PRINCIPLE #8 – Personal and Social Responsibility Our Service to Society – Grihasthas, by definition, are truly the servants of society. Householders have the duty to financially support the temples as well as the other ashramas. Historically and philosophically, brahmacharis and sannyasis have a limited financial base and are dependent on the grihasthas for their material well-being. Grihasthas should also provide leadership and management so that the brahmacharis and sannyasis are free to travel, teach, and study. In turn, the renounced ashramas provide the householders with spiritual inspiration, education, and association. Although ISKCON is not presently able to function fully in this Vedic model, the grihastha devotees are gradually assuming such responsibilities as our young movement matures. The goal of many householders is to serve in these ways. Householders as Examples to the Greater Society – Grihasthas, by their good work and moral and spiritual lifestyle, can become an example for the wider society to follow. They should demonstrate integrity, responsibility, family cohesiveness, leadership and other exemplary qualities. These qualities are very attractive and bring others to Krishna consciousness. People in general are looking for loving, caring, and stable family life in a spiritual context. Opportunity to Make Advancement in Grihastha Life – Grihastha ashrama is an opportunity to become mature and steady in spiritual life. Taking such responsibility is essential for overcoming negative emotions and in dealing with the pitfalls of low self-esteem, discouragement, or feelings of failure. It is an ashrama where the devotee can truly express himself or herself in spiritual, material, and professional life while making great advancement in Krishna consciousness by dovetailing all aspects of life in Krishna’s service.
Posted on: Mon, 01 Sep 2014 11:10:38 +0000
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