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Instruction by example

CHENNAI: The truth of incarnation is that the Supreme Being, out of His infinite mercy, chooses to descend from His abode of permanent bliss in Vaikunta to the earth and live as one among the beings of this world (as a fish, tortoise, boar or human being in the different yugas for specific purposes) to enlighten and enable the Jivatma to seek release from the cycle of births. In Kali Yuga it is stated that surrendering oneself to the Lord (Saranagati), worshipping His feet (Padasevanam) and singing His glory (Namasankirtanam) are the means that the Jivatma can adopt to attain liberation.

In the matter of showing compassion, the Lord's consorts are a cut above, and the greatness and extraordinary compassion of Bhu Devi (Divine Mother Earth) is explicit when from Her exalted status She descended as Andal to instruct the Jivatmas in the precise manner and exact method of practice (Sadhana) pertaining to these means, said Sri K. B. Devarajan in a discourse. She exemplifies the Bhavas of a disciple, devotee and servant of the Lord that are essential in this pursuit.

Andal's hymns — Tiruppavai and Nachiyar Tirumozhi — are full of Bhakti Rasa and the practice of devotion in her life reveals the extraordinary joy of God experience that is possible for the Jivatma longing for Him.

In the first place, one should know clearly what the goal is and whether the path to the goal is right and Andal has shown that the Lord is the goal and that He is the path as well. Jnana is attained with the realisation that life on earth is a fleeting one and every experience, be it pleasant or sorrowful, is only temporary, and union with the Lord is the only refuge for all, and that He alone is capable of bestowing everlasting bliss.

The significance of the inherent connection of the Jivatma with the Lord that continues through all births is highlighted.

Andal understands that He alone is the master to be served and attained and dedicates everything to Him in the spirit of total surrender, while longing to be steeped in His service (Kainkarya).

It is the Bhava or spirit of worship that matters most and when one accepts one's own helplessness, this devotion increases, impelling one to offer everything to Him. This longing for the Lord is symbolic of the quest of the human soul.

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