G;lobal Cooperation House in Willesden is the BKWSU London and International HQ.
www.aboutbrahmakumaris, writes: "without ties to any of the major religions, Brahma Kumaris offers
a practical approach to spirituality".
However in its UK CHARTER, BKWSU aims are stated as :
1. To Promote the advancement of the Hindu religion, and other religions of the world.
2. To promote studies of and research in the field of Hindu religious philosophy, Yoga (various techniques of concentration as defined and discussed in Hindu religious philosophy, and to make known the results of such
studies and research.
3. To relieve poverty, mental and physical sickness and distress.
Note on 1.But Sister Jayanti describes BK beliefs as ' a new interpretation' of Hinduism, which is a 'major religion', to which in its celebrations, consciousness and presentations BKWSU maintains strong 'ties'.
Note on 2. Claims of 'Studies and research into Hindu philosophy', will come as a surprise to BK stakeholders, as will the claim of stuying 'various techniques as defined in Hindu philosophy' not studied or recommended : only one technique, the link between I, the Soul, and God, the Supreme Soul. And where are the results
of the claimed 'studies and research' 'made known' ? BK students would be interested.
Note on 3. This is difficult for Brahmakumaris. Their belief in reincarnation, coupled with an absolute 'as you sow so shall you reap' karmic belief, means that poverty, along with all 'sufferings'
that's ALL sufferings, including child molestation and war crimes, are understood as a person’s living out the negative karma of this and previous births. Positive behaviour leads to positive experience. BUT by practising Raja Yoga Meditation BKWSU says
that anyone can enjoy 21 'negative karma free' births in the coming Heaven on Earth.
Karma means 'action or 'behaviour'. This is one of the reasons BK worldwide does not donate money to charities
: this is seen as 'wasting God's money' ...that is to say BK funds should only go to help the revelation of God's presence on earth, that being the highest charity. And, of course, meditation of many types can help in the relief of suffering...
BRAHMAKUMARIS: A RELIGION? In her short film Sister Jayanti makes the case for BKWSU being considered a religion, though as above with a 'no ties' to other religions claim. In Australia government
until recently defined BK as a 'Basic Religious Entity' : BK now has a different designation which we will address soon. *. In public talks and elsewhere, Brahmakumaris claims it is not a religion.
The CESNUR article (1999) on the same page, has basic factual errors, drawing as it does on the discredited 'Adi Dev'. The opinion part of the article puts an interesting perspective, worth reading.
*Brahma Kumaris Australia is identified by the Australian Charities and Not for profit Commission as a Large Charity : that is one with annual revenue/income of over $1,000,000. More info at www.acnc.gov.au.
As a tax deductible entity, financial statements must be provided by Brahma
Kumaris Australia to any interested parties on request. A modest fee applies per page.