The Fundamental Reasons For The Birth Of Mayavadism

[Bankebihari dasa]

"The word 'Mayavadism' ( referring to advaitavada, non-dualism or monism) has long been in use among the followers of Sanatana-dharma in India. However, its mention is not to be found anywhere in the Vedas or Upanishads. The absence of this word in the Vedic Age prompts one to believe that there was not legitimate reason for this school of thought to become popular. Among the Aryans (the adherents of Sanatana-dharma) and since time immemorial, there is no record of disagreement about the authenticity and authority of the Vedic scriptures. The Vedas are transcendental, not a product of the human mind, but are understood by the sages to be 'revealed', self-manifested scriptures. In contrast from the beginning of Vedic civilization which predates the division of ages, no authentic trace of Mayavada thought can be found. Lacking any historical precedent it can be safely concluded that the Vedic tradition was cultivated undiluted by any vestige of Mayavada thought. It therefore appears logical that this is one of the main reasons why the scriptures denounce Mayavadism as non-Vedic."

"When the pure spiritual living entity (the jiva soul) relinquishes identification with his eternal nature and forgoes the potential of his latent spiritual identity, he becomes subsequently engrossed in a second inferior substance, the material atmosphere, or maya, which causes him to encounter numerous varieties of hazards and trepidation... the jivas are meant to eternally see (render loving service to) the lotus-feet of Sri Vishnu, Sri Krishna. When they deviate from their intrinsic spiritual nature they become engrossed in His divine illusory energy (maya) which causes them to experience fear. At this time the jiva becomes oblivious of his relationship to the Lord, and remains absorbed in the illusions of the Goddess Maya's temporary world."

"The moment that the living entity falls into maya's clutches is the moment he forgets his original, spiritual identity. He forms a new mode of consciousness as a result of this immersion in the material atmosphere. Thinking that he is the 'center of his own universe', and imagining himself to be 'the enjoyer', he thus mistakenly equates himself with the Supreme Lord, Sri Krishna... The jiva's illusion becomes complete, when overcome by the spell of envy and self-adulation he desires to usurp the unquestionable and natural position of the Supreme... It is thus the living entity's adopted state of illusion and his turning away from God that are the fundamental reasons for the birth of Mayavadism. "

--Srila Bhakti Prajnana Keshava Goswami Maharaja