Jaiva Dharma, Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura

The essential function of the soul

The Jaiva-dharma of Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura is one of the greatest waves in the nectar-ocean of transcendental literature that the Thakura gifted to this parched world lost in the desert of materialism. Completed in the year 1896, it is recognized as a central work of Gaudiya Vaisnavism and an essential companion for the sincere aspirant to the highest levels of Krsna-consciousness.

The book is set in Navadvipa-dhama, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu’s birthplace, approximately one hundred years after His birth in 1486, and then moves on, as did the lila of Sri Mahaprabhu, to conclusion in Jagannatha Puri. The work is in the form of a highly entertaining novel, the central core of which is a series of dialogues between spiritual teachers and their disciples. There are also a number of debates on various topics between these teachers and antagonistic parties. Within this format, Srila Bhaktivinoda brilliantly elucidates the philosophy, practice and ultimate goal of transcendental life as taught by Kali-yuga-avatara Sri Krsna Caitanya Mahaprabhu.