About Us

gandhena gāvaḥ paśyanti vedaiḥ paśyanti brāhmaṇāḥ
cāraiḥ paśyanti rājānaś cakṣurbhyām itare janāḥ
"A brahmana sees through the sastras. A king sees through his spies. A cow sees through its nose. And, an ordinary man sees through his eyes." 
(Mahābhārata, Udyoga-parva, 34.32, spoken by Vidura to King Dhṛtarāṣṭra)

A Pariṣat¹ is a committee of specialists in various subjects convened to resolve complex questions of dharma (see Manu 12.110-111). Śāstra-cakṣuh refers to the “eyes of the śāstras” or scriptures. Therefore, Sāstra-cakṣuh-pariṣat is a committee of experts in different śāstras, assembled to address difficult dharmic issues, all viewing from the perspective of the scriptures. The core principle is that the śāstras are perfect, and any conclusions must be drawn based on them, rather than prioritizing personal experience.

Śāstra-Cakṣuh-Pariṣat is a scholarly platform committed to the in-depth analysis of Vedic literature, aimed at serving sincere followers of Śrīla Prabhupāda and aspiring devotees within ISKCON. The primary focus of our Pariṣat is to address both theoretical and practical questions faced by gurus, leaders, and followers in their spiritual journey and preaching efforts. These questions often revolve around the intent and meaning behind Śrīla Prabhupāda’s teachings, the application of specific Vedic principles, and the correct understanding of age-old practices. In doing so, we strive to create a space where such contentious issues can be addressed in a thoughtful, scholarly, and culturally consistent manner.

In ISKCON, and among Vedic practitioners, debates frequently arise where opposing viewpoints are discussed based on Śrīla Prabhupāda’s instructions and various scriptural interpretations. While there are existing boards of scholars in ISKCON, many lack the traditional exegetical approach to addressing these questions. The methodology of śāstrārtha and vākyārtha-sadas rooted in Mīmāṁsā is often missing. Additionally, many scholars lack the cultural background and insights that come from the Brahminical tradition of Vedic Indian villages, which is crucial for a true understanding of the purport of the scriptures and the Vedic worldview.

Śāstra-Cakṣuh-Pariṣat aims to fill this gap by providing a platform for traditional scholarly discussions and research, based on the ancient methods of śāstrārtha and vākyārtha-sadas. Our approach emphasizes the infallibility of the scriptures, as well as the wisdom passed down through generations of Vedic practitioners. We also recognize the importance of śiṣṭācāra-pramāṇa—the evidence of long-standing practices within the Vedic culture—as an essential resource for understanding the śāstras correctly. We engage in a thorough peer-review process for all research before publication, ensuring the highest standards of scholarly integrity and transparency.

The platform invites devotees, leaders, and scholars to submit unresolved questions for in-depth research. Once prioritized, these topics are explored, and research papers are published, presenting various viewpoints and arguments based on scriptural study and tradition. To maintain transparency and academic integrity, our scholars are independent from any political or institutional affiliations and are free to express their opinions, even if they differ from the collective conclusions of the Pariṣat. This open and independent environment encourages a healthy exchange of ideas and allows for a more accurate and well-rounded understanding of Vedic wisdom. Our ultimate goal is to facilitate discussions that minimize speculation and foster the revival of the ancient tradition of scholarly debate rooted in the teachings of the śāstras.

Members

1. The fellowships that recited a particular Śākhā were called Charana. Since the “books” were memorized it could be said, by way of example, that the Śākhā was an edition of the book while each member of the Charana was a copy of the book. A Charana was:
   “A number of men who are pledged to the reading of a certain Śākhā of the Veda and who have in this manner become one body” Thus, while the Śākhās denoted the texts, their propagators or pravartakas were the Charanas.
   There was also a third type of institution developed for the cultivation and propagation of learning. These are known as Pariṣads (literally, sitting around). The term, as used in the Upaniṣads, means an assemblage of advisers in questions of philosophy. It was a settlement of Brāhmaṇas, a community or college to which members of any Charana might belong. It, therefore, rested on a broader basis than a Charana which signified an ideal succession of teachers and pupils who learn and teach a certain branch of the Veda. Thus members of the same Charana might be fellows of different Pariṣads and fellows of the same Pariṣad might be members of different Charanas.  ↩︎