Sanatana Goswami (c. 1488–1558 CE) was a principal disciple of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and the senior-most of the Six Goswamis of Vrindavan. He is a foundational figure in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition, revered for his immense theological contributions, literary works, and role in excavating the holy places of Vrindavan.
Here is an overview of his life and significance:
1. Early Life and Renunciation
Before joining Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s movement, Sanatana Goswami served as a high-ranking government minister (Prime Minister) in the court of the Sultan of Bengal, alongside his younger brother, Rupa Goswami. Despite his wealth and political power, he was deeply spiritual. He eventually resigned from his post to fully dedicate himself to the mission of Sri Chaitanya, an act of renunciation that is celebrated in Vaishnava history.
2. Role in the Six Goswamis
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu instructed the Six Goswamis to settle in Vrindavan to accomplish specific tasks. As the senior leader, Sanatana Goswami was instrumental in:
- Excavating Holy Sites: Rediscovering lost locations associated with Krishna’s pastimes in Vrindavan.
- Establishing Temple Worship: He established the worship of the Madana-mohana deity, one of the principal deities of Vrindavan.
- Codifying Theology: He was tasked with writing books to firmly establish the philosophical basis of bhakti (devotion).
3. Theological Contributions
Sanatana Goswami is often associated with Sambandha-jñana—knowledge of one’s relationship with the Divine. His writings detail the proper behavior and practices for a devotee.
Major Literary Works:
- Brihad-bhagavatamrita: An epic philosophical narrative that explores the hierarchy of devotees and the nature of the spiritual world (Goloka).
- Hari-bhakti-vilasa: The standard guidebook for Vaishnava behavior, rituals, and etiquette, compiled with the help of Gopala Bhatta Goswami.
- Vaishnava-toshani: A commentary on the Tenth Canto of the Srimad Bhagavatam.
4. Philosophy and Teachings
Sanatana Goswami’s teachings emphasize that the soul’s eternal identity is as a servant of Krishna. He famously asked Chaitanya Mahaprabhu the fundamental questions of life: “Who am I? Why am I suffering? What is the ultimate goal of life?” The answers to these questions formed the basis of the Gaudiya Vaishnava philosophical system.