Vaishnavite Signs

[amanpeter 0]

From "Shri Tattva-sutram" by Srila Bhaktivinode Thakur (p.168):

 

 

Wearing Vaishnavite signs on the body has been prescribed by the scriptures. But it can be considered as an ordinary rule similar to the worshipping of peepul tree, etc. With true devotion in the heart if the signs of divine-disc, tilaka, etc., are accepted, they may help the inculcated devotion. Those who wear these signs, without any devotional spirit are known as imposters. These pseudo devotees should not be treated at par with genuine saints and also they do not have any competence to deal with Srimad-Bhagavatam. Since they are vainglorious hypocrites, one should not talk or teach to them about religion.

 

Those, who wear the Vaishnavite signs of respective schools with simplicity and humility, must be duly respected. If the wearing of those signs is conducive to the evolution of Bhakti, then never it is objectionable. But, if the external signs become the meter of judging the devotional spirit, then there will be a natural inattention towards the esoteric Divine-love. This must be cautiously understood by the followers of Vaishnava school. Wearing of the external signs must be made to follow the esoteric devotion and the latter should not be considered to be bound by the external signs.

[Maitreya 0]

Nice reference Peter.

[JRdd 0]

Nice relevance too.

[amanpeter 0]

From "Shri Chaitanya Shikshamritam" by Srila Bhaktivinode Thakur (p.117):

 

 

To yield to superstition is a great evil. Submission to superstition produces partiality. If there is partiality there will be no regard for truth. To bear Vaishnava signs is regarded as a part of Vaidhi Bhakti. By this, bodily cultivation of God is made. But to think that it is only the principle sign of a Vaishnava is a superstition, arising out of partiality to one's own community. Guided by this superstition, some disregard holy Vaishnavas who are without these signs. In fact, if holy company is not obtained in one's own community, then guided by this superstition it will not be possible for them to take any interest for getting good devotees from elsewhere. There won't be any good if good-company is not obtained. Therefore, to yield to the superstition is a great evil. On the other hand, often they do not get the inclination to reach to the higher principle of devotion due to their confinement to Varnasrama dharma. Sometimes, malice which is suicidal appears in their hearts.

[Maitreya 0]

Keep them rolling in bro.