92 THE SCIENCE OF SELF-REALIZATION

ISopanisad, a Vedic literature, and in this small booklet we have
thoroughly discussed this point.

As far as the Hindu religion is concerned, there are millions of Krsna
temples in India, and there is not a single Hindu who does not worship
Krsna. Therefore, this Krsna consciousness movement is not a con-
cocted idea. We invite all scholars, philosophers, religionists, and mem-
bers of the general public to understand this movement by critical study.
And if one does so seriously, one will understand the sublime position of
this great movement.

The chanting process is also authorized. Professor Staal’s feeling of
disgust in the matter of constant chanting of the holy name of Krsna is a
definite proof of his lack of knowledge in this authorized movement of
Krsna consciousness. Instead of turning down the request to give Kary’s
course credit, he and all other learned professors of the University of
California at Berkeley should patiently hear about the truth of this
authorized movement so much needed at present in godless society.
[Credit for the course was later established.] This is the only movement
which can save the confused younger generation. I shall invite all respon-
sible guardians of this country to understand this transcendental move-
ment and then give us all honest facilities to spread it for everyone’s
benefit.

A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami
Spiritual Master of the
Hare Krsna Movement

The Exchange Between Srila Prabhupada and Dr. Staal

January 23, 1970
Swami A. C. Bhaktivedanta

Dear Swamiji:

Thank you very much for sending me a copy of your letter to the Los
Angeles Times, now also published in the Daily Californian. | think you
will agree with me that apart from publicity, little is gained by discussing
religious or philosophic issues through interviews and letters in the
press; but allow me to make two brief observations.

First, I know that devotion to Krsna is old (though definitely not as old
as the Vedas) and has never been influenced by Christianity, Islam, or
Judaism (I never referred to Buddhism in this connection). The
