Spiritual Questions and Answers with Radhanath Swami
Question to Radhanath Swami: In the Hare Krishna Mahamantra, what does ‘Hare’ mean?
Radhanath Swami Answers: ‘Hari’ is a name of Krishna. ‘Hari’ means one who steals our hearts by his all attractive, all beautiful, and all loving qualities. And ‘Hare’ is a calling for ‘Hara’. Hara is the feminine aspect of God. In many traditions, both in the East and in the West, especially in the more mystical depths of their philosophy, there is the concept of feminine divinity.
Question to Radhanath Swami: Whatever happened, what is happening as well as what is going to be happen, everything is done by with the permission of Lord Krishna. I believe what is happening in our mind and our soul, it is happening with the permission of lord Krishna only. What is my duty then? Why to chant or dance? Is our free will not under the control of Sri Krishna?
Question to Radhanath Swami: We know that there are many Gods in India, but why do you worship Krishna?
Answer by Radhanath Swami: In the Bhagavad-Gita, there is a beautiful verse:
Question to Radhanath Swami: In spiritual circles they often talk of ‘bala’ or spiritual strength. What exactly is this spiritual strength?
Radhanath Swami Answers: What is spiritual strength? Spiritual strength is essentially the awakening of our soul. The soul is part and parcel of Krishna, who is all-powerful.
Question to Radhanath Swami: It is said in the Bhagvatam that with every rising and setting of the sun the life span of a person reduces, except when a devotee is performing Bhakti Yoga and hearing about the activities of Krishna. Could you kindly explain this?
Radhanath Swami Answers: For one who is endeavoring to make this body a better place for selfish enjoyment, with every moment the duration of life is reducing…
Question to Radhanath Swami: Sometimes I feel Krishna is too high for me. How can I get over this feeling?
Radhanath Swami Answers: When we understand Krishna, it gives us great faith and great hope. Krishna is too high. But ultimately Krishna is a person. And Krishna, although he is so great, when he sees our sincerity, he reciprocates. It is said that when we take one step towards Krishna, Krishna takes 10 steps toward us. That is his kindness…
