 Reviewer: Bill Reed
22 June, 2007
Most readers are probably aware that a couple of editions of Siksastakam have been published in recent years, with the commentaries of Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura and Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura. These are valuable books for which we should all be grateful. Swami Tripurari’s Siksastakam of Sri Caitanya starts with those commentaries, of course, and goes further. One thing that sets this book apart from the others and makes it unique—and indispensible to progressive Gaudiya vaishnavas—is its weaving of essential elements of Sri Sanmodana-bhasya, Bhajana-rahasya, and Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati’s Vivritti, as well as of commentary from earlier Gaudiya acaryas, especially Srila Jiva Gosvami and Srila Visvanath Cakravarti Thakura, into a rich, poetic tapestry that more fully reveals the benefits of Sri Krishna sankirtana, depicts aspects of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu’s inner life, and helps sadhakas better cultivate and measure the growth of their own inner lives.
Swami Tripurari’s language often tends toward the poetic, and appropriately so, considering the poetic density of his subject. This enhances the reader’s appreciation for the effects Sri Krishna sankirtana—and the study of Mahaprabhu’s verses—on the hearts of those who apply themselves to them. It also enriches our contemplation of the many meanings the Lord’s words carry. The author’s language also sheds light on the charm that sankirtana—and Mahaprabhu’s glorification of that practice—exert on the practitioner’s heart and never fails to clearly illuminate the features of Krishna-conscious philosophy vital to proper understanding. Moreover, his glossary and abundant notes facilitate the kind of careful study to which many will want to subject this book.
This book, the Swami tells us, is written especially for those familiar with Gaudiya vaishnavism, with an eye to exploring the ocean of nectar that is Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu’s Siksastakam. As with any diving expedition, each member will appreciate the tour according to his or her experience and skill. And as a skilled guide, Swami Tripurari helps his charges explore boldly with a sense of adventure, hinting how and where to find wonders previously unseen, perhaps even unimagined. To say too much more may spoil the sense of discovery to which this book lends itself. I hope all who are serious about plumbing the depths of Sri Krishna nama will avail themselves of the treasure that is Swami B. V. Tripurari’s Siksastakam of Sri Caitanya. This is certainly a book that I will always carry with me. |
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