1. Jiva Gosvami defeats a rascal scholar

    Rupa Gosvami, when he was in Vrndavana, was known as the most learned scholar. So one mundane scholar came, and he approached Rupa Gosvami and said, “Sir, I want to talk with you on sastras.” So Rupa Gosvami said, “Why talking with me about sastras?” “Now, you are well known, so well known about sastra, Vedic literatures. So I want to test you.” “So what is the purpose?” “Now, if I can defeat you, then I will be renowned.” “All right. I am defeated.” So there is no question of talking, because Rupa Gosvami saw, “What is the use of talking with this rascal? He is for material name and fame.” “So what do you want?” “Now, if you think that you are less intelligent, then give me in writing.” “All right, I am giving in writing that ‘This scholar has defeated me.'” So he gave him.

    But Jiva Gosvami, his nephew, at the same time disciple, was standing outside. He said, “What is that?” “Now your uncle has already given me in writing that he is defeated.” “Let me see.” So he took the paper. So he said, “All right, let us talk now.” So when he talked with Jiva Gosvami, what is his learning? He became defeated. So sometimes, if somebody goes to challenge the guru, the real guru will say, “What is the use of talking with this nonsense? Better say that ‘You know better than me.’ That’s all. ‘Go away.’ ” Upeksa. Upeksa. Neglect him, because he has no intention to learn. He has come to simply waste time.

    From Srila Prabhupada’s lecture on Srimad-Bhagavatam 6.1.22 — May 22, 1976, Honolulu