Auspicious Prayers

[Adi 1]

[1.1-1.29]

The first fourteen verses of Chapter One form the mangalacarana (auspicious invocation prayers) for the entire work. These verses are expanded upon in the first seven chapters of the Adi-Lila, covering key philosophical topics:

• Evidence indicating the divinity of Shri Chaitanya

• Reasons for Shri Chaitanya’s descent

• Shri Chaitanya’s primary associates (the Pancha Tattva)

(See Appendix: Mangalacharana Breakdown)

Having this philosophical background helps one approach the pastimes of the Chaitanya-Charitamrita from a spiritually-mature perspective. Before one can understand and appreciate the character, activities and relationships of the Supreme Person (rasa), one must develop a respect and reverence for His ontological position and identity (tattva). Those who neglect this philosophical aspect may misunderstand the activities of Shri Chaitanya to be mundane or mythological. Krishnadasa therefore states that one should not be lazy or indifferent in such scriptural analysis, for this actually fortifies one’s devotion ].

[1.30-1.110]

Krishnadasa Kaviraja Goswami describes the different ways in which God manifests His spiritual influence. Vaishnava theology encourages one to approach God through six divine mediums: spiritual masters (gurun), devotees (isa bhaktan), incarnations (isavatarakan), expansions (tat prakasams), energies (tat chaktih) and finally through the Supreme Lord Himself (krsna chaitanya). Each manifestation, which offers one the opportunity to perceive and contact the Supreme Person, is fully explored in the pages of Chaitanya-Charitamrita

Humbled by the greatness of Shri Krishna, Krishnadasa fervently prays for the divine empowerment to suitably glorify Him in this writing endeavour.