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Category:Able to Control the Senses

Theme Analysis

Śrīla Prabhupāda establishes that the ability to control the senses is the defining qualification of a civilized human being, specifically a brāhmaṇa or gosvāmī. While the common man is often unable to control the senses, a person situated in knowledge (jñāna) or devotion (bhakti) achieves this mastery. The strategy for control begins with the tongue; if one indulges the tongue, other senses become uncontrollable. However, the easiest method is Kṛṣṇa consciousness: by fixing the mind on Kṛṣṇa and engaging the senses in His service, one naturally becomes a master (svāmī) rather than a servant (godāsa) of the senses. This control is not an end in itself but a prerequisite for attaining God's mercy and benediction.

  • The Definition of a Master: A gosvāmī or svāmī is one who is able to control the forces of the senses (talk, anger, mind, stomach, genitals, tongue).
  • The Tongue as the Key: The secret to controlling all senses lies in controlling the tongue first. Giving privilege to the tongue makes other senses impossible to control.
  • Brāhmaṇical Culture: A first-class man (brāhmaṇa) is characterized by truthfulness and the ability to control the mind (śama) and senses (dama).
  • The Role of Devotion: For a devotee, sense control is automatically achieved. By serving Kṛṣṇa, one transcends the material platform where senses dictate behavior.
  • The Necessity for Salvation: Unless one controls the senses and engages them in the service of Mukunda, there is no possibility of salvation or liberation.

Pages in category "Able to Control the Senses"

The following 25 pages are in this category, out of 25 total.