I Shall Live Forever in My Books - Prabhupāda's Departure
For an ordinary man, the approach of death is a time of fear and preparation for an unknown future. However, Śrīla Prabhupāda demonstrated the perspective of a self-realized soul, viewing his physical departure as a natural transition. He consistently reminded his followers that his presence is not limited to his physical body but is eternally available through his vāṇī, specifically his books.
Living Through the Written Word
Śrīla Prabhupāda labored intensely to complete his translations of the Vedic scriptures, even during times of extreme physical weakness. He explained that his publications were his most important legacy, asserting that he would continue to live within them and provide personal guidance to anyone who sincerely studied them.
- I will never die, I shall live for my books, and you will utilize.
- Although I am practically on the path of death, still I cannot forget about my publications. I wish that if I live or die you should take very serious care for my publications.
- I shall remain your personal guidance, physically present or not physically, as I am getting personal guidance from my Guru Maharaja.
Confidence in the Next Generation
A significant portion of Śrīla Prabhupāda's focus in his final years was training his disciples to manage the Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement. He expressed great hope that the sincere students he had picked up in a helpless condition would carry on the missionary activities, ensuring that the "dead horse" of modern society would continue to receive the life of spiritual understanding.
- I am very much hopeful that, with my disciples who are now participating today, even if I die my movement will not stop.
- I am old man. I will die. If they take it seriously, it will go on, and there will be revolution. Because we are not working whimsically, capriciously. We are taking authoritative version from the sastra.
- Now you have everything, respect, philosophy, money, temples, books, all these things I have given, but I am an old man and my notice is already there. Now it is up to you all how to manage it.
Art of Dying Peacefully
Throughout his health crises, including the heart attacks on the Jaladuta, Śrīla Prabhupāda remained fixed in his devotion. He requested that his departure be marked by the chanting of the Holy Name rather than medical interference, viewing death while surrounded by pure devotees as a great fortune and a glorious culmination of a life dedicated to Kṛṣṇa.
- I wish to die without a doctor. I may be seriously, but don't call doctor. Chant Hare Krsna. Don't be disturbed. Everyone has to die. Let us die peacefully, without doctor.
- Hare Krsna. Bhakta-sane bas. Such a great opportunity. You are all pure devotees. To live with you and to die while you are chanting, such a great fortune. So there is no question of being afraid of death.
- If death takes place, let it take here. So there is nothing to be said new. Whatever I have to speak, I have spoken in my books. Now you try to understand it and continue your endeavor.
Responsibility of the Followers
Śrīla Prabhupāda warned that the sanctity of the institution must be protected after his disappearance. He emphasized that if the regulative principles and the spirit of service were maintained, the movement would continue to flourish; otherwise, the worship of the Lord could become a mere burden.
- I am on the deathbed. I may go away at any moment. Now it is up to you to give protection to the sanctity of our institution.
- Now the Krsna consciousness movement is going on in my presence. Now after my departure, if you do not do this, then it is lost. If you go on as you are doing now, then it will go on.
Conclusion
Śrīla Prabhupāda’s attitude toward death was the ultimate proof of his realization that he was not the material body. By establishing 108 temples, printing millions of books, and training sincere disciples, he ensured that his "departure" was merely a change of scene. He continues to live through his instructions, guiding every sincere soul who seeks the path back to Godhead. By understanding and addressing these concerns, his followers can ensure that the sacred mission he established continues to stand strong for generations to come.
Dive Deeper into Śrīla Prabhupāda's Vani
Śrīla Prabhupāda lives within his instructions. This article is a summary of the profound truths found in the Vaniquotes category My Death (Prabhupada). We invite you to visit this link to study the complete compilation and experience Śrīla Prabhupāda's teachings in their direct, verbatim form.