Resources for Vedic Jurisprudence and Atonement

Join us today for a critical examination in light of shastra and previous acharyas the recommended atonement of Trivikrama Swami. It also critically examines related speculative theories against atonement (Ritvikism) and speculative theories in favor of non-liberated Female Diksha Gurus (FDG). ISKCON India Scholars Board members Sridhar Srinivas Das and Krishna Kirti Das explain why according to shastra atonement requires resuming one's former position in the varnashram institution, how the process of bhakti through the Pancharatrika Vidhi supersedes atonement recommended in smarta procedures for prayascitta (atonement). And why knowledge of shastra and teachings of previous acharyas is necessary in being able to distinguish between Prabhupada's actions that are meant to be followed and actions that are not to be imitated.

Pramanas for Deputing Ritviks

These śāstra vidhis (regulations) are very important, because they specify that the use of ritviks is only in the case of a departed guru who is unable to complete the initiation or sacrifice started. New proceedings on behalf of a departed ācārya may not be conducted by ritviks. To interpret this as extending to not merely completion but the performance of new proceedings has the fault of ativyāpti, an overly broad application of a rule or definition, including things that are not supposed to be included.