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The Lord’s assurances

CHENNAI: Scriptural texts reinforce the assurances given by the Lord during His manifestations in the world to remind spiritual seekers about the enduring divine grace in man’s redemption from bondage if only they strive sincerely towards the goal of liberation.

The promise Lord Rama made in the context of Vibhishana’s surrender is an oft-quoted one for the efficacy of Self-surrender (Saranagati): “I vouchsafe security… to him who comes to Me only once and seeks protection (from Me) saying ‘I am Yours’: such is My vow.” It was meant for the entire humanity.

A similar promise was made by Lord Krishna when he taught the supremacy of the path of devotion to Arjuna: “Those who worship Me renouncing all actions in Me, regarding Me as Supreme, meditating on Me with exclusive devotion (Yoga), for them whose thought is fixed on Me, I become… the deliverer out of the ocean of worldly bondage.” This was a solemn vow given with the intention of making Arjuna evince interest in the path of devotion lest he entertained the view that the path of knowledge (Jnana) was superior to devotion, said Sri N.Veezhinathan in his discourse.

Krishna told him to fix his mind on Him and also apply his reason to Him. The distinction he makes here between the mind and the intellect are the mind’s two different aspects: thoughts (Manas) and volition (Buddhi). That the Bhagavad Gita is inclusive can be seen in the following verses in which it opens the spiritual path to all seekers. Lord Krishna prescribes alternatives by coming down step by step for those who are unable to achieve control over his thoughts during worship of either the formless Absolute (Nirguna Brahman) or the Supreme Being with form (Saguna Brahman). The next He recommends is worship of a representation of God (image) repeatedly to attain steadfastness of mind. If this is not possible the devotee must engage in action for the sake of the Lord as this will also purify the mind, which would then become eligible for knowledge (Jnana) leading to liberation. Even this may be difficult for some; to them the Lord out of compassion said, “Seek refuge in devotion to Me surrendering the fruits of all your actions.”

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