Brahmacarya in Krsna (Krishna) Consciousness

Pages: 266

PREFACE TO THE FIRST EDITION
During the late's and 70's, upon the order of his spiritual master, the illustrious empowered preacher His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami prabhupada brought the science of Krsna consciousness to the Western world. At the time most of the world was experiencing an increasing degradation and departure from relious and moral principles. However, Srila Prabhupada gradually introduced a lifestyle hitherto unknown but to a few devoted souls in India: the Vedic culture of austerity for the goal of self-realization. The principles of brahmacarya formed an important part of this culture.
Purified and enlivened by following the teaching and practice of bhakti- yoga as authoritatively presented by Srila Prabhupada, hundreds of bright- faced young men and women appeared on the streets of towns and villages throughout the world, taking up Srila Prabhupada's mission to fulfill the prediction of Lord Caitanya to spread the banner of ISKCON, the reasoning, principles and practice of brahmacarya were often taught and heard in and around the increasing number of temples and asramas of the Society. The devotees becomes Stronger in following the principles of brahmacarya under the exemplary guidance of the Founder- Acarya of ISKCON, Srila Prabhupada.
There are numerous instructions about brahmacarya contained in the large body of literature, and letters left by Srila Prabhupada, for those diligent enough to study them. However, until now much of the principles and practice of brahmacarya has remained an oral tradition within ISKCON. But human lives and memories are short, and many of Srila Prabhupada's young students have now entered other asramas, or left for other spheres of activity. In order that the purity and momentum of the Krsna consciousness movement not be diminished with the passing of time, many devotees feel that this impor