the stock market to get more money, but we perform Bhakti to get more heart. Well, my greetings and my best wishes. A big hug to all of you, and thank you very much for being occupied in your service which bless my life and the whole world.

Śrīla Atulananda Ācārya :
“Resolutions for a New Year”
http://www.atulanandadas.cl/
http://vrindanews.com/chat/newyear.html

CHINESE FIND CANCER-CAUSING FUNGI IN FOOD

2011-12-31T10:32:00.001-03:00

NEW CHINA FOOD SAFETY SCANDAL
IN MILK, COOKING OIL AND PEANUTS

Shanghai (Reuters) - Chinese food safety regulators in the southern city of Shenzhen have found carcinogenic mildew in peanuts and cooking oil, the official Xinhua news agency reported on Friday. The cancer-causing substance, called aflatoxin, triggered public concern this week after milk giant Mengniu Dairy said last weekend its Sichuan plant had destroyed products found by a government quality watchdog to contain it. Aflatoxin occurs naturally in the environment and is produced by certain common types of fungi. It can cause severe liver damage, including liver cancer. Fungi and the aflatoxin they produce can infect crops before harvest or during harvesting and storage. The tainted crops then enter the foodchain either directly, or indirectly via animal feed, so milk, eggs, and meat can sometimes be contaminated with aflatoxins.

Xinhua reported that the Shenzhen market supervision bureau had said it found up to 4.3 times of the permitted level of aflatoxin in peanuts sold in two supermarkets and one frozen food store, and up to four times the allowed level of aflatoxin in cooking oil in four restaurants. On Thursday, food safety officials recalled cooking oil produced by three companies in the southern Guangdong province because they may contain excessive levels of aflatoxin. These incidents are the latest in a string of safety scandals to hit China’s food industry in recent years. In 2008, at least six children died and nearly 300 000 became ill in China from drinking powdered milk laced with melamine, an industrial chemical added to low-quality or diluted milk to give misleadingly high protein readings.

Chinese authorities have detected a cancer-causing toxin in peanuts and cooking oil that was only recently discovered in milk, in China’s latest food safety scandal. Fungi and the aflatoxin they produce can infect crops before harvest or storage. Aflatoxin can enter the foodchain via animal feed; so after animal consumption of tainted crops, milk, eggs, and meat can be contaminated with it. Despite so many risks, there are still people who wonder why it is not advisable to eat eggs and meat.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

The Gaudiya Vaisnava object to meat eating because they consider animal slaughter a merciless act. ... To the extent that one is involved in merciless acts, one will be checked from making significant spiritual progress. ... Eat simply. Eat to live; don’t live to eat. Bhagavad-gita teaches that a sattvic diet is best for spiritual life in general. Sattva refers to the quality of goodness, which is said to be illuminating. A sattvic diet is vegetarian, one that avoids overly spicy foods as well as onions and garlic, because these foods are said to excite passion (rajas). Meat, fish, and eggs are products of unnecessary violence and are considered unclean. Above all, one should eat in gratitude and service to God.

Śrīla Bhakti Vedanta Tripurari Mahārāja :
“When Invaders Destroy the Deity”
Śrī Caitanya Sanga - Vol. V, No. 24 - October 30, 2003
“Guru-Pranali and the Current of Spirituality”
Śrī Caitanya Sanga - Vol. V, No. 27 - December 7, 2003
http://swami.org/ - http://swami.org/pages/sanga/current.php

NEW NORTH KOREAN LEADER; SAME OLD HOSTILITIES

2011-12-30T10:43:00.001-03:00

NORTH KOREA’S NEW LEADERS
LASH OUT AT SOUTH KOREA AND ALLIES

Seoul (Reuters) - North Korea sounded a bellicose note in its first communication with the outside world since the death of leader Kim Jong-il, saying its confrontational stance against South Korea would not change and labeling its opponents “foolish.” Since Kim Jong-il died on December 17, the outside world has been watching to see whether his son Kim Jong-un, aged in his 20s, would stick to its hardline “military first” policies that have seen the isolated nation move closer to nuclear weapons capacity. “On this occasion, we solemnly declare with confidence that foolish politicians around the world, including the puppet forces in South Korea, should not expect any changes from us,” a broadcaster on state television said.

She was reading a statement from the National Defense Commission, the top body in the militarized and impoverished state under Kim Jong-il.In a break from the black mourning clothing worn since Kim Jong-il’s death, the broadcaster wore dark red clothes and almost shouted her defiant message. North Korea has a long history of using bellicose phrases against the South, especially since the conservative government of Lee Myung-bak took office in 2008 and ended a policy of engagement with the North. It has threatened to turn the South’s capital Seoul into a “sea of fire” on numerous occasions and repeated that rhetoric again on Friday. South Korea’s government did not formally respond to the comments from the North.

Many had hoped that North Korea would change their foreign policy with the rise of Kim Jong Un, but this message from North Korea’s powerful National Defense Commission show no flexibility: “The sea of bloody tears from our military and people will follow the puppet regime (South Korea’s government )until the end. The tears will turn into a sea of revengeful fire that burns everything.” Revenge and hatred are the kind of emotions that affect our present and future.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

The last thoughts determine the conditions and nature of the next birth. This is what the sages have said about the phenomenon of death. The last dominant thought in our mind at the time when we just drop off to sleep can often be the thought that dominates our mind the next morning. It is for this reason that we are advised to sing the Divine Names of God or hymns at the time of death in order to focus the attention of the dying person on holy and noble thoughts. It is needless to add that if the soul departs from the body with thoughts of anger, hatred, jealousy, worry and fear, or in a state of great mental turmoil, then such thoughts and agitation will be carried over and immediately experienced in that realm also.

Dr Stephen Knapp (Śrīpad Nandanandana dasa) :
“Curing Depression with Spirituality”
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/curing_depression_with_spirituality.htm

RUSSIAN COURT REFUSES BAN TRANSLATION OF BHAGAVAD GITA

2011-12-29T11:07:00.001-03:00

COURT REFUSES BAN BHAGVAD GITA
FOLLOWERS CHEER ACROSS THE WORLD

Moscow (TOI) - A Russian court yesterday rejected a petition, described by India as “patently absurd”, which had sought a ban on a translated version of Bhagvad Gita, bringing cheers to followers here as well as those across the world. “We have won the case. The judge has rejected the petition,” Sadhu Priya Das of ISKCON, Moscow, who is also Chairman of newly formed Hindu Council of Russia, told PTI. External Affairs Minister S M Krishna welcomed the judgement and thanked the Russian government for its support. ISKCON members have alleged that the Russian Orthodox Church was behind the court case as it wanted to limit their activities. Prosecutors in the Siberian city of Tomsk had argued that the Russian translation of “Bhagavad Gita As It Is” promotes “social discord” and hatred towards non-believers.

The text is a combination of the Bhagvad Gita, one of Hinduism’s holiest scriptures, and commentary by A C Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, that is commonly known as the Hare Krishna movement, ISKCON. The prosecutors had asked the court to include the book on the Russian Federal List of Extremist Materials, which bans more than 1,000 texts including Adolf Hitler’s “Mein Kampf” and books distributed by the Jehovah’s Witness and Scientology movements. Speaking in Parliament, Krishna had said the lawsuit was the work of “ignorant and misdirected or motivated individuals.” He also called the complaint “patently absurd”. The judge, after reviewing the petition from the state prosecutors and the responses against it, dismissed the plea.

A Russian court on Wednesday rejected prosecutors’ calls to ban a translated version of Bhagavad Gita written by A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada entitled “As It Is”. This case had created a diplomatic stress point for India and Russia and provoked protests all over the world. Instead of the Bhagavad Gita, it should ban smoking, liquor, drugs, abortion, gambling and consumption of meat that does so much damage, not only to animals but to the environment.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Contrary to what the Russian government’s spokesperson has to say, what the court is objecting to is not Prabhupada’s commentary but the Bhagavad Gita itself. I do agree that there is a difference in the Christian and ISKCON conception of God, I understand the court has a problem with terms such as ‘demons’ for asuras and ‘fools’ for mudhas but Russians are philosophical by nature, with a high level of receptivity. They seek answers to what is the meaning of life after death and why we are born. Many Christians have told me that their understanding of the Bible has become deeper after reading the Gita. The contention is that we differ at a theological level, but a normal court is not the place to debate these differences. The core teachings of both Christianity and ISKCON are the same - love thy neighbour, love God.

Śrīpad Bhakti Vigyan Mahārāja (nee Vadim Touneev) :
Head of ISKCON, Russia
“Tomorrow is a critical day. Krishna please Protect!”
“Moscow Courts had dismissed Gita cases”
http://radhashyamasundar.com/2/post/2011/12/tomorrow-is-a-critical-day-krishna-please-protect.html

SOME HOSPITALS PROVIDES SPIRITUAL CARE

2011-12-28T15:56:00.001-03:00

SPIRITUAL SUPPORT PART OF
HEALTH CARE IN SOME HOSPITALS

www.journal-news.net - Spiritual Care Services at West Virginia University Hospitals-East’s Jefferson Memorial Hospital provides emotional and spiritual support to patients, their families, hospital staff and volunteers. An integral part of the health care team, volunteer chaplain associates representing many faiths are available to offer spiritual and emotional support, and listen with openness and understanding. “We believe that spirituality is important for the health and well-being of our patients and staff,” said Arlene Fernandez-Anderson, executive resident at Jefferson Memorial Hospital. This hospital has also established a Spiritual Worship Service at 1 p.m. every Sunday. The service is held in the chapel and is open to patients, visitors, family members, staff and the community.

However, this trend to establish Spiritual Care Services at hospitals is not shared or followed around the world; for example in the town of Ambato, Ecuador, the editor of the newspaper El Heraldo reported that although the religious sentiment and spirituality is intrinsic to the individual and collective personality of the South American peoples, the Ecuadorian government has an attitude incompatible with these principles and has begun to close the small chapels in hospitals, attacking the spiritual feeling of the people. “The hospital chapel has always been a spiritual haven in which people find consolation for their physical and moral ailments, and that hospitals are places that focus on the overall health of humans,” the editor says.

To give emotional and spiritual support to those dealing with critical illness in time of need or when requested it is very important because religious rituals may promote healthful behaviours. Spiritual care boosts emotions and enables individuals to recover from illness. Physicians should not ignore the growing number of studies that show prayer and spiritual cares promotes health. They should consider the needs of the 'whole person' not just the body and mind.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

The organization of Conscious Doctors is one of friendship and the inter-exchange of medical experiences between doctors with the purpose of purifying professional medical activities by supporting spiritual consciousness. ... A conscious doctor is a person who knows that we are not the body but the living soul. S/he knows the body is a gift from God, a divine instrument apt for spiritual progress and to become a first-class human being. ... S/he is a person who knows the valuable contribution of the Vedas, of the process of yoga, and the need to associate with natural energy (clean water, healthy breathing, natural spaces, etc,) ... defends the environment, advising the avoidance of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and genetically-modified organisms.

Śrīla Bhakti Aloka Paramadvaiti Mahārāja :
The Vedic Wisdom Collection
“Conscious Doctors”
http://vwonline.blogspot.com/
http://vwonline.blogspot.com/2006/03/conscious-doctors.html

DEADLY CHRISTMAS BLASTS IN NIGERIA

2011-12-27T10:36:00.002-03:00

NIGERIA CHURCHES HIT BY BLASTS
DURING CHRISTMAS PRAYERS

www.bbc.co.uk - A series of bomb attacks in Nigeria, including two on Christmas Day church services, have left almost 40 people dead and many injured. The Islamist group Boko Haram said it carried out the attacks, including one on St Theresa’s Church in Madalla, near the capital Abuja, that killed 35, and another explosion hit a church in the central city of Jos. Yobe state has been the epicentre of violence between security forces and Boko Haram militants. Three attacks in Yobe left four people dead. Two hit the town of Damaturu, and a third struck Gadaka. President Goodluck Jonathan, who is a Christian, said the attacks were an “unwarranted affront on our collective safety and freedom”. The White House condemned what it described as “senseless violence” and pledged to assist Nigeria in restoring peace.

Boko Haram - whose name means “Western education is forbidden” - often targets security forces and state institutions. The group carried out an August 2011 suicide attack on the UN headquarters in Abuja, in which more than 20 people were killed. Nearly 70 people have died this week in fighting between Nigerian forces and Boko Haram gunmen in the country’s north-east. National Emergency Management Agency (Nema) spokesman Yushau Shuaibu told the BBC that the latest Abuja explosion had happened in the street outside the church. He said the church - which can hold up to 1,000 people - had been badly affected by the blast. Officials at the local hospital said the condition of many of the injured was serious.

Islamist extremists brought Christmas carnage to churches across Nigeria and have threatened more bloodshed in the days to come. In all there were five bomb blasts. The most deadly was at St Theresa’s Catholic Church in Madalla on the outskirts of the capital Abuja. The radical religious sect Boko Haram - which wants sharia law in Nigeria - has claimed all the explosions. Despite the words of peace, if there is no interfaith acceptance, there will be more fights between religious groups.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Interfaith is directing devotees of different faiths to know and understand the philosophies, rituals, and teachings of each other. By this, the people become more friendly and cooperative, instead of being hostile and antagonistic. Indeed, they soon realize how, in essence, all religions have more in common. The basic teachings are remarkably similar. They also complement the knowledge of their own religion to make it more broad-based and complete. Indeed, each religion has a special spiritual value of its own, which is not to be found in any other. ... For Hindus, interfaith is a sacred heritage. In fact, it is incorporated in the ancient teachings of the Vedas and Upanishads: Ekam Sat, Viprah Bahudha Vidanti - there is only one truth; sages call it by different names.

Dr. Hiro Badlani:
“Hinduism - Path of the Ancient Wisdom”
Chapter 55: “Hinduism and Interfaith
The Future Trends in Our World”
http://hinduismpath.com/
http://hinduismpath.com/book-contents/chapter-55/

A CHRISTMAS STAR AND A COSMIC WREATH

2011-12-26T10:35:00.002-03:00

PHOTOS OF “CHRISTMAS STAR”
AND “HOLIDAY WREATH” IN SPACE

The State Column - The commander of the International Space Station (ISS), peering out the multi-windowed Cupola observatory, has captured what is sure to be one of the most iconic images ever taken aboard the low-earth orbit science lab. The amazing images show Comet Lovejoy, which survived a trip through the sun’s atmosphere last week.
The comet, which made its first appearance this year before plunging into the Sun, is being dubbed as a “Christmas comet” or even as the “Christmas star,” making reference to the star that greeted Jesus’ birth in the Nativity story. It was discovered on 27 November by the Australian amateur astronomer Terry Lovejoy and was classified as a “Kreutz sungrazer”, with its orbit taking it very close to the Sun.

Here’s another seasonally appropriate find – perfect for the end of Christmas: The image - taken by NASA’s Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) - of a nebula about 1,000 light-years away, which definitely has some seasonally appropriate colors. The nebula bears a strong resemblance to a Christmas wreath, right down to the colors. The stars that look like little silver bells decorating the “wreath” are in fact located either in front of or behind the nebula from Earth’s perspective. The nebula itself is lit by a particularly bright star in the middle, and the ‘red’ dust cloud contains magnetic particles, while the ‘greenish’ parts of the cloud are the hotter portions where stars are being born. The colors represent what WISE is seeing in different wavelengths in the infrared spectrum, which humans can’t see, NASA says.

In the spirit of the Christmas holidays, the International Space Station released an image of the Comet Lovejoy which truly becomes this year’s “Star of Wonder”. NASA has also released a new image from its WISE space telescope of a nebula that seems to resemble a wreath: A ring of evergreens donned with a festive red bow, a jaunty sprig of holly, and silver bells throughout. Just in time for the holidays, both interstellar pictures may be considered as God’s gifts to people of faith in this world.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

When we consider the story of how baby Jesus appeared in the heart of his mother Mary by immaculate conception, as well as the bright star appearing in the night sky, we can discern a direct parallel to Lord Krishna’s birth three thousand years earlier in Vrindavana, India, as recorded in the Vedic literature. It is described in the ancient Vedic texts how Krishna appeared in the mind of Vasudeva, Krishna’s father, and was then transferred into the heart of His mother, Devaki. During Krishna’s birth, the bright star Rohini was high in the sky, and the king at the time, Kamsa, actually ordered the killing of all the infants in an attempt to kill Krishna, similar to the way Herod was supposed to have done as described in the gospel of Matthew. ... There are many other parallels that we could refer to that are disclosed in the Vedas, which were written many hundreds of years before the Bible.

Dr Stephen Knapp (Śrīpad Nandanandana dasa) :
“Christianity and the Vedic Teachings Within It”
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/christianity_and_the_vedic_teachings_within_it.htm

CHRISTMAS DAY: POPE CALLS FOR END TO VIOLENCE

2011-12-25T10:29:00.003-03:00

POPE PRAYS FOR VICTIMS OF FAMINE
FLOOD AND CONFLICT ON CHRISTMAS

Vatican City (AFP) - Pope Benedict XVI prayed for the victims of famine, floods and conflict around the world in his traditional Christmas message on Sunday, following a deadly explosion near a church in Nigeria. “Let us turn our gaze anew to the grotto of Bethlehem. The Child whom we contemplate is our salvation! He has brought to the world a universal message of reconciliation and peace,” he told thousands of pilgrims in the Vatican. The pope urged the international community to aid those suffering from hunger in the Horn of Africa, called for an end to the bloodshed in Syria and said he hoped this year’s Arab revolts would aid the “common good”. He also prayed for the victims of recent flooding in Thailand and the Philippines which he said were enduring “grave hardships” and said he hoped for increased dialogue in Myanmar “in the pursuit of shared solutions.”

The pope’s strongest words were against wars and in favor of reconciliation, particularly between Israelis and Palestinians in the Holy Land but also in the Great Lakes Region of Africa and the new nation of South Sudan. “May the Lord come to the aid of our world torn by so many conflicts which even today stain the earth with blood... May he bring an end to the violence in Syria, where so much blood has already been shed,” he said. “May he grant renewed vigor to all elements of society in the countries of North Africa and the Middle East as they strive to advance the common good,” he added, following the revolts in Egypt, Libya and Tunisia. Peace was also a central theme in Patriarch of Jerusalem Fuad Twal’s Christmas Eve homily delivered in Bethlehem, where hotels and guesthouses were packed to capacity with pilgrims.

At Christmas Eve mass in Saint Peter’s Basilica, the pope lamented the consumerism surrounding a holiday “whose bright lights hide the mystery of God’s humility, which in turns calls us to humility and simplicity. Let us ask the Lord to help us see through the superficial glitter of this season, and to discover behind it the child in the stable in Bethlehem, so as to find true joy and true light,” the pope said. The increasingly commercial celebration obscures the simplicity of the message of Christ's birth.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

We are approaching a very significant date for most people in this world, Christmas. This is a special moment for meetings, joys, gifts, so many feelings that may not commonly occur at other times of year. Try to really celebrate Christmas, try - despite the risk of being the party pooper of the family reunion :) - of giving to others the true “Christmas spirit”, a spirit full of giving, where instead of thinking of receive we can want to give; but not to material elements, but to what Christ and all the great teachers have given us - and they still continue giving - a message and example of how to mold our lives according to the will of the Supreme. To the extent that we can assimilate and share these valuable insights, we can strictly say that we are truly celebrating Christmas.

Śrīpad Bhakti Vedanta Padmanabha Mahārāja :
Cierra Tus Ojos y Mira - “Christmas Meditation”
http://suenaverdadero.blogspot.com/
http://suenaverdadero.blogspot.com/2011/12/meditacion-navidena-nos-aproximamos-una.html

SOME BREAST IMPLANTS,INDUSTRIAL-GRADE SILICONE

2011-12-24T14:30:00.000-03:00

FRENCH BREAST IMPLANT
CHIEF WANTED BY INTERPOL

www.guardian.co.uk - Interpol is seeking the arrest of Jean-Claude Mas, the founder of a French company whose breast implants are at the centre of a global health scare. The international police agency has issued a so-called red notice for Mas. His firm Poly Implant Protheses (PIP), which went into administration last year, supplied implants to tens of thousands of women in Europe and South America. Interpol’s website says the 72-year-old is wanted by Costa Rican authorities for crimes involving “life and health” but gives no further details. France has offered to pay for an estimated 30,000 women in the country to have their PIP implants removed because of risks the products could rupture and leak industrial-grade silicone. Faulty breast implants made by PIP could rupture dangerously.

They are filled with an unapproved non-medical grade material - believed to be made for mattresses - and there have been reports that the protective barriers are faulty. At least 40,000 British women are believed to have the implants. But the Department of Health said it was not echoing the French advice and that there was “no evidence” of a safety concern. Chief medical officer Dame Sally Davies said: “Women with PIP implants should not be unduly worried. We have no evidence of a link to cancer or an increased risk of rupture. “If women are concerned, they should speak to their surgeon. I will be writing to GPs so that they are aware of the concerns women may have and can talk them through with their patients. More than 270 women in the UK reportedly intend to sue the clinics where they were fitted with PIP implants. The use of PIP implants are now banned.

Jean-Claude Mas is the founder of PIP whose breast implants are at the centre of a global health scare. Women around the world have PIP's implants. The silicone inside the implants is not medical grade, it was intended for use in mattresses, and implant covers have high risk of rupturing. It is good that women like to look good, but images in the public space and magazines that push fantasy bodies make them almost despise their own bodies, and then some turn to the knife to increase their self-esteem.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Self-esteem is the proper validation that we have of our identity and our potentials, which permits us to progress positively in our familiar social surroundings. Many people suffer from low self-esteem, from an absence of happiness, and from a failure to find meaning in their lives. Consider the competitive and consumeristic life style of modern society that has created false principles and values in determining the success of a person. In reality, the importance of a human being is relative to the quality and generosity of the objectives that they pursue. ... The study of the philosophy of the Vedas permits us to find in our own reality the main justification to have permanent self-esteem. Having the consciousness that a Creator, a Superior being exists it is what gives real value to our existence.

House of Wisdom - Services :
“Society - Permanent self-esteem”
http://www.houseofwisdom.org/english/advices_society_selfesteem.htm
http://www.houseofwisdom.org/english/services_society_selfesteem1.htm

BREATHABLE CAFFEINE PRODUCT MAY BE DANGEROUS

2011-12-23T19:30:00.004-03:00

CAFFEINE INHALER IS POTENTIALLY
DANGEROUS IF MIXED WITH ALCOHOL

www.bloomberg.com - Breathable caffeine dispensed from canisters that fit in jean pockets and are allowed in carry-on luggage is a ‘club drug’ that may be dangerous to teenagers, a New York senator said. Democrat Charles Schumer wrote Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Margaret Hamburg today asking her to review the safety and legality of the AeroShot Pure Energy caffeine inhaler, a yellow and gray canister of caffeine powder and B vitamins resembling a tube of lipstick. The inhaler is set to hit store shelves in New York and Boston next month. AeroShot will be sold over the counter with no age restrictions and is touted for its convenience and zero calories. If taken with alcohol, the mixture may have effects similar to caffeinated alcohol drinks tied to hospitalizations in the past, Schumer said. Doctors say it may carry neurological and cardiovascular risks.

“The product is nothing more than a club drug designed to give users the ability to drink until they drop,” Schumer said. Last year, at Schumer’s urging, the FDA stopped sales of caffeinated alcoholic beverages after they were linked to hospitalizations and deaths. The inhaler is sold online by Cambridge, Massachusetts- based Breathable Foods Inc. and The Lab Store, in Paris. AeroShot advertising in Europe focuses on drinking and partying, Schumer said in a statement, adding that he’s concerned it could be a health hazard to teens. AeroShot delivers 100 milligrams of caffeine, the same amount in a large cup of coffee. The caffeine is absorbed in the mouth and digestive tract, not through the lungs, according to a fact sheet from Breathable Foods. AeroShot is priced at $2.99 and is not intended for anyone younger than 12, according to the product’s website.

The American Academy of Pediatrics and U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer say a breathable caffeine product that is about to hit stores in New York and Boston could be dangerous to young people. The AeroShot is a Chapstick-sized canister that lets users inhale caffeine in powdered form. The new product is a potential health hazard if mixed with alcohol, particularly for adolescents. This can be a new way to keep people addicted and victimized by self-destructive behavioral patterns.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

The Supreme Person Krishna being omnipotent is fully present in His Holy Names. Chanting of the Holy Names therefore connects one immediately with Krishna, who is the supreme pleasure principle. Regular meditation on the Holy Names enables one to experience happiness streaming down from the spiritual dimension. This spiritual pleasure is so satisfying that it soon frees one from the craving for perverted mundane pleasure like drugs, alcohol etc. Millions of people all over the world have experienced the purifying potency of the Holy Names of God. Srila Prabhupada propagated the congregational chanting of the Holy Names and saved thousands of young people from a condemned life of drug addiction.

Śrīpad Caitanya Caran das (BE E&TC) :
“The Tragedy of Self-Destruction”
“The Spiritual Scientist” - Vol. 1 Issue 16.
Bhaktivedanta Academy for Culture and Education (BACE), Pune
http://www.dandavats.com/?p=3984
http://thespiritualscientist.com/

BHAGVAD GITA FACING BAN IN RUSSIA

2011-12-22T16:26:00.002-03:00

INDIAN PARLIAMENT RUCKUS OVER
BHAGVAD GITA FACING BAN IN RUSSIA

New Delhi (hinduexistence) - Parliamentarians across the political spectrum on Monday asked the government to ensure that the religious rights of Hindus in Russia are protected after a member pointed out an IANS report about the Bhagvad Gita facing a ban and the prospect of it being branded as “extremist” literature there. Angry MPs forced the adjournment of the Lok Sabha till 2pm after Biju Janata Dal leader Bhartruhari Mahtab raised the issue in the house and asked the government to intervene immediately to ensure the religious freedom of Hindus in Russia. He said a court in Siberia’s Tomsk city was set to deliver its final verdict on Monday in a case filed by state prosecutors, as was reported by IANS on Saturday when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was on an official visit to Moscow.

“I want to know from the government what it is doing. The religious rights of Hindus in Russia should be protected. The government should impress upon the Russian authorities through diplomatic channels,” he said. The case, which has been going on in the Tomsk court since June, seeks a ban on a Russian translation of the “Bhagavad Gita As It Is” written by A C Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). It also wants the Hindu religious text banned in Russia, declared as literature spreading “social discord”, and its distribution on Russian soil rendered illegal. Smt. Sushma Swaraj, the BJP MP and the leader of the opposition demanded that Gita should be declared as the National Book of Indian Nation so that nobody can ban it anyway.

Gita ban in Russia generates Global Hindu Protest and causes Parliamentary chaos. Indians in Moscow and followers of ISKCON in Russia have appealed to the Indian government to intervene diplomatically to resolve the issue in favour of the scripture, an important part of Indian epic Mahabharata written by sage Veda Vyasa. This is not new, many times Hare Krishna devotees around the world have started campaigns of protest against religious persecution in Russia.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

But by 1980, under Brezhnev’s rule, several devotees were thrown into prison, initiating a tense and often traumatic relationship between ISKCON and the Soviet Union. By the mid-1980s Yuri Andropov was in power, and he intensified the campaign already underway against the Hare Krishna movement. He saw devotees as representing all things religious and was determined to wipe them out. Because of Ananta-shanti’s contagious enthusiasm and the staggering results of the book fairs, Semyon Tsvigun, the deputy chief of the KGB under Andropov, said that three main threats to the Soviet Union were “pop music, Western culture, and Hare Krishna.” Such pronouncements, and the sentiments that fueled them, led to intense persecution of Hare Krishna devotees.

ŚBack to Godhead Magazine - March/April 2008 :
“Checkmate: ISKCON's Victory in Russia”
By Satyaraja Dasa
http://btg.krishna.com/back-godhead/marapr/2008
http://btg.krishna.com/checkmate-iskcons-victory-russia

JEWISH HOLIDAY OF HANUKKAH

2011-12-21T14:20:00.000-03:00

HAPPY HANUKKAH !! JEWISH
FESTIVAL OF LIGHT CELEBRATED

www.huffingtonpost.com - Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, is celebrated Dec. 20-28, 2011. On the Jewish calendar, the Hebrew dates for Hanukkah are from sundown on the 25th of Kislev to sundown on the 2nd of Tevet in the year 5772. The Festival of Lights, an eight-day celebration, marks the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in the second century B.C.E. during the Maccabean revolt against oppressive Greek rulers. It is one of the most widely observed Jewish holidays - perhaps due to its proximity to Christmas on the Gregorian calendar - and is celebrated by lighting a nine-branch candelabrum commonly called a menorah. The story of Hanukkah is one of revolution and miracles: Greek influence over the Jews in the Land of Israel was getting out of hand. Hellenism was spreading, an affront to Jewish culture and religious practice.

When the Greek ruler of the time, Antiochus, forbade Jewish religious practice, a small group of Jews, the Maccabees, revolted. The Maccabees were successful and restored the desecrated Holy Temple. The menorah in the Temple needed to be lit. Traditionally, the candelabrum burned continuously. The Temple liberators searched but could find only one vial of olive oil, enough for just one day. Miraculously, the oil lasted for eight days, which was just enough time to receive a new shipment. To celebrate the miracle, Hanukkah was instituted. Today, Jews everywhere light menorahs on each night of Hanukkah; one candle is lit for each night until the eighth night, when all eight lights shine together. Gift giving is now a common practice on Hanukkah, and it is therefore a beloved time for Jewish children.

Hanukkah, or the Jewish festival of lights has started. The holiday is celebrated over eight days by lighting candles on a menorah. The menorah has a ninth “helper” flame - known as the shamash - used to light the other candles. Technically, the candelabrum is called a hanukkiah to distinguish itself from the seven-branch menorah used in the Temple. A spiritually advanced person sees every religion as different aspects of Divinity and wishes that everyone to go back to God.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

We are not religious sect. We are cultural sect. We are giving the highest culture to the human society, to awaken his lost consciousness. So I am very happy to see you all, American boys, Indians. This is wanted. We want to unite the whole world under this Krishna consciousness movement. And actually that is happening. In our society we have got devotees from all section of people - from Christian, from Jews, from Hindus, from Muhammadan, from black, from white. ... So it is a very serious movement. You can take. Every one of you can take advantage of it. It is not very difficult to practice, because our process is very simple. You come and chant with us Hare Krishna. Everyone can chant. And actually it is happening.

Śrīla A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda :
“Complete Works of Srila Prabhupada”
General Lectures
Lecture at Detroit, on July 16, 1971
Bhaktivedanta Book Trust International

N KOREAN LEADER LIES IN STATE

2011-12-20T19:10:00.008-03:00

NORTH KOREA LEADER
KIM JONG-II PASSES AWAY

Pyongyang (Associated Press) - The body of North Korea’s long-time ruler Kim Jong Il was laid out in a memorial palace Tuesday as weeping mourners filled public plazas and state media fed a budding personality cult around his third son, hailing him as “born of heaven.” Indicating the leadership transition in the world’s only communist dynasty is on track, Kim Jong Un - Kim’s youngest known son and successor - visited the body with top military and Workers’ Party officials and held what state media called a “solemn ceremony” in the capital, Pyongyang, as the country mourned. Kim Jong Il died of a massive heart attack on Saturday caused by overwork and stress, according to the North’s media. He was 69. North Korean state media have given clear indications that Kim Jong Un will succeed his father.

Pyongyang urged people to rally behind Kim’s youngest son Jong-Un, describing him as “great successor” to the leader who presided over a famine that saw hundreds of thousands die, but still built an atomic arms arsenal. Swiss-educated Kim Jong-Un, who is in his late 20s and was last year made a four-star general and given top ruling party posts despite having had no public profile. Although there were no signs of unrest or discord in Pyongyang’s somber streets, Kim’s death and the possibility of a power struggle in a country pursuing nuclear weapons and known for its secrecy and unpredictability have heightened tensions in the region. South Korea put its military on emergency alert but urged its people to stay calm, and swiftly closed ranks with its close ally the United States. North and South Korea have remained technically at war since their three-year conflict ended only in an armistice in 1953.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Il has died aged 69 of a heart attack brought about by overwork and stress, plunging the nuclear-armed and deeply isolated nation into a second dynastic succession. Like the Russian communists, the North Koreans sought to expunge any trace of Christianity or other religious faiths. We must surrender to God and not waste the invaluable opportunity of this life worshiping another human being, even though he is the supreme leader.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

There is a wide gulf between mind and spirit that can only be bridged by spiritual cultivation. There are so-called great men or rational thinkers who deny the existence of spirit. ... When theism is forced to give way to pantheism, atheism, scepticism and agnosticism, then irreligion, unscrupulousness and duplicity bring about chaos on earth. Sin and its consequences surge around us, tumultuously clamouring to have their way against our wishes, and we find ourselves in the midst of a whirlpool. ... With all His paraphernalia, majesty, might, glory, beauty, wisdom and supremacy, He reigns eternally in the spiritual world and exists simultaneously in every created object and place in His complete fullness.

Śrīla Bhakti Saranga Mahārāja :
“God-realization”
“Omnipotent God Beyond Error”
Rays of the Harmonist – Nº 13 Karttika, 2003
http://bvml.org/SBSGM/gr.html

AS THE CRISIS INCREASES, CREMATIONS INCREASES, TOO

2011-12-19T20:32:00.001-03:00

USA: IN TOUGH TIMES, A BOOM IN
CREMATIONS AS A WAY TO SAVE MONEY

New York - As Toni Kelly battled lymphoma she worried obsessively that her four-year struggle would destroy her family’s finances. She knew that after she died, which she did on Sept. 29, there was one way she could keep from adding to the $200,000 in medical debt she would leave behind. Like a growing proportion of Americans, she said she wanted her body to be cremated. All but taboo in the United States 50 years ago, cremation is now chosen over burial in 41 % of American deaths, up from 15 % in 1985, according to the Cremation Association of North America. The association projects it will pass 50 % by 2017 (still lagging behind Canada and much of Europe and Asia). Economics is clearly one of the factors driving that change.

The percentage of bodies that are cremated has risen steadily for years, for reasons ranging from spiritual to environmental. But a recent study shows that the increase has accelerated during the downturn, and many funeral home directors say they believe the economy is leading people to look for less expensive options. The disposition of Ms. Kelly’s remains cost about $1,600, and that total included a death notice, a death certificate and an urn bought online. It was a fraction of the $10,000 to $16,000 that is typically spent on a traditional funeral and burial. Most mainstream religions have relaxed objections to cremation, which were tied to biblically based views of the body as a vessel for the soul and of a heaven populated by human forms.

“America is becoming Hinduized in this way,” says Stephen Prothero, a professor of religion at Boston University and the author of “Purified by Fire: A History of Cremation in America.” “We’re increasingly seeing the human as essentially spiritual and gradually giving up on the Judeo-Christian idea of the person in the afterlife.” Because of ignorance about life after death, man laments for the dead body and wants to preserve it; nevertheless it is recommended to burn the lifeless body.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Apparently the queens continued lamenting for the dead body, the lump of matter, and would not allow it to be taken away for burning. This illustrates the strong grip of illusion among foolish persons who consider the body the self. ... Because of ignorance only, the queens thought of the dead body as their husband and somehow or other thought that if the body were kept their husband would remain with them. ... Thus the bodily concept of life is extremely strong among foolish persons, who are compared to cows and asses. Nowadays, great scientists are trying to freeze dead bodies so that in the future these frozen bodies may again be brought to life.

Śrīla A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda :
Śrīmad Bhāgavatam - Canto 7: The Science of God
Chapter 2: Hiranyakaśipu, King of the Demons
Verse 35 - Bhaktivedanta VedaBase

US COMPANY RECALLS GROUND BEEF

2011-12-18T10:54:00.001-03:00

20 TONS OF GROUND BEEF RECALLED
FOR POSSIBLE E. COLI CONTAMINATION

Washington D.C. (KTLA) - Over 40,000 pounds of ground beef has been recalled over fears it may be contaminated with E. Coli. Nebraska-based Tyson Fresh Meats issued the recall Friday after a routine USDA examination found the beef may be contaminated with a strain of E. coli. The beef was sold to institutions and distributors in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. Affected products include 10-pound chubs of “Chuck Fine Ground Beef 80/20” with the best before or freeze-by date of 11/13/11.

Each package bears establishment number “EST. 245C” inside the USDA mark of inspection. So far no illnesses have been reported. E. coli is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, seniors and persons with weak immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness. FSIS advises all consumers to safely prepare raw meat products, including fresh and frozen, and only consume ground beef that has been cooked to a temperature of 160 degrees. Consumers who may have bought or come in contact with the product are being asked to call the company at (866) 328-3156.

A Nebraska meatpacker recalled more than 40,000 pounds of ground beef products distributed in 16 US states after a test confirmed the presence of E. Coli (Escherichia Coli). This is a bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration and, in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, the elderly and those with weak immune systems are the most susceptible. The new highly industrialized way we produce meat has opened up new ecological homes for a number of bacteria.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

In “Modern Meat,” FRONTLINE speaks with numerous scientists and industry observers who raise serious concerns about today’s meat production system. With large numbers of animals being raised together in huge feedlots covered with feces, they say, it’s easy for bacteria to spread from one animal to another. “Cows tend to produce feces [and] feces are primarily bacteria,” says Glen Morris, a microbiologist at the University of Maryland and a former USDA official. “When those bacteria are spread around, there’s ample opportunity for bacteria to be spread from one cow to the next. “In the larger feedlots,” he adds, “there’s a greater chance for the passage of microorganisms back and forth. All of that contributes to the spread of microorganisms like E. Coli.”

Dr Stephen Knapp (Śrīpad Nandanandana dasa) :
“The Dangers of Meat”
“Modern Meat: A PBS Frontline Documentary”
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/
http://www.stephen-knapp.com/the_dangers_of_meat.htm

CHILD PORN BUST IN EUROPE - 112 ARRESTS

2011-12-17T10:13:00.000-03:00

112 SUSPECTS ARRESTED IN ONLINE
CHILD PORNOGRAPHY SWOOP

Amsterdam (AP) - Police arrested 112 people in 22 countries after a yearlong investigation into child pornography, Europol said Friday, warning that technology is making combating the spread of child abuse images ever more difficult. The operation targeted people sharing “the most extreme forms of video material,” including images of babies and toddlers being sexually abused or raped, the European police coordination agency said. There are 269 suspects so far, and more arrests are likely after the operation uncovered previously unknown networks of child sex offenders operating on different Internet chat channels. This operation shows how the internet is helping offenders to develop better techniques for sharing images on a global basis and for protecting their identity.

“The problems involved are becoming harder to police and call for sustained efforts by policy-makers and law enforcement agencies to ensure that society’s response remains strong and agile in this area,” said Europol director Rob Wainwright. He called the operation a success, but noted in a statement it shows “how the Internet is helping offenders to develop better techniques for sharing images on a global basis and for protecting their identity.” The arrests were made as part of Operation Icarus, which was initiated at the start of this year. The nations involved in the investigation were Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Croatia, Norway and Switzerland.

Police in 22 European countries swooped on 112 suspects for allegedly sharing “the most extreme form” of online videos of child pornography. The video material included babies and toddlers being sexually abused and raped, according to policing agency Europol. The investigation is by no means over because online child sex abuse networks are a “global problem.” By watching these videos we are participating in sexual violence against defenseless and we will reap the karmic results of such action.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

Excessive influence of these two (rajas and tamas) ultimately cause suffering. Knowing this, one can understand that pornography involves considerable violence - violence to oneself and others. ... How would you feel if one of the teen porn girls was your daughter, sister, or niece? They are all someone’s daughter, sister, or niece. How do you think their parents feel, seeing their children involved in the pornography industry? Knowledge of the fact that you are instrumental in perpetuating their involvement in this should help you realize just how ugly you become when you implicate yourself in pornography, whether it is on the Internet or elsewhere. It is a violent activity with violent results.

Śrīla Bhakti Vedanta Tripurari Mahārāja :
“Kuruksetra War: Myth, History, or Lila?”
“Q & A with Swami B. V. Tripurari”
Śrī Caitanya Sanga - Vol. III, N° 3 – January 23, 2001.
http://swami.org/
http://swami.org/pages/sanga/current.php