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Ramanuja List Archive: Message 00020 Apr 2003

 
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Dear bhagatars

Many Srivaishnavas resort to the "opinions" and "rulings" of a nebulous
group "acharyas" as if they were, a united, congruous, and harmonious band
of divine beings and like the Catholic Pope "infallible". Yet we know that
the "acharyas" were many ­ Ramanuja appointed 700 simhasanadhipatis. (We
hear nothing about the 300 women teachers that he also appointed!). All
these men (and women) were very much human beings with the svabhava that is
natural to the species. They often disagreed in their views and many learned
acharyas wrote complex polemic works refuting each others arguments. Hence
we have the classical Vadagalai/Tengalai divide and the 18 points of
doctrinal dispute ­ which are still not resolved till this day! There isno
Srivaishnava "pope" and no unitary body issuing "fatwas" ­ each and every
acharya and matham is independent and can make up their own minds on
doctrinal points and matters of interpretation. If you approach three
acharyas today on any major issue you will probably have at least two
opinions. (Please note that there is often also bitter rivalry between
acharyas of the same faction!).

When such be the case, it is important to understand that the acharya is a
guide and counsellor on the spiritual path and the one that formally
establishes our connection with Sriman Narayana (a connection which was
never lost and is irrevocable, perpetual and natural ­ one is advised to
choose a personal acharya and after testing him (or her) to ensure that what
is taught is (a) in the spirit of Ramanuja¹s teachings, (b) is reasonable
and practicable and (c) benefits all beings ­ one should then surrender to
the guidance and teachings of such a person.

To invoke the tired phrase "our acharyas have said ??.. " ? is vague,
general and unhelpful and ultimately a cop-out from actually using our
intelligence. Krishna said to Arjuna in the 18th chapter ­ "reflect well
over all that I have taught you and then follow the teachings as you will" ­
there was no "command" to "do as I say because I am God" ­ but use you
intelligence and reason and make up your own mind. Vedanta in general is a
methodology of (1) sravana ­ listen to the teachings (2) manana ­ reason,
apply logic and reflect upon the teachings and (3) nididhyasana ­ meditate
upon and REALISE those teachings in your own life.

Adiyen

Sri Rama Ramanuja Achari






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