Sunday, April 28, 2019
Biography of Sanatana Goswami:
Sanatana Goswami, also known as Sanatana Goswami Thakura, was a prominent saint, scholar, and leading disciple of Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, the founder of the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition. He played a vital role in the early development of the Hare Krishna movement and is revered as one of the Six Goswamis of Vrindavan.
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| Biography of Sanatana Goswami |
Early Life:
Sanatana Goswami was born in the year 1488 in Jessore (present-day Bangladesh). He and his brother Rupa Goswami were born into a high-class Brahmin family. Prior to his spiritual journey, Sanatana Goswami served as the Prime Minister (Dabir Khas) under the rule of Nawab Hussain Shah, the Sultan of Gauda.
Sanatana Goswami's Meeting Lord Chaitanya:
Sanatana Goswami met Lord Chaitanya in Ramakeli, where Lord Chaitanya instructed him about the eternal spiritual truths and the essence of devotional service. Sanatana Goswami accepted Chaitanya Mahaprabhu as his spiritual guide and devoted his life to the service of Lord Krishna.
Contributions and Works:
Sanatana Goswami, along with his brother Rupa Goswami, authored several important Vaishnavite texts. His works include the "Brihad-bhagavatamrita," a significant scripture in Gaudiya Vaishnavism, and the "Hari-bhakti-vilasa," which outlines the rules and regulations of Vaishnavite conduct. These writings are highly regarded in the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition.
Renunciation and Service in Vrindavan:
After meeting Lord Chaitanya, Sanatana Goswami renounced his high-profile government position and spent the rest of his life in the holy town of Vrindavan. He engaged in deep devotional practices, writing, and teaching. He discovered and established various important places associated with Lord Krishna's pastimes in Vrindavan.
Legacy of Sanatana Goswami:
Sanatana Goswami's teachings and writings have had a profound influence on the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition. He emphasized the importance of bhakti (devotion) and was instrumental in organizing the devotional practices of the Gaudiya Vaishnavas. His life and teachings continue to inspire devotees worldwide, and he is remembered as a great saint and scholar in the Vaishnavite tradition.