How are material time and spiritual time related to the fall of the jiva as given in Bhaktivinoda Thakura’s Bhaktyaloka?

by Chaitanya CharanApril 8, 2012

From: Mangala dasi

This morning I read a very interesting passage of Srila Bhaktivinode Thakura’s “Sri Bhaktya-loka” (p. 61): “Those who search for Krsna’s happiness are called nitya-mukta, and those who search for their own happiness are called nitya-baddha. In this regard, all inconceivable natures are under the subordination of spiritual time. The time factor of the spiritual nature is a state of eternal present. But in the inferior, illusory energy there are three states of existence – past, present and future. So if whatever considerations arise in this regard are related with the spiritual time factor, then no doubts will remain; but if seen otherwise, then doubts will remain. Why did a pure spirit soul search for his own happiness? I f one puts forward such a question, then doubts arising from the material time factor will manifest. If once can give up such doubts then he can perform devotional service…”

 I don’t understand what he is trying to say. What does the question “Why did a pure spirit soul search for his own happiness?” have to do with the material or spiritual time factors? How can one understand this question if one relates it to the spiritual time factor?

 heartfelt greetings,

your servant,

Mangala dasi

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Chaitanya Charan