Dear Guru Maharaja,

I have noticed what seem to be inconsistencies in statements made by our A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada on various topics, including:

- The nature and intelligence of women

- Appropriate clothing for devotees

- Hairstyles for devotees

- Whether a jivatma in a female body can serve as an initiating spiritual master

- The concept of falling from the spiritual world or leaving Krishna-lila

My intention is not to debate these topics here, but rather to understand why he made these

statements.

Of course, the best way to clarify this would be to ask him directly. However, do we have any

record of him being asked about these seemingly contradictory statements?

I see bhakti yoga and Krishna consciousness as not strictly black and white, but as a path that

includes both general principles and specific applications. General principles—such as chanting

the holy names and reading Srimad Bhagavatam — apply universally. Specific details, on the

other hand, may be meant for particular circumstances and may not always be applicable in other situations.

With that perspective in mind, I return to my original question: What might explain the

inconsistencies in his statements?

If possible, we could explore each of these topics in future letters, referencing specific sources for clarity.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Your servant,

Namacarya Das

HpS - Thank you.

I heard what seemed to be contradictions in one lecture and then Srila Prabhupada commented that if we engage in devotional service, all these things will be reconciled.

Of course, Srila Prabhupada's boss is a butter thief, so do not expect everything to be completely on the up and up!

First service for us, developing Kirtaniya sada Harih at Srila Prabhpada's lotus feet in the core of our heart.

Then many questions, eg. hair style, are like deciding if we should take an umbrella when we go out.

Pragmatic.

Don't expect permanent, omipresent, solutions in the temporary world.

Always problems in the prison. especially for the good prisoners. Keep us moving to get to real world.

We have our little place in the ISKCON, Braja forest, with our neighbors, today.

We have opinions and perspective about the above questions that we feel are suficient to orient us in doing our personal service to Srila Prabhupada which is really, really fun for us and everyone can do the same.

Pick one and maybe we can discuss it????