Current Link
BY: DUSYANTA DAS
Apr 27, 2011 — UK (SUN) — In Srimad Bhagavatam 2.9.7 is where the quote is found concerning the word "link". In the purport, Srila Prabhupada identifies this phenomena thus:
"...in order to receive the real message of Srimad Bhagavatam one should approach the current link, or Spiritual master, in the chain of disciplic succession."
The definition of "current" is explained clearly from the Collins English dictionary thus:
"most recent, commonly known, practised or accepted, widespread, circulating and valid at present".
Which all seems to fit very easily into the idea that Srila Prabhupada is the Spiritual Master, the current link that is illustrated here in the purport of SB 2.9.7.
The application of this phenomena, the "current link" is hinging on the word in the sentence "approach". Which is either a verb or noun. The verb "approach" is defined as "to come near, to go to someone with a request or offer, to set about doing something."
The noun "approach" is defined as "a way or road to a place, a method of doing something."
If we follow the premise that Srila Prabhupada uses the term "immediate acarya" as synonymous with the term "current link", then we come up with the definitions lending the validity to a direct relationship with Him without intermediaries and regardless of physical presence. Immediate definition as "without intervening medium, closest or most direct in effect of relationship."
The point in approaching a spiritual master or current link in disciplic succession is to take initiation from him.
"One should take Initiation from a bona fide spiritual master coming in Disciplic Succession, who is authorised by His predecessor Spiritual Master."
(Srimad Bhagavatam 4.8.54.purport)
Whether we call it the "prominent link" or "the link-period" or "current link", we all follow Srila Prabhupada in all circumstances in absentia. Whether we physically met Him during the years He was physically present or whether we just follow Him because of reading His Books since He departed -- we follow Him.
Seems to me that most devotees who read this Sampradaya Sun site and other Prabhupadanuga sites (and there are more than one) all want to follow Srila Prabhupada and try to establish Him back in the centre of what used to be ISKON -- that He created and is the Founder and Acarya of.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
