Miscellaneous - Religion   

Devotional path

CHENNAI: In the Bhagavata Purana, the Lord speaks very highly of his devotees. He even claims that He is so much bound by their affection that He willingly subordinates to them. Though He is the absolute Master and is free in all respects, in a sense He is without freedom, only due to this reciprocity of His. This unique relationship between the Lord and His devotees assumes different forms of intensity, depending on the nature of each devotee.

This sacred text contains many inspirational accounts of exemplary devotees who have savoured the most relishing experiences of God. This devotion includes adoration and loving service of the Supreme Being.

The gopis of Brindavan possessed all the qualifications of a true Bhakta. Their sheer love and devotion is a case in point. Their unlearned and simple background bears no significance at all against their devotion that puts them on the pedestal of preceptors for those in search of God realisation, said Srimathi Prema Pandurang in a discourse.

Their love typified the jivatma's longing for union with God. By fixing their mind on Him intently, they were enlightened and transformed by the sanctifying influence of the Lord.

To the gopis, all their time was His time, and every act performed was on His behalf. Even when engaged in their respective daily activities, they constantly thought about Him. Such was their absolute love for Lord Krishna that they were able to bring Him into every moment of their lives.

The gopis were able to accept anything from Him unconditionally. They were always immersed in thoughts about Him. The Lord chose the night to play heavenly flute tunes and enter the heart of every gopi in a special manner to allow them to savour the spiritual quality of highest bliss.

It should be the endeavour of a true devotee to aspire to such a state where God is in one's consciousness at all times, no matter what work one is engaged in. To remain steadfast and unshakable in one's love in spite of thousands of obstacles is a real challenge. The true devotee accepts these obstacles as God given, knowing that the loving and kind God not only never tries beyond what one can endure, but also gives His devotees the necessary inner strength.

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