The Brāhmaṇa and the Vaiṣṇava – Both are Completely Vedic (Brāhmaṇa u Vaiṣṇava – Ubhaye-i Sampūrṇa Vaidika)
This article by Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura portrays some of the differences between Brahmanism and Vaiṣṇavism, and examines why they are ultimately discordant. The work explores the distinct theological and philosophical positions of each tradition, demonstrating how both claim Vedic authority whilst maintaining fundamentally opposed perspectives. First published in Sajjana Toṣaṇī, Vol. 1, 1881.
Holy Teachings (Sādhu Śikṣā)
In this article, Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura discusses the two ways in which a sādhu teaches, and explains how the conduct of a Vaiṣṇava is of paramount importance. He emphasises that the exemplary behaviour of practitioners is central to spiritual instruction. At the conclusion of the piece, he provides a selection of ślokas from Śrī Caitanya-caritāmṛta and Śrī Caitanya-bhāgavata to substantiate his arguments. First published in Sajjana Toṣaṇī, Vol. 5, Issues 10, 11 and 12, 1893.
Recognising a Pure Vaiṣṇava (Śuddha Vaiṣṇava Paricaya)
In this article, Śrīla Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura deliberates upon pure Vaiṣṇava dharma in order to explain some of the characteristics of a pure devotee. He also discusses the various cults that arose after Mahāprabhu's disappearance that claim to be Vaiṣṇavas, and how they may be distinguished from genuine practitioners. Through this analysis, the author clarifies what constitutes authentic Vaiṣṇava practice and devotion. First published in Sajjana Toṣaṇī, Vol. 1, 1881.
The Natural and Marginal Characteristics of a Vaiṣṇava (Vaiṣṇavera Svarūpa u Taṭastha Lakṣaṇa)
Śrīla Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura describes the two types of characteristics found in Vaiṣṇavas, explaining the twenty-six qualities that define a Vaiṣṇava and demonstrating how such qualities, when found in a non-devotee, are rendered useless. First published in Sajjana Toṣaṇī, Vol. 4, Issue 1, 1892.
Maṅgalācaraṇa
Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura invokes the blessings of Mahāprabhu and the Vaiṣṇavas in this short editorial, and prays for the good health of Queen Victoria, the ruler of India, so that the devotees can continue to relish and propagate pure Vaiṣṇava dharma. First published in Sajjana Toṣaṇī, Vol. 4, Issue 1, as the editorial piece entitled ‘Maṅgalācaraṇa’.
Vaiṣṇava Svabhāva (The Nature of a Vaiṣṇava)
This short article presents Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura’s exposition on the dual nature of a Vaiṣṇava, examining the essential characteristics and spiritual qualities that define a sincere practitioner of Vaiṣṇava dharma. Through concise analysis, the Ṭhākura elucidates how a Vaiṣṇava embodies both devotional intensity and practical wisdom in their spiritual life. First published in Sajjana Toṣaṇī, Vol. 4, Issue 11.
Conceiving of Caste Distinctions in Vaiṣṇavas (Vaiṣṇave Jāti-buddhi)
Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura warns his readers of the dangers of meditating upon the caste or birth of a Vaiṣṇava, explaining how high birth in a Vaiṣṇava family does not guarantee purity, and the low birth of a Vaiṣṇava should not be deemed inferior. This article explores the proper attitude towards caste distinctions amongst Vaiṣṇavas and the spiritual insignificance of material birth status within the community of devotees. First published in Sajjana Toṣaṇī, Vol. 9, Issue 1, 1897.
Mercy to the Living Entities (Jīvera Dayā)
In this important article, Śrīla Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura explains the absolute necessity for a Vaiṣṇava to cultivate compassion for other living beings and states that this is one of the most important qualities of a devotee. The work examines how mercy towards all creatures constitutes a fundamental aspect of genuine spiritual practice. First published in Sajjana Toṣaṇī, Vol. 4, Issue 8, 1893.
Service to the Vaiṣṇavas and the Practice of Festivals at Present (Vaiṣṇava Sevā u Pracalita Mahotsava Prathā)
Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura describes the three types of Vaiṣṇavas according to Caitanya-caritāmṛta and what constitutes actual Vaiṣṇava sevā. The article examines the proper understanding of service to the Vaiṣṇavas and contemporary festival practices. First published in Sajjana Toṣaṇī, Vol. 4, Issue 5.
Good Conduct and Preaching (Ācāra u Pracāra)
Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura writes about the three types of devotees in relation to proper personal conduct and preaching, and explains which is the best. The article examines how ācāra (good conduct) and pracāra (preaching) operate within the framework of devotional life, providing clear distinctions among the three categories of practitioners and their respective spiritual approaches. First published in Sajjana Toṣaṇī, Vol. 4, Issue 2, 1892.
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