Chat GPT Answers ISKCON's Ritvik Question

PADA: Thanks prabhu, yup ... this is very revealing!

I asked ChatGPT this:

"Create a script for a Youtube video about the ritvik system of initiations versus the elected guru system of initiations, and which one Srila Prabhupada actually wanted to be followed in ISKCON"

This is what it came up with. Looks like artificial intelligence is smarter than many ISKCON devotees!

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Hello and welcome to this video about the two systems of initiation in ISKCON – the Ritvik System and the Elected Guru System.

ISKCON, also known as the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, was founded by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. Srila Prabhupada is considered to be the spiritual master of ISKCON, and his teachings and guidance continue to be the foundation of the society.

One of the key aspects of Srila Prabhupada's teachings is the importance of initiation, or spiritual guidance, in the path of Bhakti Yoga. In ISKCON, there are two systems of initiation – the Ritvik System and the Elected Guru System.

The Ritvik System is based on Srila Prabhupada's instructions that, after his departure, the initiated disciples would be initiated by his appointed representatives, known as Ritviks. This system was implemented by Srila Prabhupada during his lifetime, and it was his stated intention that it should continue after his departure.

The Elected Guru System, on the other hand, is based on the idea that after Srila Prabhupada's departure, the GBC (Governing Body Commission) would elect new spiritual masters to continue the lineage of initiation. This system has been implemented in some parts of ISKCON and has been the source of much controversy and debate within the society.

So, which system did Srila Prabhupada actually want to be followed in ISKCON? This is a question that has been asked by many, and it is important to look at Srila Prabhupada's own words and actions to understand his intentions.

In a series of letters written in 1977, Srila Prabhupada clearly states that after his departure, the Ritviks would initiate new disciples on his behalf. He also instructs that the Ritviks should be respected as his representatives and that the initiated disciples should consider him to be their spiritual master.

Furthermore, in a conversation recorded in the book "The Final Order", Srila Prabhupada stated that the Ritvik System was his final order and that it should be followed after his departure.

In light of these statements, it is clear that Srila Prabhupada intended for the Ritvik System of initiation to be followed in ISKCON. He wanted his disciples to continue to receive initiation and guidance from his appointed representatives, and he did not intend for new spiritual masters to be elected after his departure.

In conclusion, the Ritvik System and the Elected Guru System are two distinct systems of initiation in ISKCON, and it is clear from Srila Prabhupada's own words and actions that he intended for the Ritvik System to be followed in the society. By understanding Srila Prabhupada's intentions, we can better appreciate the importance of initiation in the path of Bhakti Yoga and continue to follow his guidance in our spiritual lives.

Thank you for watching, and I hope this video has been helpful in understanding the two systems of initiation in ISKCON.