| 001. |
In the Scriptures, not salvation but devotion is considered the best manhood. |
| 002. |
GOD is very generous in granting salvation, but He is very choosy in granting devotion, because through devotion, GOD comes under the bonding of the devotee. |
| 003. |
It is the principle of Shrimad Bhagwatji Mahapuran, Shrimad Bhagavad Geetaji and Shri Ramcharitmanasji that Mother Devotion is the Empress and salvation is her maidservant. |
| 004. |
When GOD meets His devotee with love, GOD grants salvation to the beings who come in between that meeting so that no obstacle arises for GOD in loving His devotee. Just as if we are meeting a very dear and loving friend at an airport and talking with love, and if a beggar comes, we give him money without any argument so that no obstacle arises in the loving conversation with our friend. Similarly, GOD grants salvation to the worldly beings who cause obstacles in the midst of devotion so that GOD can continue to love His devotees without any hindrance. |
| 005. |
Every tendency of life should be connected to GOD and offered to GOD. If one has to fear, fear GOD; if one has to ask, ask GOD; if one has to give, give to GOD; if one has to remember, remember GOD; if one has to be annoyed, be annoyed with GOD; if one has to persuade, persuade GOD; if one has to play, play with GOD, meaning every tendency of one's life should be connected to GOD. |
| 006. |
May GOD become the basis of every thought that arises in the mind - this is devotion. |
| 007. |
If there is a desire to even practice pretense, then that pretense should also be of devotion of GOD. A policeman, in order to catch a dacoit, pretended to live as a devotee in a temple for some time, but he emerged from there as a true saint. He practiced pretense of devotion and became a true devotee, such is the influence of devotion. |
| 008. |
One should never live one's life for oneself. One should offer one's life to GOD alone and live only for GOD. |
| 009. |
If one must be annoyed, be annoyed only with GOD, because one only gets annoyed with those who are their own. In the world, only GOD is truly our own, the world is alien. Therefore, if saints have ever been annoyed, they have been annoyed only with GOD. |
| 010. |
This is the principle that only like elements can unite. We are the living (chetan) element and GOD is living (chetan), therefore, our union can only happen with GOD. The world is non-living (jad) and we are the living element, therefore, no matter how much we cling to the world, we will never be able to truly unite with it. |
| 011. |
Ever, even after many births, one must ultimately meet GOD because He is our original nature. Therefore, wisdom lies in making that effort in this human birth itself. |
| 012. |
Saints never asked GOD for salvation, wealth, property or family. They have always asked GOD only for devotion. |
| 013. |
Even after attaining the right to salvation, saints continue to undertake the devotion of GOD in their lives. |
| 014. |
Putana received salvation, but she did not receive devotion. The right to devotion along with salvation was granted only to Bhagwati Yashoda Mata. |
| 015. |
As soon as we go to GOD, GOD first removes the lack of faith (Ashraddha) and ignorance (Avidya) within us. |
| 016. |
If there is enthusiasm for GOD, then the desire to celebrate festivals for GOD will naturally arise in one's life. |
| 017. |
A devotee possesses the enthusiasm to keep performing the devotion of GOD until the final day, the final moment. |
| 018. |
True essence, true ecstasy and true joy are found only in the devotion of GOD. |
| 019. |
If one wishes to uplift their life, then they must engage their life only in the devotion of GOD. |
| 020. |
Bharatvarsh (India) is the land of GOD’s festivals. Therefore, GOD’s festivals are celebrated here at all times. At every moment, in some corner of the country, a festival of GOD is being celebrated on account of some religious reason. This is the special pride of Bharatvarsh. |
| 021. |
Bhagwati Yashoda Mata placed the essence of cow's milk (Gauras) on top of a cart (Shakat) and laid GOD to sleep beneath it, and GOD then kicked the cart. Gauras represents the essence of our five senses. When we give our senses a higher place than GOD and lower the position of GOD, GOD does not like it. In life, it should never be the stomach first, then GOD; in life, it should always and forever be GOD first. |
| 022. |
The stomach feels hunger only as long as the GOD element is within us. If the GOD element leaves from within us, the stomach will never feel hunger again. Our joy exists only because GOD is present, only then does the stomach feel hunger, the senses function, the intellect contemplates, the voice speaks and the mind thinks. Therefore, GOD's place in life should always be the highest. |
| 023. |
We reflect upon the body, but we do not reflect upon GOD who is seated within the body. |
| 024. |
GOD alone is the foundation of us all. Therefore, the first attention in life should be toward GOD. |
| 025. |
When destiny strikes a being with the blow of crisis, even the greatest atheists become GOD believers. |
| 026. |
A devotee built a temple for GOD Shree Pandurangji and built a temple for GOD Shri Shanidevji at the main entrance. When people asked why he did this, he said that GOD Shree Pandurangji is very compassionate, so people might not come to Him just like that. GOD Shri Shanidevji is the deity of punishment, therefore, people will come to him to pray to be saved from punishment and along with that, they will also receive the benefit of the vision (Darshan) of my GOD Shree Pandurangji. |
| 027. |
After getting tired of doing everything, one finally has to come to GOD. |
| 028. |
The day we feel in life that we must perform devotional worship and listen to the Katha (Holy pastimes) of GOD, believe it to be true that our sins have started to be destroyed, because if sins had not started to be destroyed, such a mind would not be formed at all. |
| 029. |
When we begin to perform Bhajan (devotional worship) in life, the mountain of our accumulated sins begins to be destroyed with great intensity. |
| 030. |
When Bhajan (devotional worship) enters our life, the sentiment should be that GOD has bestowed His grace, and thus devotional worship has manifested. For this, one should undeniably thank GOD. |
| 031. |
Before the body is left behind, if our attention shifts from the body to the Indweller (Dehi), that is, GOD, only then will our life be successful. |
| 032. |
To those whom GOD wishes to call near to Himself and engage in His service, He sends adversity into their lives, He gives them a jolt so that they may turn toward GOD. |
| 033. |
If the world is let go and GOD is grasped, our life becomes meaningful. |
| 034. |
By sending adversity in life, GOD compels His beloved devotee to undertake devotion. This should be considered GOD's infinite grace upon that devotee. |
| 035. |
Devotees should never criticize others and should not look for the faults in others. By looking at the faults of others, that evil first clings to us. |
| 036. |
See your Chosen Deity (Ishta-Dev) everywhere. Do not differentiate between any Deities as to who is great or who is small. All are my Chosen Deity because all are the various forms of my Chosen Deity itself. |
| 037. |
There should never be even a bit of disbelief toward the Scriptures. If a principle of the Scriptures is not understood at any time, one should believe that it is only a shortcoming of our own intellect. |
| 038. |
For one who chants GOD’s name faithfully, the destruction of their sins is certain. Chanting the Name should not be done merely for the sake of count or to complete the rosary (Mala). This is not enough. It is essential to have unwavering faith in chanting GOD’s name, only then will our sins be destroyed. |
| 039. |
GOD is the greatest center of attraction not just for the world, but for the entire universe. |
| 040. |
The Tenth Canto (Dasham Skandh) of Shrimad Bhagwatji Mahapuran indicates the path from practice (Saadhan) to meditative state of deep concentration (Samadhi). Every Holy Pastime (Shri Leela) of GOD gives a new sign to the devotees. |
| 041. |
Whenever our intellect leaves GOD, we get trapped in a crisis. |
| 042. |
Attaining GOD through logic is never possible because logic can never reach GOD. |
| 043. |
GOD is accessible to those with a pure intellect and inaccessible to those with an impure intellect. |
| 044. |
No matter how much intellect one employs, GOD will not be found, because GOD is not attained through the intellect, but rather when there is a sentiment of devotion in the heart. |
| 045. |
GOD must feel the desire to meet a devotee, only then does GOD meet that devotee. GOD feels this way only when there is a complete sentiment of devotion in our heart. |
| 046. |
If supreme devotion for GOD manifests in one’s life, then the conditions become favorable for meeting GOD. |
| 047. |
Whenever our intellect leaves GOD and engages in other tasks, our action (Rajoguna) and darkness (Tamoguna) increase. |
| 048. |
We should not consider ourselves the owner of our home or factory. The true owner of the home and factory is GOD alone. |
| 049. |
It is only when we distance GOD from ourselves that our action (Rajoguna) and darkness (Tamoguna) increase. Therefore, whenever action and darkness feel heightened in life, one should call upon GOD with a sentiment of devotion. |
| 050. |
The influence of offering salutations (Vandana) to GOD is such that saints humorously say that through salutations, even the supremely independent GOD comes under our influence. |
| 051. |
The practice of devotion can only be performed with a peaceful mind. |
| 052. |
Discord occurs in homes because we have not read Shri Ramayanji and Shri Mahabharatji, nor have we taught them to our family members. |
| 053. |
By remembering GOD from the inner self, all the discords of life become tranquil. |
| 054. |
Bhagwati Yashoda Mata had only two goals in life, to love the Child-form of GOD and to serve the Child-form of GOD. |
| 055. |
One should never experience the forgetfulness of GOD in life. |
| 056. |
GOD also gives His realization to the devotees and keeps making them aware of His presence. |
| 057. |
Our intellect can never definitely and completely understand GOD because GOD is beyond our intellect. |
| 058. |
GOD is the infinite authority of unbroken elated ecstasy (Parmanand). |
| 059. |
GOD is the one who attracts the minds of everyone. |
| 060. |
The best seekers always experience GOD within their hearts. |
| 061. |
We see the world, but a supreme devotee sees only GOD in life. |
| 062. |
If we keep searching for GOD outside, we will not find Him. Whenever we find GOD, He will be found only within us. |
| 063. |
At the time of self-realization, GOD first gives a vision (Darshan) within the heart. |
| 064. |
One should always remain cautious that GOD is not left behind in life and should keep one's entire life subordinate to GOD. |
| 065. |
If we hold onto GOD in life, then GOD Himself will arrange all other means to reach GOD. |
| 066. |
We should ask our mind how many infinite births we have tasted various essences, but have we ever tasted the essence of the devotion of GOD. |
| 067. |
We should ask our tongue whether the elated ecstasy (Parmanand) obtained from chanting GOD’s name is found in any other substance in the three worlds. |
| 068. |
For destroying sins, the name of GOD Shree Ramji is paramount; for granting elated ecstasy (Parmanand), the name of GOD Shree Krishnaji is paramount; and for granting devotion, the name of GOD Shree Mahadevji is paramount. |
| 069. |
By continuously chanting the name of GOD in life, one day or another, the attainment of GOD is achieved. |
| 070. |
Contiguity to GOD bestows elated ecstasy (Parmanand) that nothing else can provide. For ages, so many sages and saints would not have pursued GOD in vain if they did not receive elated ecstasy in life. |
| 071. |
Gau-mata (Mother-Cow) is most dear to GOD Shree Krishnaji. Today, this single reason is sufficient for the protection of Mother-Cow. |
| 072. |
Such a longing for the vision (Darshan) of GOD should awaken in life that our eyes never feel like turning away from GOD's vision. |
| 073. |
All the birds, animals, creepers and trees of Shri Gokulji were all perfected Mahatmas, sages, saints and monks who had come eagerly to participate in the Holy pastimes (Shri Leela) of GOD. |
| 074. |
The people of Shri Gokulji were left with no other subject to talk about, they spoke only about their Balkrishna (Child-form) GOD. If one wishes to turn the mind into Shri Gokulji, the subject of discussion in life should always be GOD. |
| 075. |
GOD was the star of the eye for Shri Brij. The Gopis were always ready to sacrifice their lives for GOD. |
| 076. |
The Gopis in whose houses butter theft occurred would be overjoyed and blessed. They would never tire of praising their fortune, feeling that today their churning and extracting of butter had become successful. Those Gopis in whose houses GOD did not go to steal butter would curse their own fate. |
| 077. |
Even today in Shri Gokulji, there is a tradition of keeping butter in a hanging basket (Chhikda). The sentiment behind this is that GOD will come and steal the butter. |
| 078. |
Butter theft was the Holy pastime (Shri Leela) of GOD to provide elated ecstasy to the Shri Gopis. |
| 079. |
Saints believe that GOD did not steal butter, but rather, on the pretext of butter, He stole their consciousness (Chitt). |
| 080. |
If the Hero of infinite millions of universes steals, He will steal something grand, and for GOD, the grandest thing is the consciousness of His devotees. |
| 081. |
Even a moral life is incomplete without devotion. Salvation cannot be achieved through morality alone, devotion is absolutely essential for salvation. |
| 082. |
GOD steals only the pure consciousness free from vices and the tender consciousness filled with love for GOD. Saints say that GOD cannot refrain from stealing such a consciousness. |
| 083. |
In the Shrimad Bhagavad Geetaji, GOD tells Shri Arjunji to surrender your mind to Me. This is the only demand GOD has from the living being. |
| 084. |
After surrendering to GOD, our mind should be fixed on GOD. While performing Aarti, we sing that "body, mind and wealth — everything is offered," yet even while singing this, our mind wanders off into the world. |
| 085. |
In Shrimad Bhagwatji Mahapuran, GOD speaks of something even beyond the Shrimad Bhagavad Geetaji. In the Shrimad Bhagavad Geetaji, GOD talks about giving the mind to Him, but in Shrimad Bhagwatji Mahapuran, He says there isn't even a need to give the mind, just engage your mind in devotion, and GOD Himself will come and steal it. |
| 086. |
When GOD steals our mind, saints call that state Samadhi (a state of intense meditation). |
| 087. |
If there is a mind, there is the world; if there is no mind, there is no world. All the friction of the world is only because of our mind. Therefore, by offering your mind to GOD, all the friction of the world will automatically cease. |
| 088. |
Through devotion, one should make their mind pure and tender, worthy of being stolen by GOD. |
| 089. |
Samadhi (a state of intense meditation) is not practiced, it just happens. Devotion automatically absorbs the living being into GOD. |
| 090. |
We do not know the exact time we fell asleep at night. If we are aware of the exact moment, it means we hadn't actually fallen asleep yet. Similarly, one doesn't even realize when Samadhi (a state of intense meditation) occurs, the Samadhi of devotees happens without them even knowing. |
| 091. |
The Gopos of Shri Brij exemplified the supreme friend-devotion (Sakha Bhakti) with GOD. |
| 092. |
GOD has no fear because fear belongs to the living being. Everyone is terrified by the fear of GOD. Yet, while performing Holy pastimes (Shri Leela) in Shri Brij, when GOD put soil in His mouth and Mother called out, GOD acted out the pastime of fear and was afraid. Shri Shukdevji says it is the glory of devotion that GOD due to whose fear the wind must blow, IndraDevji must cause rain, and the entire nature must remain dynamic — that very GOD performs the Holy pastime of being terrified by the fear of Bhagwati Yashoda Mata. |
| 093. |
That GOD whose greatness and opulence are such that Shri Brahmaji, the Shri Vedas, Deities, Sanakadik sages, saints and devotees never tire of offering Him salutations (Vandana) or singing His praises — to that GOD, Bhagwati Yashoda Mata says, "How spoiled you are becoming!" This is the authority of Bhagwati Yashoda Mata over GOD due to her devotion. |
| 094. |
Saints have said that the status of the Shri Vedas is high, higher than them is the status of GOD whom the Shri Vedas praise, but higher even than Him is the status of Bhagwati Yashoda Mata because of her devotion. Such is the great glory of devotion. |
| 095. |
When GOD had to open His mouth for the soil, He remembered Shreeji Bhagwati Radha Mata, who is His soul-power (Atmashakti). This indicates that even when GOD performs a Holy pastime of crisis, He remembers Shreeji Bhagwati Radha Mata. We, too, should call upon the Mata (Mother) in times of crisis. |
| 096. |
Only what is outside can be eaten. GOD gave a vision (Darshan) of the entire universe within His mouth and showed that nothing is outside Me, everything is situated within Me. The principle is that there is no substance outside of GOD, whatever exists is within GOD — this is the principle of Shri Vedas. |
| 097. |
Shri Vedas have described GOD as omnipresent because everything that exists is situated within GOD. This indicates that we should never consider the Thakurji (Deity) in our home as small. GOD has come into our Home Temple (Thakurbadi) in a tiny form to accept our service, but He is omnipresent. |
| 098. |
Even worshipping a small idol results in successful idol-worship for that living being who understands the omnipresence of GOD. Our sentiment should be that my such vast GOD is situated even in this small idol. |
| 099. |
The vast Supreme Soul (GOD) merges into a small idol to bestow grace upon His devotees. |
| 100. |
Do not look for GOD's incarnation outside. The Deity in your home is the worshipable incarnation (Archa-Avatar). The principle is that if we cannot see GOD in the Thakurji residing in our Home temple (Thakurbadi), we will not find Him anywhere outside either. |
| 101. |
Such is the power of devotion that GOD becomes exactly what the devotee wants Him to be. |
| 102. |
With just one idol of GOD and one name of GOD, Bhagwati Meerabai attained those heights of devotion for which everyone else yearns. |
| 103. |
GOD is everywhere, but if our conscience is not right, then our conscience will not be able to perceive the omnipresent GOD. |
| 104. |
One should never behave with disrespect in the Home temple (Thakurbadi) of one's house because GOD Himself is truly present there. |
| 105. |
If our conscience is non-living (Jad) like a stone, then the idol of GOD will also appear to us as non-living (Jad) rather than living (Chetan). |
| 106. |
Even GOD, who makes the world dance through His Maya (illusion), is brought under the influence of His devotees through their devotion. |
| 107. |
When Bhagwati Yashoda Mata saw the entire universe in the mouth of GOD, her sentiment of being a mother vanished, and the sentiment of His divinity awakened. At that moment, GOD immediately cast a veil of Maya (illusion), because in Shri Vaikunthji, GOD is always worshipped with a sentiment of divinity. Therefore, during His incarnation, GOD wishes to perform the Holy pastimes (Shri Leela) of love with His devotees rather than being worshipped. The principle is that having love for GOD is even greater than the worship of GOD. |
| 108. |
If we remain dear to GOD, we will be left amazed by the constant grace GOD showers upon our lives. |
| 109. |
When one is the recipient of grace from the Greatest, the reward (Prasad) is also great. GOD is the greatest in the three worlds, therefore, one should strive in life to become a recipient of His grace. |
| 110. |
There should be an extremely intense desire in our mind to undertake devotion of GOD. If such a desire exists, GOD will surely fulfill it one day. |
| 111. |
GOD is attained merely by an intense resolve of devotion, but that resolve of devotion must be authentic. |
| 112. |
Shri Nanda Baba had 9,00,000 Gau-Mata (Mother-Cows). Among them, he had kept 1,00,000 special Mother-Cows separately for GOD. The milk of those 1,00,000 Mother-Cows was used only for GOD and for no other purpose. Every day, the milk of these 1,00,000 Mother-Cows was prepared for GOD in the following manner:
The milk of 1,00,000 cows was fed to 10,000 cows. The milk of those 10,000 was fed to 1,000 cows. The milk of those 1,000 was fed to 100 cows. The milk of those 100 was fed to 10 cows. The milk of those 10 was fed to one single cow. The Padmagandha milk of that one cow was used for GOD's drinking, butter, curd and buttermilk. Such was the love and affection Shri Nanda Baba and Bhagwati Yashoda Mata had for GOD. If we are ever fortunate enough to perform some service for GOD in our lives and we become filled with ego regarding our service, we should remember this episode of service from Shri Brij, and our ego will be destroyed. |
| 113. |
While churning butter for GOD, Bhagwati Yashoda Mata would constantly hum songs of the childhood Holy pastimes (Shri Leela) of GOD. While serving GOD, we too should hum the Holy pastimes of GOD. |
| 114. |
Devotion should always be kept alive in life, and it should never be allowed to become dull or lifeless. |
| 115. |
What spiritual practice did the Shri Gopis perform, they only kept selfless love for GOD. |
| 116. |
In the name of spiritual practice (Saadhan), we have actually distanced GOD from ourselves. A practice that entangles us within the practice itself and moves us away from GOD is not worth doing. |
| 117. |
Devrishi GOD Shri Naradji considered Shri Gopijan (loving devotees of GOD) as the ideal of love for GOD. Devrishi GOD Shri Naradji is aware of all the devotees who love GOD, yet he chose Shri Gopijan as the ideal example. |
| 118. |
Remembering GOD with love throughout the day and singing the Holy pastimes of GOD throughout the day, apart from these two, Shri Gopijan (loving devotees of GOD) performed no other spiritual practice. |
| 119. |
An even more important spiritual practice than meditation is the singing of the Holy pastimes of GOD. Therefore, Bhajan and Kirtan (singing hymns) are very major components of devotion. |
| 120. |
If you wish to become one with GOD, you should sing the Holy pastimes (Shri Leela) and the noble virtues of GOD. |
| 121. |
Believe this truth that wherever true devotees of GOD, such as Bhagwati Meerabai, Shri Narsi Mehtaji and Shri Surdasji sing, GOD Himself walks there and remains present forever. |
| 122. |
Those who sing the praises of the virtues of GOD are the first to reach close to GOD. |
| 123. |
The Padmagandha milk set aside for GOD was boiling over, so Bhagwati Yashoda Mata lifted GOD from her lap, laid Him on the bed and went to save the milk. GOD became annoyed by this and broke the pot of milk-cream (Goras). The indication of this episode is that even for the sake of GOD'S service, if we separate GOD from ourselves, GOD does not like it. GOD thinks that My service has become more important than Me, therefore, as soon as one forgets GOD, GOD breaks that means of service. |
| 124. |
When GOD begins to love a devotee, and the devotee begins to love the means to attain GOD, then GOD kicks away that means to bring the devotee closer to Him. |
| 125. |
When GOD wants to call someone close to Him, He sends adversity into their life. Saint Shri Tukaramji's mind was trapped in attachment to his son and wife. GOD wanted to call him quickly to Himself, so GOD caused the separation from his son and wife. |
| 126. |
When GOD wants to distance someone from Himself, He gives them wealth, property, opulence and fame, because of which that living being gets engrossed in the world and forgets GOD. |
| 127. |
If we neglect GOD and try to save the milk (representing wealth), we will be deprived of the butter (representing joy). Bhagwati Yashoda Mata saved the Padmagandha milk, and GOD broke the very pot of butter made from that milk. |
| 128. |
The highest achievement of the world, devotion of GOD, can never be attained through wealth. Therefore, the capacity of wealth is very limited. |
| 129. |
Even if one earns money in life, if one does not undertakes devotion of GOD, one can never attain elated ecstasy (Parmanand). |
| 130. |
One should never adopt any means (saadhan) in life that causes one to be deprived of focusing their attention on the goal (saadhya), which is GOD. |
| 131. |
Even a trillionaire cannot possess the elated ecstasy (Parmanand) in their heart that a true devotee possesses. |
| 132. |
One should never neglect devotion in life. Devotion is the highest achievable accomplishment because elated ecstasy (Parmanand) is hidden within devotion itself. |
| 133. |
No worldly pleasure can give us that elated ecstasy (Parmanand) which the devotion of GOD provides. This is an eternal principle. |
| 134. |
Bhagwati Yashoda Mata saved the Padmagandha milk and lost the butter. This indicates that if we do not attain GOD by the final moment of our lives, we too will lose our salvation. |
| 135. |
In the Holy pastimes (Shri Leela) of stealing butter at Nand Bhavan, GOD distributed the butter made from Padmagandha milk to everyone. This indicates that GOD distributes only the best thing, elated ecstasy (Parmanand), to His devotees. |
| 136. |
By seeing GOD, we receive fulfillment, yet an equal unfulfillment (longing) is born, because our mind wishes to keep performing the vision (Darshan) of GOD forever. |
| 137. |
Just as a tree does not hold onto a ripe fruit but lets it go, when the means of devotion mature, actions (Karma) are left behind. When GOD is attained, even if the means of practice fall away, it makes no difference, but this is a very high state. If we are so drowned in devotion of GOD that our scheduled worship is missed, millions of perfected souls (Siddhas) and great souls (Mahatmas) come to give that devotee the fruits of their own worship. |
| 138. |
One does not have to leave actions (Karma), but when the mind is so deeply submerged in GOD, action simply cannot take place and falls away on its own. |
| 139. |
If we sit for worship and such a longing for GOD develops that we forget to perform the worship itself, this is the pinnacle of devotion. When Saint Shri Ramakrishnaji Paramahans reached such a high level in devotion to the Mother GODDESS, he was no longer capable of performing ritualistic worship. |
| 140. |
Devotees have no caste. A devotee can belong to any caste. Devotees have only one caste that they are devotees of GOD. |
| 141. |
Those who do not reach the depth of sentiment in devotion cannot savor elated ecstasy (Parmanand) in their lives. |
| 142. |
So many Mahatmas (blessed souls) and saints have written so many commentaries on Srimad Bhagavatji Mahapuran, and there has been so much analysis of a single Katha (Holy pastimes) of GOD, that even if one reads for an entire lifetime, it will not come to an end. |
| 143. |
The core principle of Srimad Bhagavatji Mahapuran is the establishment of devotion itself. |
| 144. |
Srimad Bhagavatji Mahapuran, Srimad Bhagavad Geetaji and Shri Ramcharitmanasji are Holy Scriptures that touch the conscience (Antahkaran). |
| 145. |
There have been some devotees who did not even study the Holy Scriptures, yet the Holy Scriptures opened their entire heart to them. This was possible only because of their devotion. This applies to Srimad Bhagavatji Mahapuran, Srimad Bhagavad Geetaji and Shri Ramcharitmanasji as well. |
| 146. |
Bhagwati Yashoda Mata runs behind the child-form Gopal (GOD) with a stick. The mother says, "Stop!" GOD says, "First throw the stick, then I will stop." The indication is that if a living being wants to catch GOD, GOD says that first throw the stick of ego, then I will be caught. |
| 147. |
To this day, there has never been anyone who could catch GOD while still preserving their own ego. |
| 148. |
One who has learned to become zero in life is the only one who has been able to catch the full GOD. |
| 149. |
Devershi GOD Shri Naradji has written in his Bhakti Sutra that GOD finds the meekness, meaning the sentiment of humility, in a living being very dear. |
| 150. |
It is said in the Scriptures that even if a camel can pass through the eye of a needle, but a wealthy or a learned person cannot find GOD because they possess the ego of their wealth and knowledge. The indication of this is that only one who forgets their ego finds GOD. |
| 151. |
Ego is the commander-in-chief of all vices, therefore, ego is most disliked by GOD. |
| 152. |
As long as our intellect does not leave the non-living world, it will not be able to catch the conscious GOD. We fail in attaining GOD because we want to catch the conscious GOD without letting go of the non-living world. |
| 153. |
We want to perform virtuous deeds in life, but we do not want to renounce sin in life. We are not able to perform virtuous deeds nor we are not able to renounce sin. What a great irony this is. |
| 154. |
Even an ordinary living being does not like bondage, yet GOD comes into bonding, and that too joyfully. Why is this so ? This is possible only because of the devotion of the living being. Such is the great power of devotion. |
| 155. |
Bhagwati Yashoda Mata wanted to bind GOD to the mortar, but no matter how much rope she joined, it kept falling two fingers short. The indication is that despite any amount of manhood (Purusharth) of a living being, unless there is the grace of GOD, the rope will not be complete and GOD will not come into bonding. GOD comes into the bonding of only those living beings upon whom He showers His grace. |
| 156. |
Only when a living being performs the manhood (Purusharth) of their devotion and GOD showers His grace, does GOD come into the bond of love. |
| 157. |
Those who staked their lives for GOD were never mistaken and they have certainly found GOD in their lives. |
| 158. |
One should not save anything of one's own to attain GOD, everything should be staked. |
| 159. |
When one finger's length of the manhood (Purusharth) of devotion is completed, meaning a full effort of devotion is made to attain GOD, then GOD completes the second finger's length with His grace, and in this way, the union of the devotee with GOD occurs. |
| 160. |
When we apply our full strength to the means of attaining GOD, meaning we walked as much as we could on the path of GOD, performed as much service for GOD as possible, meditated on GOD with our heart as much as we could, and heard as much Katha (Holy pastimes) of GOD as possible, then GOD Himself comes walking by His grace and our union with GOD takes place. |
| 161. |
GOD never keeps the debt of devotion upon Himself and repays it by giving the devotees a place at His Divine Lotus Feet. |
| 162. |
The One by whose name and by whose grace a living being becomes free from all bondages and who distributes salvation as a blessing, accepts the bonding of the devotee because of devotion. GOD bestows this grace upon His devotees due to devotion. |
| 163. |
Without devotion, the grace of GOD is not attained in life, just as one does not receive blessings without offering a respectful greeting. |
| 164. |
GOD shows in His Holy pastimes (Shri Leela) how much He is under the control of His dear devotees and how naturally He accepts the bond of their love. |
| 165. |
A living being is in bondage, but GOD has no bondage. Yet, because of devotion, GOD automatically accepts the bonding of the devotee. |
| 166. |
The fruit of true devotion is that it binds even GOD in the bond of love. |
| 167. |
The fruit of true devotion is that GOD starts playing with the devotee. Whatever the devotee's desire is, GOD accepts and fulfills it. |
| 168. |
When the devotee can think of nothing except GOD, then GOD also does not lag behind and GOD too can think of nothing except His devotees. |
| 169. |
GOD is most pleased when bound by devotion because GOD feels the joy of having fulfilled His devotee's wish. |
| 170. |
GOD does not rest without fulfilling the desires of His devotee's heart. |
| 171. |
GOD is never under the control of the wise (gyani) or Yogis, GOD is solely and exclusively under the control of His devotees. |
| 172. |
His devotees are most dear to GOD. |
| 173. |
GOD never bestows that grace upon the wise (gyani) or Yogis which He bestows upon His devotees. |
| 174. |
The wise (gyani) find GOD as He is, but devotees find GOD exactly as the devotee desires Him to be. |
| 175. |
A wise (gyani) person can never insist with GOD, but such is the power of devotion that a devotee can even insist with GOD. |
| 176. |
The wise (gyani) can only experience GOD, but a devotee can have a direct audience and have the vision (Darshan) of GOD. |
| 177. |
A devotee influences GOD to appear in the form that is dear to them. In fact, they influence GOD to even assume a new form. This is the power of devotion alone. |
| 178. |
A devotee influences GOD even to change His form. Goswami Tulsidasji influenced GOD to renounce the form of Shree Krishna and appear in the form of Shree Ram. He did not offer a respectful greeting and remained stubborn, insisting that he would not bow until GOD appeared in the form of Shree Ram. This delight belongs only to devotees. This right is possible only on the strength of devotion. |
| 179. |
A devotee feeds GOD, eats from the Divine Hands of GOD, pleases GOD, makes GOD laugh and even makes GOD weep in devotion. This authority belongs only to devotion. |
| 180. |
A fruit-selling woman, while performing her duty, meaning selling fruit, began taking many rounds of Nand Bhavan daily for a vision of GOD. She continued this for many days with a longing for the vision of GOD. GOD came out of Nand Bhavan and gave her His vision and in exchange for her deed, meaning after taking her fruit, He gave her priceless gems. The indication is that if we continue to perform our duty for GOD while keeping faith in GOD, then GOD will surely fulfill that faith and give us the fruit. |
| 181. |
The fruit-selling woman experienced that however divine GOD appears from a distance, His divinity increases even more upon coming closer. The indication of this is that the beauty of GOD exists in distance as well as in proximity, whereas, exactly the opposite, the attraction of material enjoyments exists only in their distance, and the closer they come, their attraction continues to vanish. |
| 182. |
Upon seeing the beauty of GOD, the fruit-selling woman even forgot to offer her fruit to GOD. The beauty of GOD is so divine from up close that it completely fascinates us. |
| 183. |
Many are called to the court of GOD, but only a few are chosen by GOD. |
| 184. |
GOD does not take anything for free. When the fruit-selling woman offered the fruits of her actions to GOD, GOD stopped her and gave her a handful of grain, which turned into divine gems. |
| 185. |
The best devotees of GOD remain madly in love with GOD throughout their lives and, therefore, are not skilled in worldly affairs. |
| 186. |
A devotee does not look after their clothes because they are constantly looking after the sentiment of devotion for GOD within their heart. |
| 187. |
GOD took four fruits from the woman and filled her entire basket with divine gems, which became inexhaustible (Akshay). The principle is that whatever GOD gives in the form of a blessing becomes inexhaustible forever. |
| 188. |
Powers (Siddhis) obtained through Yog eventually end, but things received as a blessing (Prasad) from GOD never end. |
| 189. |
The fruit-selling woman gave fruits to GOD, meaning she offered the fruits of her actions to GOD, therefore, she received the blessing (Prasad) of GOD. We do the opposite. We do not offer the fruits of our actions to GOD, instead, we ask GOD for fruits (rewards), which is why we do not receive the grace of GOD'S blessing. |
| 190. |
Devershi GOD Shri Naradji is the most beloved of GOD because the propagation of devotion that he performs is for the auspiciousness of the world. |
| 191. |
It is completely impossible for anyone to even think of fully describing the noble virtues of GOD. |
| 192. |
The blessedness of our speech lies only in singing the praises of GOD. |
| 193. |
Connecting the conduct of every sense with GOD is devotion. |
| 194. |
That speech alone is blessed which daily sings the praises of GOD, therefore, we should sing the praise of name, form, qualities, Holy pastimes (Katha) and abode of GOD with our voice. |
| 195. |
There is nothing simpler than chanting the name of GOD. Everything that can be attained by all the means of the whole world can be obtained solely by chanting the name of GOD. Therefore, all saints have sung the glory of chanting GOD'S name while sitting in solitude. |
| 196. |
Speaking about GOD, that is, describing His noble virtues, beauty, majesty and compassion with one's voice, is a matter of great fortune. |
| 197. |
GOD knows only one language, the language of the heart’s sentiment. Even if we recite long hymns in the Sanskrit language, if there is no sentiment for GOD in the heart, there is little benefit. |
| 198. |
One should constantly describe the name, form, qualities, Holy pastimes (Katha) and abode of GOD. Through such descriptions, our mind becomes concentrated on GOD. It is a principle that our mind focuses on whatever we describe, therefore, one should always dedicate one's speech to the description of GOD. |
| 199. |
To fix the mind on GOD, one should first dedicate one's speech to GOD. Our mind will naturally be compelled to think about those of whom we speak, because the mind follows speech. |
| 200. |
In life, one should first begin to hear about GOD and speak about GOD. |
| 201. |
To speak about GOD, it is necessary to hear about GOD, therefore, one should continuously listen to the Holy pastimes (Katha) of GOD in life. |
| 202. |
One should always listen to any discussion regarding the name, form, qualities, Holy pastimes (Katha) and abode of GOD. One should constantly listen to the Holy Scriptures and must take advantage of any discussion of GOD wherever it is found. |
| 203. |
One should find a way in life so that both one's speech and one's hearing are dedicated to GOD. |
| 204. |
One should always engage their hands in performing some deed or the other for GOD. |
| 205. |
The spiritual practice for GOD should occur at every level, i.e, body, breath, mind and intellect. |
| 206. |
One must certainly perform some work of service of GOD with one's own hands every single day. |
| 207. |
Engaging one's mind and body in the service of GOD is an essential means in devotion, because devotion without the service of GOD never exists. |
| 208. |
It is the great fortune of our life if our hands are engaged in GOD’S work and our feet run for GOD’S tasks. |
| 209. |
In Indian religion (Sanatana Dharma), the concept of dedicating every form of knowledge acquired in one's life to the service of GOD has been established. |
| 210. |
Upon hearing the glory of the name of GOD, the hands of even many atheists have taken up prayer beads and their hands became engaged in turning them. Such great glory of GOD’S name is famous throughout the world. |
| 211. |
Even after walking for twenty-five days and standing in a queue for thirty-six hours, one gets to have the vision of GOD for only a single moment, yet devotees still do this because they have such immense love for GOD. |
| 212. |
Vaishnavas (devotees) certainly behold the lotus-like face of GOD, but their meditative attention always remains fixed upon the Divine Lotus Feet of GOD. |
| 213. |
It is the natural habit of a devotee’s hands that they remain joined in prayer whenever they are in the presence of GOD. |
| 214. |
If our mind perceives GOD everywhere, then no one in this world remains "small" or "great" to us, because we behold the same Supreme Soul within everyone. |
| 215. |
The true listening of Shri Shrimad Bhagavatji Mahapuran should only be considered successful when it improves the tendencies of our life and our life becomes filled with GOD. Otherwise, simply performing Kirtan, dancing during the Katha (Holy pastimes) or cheering will only provide very little benefit. |
| 216. |
There must be a complete surrender and dissolution of the ego in life, only then can we attain GOD. |
| 217. |
Saints, even today, bow to anyone arriving from Shri Gokulji or Shri Vrindavanji because they believe those individuals have come from the village of GOD. |
| 218. |
First of all, we should habituate our eyes to the vision of GOD. |
| 219. |
Devotees pray to GOD saying they do not desire wealth and property, nor do they desire salvation. When GOD asks, "Then what do you want ?" the devotees reply that we only want your devotion. |
| 220. |
A true saint is one who only allows the flow of devotion of GOD to stream through the minds of the common people. |
| 221. |
We should begin devotion in such a way that every part of our body is engaged in performing actions for GOD. Our eyes should behold GOD, our ears should listen about GOD and our hands should serve GOD, only then is their existence meaningful. |
| 222. |
It is extremely difficult to leave a home where generations have lived, but for the sake of GOD, all the residents of Gokul decided in a single moment to leave Shri Gokulji and go to Shri Vrindavanji. By renouncing their settled homes for GOD, they made their love for GOD world-renowned. |
| 223. |
GOD Himself brought Shri Girirajji (Govardhan Hill) and Bhagwati Yamuna Mata from Goloka (GOD's abode) and settled them in Shri Vrindavanji for Shriji Bhagwati Radha Mata, because Shriji Bhagwati Radha Mata wished to take Her Sagun Saakar form (real-life incarnation) only when Her beloved Shri Girirajji and Bhagwati Yamuna Mata from Goloka accompanied Her to Earth. Therefore, in the entire region of Shri Braj, Shri Girirajji and Bhagwati Yamuna Mata hold the highest significance. |
| 224. |
The cowherds (Gopes) thought that after going to Shri Vrindavanji, they would have to build new homes, but GOD ordered GOD Shri Vishwakarmaji to go to Shri Vrindavanji a night before and build new houses. When everyone arrived, they found ready-made homes. The indication of this incident is that if we make sacrifices for GOD, we do not have to labor hard because GOD, seeing our sentiment, makes all arrangements in advance. |
| 225. |
True saints maintain their physical bodies only for the sake of supreme welfare (Paramarth). They never do anything for their own selfishness. This is the hallmark of true saints. |
| 226. |
GOD had the greatest love for the Gau-Mata (mother cows) and the deepest friendship with their calves. |
| 227. |
True devotees should constantly feel that my GOD must always remain right before my sight. |
| 228. |
Blessed are those people who adopt GOD, the master of infinite millions of universes, in any form. |
| 229. |
GOD Shree Krishnaji is very fond of adorning Himself. However much we adorn GOD, GOD adorns our life even more, because GOD never keeps anyone’s debt upon Himself. |
| 230. |
When GOD prepared to go out to graze the calves, the Gopis felt the greatest sorrow. They began to wonder how their day would pass. They would only be able to have the vision of GOD during His departure in the morning and His return in the evening. The Gopis desired to behold GOD all day long, therefore, they would reach Nand Bhavan on any pretext just to see Him. Such was the intensity of attachment to the vision of GOD within the Gopis. |
| 231. |
When the Gopis would blink while beholding GOD, they would curse the Deity who created eyelids, questioning why he made eyelids that cause even a momentary obstruction in seeing GOD. Just imagine how little time it takes to blink, yet, the Gopis could not endure even that much absence of GOD’S vision. |
| 232. |
When GOD went to graze the calves, the Gopis would come outside their homes to watch Him, they would keep watching for a long distance. When GOD was no longer visible, they would climb the roofs of their houses to watch Him. Even then, when He could not be seen, they would keep watching the dust flying in that direction. This thirst itself is devotion. This attachment itself is devotion. Devotion means to stick to GOD. The conscience of the Gopis was always stuck to GOD. |
| 233. |
In the midst of play, GOD would play a game. All the cowherd boys would play a game of catching, that is, touching GOD. Those cowherds who could never catch GOD but had the deep desire to do so, GOD would let Himself be caught by them. The indication here is that seeing the intent in people's hearts to reach Him, GOD certainly grants them the opportunity to catch Him in life. |
| 234. |
Bharatvarsh (India) has attained the glory of seeing GOD play in His child form and the Indian Holy Scriptures have attained the glory of describing Him. |
| 235. |
A demon once thought that the most beloved form to GOD and the best way to get close to Him was that of Gau-Mata (Mother Cow), therefore, he took the form of a calf. The indication of this is that GOD has immense love for Mother Cow and the calves. |
| 236. |
Due to Tamoguna (dark qualities), the intellect becomes heedless, therefore, one should increase virtuous qualities (Satoguna) in life so that our intellect always remains alert. |
| 237. |
Only if the intellect remains Sattvic (pure) will we be able to perform devotion with efficiency. |
| 238. |
GOD Shree Krishnaji and GOD Shree Hanumanji held no official position while performing their worldly pastimes, yet, without them, in the Shri Mahabharatji and Shri Ramayanji respectively, not even a leaf moves. |
| 239. |
All the cowherds boys derived such bliss in playing with GOD that they did not even realize how the entire day passed. This indicates that spending time with GOD is always blissful. |
| 240. |
GOD forgets His divinity and greatness to play with His devotees. All the cowherds boys who performed pastimes with GOD in Shri Brij were devotees, sages, saints and enlightened souls of GOD. |
| 241. |
Devotion is the only means that provides the capability and eligibility to play with GOD. |
| 242. |
When the cowherd boys left GOD behind and moved ahead, they mistook the mouth of a python for a cave due to delusion and entered it. The indication of this episode is that whenever we keep GOD behind in life, we will have to enter the mouth of calamity. |
| 243. |
When poisonous air came from the python's mouth, all the cowherd boys called out to GOD and then fainted while calling. Hearing the call, GOD Himself entered the python's mouth, rescued the boys, cured their unconsciousness and restored their memory, which had been destroyed due to the effect of the poison. The indication of this episode is that if we call upon GOD even in the final moments, that is, in calamity, GOD will bring us back safely. |
| 244. |
A person who thinks that I will perform spiritual practice after completing all my work, can never progress on the path of practice. |
| 245. |
Devotion is the best and most permanent result-giving practice. |
| 246. |
Have we ever thought about what we will receive in return for the time we spend reading too many newspapers, watching TV, engaging in worldly affairs and gossiping. The time we have lost in this way in life will not yield any spiritual benefit in return. |
| 247. |
When GOD Shree Hanumanji was crossing the ocean, small mountains rose up. All these small mountains are symbols that when we move towards GOD in our life, small tasks appear. What did GOD Shree Hanumanji do, He jumped over them, pushed them back down and moved forward on his path. From this episode, we also get an indication that by ignoring all the small deeds of life, we too should take out time for the great deed, that is, devotion. |
| 248. |
A human being should never live a life of show-off. The essence is that as long as we do not leave show-off in life, we will not be able to move forward on the path of spiritual practice of GOD. |
| 249. |
The cowherd boys found the python's tongue like a smooth path. The indication of this episode is that the path of sin always looks attractive to the soul. |
| 250. |
Out of curiosity and eagerness, the cowherd boys entered the python's mouth because they wanted to see what kind of cave it was and thus they got trapped. This episode indicates that we should also never perform deeds that should be abandoned out of curiosity and eagerness. What is meant to be abandoned is meant to be abandoned, this principle should always be followed in life. |
| 251. |
Our senses are so powerful that even if we leave them open once for curiosity or excitement, they cause our complete destruction. |
| 252. |
One should not look at the wrong things at all and one should not go in that direction, only then will we be able to move forward on the path of spiritual practice of GOD. |
| 253. |
Even while entering the python’s mouth-like cave, the cowherd boys called out to GOD, this was the most virtuous deed they performed. This incident indicates that even when a soul is trapped in the swamp of sins, if they call upon GOD, He will certainly come to save them. This is an eternal principle. |
| 254. |
Whether in a state of goodness or in a state of evil, one should never stop calling upon GOD in life. If we forget GOD while in a state of goodness, then evils will eventually seize us. If we do not call upon GOD while in a state of evil, we will never find liberation from that evil. The essence is this that one must keep calling upon GOD in every state of life. |
| 255. |
The cowherd boys loved GOD so much that during their forest feast, they would sit in a circular formation so that everyone could see GOD and their eyes could continuously behold the vision of GOD. This incident indicates that we too should always meditate on the vision of GOD in our minds while eating. |
| 256. |
All the cowherd boys experienced themselves as being in the presence of GOD. The essence is that in life, we too should always experience ourselves as being in front of GOD. |
| 257. |
We should always meditate upon that form of GOD which is most dear to our mind. |
| 258. |
GOD would feed the cowherd boys with His Divine Hands and would Himself eat from the hands of the cowherd boys. GOD feeds true devotees with His Divine Hands and eats from the hands of true devotees Himself. |
| 259. |
When the Deities of heaven saw with what elated ecstasy (Parmanand) GOD fed the cowherd boys and with what joy He ate from their hands, they realized that such elated ecstasy is not found even in the food and drink of the heavenly realm. |
| 260. |
The Deities, upon seeing the elated ecstasy of GOD’s forest feast, wished to taste that food. So, GOD told all the cowherd boys to serve everything and let nothing remain. Furthermore, GOD ordered that no leftovers (partially eaten food) should be left behind. GOD even went so far as to say that no one should go to Bhagwati Yamuna Mata to wash their hands, because the Deities were ready to turn into fish there just to taste the crumbs falling from their hands. The Deities only wanted to see how the cowherd boys derived such elated ecstasy in the forest feast with GOD. The essence here is that cook food for GOD and feed GOD and you will experience wonderful joy. |
| 261. |
If our attention drifts toward the world while performing devotion and devotional hymns (Bhajan) of GOD, we should understand that we will be separated from GOD. |
| 262. |
GOD Shree Brahmaji saw GOD Shree Narayanaji everywhere. GOD Shree Narayanaji was in every single calf. GOD Shree Narayanaji was in every single hair of every calf. He saw GOD Shree Narayanaji in every pore of the skin of every calf. GOD Shree Brahmaji saw millions of GOD Shree Narayanajis in every single calf. The essence is that GOD resides in every living being and in their every single pore. |
| 263. |
There is no one else in the universe more worthy of praise, that is, someone whose praises should be sung other than GOD. GOD Shree Brahmaji said this and the praise of GOD performed by GOD Shree Brahmaji became an immortal ornament of the Shrimad Bhagavatji Mahapuran. |
| 264. |
While explaining the Divine Lotus Feet (Shri Kamalcharan) of GOD, GOD Shree Brahmaji said that those Divine Lotus Feet grant blessedness to everyone. |
| 265. |
A devotee should always remember that the sacred form (Vigraha) of GOD is not merely made of metal, because GOD is personally present there in His real-life incarnation (Sagun Saakar form). |
| 266. |
By chanting the name of GOD and performing Kirtan, the atoms of our body change and a wonderful purity (virtuous qualities) arises within them. |
| 267. |
The words uttered by devotees become equivalent to the Vedas (Holy Scriptures). This is the capability of devotion. |
| 268. |
The merely knowledgeable Scholars (gyani) do not even have a clue about the confidential secrets of GOD but devotees are always aware of them. |
| 269. |
Devotees win the heart of GOD through the strength of their devotion and GOD reveals His secrets to them one after another. Those who rely only on knowledge can never reach those secrets, no matter how many Scriptures they read. |
| 270. |
Devotees are the most trustworthy to GOD, therefore, GOD does not reveal His secrets to the merely knowledgeable but shares them with His trustworthy devotees. |
| 271. |
Knowing GOD is one thing but winning the heart of GOD is quite another, a feat only devotees can achieve. |
| 272. |
Only he wins the heart of GOD who gives up the attempt to attain GOD through intellectual knowledge alone. |
| 273. |
One should always maintain faith in the path shown by the sages of Bharatvarsh (India) and should always trust them. |
| 274. |
For some people, Holy pastimes (Katha) of GOD is merely an event. For some, Holy pastimes is the foundation of their life. For some, Holy pastimes is an addiction of their life, but for some, Holy pastimes is their life itself. We should examine where we stand and should always make Holy pastimes our very life. |
| 275. |
The soul who abandons the stream of devotion and grasps any other stream to attain GOD is struck by misfortune. |
| 276. |
If devotion enters one's life, so many flows of welfare and so many streams of auspiciousness will erupt in life that we will not even be able to count them. |
| 277. |
After knowing devotion, nothing else remains worth knowing. |
| 278. |
In his praise, GOD Shree Brahmaji has described devotion of GOD as the best and the simplest path. |
| 279. |
GOD Shree Brahmaji has given the greatest metaphor for seeking forgiveness from GOD in His praise. He said that just as a son becomes a participant in sin by touching his mother with his foot, yet when that same child is in the mother's womb, the touch of his foot is not considered sinful. GOD Shree Brahmaji says that I am like a child in the womb and GOD is like my mother, therefore, GOD should not consider my mistake as an offense. |
| 280. |
Our existence, our creation and our nourishment are solely from GOD. |
| 281. |
We should pray to GOD that we seek His compassion not just for this lifetime, but for eternity. |
| 282. |
In any unfavorable circumstance of life, our faith in GOD should never waver. You will not find any instance in history where a true devotee complained to GOD during any adversity. |
| 283. |
No complaints to GOD, this is the hallmark of a true devotee. |
| 284. |
To receive the grace of GOD, gratitude should continuously flow toward GOD through our heart, our speech and the actions of our body. |
| 285. |
Even if something adverse occurs in a devotee’s life, they regard it only as the grace of GOD. When Saint Shri Tukaramji went bankrupt, he saw the grace of GOD in it. When Saint Shri Narsi Mehtaji's son passed away, he saw only the grace of GOD in that as well. |
| 286. |
A devotee of GOD does not depend on anyone for salvation because, through devotion, they gain a natural right over salvation. |
| 287. |
GOD Shree Brahmaji praises the fortune of the creepers, trees, cowherds and the Gopis of Shri Vrindavanji, He desires to serve GOD there in any living and non-living form and expresses this wish to GOD. |
| 288. |
We should engage each of our senses in GOD. May our eyes always behold the vision of GOD, may our ears always drink the nectar of Holy pastimes (Katha) of GOD and may our tongue always chant the name of GOD. |
| 289. |
Life and spiritual practice for GOD cannot be two different things. We must dedicate our life itself to spiritual practice of GOD. |
| 290. |
One should never consider oneself as belonging to their family, one should always consider oneself as belonging to GOD. One should never consider their home as their own, one should always consider their home as a temple of GOD. |
| 291. |
Shri Bharatlalji managed the kingdom of Shri Ayodhyaji by considering it as GOD's. Shri Bharatlalji cared so much for Shri Ayodhyaji because he believed it was not his but the property of his GOD, which he had to look after. |
| 292. |
As soon as a soul considers itself independent, it gets trapped. As soon as it considers itself subordinate to GOD, it becomes liberated. |
| 293. |
To be completely attached to GOD, this itself is called devotion. |
| 294. |
We should believe that we do not live in the house for ourselves, we live in GOD's house as GOD's servants to serve GOD. |
| 295. |
The Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) never churned the milk for themselves, nor did they extract butter for their own consumption. Their constant feeling was that GOD would come and eat it, therefore, they must churn and extract the butter for Him. |
| 296. |
We find numerous principles of devotion within the praise offered by GOD Shree Brahmaji in the Shrimad Bhagwatji Mahapuran. |
| 297. |
GOD sets aside His own majesty to play with His devotees. In the games GOD played with the cowherd boys in Shri Brij, He had completely forgotten His own majesty. |
| 298. |
GOD assumes a real-life incarnation specifically to allow His devotees to taste the essence and nectar of devotion. |
| 299. |
GOD is available to His devotees in every possible form. In Shri Vaikunthji, GOD is the Supreme Father and has no friend, but in Shri Brij, GOD established a friendship with the cowherd boys. |
| 300. |
Only GOD is mine and I belong only to GOD - whoever adopts this vision in life no longer needs to pursue any other supreme spiritual endeavor (Paramarth). |
| 301. |
Every worldly dealing and affair of life should be conducted by considering GOD as our own and solely for the happiness of GOD. |
| 302. |
One should live in their home as if they are residing there as a servant of GOD, specifically for the service of GOD. |
| 303. |
The spirituality of Bharatvarsh (India) has never allowed GOD to be separated from our lives. |
| 304. |
GOD Shree Brahmaji, while praising GOD, says that for the person who realizes day and night that I belong solely to GOD, and who succeeds in this realization, nothing else remains to be done in life. |
| 305. |
If everything belongs to GOD, then what is ours. Only GOD is ours. We should internalize this sentiment in our lives, then our devotion will reach perfection. |
| 306. |
One should consider the Home temple (Thakurbaari) in their house as the permanent residence of their GOD. This is only possible if we believe it truly from the heart. |
| 307. |
When we solidify the feeling that everything belongs to GOD and I too belong only to GOD, and when such a vision and mindset are formed in life, then every action performed by us becomes an act of supreme spiritual practice (Paramarth). For example, if we cook in the house, even that will be considered a spiritual act because that kitchen belongs to GOD and we prepared Prasad there specifically for GOD. |
| 308. |
Devotion has such capability that whatever a devotee speaks becomes Holy pastimes (ShriHari Katha). |
| 309. |
There is no place in the entire universe where GOD is not present. Therefore, it is possible to offer prayers to GOD, perform spiritual practices and sing devotional hymns (Bhajan) anywhere. Sages have considered the entire world to be permeated by GOD. |
| 310. |
When GOD becomes the purpose of our life, every attachment of ours transforms into devotion. |
| 311. |
Just as we hold sacred feelings for pilgrimage sites, if we awaken that same sacred feeling for our own home, then our home also becomes a pilgrimage site. One should make their own home a temple, only then will true spirituality be fulfilled. The Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) never left their homes, they simply made their homes belong to GOD - this is the superior method of devotion. |
| 312. |
When GOD became the calves and the cowherd boys for one year, the love in the minds of the cows and the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) for their calves and sons increased immensely. The essence of this is that if we make GOD our own in life, our love for GOD will naturally keep increasing. |
| 313. |
Gau-Mata (Mother Cow) and the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) had the sentiment that how wonderful it would be if GOD were their son. Seeing the fortune of Bhagwati Yashoda Mata, the cows and the Gopis would wonder if such an opportunity would ever come into their lives. To fulfill their sentiment, GOD made GOD Shree Brahmaji the instrument to perform such a Divine play (Shri Leela), and by becoming the calves and sons of the cows and Gopis for one year, He provided them with elated ecstasy (Parmanand). |
| 314. |
Upon seeing GOD, love overflows in everyone's mind and will always continue to overflow. This is an eternal principle. |
| 315. |
GOD is the "Kalpavriksha" (wish-fulfilling tree) of even the wish-fulfilling trees. In whatever sentiment one approaches GOD, GOD fulfills that specific sentiment. |
| 316. |
One should simply have an intense desire for GOD and GOD fulfills it. It is only necessary that the desire possesses virtuous qualities (Satoguna), is pure and is intense. |
| 317. |
The resolve within us to attain GOD or to belong to GOD must have intensity, concentration and a restless longing, then it cannot remain unfulfilled. |
| 318. |
GOD makes our resolve of virtuous qualities manifest as a reality within our own lifetime. |
| 319. |
The resolve should be of virtuous qualities, it should be singular, it should be intense and one should keep repeating that same resolve in life continuously. One should not keep changing their resolve daily. If this is done, GOD will surely fulfill that resolve. |
| 320. |
GOD is situated within our conscience (Antahkaran). GOD is our own true form. We are the reflection and GOD is our original source (Bimba). Therefore, the highest love of a soul is possible only with GOD. Such love is not possible with any other relationship in the world, not even with oneself. The principle is that the soul’s greatest love is possible only for GOD. Now, the need is for us to manifest this truth in our lives. |
| 321. |
A tree branch bends under the weight of its fruits but when a devotee sees this, the feeling arises in their mind that the tree has bowed down specifically to offer salutations to GOD. |
| 322. |
Water flows in the river making a gurgling sound but when a devotee hears this, the sentiment arises in their mind that this is a hymn of praise being sung by nature for GOD. |
| 323. |
By keeping oneself at the center, not much development occurs in life, however, when we remove ourselves from the center and bring GOD to the center, the true and complete development of our life takes place. |
| 324. |
GOD takes an oath before Shri Uddhavji and says that I do not love Myself as much as I love My loving devotees. |
| 325. |
While grazing the cows, GOD gives a call and all the Gau-Mata (Mother Cows) come running to Him. From this episode, we must understand the essence that GOD gives a call to all living beings, but do we hear that voice and do we run toward GOD ? |
| 326. |
While grazing the cows, the cowherd boys say to GOD that you must have become tired from walking during the day, now take rest. The essence of this episode is that do we also ever tell GOD that you must be tired of running the world, now take rest for a while. In our Home temple (Thakurbaari), do we ever let GOD rest with this sentiment ? |
| 327. |
When there is no pillow, the cowherd boys make a pillow of their own lap and let GOD sleep there. Have we ever removed the pillow from GOD's throne in our Home temple (Thakurbaari) and said that GOD, please sleep in my lap ? |
| 328. |
Remembering the sweet Holy pastimes (Shri Leela) of GOD in life is the greatest form of meditation. |
| 329. |
The cowherd boys serve the Divine Lotus Feet of GOD and press them. GOD says that I am not tired, yet out of intense feeling, the cowherd boys press the Divine Lotus Feet of GOD and try to give Him comfort. Do we also ever try to give GOD rest in our lives ? |
| 330. |
Devotees contemplate every sentiment of each sweet Holy pastime (Shri Leela) of GOD and remain thrilled with emotion. |
| 331. |
Saints meditate on every sweet Holy pastime (Shri Leela) of GOD, considering each one a beautiful portrait for focusing their meditation on GOD. |
| 332. |
GOD Shri Shukdevji uses a unique description for the cowherd boys, he says that their minds are so filled with love for GOD that no adjective is sufficient to describe its depth. |
| 333. |
Devotion is the awakening of an incomparable sense of love for GOD within our intellect. |
| 334. |
The Divine Lotus Feet of GOD, which Bhagwati Lakshmi Mata and Bhagwati Janaki Mata serve eternally, are served by the cowherd boys. Have we ever sought the fortune of such service in our own lives ? |
| 335. |
Even the Vedas are unable to fully sing His praises, yet the cowherd boys sing before GOD and He finds their songs more precious than the hymns of the Vedas and Shrutis. |
| 336. |
GOD accepts the service of the cowherd boys, GOD, whose service is otherwise impossible, beyond reach and who requires no service at all. He accepts it solely because of their deep sentiment and sense of belonging. |
| 337. |
GOD did not praise the fruits of Bhagwati Shabriji only in her presence, even after the exile, He continued to praise them incessantly in the palace before Bhagwati Janaki Mata and everyone else. The essence of this episode is that GOD never accepts anything devoid of devotion and He never forgets anything offered with devotion. |
| 338. |
Only he is fortunate who has known the loving devotion for GOD in life. |
| 339. |
GOD became completely absorbed in accepting the service of the cowherd boys. GOD Shri Shukdevji used the phrase "became absorbed" and told King Shri Parikshitji that Look, GOD has become absorbed in receiving service. |
| 340. |
The cowherd boys received the fortune of serving GOD. By loving GOD, we can still attain this fortune today, if we have the right feeling for GOD in our heart, we will receive this fortune even now. |
| 341. |
One should never eat in life without first offering food to GOD. Whatever is prepared in the house should be made with the utmost purity because the feeling in our mind should be that it is being prepared for GOD. |
| 342. |
Simply placing a plate of food before GOD and then removing it is not truly offering food. One should feed Him with love and wait, realizing that GOD will take time to eat. Placing the offering plate and removing it immediately is completely devoid of feeling and is wrong. |
| 343. |
What is lacking in our kitchen that GOD does not accept our offering. It is only the lack of love and the lack of sentiment. |
| 344. |
The desire to fan GOD arises only when our sins have been destroyed. One whose sins remain will never feel the urge in their life to fan GOD. |
| 345. |
GOD feels hunger, heat, cold and sleep - if this feeling arises in one's life, only then should we consider our life truly blessed. |
| 346. |
Only when we start loving our GOD more than ourselves should we believe that our devotion has reached its pinnacle. |
| 347. |
A great devotee used to give medicine to GOD during winter. He was so emotional that he felt GOD had caught a cold and therefore, he would offer medicine to Him. |
| 348. |
A saint had a habit of drinking tea but he loved GOD so much that out of deep emotion, he would take the first sip while taking GOD’s name, as if he were serving the tea to GOD first. |
| 349. |
A saint named his Deity "Raas ke Thakurji" and would serve GOD for three hours every morning. His sentiment was that GOD had returned from the Raas Leela (Holy pastimes) at night and must be tired, therefore, he served to relieve GOD's exhaustion. |
| 350. |
Only when sins are destroyed and virtue rises does sentiment and faith for GOD appear in the mind. Such sentiment and faith are the indicators of this spiritual progress. |
| 351. |
If there is devotion, GOD is eager to accept service from people of every level of society. A wealthy person who builds a temple to serve GOD and a poor person who serves a single photo of GOD, if the sentiment in both is equal, they will receive the same fruit for their service. |
| 352. |
A saint cannot cook anything for himself. Whatever alms he receives, he offers to GOD and because of his sentiment, GOD accepts it as if it were a grand royal feast (Chappan bhog). |
| 353. |
GOD is situated within us. Therefore, one does not have to go anywhere outside to find Him. |
| 354. |
For the journey of life, we need a vehicle and we have received this body as that vehicle. Just as we use a car to reach Delhi and get out once we arrive, even if the car is excellent, we don't stay sitting in it, similarly, we should not remain trapped in our bodies during the journey of life. We should rise above it and strive for GOD-realization. |
| 355. |
Devotees celebrate the contiguity of GOD and GOD, seeing this joy, also becomes delighted. |
| 356. |
GOD also experiences and desires the joy of being in the contiguity of His devotees. |
| 357. |
The gaze of GOD itself is nectar-like. |
| 358. |
GOD is so tender and so incredibly beautiful that it cannot be described. In Shri Ramayanji, the demon Khara, upon seeing the tenderness and beauty of GOD Shree Ramji, and in the Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran, the serpent Kaliya, upon seeing the tenderness and beauty of GOD Shree Krishnaji, forgot to attack and became enchanted by His charm. |
| 359. |
As a spiritual practice, one should meditate on the tender form of GOD. For this, our mind must also be tender, only then will we be able to meditate on GOD's tender form. |
| 360. |
Softening one's conscience is a symptom of devotion. If our heart has not become tender, then the spiritual practice we are doing is merely a physical exercise. |
| 361. |
Loving devotion is in a class of its own because it is only through this loving devotion that we can truly recognize GOD in our lives. |
| 362. |
When GOD saw that the entire group of Gopis and Gopes was weeping because Kaliya, the serpent, had captured Him in the Holy pastimes (Shri Leela), GOD immediately decided to subdue Kaliya. The essence here is that GOD cannot bear to see tears in the eyes of His devotees. |
| 363. |
Each time a hood of the serpent Kaliya rose, GOD would strike it with His Divine Lotus Feet. The essence of this episode is that GOD strikes and ends every evil that arises within a devotee. |
| 364. |
In the end, the serpent Kaliya reached a state of surrender. Whenever the wicked eventually seek the shelter of GOD, they receive the gift of fearlessness from Him. |
| 365. |
Even the Demigods were stunned at the fortune of Kaliya the serpent, no one has ever been as fortunate as him, upon whose head GOD placed His Divine Lotus Feet so many times. GOD danced upon each of the one hundred and one hoods of Kaliya. |
| 366. |
Because the marks of GOD’s Divine Lotus Feet were imprinted on Kaliya’s hoods, even Shri Garudaji could never again harass or punish him. The essence of this episode is that once we receive GOD’s blessing, no sorrow of this world can ever truly punish us again. |
| 367. |
In the Shrimad Bhagavad Geetaji, GOD instructed Shri Arjunji to slay Kaam, meaning desires, cravings and worldly hope because desire is what pollutes the soul within our conscience (Antahkaran). |
| 368. |
It is solely because of our worldly desires that GOD becomes distant from us. |
| 369. |
Due to these desires, we suffer the loss of the ecstasy that belongs to our conscience (Antahkaran). |
| 370. |
In the Shrimad Bhagavad Geetaji, GOD says that peace is attained only by the one who destroys their desires. |
| 371. |
GOD never speaks of compromising with desire, instead, He speaks only of its complete destruction. |
| 372. |
It is not possible for there to be no desire in life. It is impossible to completely destroy desires from one’s life. Therefore, the saints found a remedy that all desires should be directed toward GOD. This means that whatever desires exist in life should be for GOD alone. |
| 373. |
Without the renunciation of desires, GOD-realization cannot occur in life, yet, without the grace of GOD, the destruction of desire is impossible. |
| 374. |
Kaliya the serpent, who is the symbol of desire (Kaam), was not killed by GOD. Instead, GOD controlled him with the imprints of His Divine Lotus Feet. We, too, should not try to kill our desires, rather, we should control them by turning them toward GOD. |
| 375. |
Whatever desire we have in life, that is, whatever we want, we should want it only for GOD. This is the most excellent way to control desire. |
| 376. |
Shri Nanda Baba possessed palaces, Gau-Mata (Mother Cows) and ornaments, he had everything, but nothing was for himself. Everything was for GOD. Therefore, Shri Nanda Baba is great because despite having everything, he kept nothing for himself, instead, everything was dedicated to GOD. |
| 377. |
Even today, the property of temples in South Bharat (Southern India) is held in the name of GOD and that wealth belongs to GOD. |
| 378. |
Even today, there are select singers who do not sing for the world, they sing only to please GOD. |
| 379. |
Personal progress, material progress and spiritual progress are only possible when GOD becomes the fundamental basis for everything. |
| 380. |
Principally, if two things manifest in one's life, our devotion becomes complete. First, whatever is to be done must be done for GOD, second, whatever has been done must be offered back to GOD. |
| 381. |
Whenever a happy occasion arises in the home, by dedicating it to GOD, it is protected from the "evil eye" and becomes eternal and intact. |
| 382. |
Observing the Holy pastimes (Shri Leela) and the majesty (Aishwarya) of GOD is essential to awaken faith and hope in our minds toward GOD. For example, when we hear that GOD drank the forest fire, we learn of His divine capability to consume fire, thus, if we are ever surrounded by the fire in life, GOD will immediately come to mind as a ray of hope and we will call upon Him to save us. |
| 383. |
Numerous profound principles are hidden in the description of the rainy season in the Shri Shrimad Bhagavatji Mahapuran. Similar principles are hidden in the Aranya Kand of the Shri Ramcharitmanasji, when GOD described the rainy season to Shri Lakshmanji. Example one, in this description, it is said that in Kaliyug, sins and sinners shine just as fireflies shine in the night during the rainy season. Example two, just as a farmer feels joy when the crops grow, devotion celebrates with elated ecstasy when faith is born. Example three, just as the waves of the ocean become calm, saints become peaceful after internalizing the principles of the Holy Scriptures in their lives. The essence is that the secret of the entire spiritual practice (Saadhan) is revealed through each of these metaphors. |
| 384. |
Upon hearing the flute of GOD, the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) would become restless, and thereafter, their minds could no longer find interest in the world, the home or worldly work. |
| 385. |
The Gopi Geet is so divine because different Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) expressed their individual sentiments for GOD within it. |
| 386. |
The beauty of GOD is supernatural from head to toe. It is not that just one limb of GOD is beautiful, rather, GOD is incredibly beautiful from His very nails to the crown of His head. |
| 387. |
The greatest fruit of our eyes is that they may constantly have the vision of GOD. |
| 388. |
The success of our eyes lies only in succeeding to seat the divine form of GOD in our heart through them. |
| 389. |
The blessedness of life lies in our eyes beholding the divine form of GOD day after day. |
| 390. |
Just as a devotee aspires for the vision of GOD, GOD also harbors an aspiration in His mind to see His devotees. GOD revealed this secret in the Shrimad Bhagavad Geetaji through His divine words to Shri Arjunji. |
| 391. |
GOD waits for His devotees, wondering when His devotee will arrive and when He will be able to see them. |
| 392. |
Just as a shopkeeper has one gaze for a customer and a different gaze for someone seeking a donation, similarly, GOD has a distinct gaze for His devotees compared to those who come only to ask for things. |
| 393. |
Within the gaze that looks upon devotees, such love, such affection and such grace of GOD are hidden that we cannot even describe them. |
| 394. |
The favorite form of the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) was GOD playing the flute. Similarly, we too should keep one favorite form of GOD seated in our heart throughout our life. |
| 395. |
Once, when GOD came to meet the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) riding on Shri Garudaji and carrying the conch, discus and mace, the Gopis offered their obeisance and were about to leave. When Devarshi GOD Shri Naradji asked for the reason, the Gopis said, "We only find the form with the flute dear." This is the special privilege of devotees. |
| 396. |
Extremely loyal devotees have the habit of seeing all forms of GOD and offering obeisances to all, yet they find absorption only in their own favorite form. Bhagwati Mirabai declared that my Giridhar is the one with the peacock crown and the flute. Saint Tukaramji, after visiting all the holy places, came before GOD Shree Vitthalji and wept, saying that there is none like You. This is the ornament of devotion, to be so connected to one favorite form of GOD. This is not a flaw in devotion because there is no disrespect toward any other form here. |
| 397. |
It is a principle that where the conscience (Chitt) becomes one with the object, knowledge of that place is obtained even from a distance. The minds of the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) had become one with GOD, therefore, when GOD went out grazing the cows, the Gopis could see those Holy pastimes (Shri Leela) while sitting at home. The essence of this episode is that wherever our mind reaches, we ourselves reach there and everything there becomes visible to us. Therefore, we should make our mind reach GOD. |
| 398. |
The Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) were most annoyed with the flute because it was constantly touching the lips of GOD. The Gopis would say that what great fortune, what great merit the flute possesses. The essence of this episode is that being near to GOD is an indicator of the rising of our merit and fortune. |
| 399. |
How blessed were the peacocks, deer and other birds born in animal and bird forms who, upon hearing GOD's flute, stayed constantly near Him and gazed at Him fixedly. It was only saints and supreme liberated souls who served GOD by taking birth in animal and bird forms. |
| 400. |
The waves of Bhagwati Shri Yamunaji had only one purpose, to toss the blooming lotuses within her waters up to the Divine Lotus Feet of GOD. |
| 401. |
The Gau-Mata (Mother Cows) and calves were so mesmerized by the flute of GOD that the cows forgot to eat, chew or even digest, and the calves forgot to drink milk. |
| 402. |
Under the influence of GOD's flute, even the restless monkeys displayed the stillness of sages in a state of Samadhi (deep meditation). |
| 403. |
GOD Shri Girirajji served GOD in every possible way. GOD would drink the water from GOD Shri Girirajji's waterfalls, decorate Himself with the leaves and flowers of GOD Shri Girirajji's trees and taste the fruits of those same trees. There was nothing that GOD Shri Girirajji did not offer in service to GOD. The essence of this episode is that because GOD Shri Girirajji offered his everything, he himself became a form of GOD and became worshipful. This is an eternal principle that one who offers everything to GOD becomes worshipful. |
| 404. |
There can be no greater fortune in this world than devotion of GOD. |
| 405. |
Whenever we make the decision in life that our life should be dedicated to the devotion of GOD, we should believe that at that very moment, our fortune has dawned. |
| 406. |
That life is the most excellent in which the supreme goal is GOD alone. |
| 407. |
Someone feels that they should become an industrialist, someone wants a full and happy family and someone else makes the desire for good health the goal of their life. Every person's perspective is different. But what is the highest goal of life ? The supreme goal of life is that we find GOD. One who has developed such a thought in life has established the highest possible goal, because there can be no goal higher than this in life. |
| 408. |
He who has understood the fact that he should perform as much devotion of GOD as possible has known everything even without reading the Scriptures, and he who has read all the Scriptures but has not known this has known nothing at all. |
| 409. |
A mantra chanted or a ritual performed without steadfastness and a sense of devotion does not yield the fruit that should have been received. |
| 410. |
Ultimately, for everyone, the destination of all spiritual practices is the one and only GOD. |
| 411. |
GOD assumes whatever form is dear to the devotee. |
| 412. |
Just as statues of GOD Shree Ramji, GOD Shree Krishnaji and GOD Shree Shivji are made of clay, yet clay is the basis of all, similarly, GOD is at the root of all the various forms of GOD. |
| 413. |
The fundamental essence of GOD is one, even though the forms may be different. This is the core principle of the Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran. |
| 414. |
Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran is a Scripture that transcends all sects. It does not belong to any specific community, rather, it is a Holy Scripture for everyone. |
| 415. |
The practice of devotion is the means that immediately unites the soul with GOD. No matter how many other spiritual paths exist, they do not possess such immense capability. |
| 416. |
The words of Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran, Shrimad Bhagavad Geetaji and Shri Ramcharitmanasji are final. Beyond these three, there is no further need to read anything else in life. |
| 417. |
When the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) heard the flute of GOD, where did their attention go ? It did not go to the melody of the flute, but to GOD who was playing the flute. The essence of this episode is that we should not remain entangled in any spiritual practice but should reach GOD directly through that practice. |
| 418. |
You may follow any religion or perform any spiritual practice, but the ultimate destination is to reach the one and only GOD. |
| 419. |
For noble people, nothing seems like a greater goal in life than GOD-realization, because there can be no goal or objective higher than this. |
| 420. |
There is a need to remove worldly indulgences from life, otherwise, they will be remembered day after day. True detachment is accepting whatever comes before you today and having no craving for it the next day. If you receive a sweet one day, eat it, but if you don't receive it the next day, do not even remember it. If you get only dry chickpeas, chew them happily, this is true detachment. |
| 421. |
Among rivers, those that merge with the ocean hold significance, those that merely meet other rivers do not hold the same importance. The essence is that our spiritual practice must be that which merges us into the ocean-like form of GOD. Devotion is the only such means that has this capability. |
| 422. |
Blessed are those seekers who make GOD the sole goal of their lives. |
| 423. |
One should not stop in life without achieving GOD-realization, as this should be our ultimate objective. |
| 424. |
Our life’s goal should be to attain GOD-realization because it is the supreme aim. Though the number of people who set such a goal is very small, the lives of those who do are truly blessed. |
| 425. |
Through the worship of Bhagwati Jagdamba Mata, all the desires of life are fulfilled. This is why in the Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran, the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) pray to Bhagwati Jagdamba Mata that they may become dear to GOD. In Shri Ramcharitmanasji, Bhagwati Janaki Mata also performed prayer at the temple of Bhagwati Jagdamba Mata before the Swayamvar (marriage) to seek GOD as Her husband. The essence here is that everything is done through Divine Power (Shakti), and Bhagwati Jagdamba Mata is the power-incarnate of GOD Shree Shivji. |
| 426. |
A Lingam (idol) of GOD Shree Shivji is made from clay, worshipped and then immersed. The clay returns to the earth but the prayer reaches GOD Shree Shivji. This is the unique capability of Sanatana Dharma and culture. |
| 427. |
When GOD performed the Holy pastime (Shri Leela) of stealing the clothes (Chir-haran), He was only six years old and the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) were only nine years old. GOD wanted the Gopis to come out of the water to take their clothes, but they wanted Him to leave the clothes and go away. GOD compelled them to come out and then returned the clothes. Two essence emerge from this. First, GOD compels His loved ones to come near Him. Second, the Gopis were hesitant to come out, but GOD wanted to show them that GOD is already present in the water, then why feel hesitation or shame in coming before Him. |
| 428. |
In spiritual rituals (Karmakand), the importance lies in the words written in the Scriptures, but in devotion, the importance lies solely in the emotions for GOD. |
| 429. |
Regarding what should and should not be done in life, the words of the Scriptures are the most authoritative. |
| 430. |
Although the desire for GOD-realization is a desire, it is not truly a desire because, just as a roasted seed of paddy does not sprout when sown, the desire for GOD-realization is roasted and does not create the fruit of deed (karma). |
| 431. |
A mistake made while walking on the path of GOD cannot harm us because, just as a roasted seed does not sprout even after falling on the ground, a mistake made by one on the path of GOD does not bind them in the bondage of deed (karma). |
| 432. |
If there is an intense aspiration for GOD-realization and no other aspiration in life, then that is the pinnacle. In the life of Saint Shri Ramakrishna Paramahansji, there was only one desire, when he would meet Bhagwati Kali Mata, besides this, there was no other desire in his life. |
| 433. |
In the Scriptures, a true Sadhu (saint) is described as one whose only and final desire in life is GOD-realization. One who merely wears saffron clothes is not considered a Sadhu in the Scriptures. GOD addressed the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) as Sadhu because their only desire was GOD-realization. |
| 434. |
GOD is situated within our conscience, inside us, then why do we not find Him. Because He is covered by certain veils. Through devotion, this veil or curtain is removed and we achieve the realization of GOD. |
| 435. |
One should not believe that GOD is in some places and not in others, for that is incorrect. GOD is always present in all living and non-living things, in every era and in every place. |
| 436. |
Through supreme devotion (Para-bhakti), a soul becomes so transcendent that no rules or methods remain for them to follow. |
| 437. |
Seeing GOD everywhere becomes the very nature of saints. |
| 438. |
If the feeling that the Supreme Soul is everywhere manifests in life, then all social discrimination and differences disappear from one’s life. |
| 439. |
Saints pray to GOD to take away their "Tamasi" clothes, meaning their vices and bad qualities and give them the "Sattvic" clothes of grace, meaning virtuous qualities (Satoguna) in exchange. |
| 440. |
Devotees never wish to actually become the form of GOD, because they want to constantly taste the nectar of GOD'S presence in their lives. Therefore, devotees do not ask for salvation (Mukti), nor do they wish to merge into the Divine form. Even when they possess the capability to become one with GOD, they prefer to continue their devotion and enjoy the Divine essence. Saint Shri Tukaramji used to pray to GOD that I want neither Brahma-knowledge nor salvation, I only wish that You always remain GOD before me and I always remain Your devotee, continuously tasting Your sweetness. |
| 441. |
A true devotee becomes like water, they adapt to whoever they meet. When a true devotee goes to a festival of GOD Shree Ganapatiji, they chant "Ganapati-Ganapati", when they go to a Shivalay (temple of GOD Shree Shivji), they chant "Om Namah Shivay", when they go to the temple of GOD Shree Krishnaji, they chant "Radhe-Krishna" and when they see GOD Shri Suryanarayanji, they call out "Narayan-Narayan." |
| 442. |
Devotees ask GOD to gracefully make them zero, meaning, to erase their ego. There is a second meaning to this that when a devotee becomes a zero and joins with the "Number One" (which is GOD), their ecstasy increases manifold. Just as a zero placed after the number 1 makes it 10, increasing its value ten times, the union of an ego-less soul with GOD multiplies the ecstasy. |
| 443. |
What did the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) ask from Bhagwati Jagdamba Mata. They asked only for the love of GOD. We should reflect on what we usually ask for in our prayer. |
| 444. |
GOD is one. Bhagwati Jagdamba Mata, GOD Shree Krishnaji, GOD Shree Ramji, GOD Shree Shivji, GOD Shree Hanumanji, GOD Shree Ganapatiji, Bhagwati Ganga Mata and GOD Shri Suryanarayanji are all one and the same. The one who realizes this fact is called a true devotee. |
| 445. |
Showing the trees of the forest to His childhood friends, GOD says that reflect on their lives. They provide shade while standing in the Sun themselves. They endure rain, heat and cold. They bear everything themselves, but they protect whoever comes to them from the heat and rain. Our human life should also be equally altruistic. GOD says this while explaining the definition of human life. Trees do not use anything for themselves, they offer their leaves, fruits and flowers to others. GOD says the life of a true Sadhu (saint) should be just like this. |
| 446. |
There is no meaning to a life where one comes only for oneself and leaves having lived only for oneself. |
| 447. |
GOD says that do not strive to be big in society, strive to be useful to society. |
| 448. |
Why is there so much respect for saints in Bharatvarsh (India) ? Because saints not only cross the ocean of life through their devotion, but they also take others along with them on the path of devotion and help them cross over. |
| 449. |
Shri Prahladji is the ideal for all saints. He told GOD that he did not want salvation, nor did he want to be sent to Shri Vaikunth (GOD's abode), instead, he asked to remain among the people to propagate the devotion of GOD. Such was the spirit of altruism in his mind. |
| 450. |
A single sentence of Shri Prahladji made him the crest-jewel among saints. He said to GOD that I do not want salvation only for myself, I want salvation for everyone. Therefore, his life’s constant effort was to inspire everyone toward the path of devotion so that everyone could achieve salvation. |
| 451. |
The gift of devotion to GOD is considered the ultimate charity, and no one but devotees can give this gift. |
| 452. |
Teaching everyone the devotion of GOD is that superior work which saints perform. |
| 453. |
We should examine whether the feeling of serving GOD has entered our lives. One in whose life such a feeling has arisen is a true Sadhu (saint). |
| 454. |
Even animals fill their own stomachs, but since we have taken a human birth, we should perform altruism (Paramarth) along with filling our stomachs. True altruism is the propagation of GOD's devotion, through which the welfare of all beings can be achieved. |
| 455. |
That our body, our breath, our wealth, our intellect and our manhood (Purusharth) should be used for the welfare of others, this is a statement of GOD which is the crown-jewel sentence of the Tenth Canto of Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran and it is also an immortal statement of GOD in the Shrimad Bhagavad Geetaji. |
| 456. |
To be of use to those from whom I want nothing, and whom I do not even know, that is the greatest thing. Everyone works for their spouse and children because a hidden self-interest is involved in that. |
| 457. |
The success of human life lies in being useful to others. The lives of saints are just like this. |
| 458. |
If you bring great thoughts into your life, your life will become great, if you bring trivial thoughts, your life will become trivial. Therefore, we should always bring thoughts of GOD into our lives so that life can become the greatest. |
| 459. |
Discussing life values is great, but discussing GOD is the supreme. |
| 460. |
GOD Shree Krishnaji loves ornaments (Alankar), GOD Shree Shivji loves the continuous flow of water (Jaldhara) and GOD Shri Suryanarayanji loves the prostration (Namaskar). |
| 461. |
An excellent devotee should always propagate the devotion of GOD for the welfare of the people. |
| 462. |
The more we depend on astrology, the weaker our willpower and morale become. Morale is our greatest strength. If one's morale is broken, no other strength will be of use, this is the principle of the Yog Vasistha. Therefore, the essence is that do not place your faith in astrology but place your faith in GOD. |
| 463. |
A woman's conscience (Antahkaran) is very useful for devotion because the feelings of restlessness (for the Divine), absorption, compassion, mercy, surrender and nurturing are greater in women than in men, which is extremely beneficial for devotion. Therefore, devotion can be performed better through a woman's conscience. This is why great saints, even while having a male body, adopted the "Gopi-bhav" (the sentiment of a Gopi) or "Sakhi-bhav" (the sentiment of a female friend). Saints hold the view that there is only one Supreme Person (Purushottam) GOD and everyone else is His companion (Sakhi). Thus, top-tier saints undertook devotion by embracing this feminine sentiment in their lives. |
| 464. |
When GOD felt hungry while grazing cows, He sent His childhood friends to the Brahmins to ask for food. The Brahmins were busy with rituals (Karmakand) and sacrifices (Yagya) at that time, so they did not pay attention to GOD'S request. Then, GOD sent His friends to the wives of those Brahmins. The Brahmin wives were true devotees of GOD, they didn't think about what to send Him, they thought about sending everything. Then they decided not just to send it, but to go themselves to serve GOD with the food. And that is exactly what they did. |
| 465. |
GOD gives a special welcome to all His devotees. |
| 466. |
If those going to GOD have the sentiment that they want His vision (Darshan) and wish to perform some service for Him, then this becomes the ornament of devotion because no selfishness is hidden in such devotion. The devotion of the Brahmin wives was just like this. |
| 467. |
For a true devotee, coming to GOD is in their hands but going back is not. This is because GOD is so attractive and captivating that He enchants the mind and the soul is simply unable to leave His presence. |
| 468. |
The Brahmins remained entangled in the sacrifice (Yagya) and forgot the Yagyapati GOD, whereas the Brahmin wives did not perform the sacrifice but caught hold of the GOD of the sacrifice when they got the chance. |
| 469. |
Fie upon that knowledge, and fie upon that birth, in which a sentiment for GOD has not been awakened in our hearts. |
| 470. |
Human birth and spiritual knowledge are not bad in themselves, but if we still remain turned away from GOD, then everything is useless. The meaningfulness of everything lies only in devotion of GOD. You may have read Vedanta, performed sacrifices, followed rituals and done social service, but if you have not practiced devotion of GOD, then it is all in vain. The core principle is that without devotion of GOD, nothing is meaningful or complete. |
| 471. |
The Brahmin wives did not perform Vedic rituals, did not study the Vedas, did not go to a Guru (Master)’s home for education, nor did they perform sacrifices, yet they got salvation because they undertook only devotion of GOD. |
| 472. |
Those souls are not just blessed but are most-blessed whose wives possess a devotional nature, because the entire lineage is liberated by the devotion of a wife. |
| 473. |
When the grace of GOD descends, even those who speak adversely start speaking in favor. When the Brahmin wives returned after feeding GOD, instead of scolding them, their husbands welcomed them. |
| 474. |
On the path of Knowledge (Gyan), one has to negate every scene that appears, dissolve it, and whatever remains after that is GOD. This path of Knowledge is very difficult. The second path, which is the simplest, is that of Devotion, where one must feel that whatever is seen is all GOD. A devotee says, "O Infinite One, how many forms You have!" If a cow appears, we see GOD in her, if an elephant appears, we see GOD in him, if a dog appears, we see GOD even in him. When a dog ran away with a piece of bread belonging to Saint Shri Namdevji, he ran after the dog with a bowl of ghee (butter), saying that GOD, there is no ghee on the bread, let me at least apply some ghee. We do not have such feelings and instead run after a dog with a stick. |
| 475. |
Once the feeling enters one's life that whatever comes before my sight is a form of GOD, then there will be no need to search for GOD separately anywhere else. |
| 476. |
Rituals (Karmakand) alone can never take anyone to GOD. Rituals are a path of purification. The path to GOD-realization is only through devotion. When devotion is joined with rituals, our actions reach GOD. Rituals are like a railway carriage without an engine. When we attach the Engine of Devotion to the Train of Rituals, it moves and delivers us to GOD. |
| 477. |
When a person undertakes devotion, a certain percentage of the fruit of that devotion is also received by the one who inspired them to practice it. |
| 478. |
When any action is joined with devotion, its result increases manifold. |
| 479. |
In Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran, GOD has told Shri Nanda Baba that there is no one who can stop a person who performs good deeds from receiving a good result. GOD has bound nature to grant good results for good actions. Therefore, nature is compelled to give the good fruit of a good deed because this is a law created by GOD. |
| 480. |
In the chain of managing the universe, GOD has given all the Deities their appropriate and worthy positions. |
| 481. |
Due to the sentiment of devotion, GOD comes to the devotee even without being invited. |
| 482. |
We should honor those whose favors and benefits we have directly witnessed in our lives, treating them as visible Deities. These include GOD Shri Suryanarayanji (Sun), Bhagwati Tulsi Mata (Holy Basil), Bhagwati Ganga Mata (Holy river), Gau-Mata (mother Cow), one's Guru (Master) and one's parents. |
| 483. |
One should never consider Gau-Mata (Mother Cow) to be merely an animal. Merely thinking so incurs a terrible sin. The Scriptures say that Gau-Mata should always be viewed as our mother. |
| 484. |
It is the glory of Gau-Mata (Mother Cow) that when the LORD of all the universes took the incarnation of ShreeKrishna, He was called Gopal, meaning the one who nurtures and protects the Cow. |
| 485. |
Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran, Shrimad Bhagavad Geetaji, Shri Ramcharitmanasji and all other Holy texts expound upon the formulas (sutras) of the Shri Vedas and the Shri Puranas. |
| 486. |
Shri Vedas tell us what the ultimate Dharma (duty / righteousness) is. Just as there is a single standard of time across different places in Bharatvarsh (India), Shri Vedas provide us with the single standard of Dharma. |
| 487. |
The message of Shri Vedas is essential for the welfare of all mankind. |
| 488. |
The desire that the glory of Mother Bharat remains immortal should always be in our hearts. |
| 489. |
GOD remembers the fallen and the downtrodden first. GOD first sent the offerings (bhog) made to GOD Shri Girirajji to the children of the Chandals (the downtrodden). |
| 490. |
Shri Vedas and Gau-Mata (Mother Cows) are the main foundations of our Sanatan (Indian) culture. |
| 491. |
After giving the entire knowledge of Shrimad Bhagavad Geeaji to Shri Arjunji, GOD told him that now, do as you wish. He did the same in the Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran after making a statement and explaining the glory of GOD Shri Girirajji to Shri Nanda Baba. The essence is that after explaining everything, GOD gives the soul complete freedom to act according to its own desire. |
| 492. |
To make the worship of GOD Shri Girirajji interesting, GOD told the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) that after cooking, there would be a grand procession (Shobhayatra) and Parikrama (revolving in procession). The Gopis were delighted because they loved the idea of dressing up and decorating themselves. This motivation made them finish the kitchen work quickly and beautifully. The essence is that any celebration of GOD should be made engaging and interesting, this is the Indian tradition. |
| 493. |
Shri AgniNarayan (Fire) is the Kamadhenu and He gives what is asked. For the success of Vedic mantras, a sacrifice (Yagya) is performed. Shri AgniNarayan is the mouth of all Deities. All Deities are satiated through the offerings made to Him. He unfailingly delivers the offering to the specific Deity named, for instance, an offering made in the name of GOD Shree Shivji is delivered by Shri AgniNarayan to Him. |
| 494. |
All Vedic sacrifices are like scientific experiments. If all procedures are followed correctly, the designated result will certainly be achieved. If the result is not obtained, we must assume the error lies in our procedure. |
| 495. |
After giving His teachings everywhere, GOD always says that now do what you think is right. In this way, He grants the soul total freedom to act according to its will. |
| 496. |
It is technically incorrect to say that a leaf doesn't move without GOD'S will. A leaf moves because of the tree's will, but the capability (Samarthya) or power to move is always provided by GOD. Thus, it is more accurate to say that a leaf does not move without GOD'S power. The choice belongs to the tree, but the power belongs to GOD. |
| 497. |
The soul has complete freedom to choose what to do and what not to do. GOD always gives this independence to the soul. |
| 498. |
Whatever is happening in the world, the power behind it always and only belongs to GOD. |
| 499. |
No one in the world possesses their own power. It is a fundamental principle that whatever power anyone has is not theirs, it belongs solely to GOD. |
| 500. |
GOD has provided His power to every living being, but the desire for its use belongs to the being itself. GOD has granted this freedom to the soul. |
| 501. |
Consider an analogy that a father gave five thousand rupees to each of his two sons to spend. One son bought a book, paid a friend's school fees, and bought medicine for an elderly woman. The second son went to a hotel, threw a party for his friends, and watched a film. The money both had belonged to the father, but the will to spend it was their own. They spent it according to their individual desires. Similarly, the power within us belongs to GOD, but the desire to use that power belongs to the soul. When the father sees that the first son used the money for good deeds, he will give him more money. In the same way, if we use the power given by the Supreme Father GOD for the welfare of all, GOD will grant us even more wealth, intellect, and power. Using GOD's power for the welfare of all is called merit (Punya), and using that same power for wrong deeds is called sin (Paap). When we use it for the good of all, GOD increases our capability (Samarthya), when we misuse it, He withdraws His hand. |
| 502. |
The result of merit (Punya) is prosperity and growth, while the result of sin (Paap) is destruction. |
| 503. |
GOD always gives us the freedom to use His provided power according to our own will. |
| 504. |
When it comes to altruism or spiritual tasks, a person becomes a fatalist (Prarabdhvadi), for example, if they need to go on a pilgrimage, they will say that I will go when GOD calls me. But for watching a film or engaging in worldly gossip, they immediately become a believer in manhood (Purusharth). However, the lives of saints are the exact opposite. They are always ready and proactive manhood (Purusharth) for the service and devotion of GOD, but they become fatalists (Prarabdhvadi) when it comes to the dramas and complications of the world. |
| 505. |
It is a principle of Yog Vasisth that laziness is the greatest enemy of a living being. Therefore, a practitioner of devotion must always renounce laziness from their life. |
| 506. |
It is not in our hands to fix every aspect of our destiny, that lies only in the hands of GOD. |
| 507. |
Satsang (Holy discourse) teaches us the correct use, meaning the best possible use of our energy. |
| 508. |
GOD is the most extraordinary orator in the entire world. This is proven by the divine words spoken by GOD in the Shrimad Bhagavad Geetaji. |
| 509. |
In salvation (Moksha) and in devotion, one has no companion, not even a family member. We must ourselves be the means for our salvation and undertake the devotion ourselves, this is an eternal principle. |
| 510. |
GOD Shri Girirajji is an awakened Deity (Jagrut Devata). GOD Himself said this to the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) in Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran. |
| 511. |
We have no right to attack or strike at the ancient faith and reverence found in our Scriptures. |
| 512. |
The awakening of faith toward GOD Shri Girirajji was initiated by GOD Himself, therefore, it remains intact today and will remain so forever. |
| 513. |
GOD established Himself within GOD Shri Girirajji. He gave a clear indication of this in Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran by declaring that I am indeed Shri Giriraj. |
| 514. |
Bharat (India) never had a worldly perspective of looking at objects, as that only yields ordinary benefits. In Bharat, everyone was always viewed with a Divine Vision (Dev Drishti) because this yields the benefit of merit (Punya). For example, from a worldly perspective, Bhagwati Ganga Mata will give us coolness, but from a Divine perspective, She will not only provide coolness but also grant merit, destroy sins and fulfill all our desires. |
| 515. |
Wherever Bhagwati Tulsi Mata (Holy Basil) is served, GOD is compelled to arrive. |
| 516. |
Consider a simple piece of paper worth 10 paisa. If a government turns it into a note, marks a value of 1,000 rupees on it, and authorizes it, the value of that 10 paisa paper rises to 1,000 rupees. But as soon as the government withdraws its resolution, that 1,000 rupee note becomes a 10 paisa paper again. The attachment of a small government’s resolution increased the paper’s value, and its removal decreased it. Similarly, because of the resolution of GOD, the owner of infinite universes, GOD Shri Girirajji became so great. |
| 517. |
Shri Indradevji used harsh words for GOD in Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran, but saints viewed even this as a Royal Praise (Rajstuti). They interpreted it differently and turned those words into an ornament (Alankar). The essence of this episode is that devotees see only the praise of GOD everywhere. |
| 518. |
Shri Indradevji summoned the Samvartaka clouds, which are not ordinary clouds but terrifying, apocalyptic ones, yet even they could do nothing. The water from the Samvartaka clouds fell as if streams were pouring from an elephant’s trunk. Rocks of ice fell, and the stream of water was so thick and fell so fiercely that no one had ever seen or heard of anything like it. The cold increased to an unbearable level. Yet, the residents of Braj suffered no harm. The essence of this episode is that those whom GOD protects cannot be harmed even by the apocalypse. |
| 519. |
Even if someone wishes to destroy us, GOD saves us. No one's wrath can harm us if GOD is with us. During the time of Shri Indradevji's wrath, everyone had only one hope, and that was in GOD. The essence of this episode is that in times of calamity, we should place our hope only in GOD. |
| 520. |
In times of trouble, one should pray to GOD, the Beloved of our Life (Pran Vallabh), saying that I no longer have any faith or reliance on my own strength. Now, my hope is only in You, come and save us from this crisis. |
| 521. |
Whomever GOD accepts, no one in the world can destroy. This is the vow of GOD. |
| 522. |
A Vow is defined as something that cannot be abandoned under any circumstances. GOD also takes a vow, to always protect and preserve His devotees. |
| 523. |
Whoever takes the shelter of GOD becomes fearless in every way in life. |
| 524. |
GOD'S vow to protect and preserve His devotees is the very foundation of every Vaishnava's life. |
| 525. |
GOD says that if my devotee simply says from the heart once, "Lord, however I am, I am Yours," then from that moment on, and with that realization in the mind, the responsibility to protect and make that soul fearless becomes GOD's own. Following this very vow, GOD protected Shri Vibhishanji and made him fearless in the Shri Ramcharitmanasji. |
| 526. |
When the Samvartaka clouds of Shri Indradevji began the torrential rain, GOD called out to His friends (Sakhas). Although their mothers tried to stop them from going out into the downpour, they ran anyway. In their hearts, they knew one thing that GOD has called, so we must go. They had this confidence because they knew that the responsibility to save them was GOD's. The essence of this episode is that we too should have such a great and firm faith in GOD. |
| 527. |
We should live as instruments of GOD's will, meaning no personal desire should remain within us. This is the greatest blessedness of life. |
| 528. |
The young cowherd boys (Gops) had complete faith in GOD and did not use their own cleverness. They believed fully in GOD's word because they had witnessed so many instances of His grace. When GOD lifted GOD Shri Girirajji to protect everyone and called them, the young boys were the first to run. They were not afraid that if Shri Girirajji slipped from the nail of GOD's finger, they would all be crushed. Because of their total faith, they were the first to come under the shelter of Shri Girirajji (the hill). |
| 529. |
GOD Shri Girirajji stopped the water falling from above, GOD Shri Sheshnagji blocked the water flowing in from below and Shri Sudarshanji began to soak up the water from the top. In this way, Shri Indradevji's entire effort failed and everyone was protected by GOD's grace. |
| 530. |
The young cowherds boys (Gops) loved GOD immensely. To give Him rest, they brought their sticks and propped them under GOD Shri Girirajji, trying to help hold it up. The essence of this episode is that the feeling that GOD might be getting tired should arise in a devotee's heart. This is a hallmark of devotion. Philosophically, GOD never tires, yet this sentiment awakens in the heart of a devotee, that GOD must be tired and I should provide Him comfort. |
| 531. |
Due to the sentiment of devotion, the cowherd boys (Gops) felt that GOD must be tired while herding cows and Bhagwati Yashoda Mata felt that He must be hungry. It is only the capability of devotion that such feelings are awakened in our hearts for GOD. |
| 532. |
Devotion is a greater means of realization than even Vedanta (the path of knowledge). |
| 533. |
In devotion, there is only the empire of sentiment (Bhav). |
| 534. |
Devotion is the means that allows for the experience and realization of GOD. |
| 535. |
To one who believes in GOD and undertakes devotion completely, GOD appears in the idol as laughing, serious, hungry and full of emotions. Such a devotee beholds all the various sentiments of GOD within His idol-form (Vigrah). |
| 536. |
Once, a devotee returned after traveling for many days, but had to leave again the very next day for some work. This devotee was dedicated to the service of GOD Shree Ramji. Many people witnessed the idol of GOD Shree Ramji weeping. Dozens of people saw that the idol was crying. This episode tells us that GOD does not want to let His devotee go and cannot bear the separation. |
| 537. |
GOD also becomes stubborn (does Hath) before His devotees. What a great achievement of devotion this is. |
| 538. |
If GOD has not yet blessed us with the gift of emotionality, then we should consider that our devotion has not yet become meaningful or fruitful. |
| 539. |
No matter what other Scriptures we may read, even if we study Vedanta, in the end, we will have to seek shelter in Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran, Shrimad Bhagavad Geetaji and Shri Ramcharitmanasji. |
| 540. |
We should always obey GOD's commands and never forget that whatever is happening in our lives is due to His grace alone. The cowherds boys (Gops) used their sticks of effort to help hold up GOD Shri Girirajji, but the mountain actually rested upon the nail of GOD's finger, meaning it stayed up only by His grace. Therefore, we must perform our duty in life, but we must firmly believe that whatever outcome manifests is solely due to GOD's grace. |
| 541. |
GOD told the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) that I have done nothing, it is GOD Shri Girirajji who has provided the protection. The essence of this episode is that GOD does everything Himself, yet He always gives the credit to others. |
| 542. |
GOD adopted GOD Shri Girirajji and gave him His own form. The essence of this episode is that those whom GOD adopts become a reflection of His own form. |
| 543. |
Every initiative GOD takes is always for the sake of showering grace upon us, as His motive is always our ultimate welfare. |
| 544. |
GOD is the master and controller of all Deities. |
| 545. |
One should design their lifestyle in such a way that they never turn away (Vimukh) from GOD, but always remain facing toward Him (Sanmukh). |
| 546. |
In human life, only those who perform all their actions for GOD are considered successful. Such a life is truly glorious and beautiful. |
| 547. |
Devotion (Bhakti) is a most beautiful and wonderful word in the culture of Bharat (India). |
| 548. |
One should never renounce a lifestyle filled with devotion. |
| 549. |
Rather than worrying about the removal of sins later, a practitioner of devotion should first ensure that no offense is committed in the first place. This is a crucial awareness for a devotee. |
| 550. |
Mother Kamadhenu requested GOD to keep four elements outside the jurisdiction of Shri Indra's position. While GOD is the Master of everyone, He is the specific and eternal Master of these four things. Firstly, Gau-mata (Cow Mother). Secondly, the Brahmin. Thirdly, the Temple (Devalaya). Forthly, the Saint / Sadhu. |
| 551. |
The virtue of truthfulness (Satya) manifests naturally in a true devotee because truth is very dear to GOD. |
| 552. |
If a wealthy person builds a temple and says that this is my temple, he incur a sin. A donor can be a servant (Sevak) of the temple, but never the owner. Even a Trust can only be a servant, not the owner. The principle is that no human can own a temple, GOD alone is the sole Master of the Temple (Devalaya). |
| 553. |
Not even a government elected by the people can be the owner of a temple, only GOD is the Master of the temple. |
| 554. |
The true vow of Ekadashi is to keep all your senses "fasting" from the world. Engaging all the senses in GOD, it is such an Ekadashi that pleases GOD. Ekadashi should not be performed for naturopathy or mere health benefits, but solely to please GOD. |
| 555. |
True Ekadashi is when the entire day is spent in the adoration of GOD. |
| 556. |
Crises did come to Shri Gokulji and Shri Vrindavanji, but not a single crisis could affect them. GOD always brought everyone out of trouble. The essence of this episode is that whoever loves GOD will emerge from all crises. The principle is that for one who loves GOD, no crisis can cause any harm. |
| 557. |
In GOD's conscience, compassion for His devotees is constantly arising. |
| 558. |
There are many neglected yet significant episodes in Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran which are overlooked by speakers or narrators due to a lack of time or knowledge. This is entirely wrong. |
| 559. |
As the Prasad of loving devotion (Prema-bhakti), GOD distributes that elated ecstasy (Parmanand) to devotees which even the wise (Gnanis) cannot attain in an entire lifetime. |
| 560. |
The Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) and cowherds boys (Gops) had a singular experience that whenever a crisis arrived, they must call upon GOD, for that is exactly what they did in their lives. The principle is that the only remedy for escaping a crisis is to call upon GOD. |
| 561. |
In Shri Vaikunthji, one cannot pamper or dote on GOD, nor can one embrace Him, because there GOD remains in great formality (Maryada). Therefore, even when the cowherds boys (Gops) were granted a vision of Shri Vaikunthji and offered the chance to stay there, they expressed the desire to return to Shri Vrindavanji so they could always be near GOD and pamper Him with love. |
| 562. |
Saints explain GOD's incarnation in this way that when GOD grows weary of being the "King of the Universe" in Shri Vaikunthji, He takes an incarnation on Earth to perform His Divine Play (Shri Lila), to be pampered and to shower His love. |
| 563. |
In Shri Vaikunthji, formality (Maryada) is predominant, in Shri Vrindavanji, loving devotion (Prema-bhakti) is predominant. |
| 564. |
Forgetting His own greatness and His divinity, GOD performs Divine Play (Shri Lila) with His devotees. |
| 565. |
In Shri Vaikunthji, we must offer prostrated salutations (Dandavat Pranam) to GOD, but in Shri Vrindavanji, the cowherds boys (Gops) embrace Him. |
| 566. |
The sweetness of Shree Krishna Katha (Holy pastimes) found in the Tenth Canto of Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran is found nowhere else. |
| 567. |
The Tenth Canto of Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran teaches us how to play with GOD and how to engage in Divine sport with Him. This magnificent Canto teaches the principle of GOD-realization and the very process of achieving it. |
| 568. |
There is one path of action (Karma), and another path of GOD's Grace and Compassion. The cowherds boys (Gops) did not choose the path of Karma, they chose the path of Grace. |
| 569. |
Through the path of action (Karma), a soul moves toward GOD slowly and gradually. But if the path of GOD's Grace opens, that soul reaches GOD instantly. |
| 570. |
It is like waiting in a long temple line for five hours to get a glimpse (Darshan), versus a priest taking you through a secret door so you get Darshan in ten minutes. The five-hour path is action (Karma), the ten-minute secret path is the path of Grace. While a priest might take a donation to open that door, what does GOD look for to open His path of Grace ? GOD doesn't open the path of Grace for everyone, but for someone special. Just as a mother doesn't give a new ornament to her healthy, grown-up son, but to her weak, crying child, because the child is frail and weeping, the mother’s compassion is awakened. Similarly, for one who weeps in love for GOD and calls out to Him, His Grace and Compassion are awakened, opening the compassion lane that leads to Him. |
| 571. |
There is no law that dictates how GOD should shower His compassion. GOD is supremely independent, whatever He does becomes the law itself. |
| 572. |
When a soul undertakes devotion, GOD knows exactly when to bypass the laws of action (Karma) and grant the fruit of His Compassion. He is fully independent in this regard. |
| 573. |
Even the greatest sinner and evil person, if they feel true repentance for their bad deeds and weep before GOD, it awakens His compassion. GOD then redeems and saves them. |
| 574. |
GOD is indeed a Judge, but first and foremost, He is our Parent. A judge delivers a sentence, but a parent finds a way to save their child from being punished. |
| 575. |
The awakening of compassion within GOD occurs upon seeing those who practice sincere and selfless loving devotion (Prema-bhakti). |
| 576. |
GOD’s compassion is awakened for those who feel true remorse for their sins, hold a firm resolve in their mind not to commit new sins and call out to GOD for mercy. |
| 577. |
If the caution to not commit further sins enters one's life, then GOD immediately incinerates all previous sins through His compassion. |
| 578. |
In Shrimad Bhagavad Geetaji, GOD provides an assurance to His devotees that upon taking His shelter (Sharanagati), He instantly liberates them from all sins. |
| 579. |
GOD is not merely a Judge but an embodiment of compassion, He shows mercy even while delivering justice. If He only delivered justice, He would be considered just a judge who punishes bad deeds and rewards good ones. But GOD’s unique specialty is that He is the "Purifier of the Fallen" (Patit-pavan). The fallen have no strength of their own, they rely solely on the capability of GOD’s compassion. |
| 580. |
GOD’s compassion is an extremely vital foundation for the salvation of the soul. |
| 581. |
One who sincerely repents attains GOD’s compassion. His compassion is not for those who continue to sin, but for the one whose true repentance has caused their sinful tendencies to vanish, upon such a person, GOD showers His grace. |
| 582. |
The cowherds boys (Gops) never practiced meditation, intellectual knowledge (Gyan), Yogic exercises or elaborate rituals. They simply shared the Holy pastimes (Katha) of GOD with one another, constantly discussing Him and served Him through their mind, speech and action. Through this alone, they became worthy of GOD’s grace. This is the true path of devotion. |
| 583. |
Aside from GOD, a devotee remains unaware of any other worldly matter. |
| 584. |
Regarding those who do nothing but focus on GOD and do not get entangled in worldly distractions, GOD told Sage Shri Durvasa in Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran that I do not recognize anyone else except such devotees. |
| 585. |
Holding onto any one form of GOD and becoming completely immersed in it with total devotion, staking one's very life on it, that is true devotion. |
| 586. |
To possess the world and to attain GOD simultaneously is never possible. |
| 587. |
I want nothing else except GOD, this is the definition of devotion. |
| 588. |
To grasp GOD, one must let go of the world, this is an eternal principle. |
| 589. |
We should practice the means to attain GOD only after understanding our own rights and our own capabilities. Devotion is the most accessible and useful means for everyone. |
| 590. |
Holding onto a single form of GOD and becoming completely immersed in it is the greatest spiritual practice. Bhagwati Meera Bai did exactly this. |
| 591. |
Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran is like a rope, if we grasp it once, GOD Himself becomes bound by that rope and comes to us. |
| 592. |
The pearl of devotees, Shri Surdasji, composed hymns (Padas) for GOD and sang them with deep emotion solely to please Him. Therefore, GOD would physically come to him to hear the hymns and sit beside him to listen to his singing. |
| 593. |
When the feeling awakens in our conscience that we have no support other than GOD and we know no one else but Him, then seeing this sentiment, GOD’s compassion arises for us immediately. |
| 594. |
GOD is an ocean of compassion. Those devotees who dedicated their entire lives to GOD and clearly refused to take shelter in anyone else achieved instant success on the path of devotion. |
| 595. |
The cowherds boys (Gops) and Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) never contemplated anything other than GOD. They had no goal other than GOD and they made no effort in life other than to attain Him. |
| 596. |
We perform worship, service and sing hymns for GOD, but in exchange for our practice (Saadhan), we desire supernatural powers (Siddhis) and worldly enjoyments (Bhog). Ravan also performed great worship, but it was with the intent of gaining powers and strength. He received those things, but he did not receive GOD’s compassion. Such people are not worthy of GOD's Grace, they are merely entitled to the fruits of their efforts, like powers and pleasures. |
| 597. |
Bhagwati Meera Bai desired neither worldly happiness nor favorable circumstances from GOD. She did not even ask for the arrangement of her meals or for health to perform her devotion. She wanted only GOD from GOD, and she found Him. |
| 598. |
One should go to GOD empty-handed, meaning without any desire or craving. Only then does GOD truly embrace us as His own. |
| 599. |
To have no other support in life except for GOD, this is the true definition of devotion. |
| 600. |
GOD’s Shri Raaslila is eternal. It is not something that happened once in the past and is not happening today. Even in this age of Kaliyug, many saints and devotees have been blessed with the vision of GOD’s Shri Raas. |
| 601. |
We can never awaken GOD’s compassion through our own manhood (Purusharth) or our own intellect. His compassion is awakened solely and exclusively through devotion. |
| 602. |
The Raas Panchadhyayi (five chapters on the Raaslila) is considered the "life-breath" of the Tenth Canto, which itself is the "heart" of Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran. However, even after attaining the eligibility to study it, one must enter the Raas Panchadhyayi with extreme caution and reverence. |
| 603. |
It is believed that Shri Raas Panchadhyayi was composed by Shreeji Bhagwati Radha Mata Herself, and it was later manifested to the world by the GOD Shri Vedavyasji. |
| 604. |
Shri Raas Panchadhyayi is a literal gateway to the "Brahma Empire" (the Divine Realm) and grants a marvelous and supernatural experience. |
| 605. |
Very few souls are truly eligible to even hear Shri Raas Panchadhyayi. |
| 606. |
One should enter Shri Raas Panchadhyayi only when there is total faith in GOD and the spiritual development of one’s intellect is complete. Even then, it is necessary to keep the intellect extremely alert, otherwise, there is a possibility of the mind going astray. |
| 607. |
The very first word of Shri Raas Panchadhyayi is "Bhagawan" (GOD). This highlights the fact that this is a Divine play (Shri Lila) of GOD, not the play of an ordinary human being. |
| 608. |
One should always practice "Sagun Saakar" (real-life incarnation) worship of GOD. Explaining the "Nirgun" (formless / attributeless) path, a saint once said that it is like a blind man, with a black blindfold over his eyes, in a pitch-dark room, searching for a black cat, a cat that isn't even there. |
| 609. |
Addressing just anyone as "Bhagawan" is not a sign of religion. To address any mortal, embodied being with the title of GOD is completely and utterly wrong. |
| 610. |
Only those who possess six specific attributes with absolute authenticity are called "Bhagawan" (GOD). The root of the word Bhagawan is "Bhag," meaning one who possesses these six opulences. Firstly, Absolute Sovereignty meaning Unbroken authority and governance over the entire universe. Secondly, Dharma meaning Upholding and following Dharma everywhere according to Vedic limits (Maryada). Thirdly, Absolute Success meaning Success in everything ever done, at all times. Fourthly, Eternal Beauty / Fortune meaning Splendor, beauty, and prosperity (Lakshmi) that remain perfectly stable. Fifthly, Infinite Knowledge meaning Wisdom that remains eternally unbroken. Sixthly, Total Detachment meaning Maintaining unbroken detachment (Vairagya) despite possessing such magnificent opulence, without ever being entangled in it. Not a single one of these six traits can ever be found in a human being. Therefore, addressing any embodied mortal as "Bhagawan" is completely wrong. |
| 611. |
The authority of GOD prevails over the earth, water, space, air and the entire universe. Everything is subordinate to and under the control of GOD and His rule governs all. |
| 612. |
GOD is the owner of complete and unbroken opulence. |
| 613. |
When a fire broke out in the forest during the Shree Krishna incarnation, GOD swallowed the fire and saved everyone. This episode demonstrates that Fire is subordinate to GOD. |
| 614. |
During the Shree Krishna incarnation, when the messenger of Shri Varundevji took Shri Nanda Baba to the realm of Varun (Varun-lok), GOD went there immediately, rescued him, and Shri Varundevji apologized to GOD. This episode shows that Shri Varundevji is subordinate to GOD. |
| 615. |
We should never have pride in our scholarship (Panditya) or knowledge. We should always pray to GOD to save us from such arrogance. |
| 616. |
Devotees and Great Souls (Mahatmas) are so dear to GOD that He compels nature to act according to what they say. |
| 617. |
During His incarnation, GOD Shree Ramji followed Vedic Maryada (Dharma) everywhere. He never violated any scriptural principle. In the Shree Rama incarnation, GOD always upheld Dharma and never allowed any transgression against it in His presence. |
| 618. |
If any Divine Play (Shri Lila) of GOD Shree Krishnaji is not understood by us, we should consider it a delusion of our own intellect and be mindful of our own ignorance. |
| 619. |
Wherever GOD went in Shree Ram incarnation and Shree Krishna incarnation, He was successful in everything He did. Whatever task GOD took in His Hands, He achieved only success. |
| 620. |
The splendor and beauty of GOD remain eternally stable. Our beauty is not the same as it was ten years ago because we are subject to nature, therefore, our beauty continually diminishes. When GOD Shree Krishna was 125 years old and performing His Holy pastimes (Shri Lila), He still looked as if He were sixteen. |
| 621. |
If we desire our own welfare in life, we should never forget GOD. |
| 622. |
The knowledge of GOD is unbroken and infinite. He never needs to remember anything or refer to any Holy Scripture. Whatever Shri Arjunji asked GOD at Shri Kurukshetraji, GOD provided the answer immediately. |
| 623. |
GOD in Shree Krishna incarnation demonstrated absolute detachment (Vairagya) in His character. He left Shri Gokulji at the age of 11, and such was His detachment that He never returned. He offered His flute, which was so dear to Him, to Shreeji Bhagwati Radha Mata when He was 11, and never remembered it again. He built the golden Shri Dwarkaji, which later submerged, and even as He saw His sons fight among themselves, not a single tear of attachment fell from His eyes. Such was His marvelous detachment. |
| 624. |
While listening to or reading Shri Raas, if any improper thoughts enter our mind, we must first understand that this is not a human play, rather, it is GOD’s Holy pastimes (Shri Lila) where human rules and logic do not apply. |
| 625. |
Raas cannot occur simply because we feel the desire for it. Only when the desire to engage with the soul awakens in GOD's heart does Shri Raas happen. This will only occur when GOD also feels that He should perform Raas with this particular soul. The sign is this is that even if there is a longing for union in our mind, the meeting cannot take place until the longing for union also arises in GOD's heart. |
| 626. |
GOD accepts playing with the individual soul only when the soul attains the necessary eligibility for it. |
| 627. |
Raas will be possible between the soul and GOD only when there is an equality of purity between them. The soul is currently soiled (malin), while GOD is supremely pure. Therefore, only when the soul becomes pure through devotion will its Raas with the pure GOD be possible. |
| 628. |
Even today, when a soul attains eligibility, GOD plays His flute to call them for Raas. |
| 629. |
The soul is incapable and spends lifetimes merely thinking about meeting GOD, yet it doesn't happen. GOD is All-capable (Sarva-Samarth), and the very moment it enters His mind to meet the soul, the union happens instantly. |
| 630. |
GOD performed Shri Raas only after killing all the demons and after they were removed. The insight of this episode is that only when all the demons, the disturbances and agitations of our mind are silenced, does the union meaning Raas with GOD become possible, because only then is the right environment created. |
| 631. |
All the demons of impurities remain hidden in our heart-like Shri Gokul, only when they are slain by GOD's grace will our heart-like Shri Gokul become fit for Shri Raas. |
| 632. |
No matter how many Scriptures one reads, if the tendencies of the heart do not change, union with GOD is impossible because only when the soul's heart becomes supremely pure will the eligibility arise to play with GOD. |
| 633. |
One who engages in wrong behavior and improper conduct daily can never attain GOD in life. |
| 634. |
Impurities cannot be destroyed by any medicine, we must destroy them ourselves by undertaking devotion of GOD. |
| 635. |
By walking the path of self-control, a seeker reaches GOD, but by walking the path of lack of restraint, a seeker can never reach GOD. |
| 636. |
There is nothing beyond Shri Raas Panchadhyayi. This is the pinnacle of Shrimad Bhagwatji Mahapuran. |
| 637. |
The means to remove impurities must be practiced by us, then, by GOD's grace, their removal occurs in our life. For example, if we adopt a small rule of detachment in our life, complete detachment will eventually occur through GOD's grace. |
| 638. |
If we do not keep the foundation of GOD’s grace in our lives while practicing any spiritual discipline, we will get trapped in many troubles and turn away from the path of practice (Saadhan). |
| 639. |
If the foundation of GOD’s grace is missing from life, numerous obstacles will continually arise in our spiritual path. |
| 640. |
In the spiritual path of practice, there must be our own effort, and there must also be our constant call to GOD for help, only then will we achieve success. |
| 641. |
By calling out to GOD, He assists us in our spiritual path and definitely comes to our aid. |
| 642. |
When Bhagwati Yashoda Mata tied GOD to the mortar (Okhala), the rope fell short by two fingers. Saints provide the insight to this episode that one finger of the rope represents manhood (Purusharth) and the other finger represents GOD’s grace. As soon as our manhood of devotion is complete, GOD will shower His grace upon us. In this way, the "two-finger" gap will be filled and GOD will allow Himself to be bound by the bonds of our love. |
| 643. |
In devotion, there must be manhood (Purusharth) and hard work of the soul, then, the grace of GOD is certainly received. |
| 644. |
Seeing the efforts of the practicing devotee, GOD feels that now I must meet this devotee. |
| 645. |
It is essential for the clouds of worldly desires to disperse and for the mind to become completely absorbed in GOD, such an environment is necessary for Shri Raas. |
| 646. |
Upon the invitation of Shri Raas, whichever Gopi (loving devotees of GOD) heard GOD’s flute at whatever moment, she abandoned her task right there and ran to meet Him. One Gopi, while nursing her child, left the child there and ran. Another Gopi, while serving food to her husband, left it as it was and ran. Another Gopi ran from there while milking a cow. One Gopi had applied kohl to one eye, heard the flute, and ran without applying it to the other eye. Whomever was in whatever state while doing any work, she ran to meet GOD in that very state. Such was the intense longing in the hearts of the Gopis. |
| 647. |
The husbands, children, in-laws and siblings of the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) tried hard to stop them, but they did not stop for anyone, when caught, they released their hands from everyone and ran. The insight of this episode is that family and society will try to stop one who moves toward GOD, but a true devotee does not stop for anyone’s restraint. |
| 648. |
The Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) were not ordinary women, they were saints and Paramhansas (supreme liberated souls) who had a thirst to meet GOD for ages. Therefore, GOD Shri Shukdevji warns King Shri Parikshitji not to even imagine questioning their worldly behavior, and he warns all of us as well. |
| 649. |
Some Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) were locked in their homes by their family members. But their separation (Virah) was so intense that they began to writhe like a fish out of water and gave up their lives. Leaving their bodies behind, the souls of those blessed Gopis departed to meet GOD. |
| 650. |
Devarshi GOD Shri Naradji has considered the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) as the supreme masters (Acharya) of loving devotion (Prema-bhakti). |
| 651. |
If we cannot understand the intense longing of the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) to meet GOD, even through our power of imagination, we will never be able to enter the context of Shri Raas. |
| 652. |
Even if we use our power of imagination to visualize the intense longing (Vyakulata) of the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD), we would only be able to grasp a tiny fraction of it, because understanding it completely is entirely impossible. |
| 653. |
Attaining GOD is not possible for anyone without intense longing for GOD. |
| 654. |
The greatest link to GOD-realization is intense longing. Whether the saints and devotees who realized GOD performed chanting, rituals or Vedantic contemplation or not, they all certainly did one thing, and one thing that is always seen in all of them is intense longing for GOD. |
| 655. |
Longing for GOD is received only through the grace of Shreeji Bhagwati Radha Mata. Therefore, all saints who have found GOD Shree Krishnaji have tried to obtain the grace of Shreeji Bhagwati Radha Mata in their lives, because it is only through Her grace that longing for GOD enters one's life. |
| 656. |
In devotion, longing arises only due to extraordinary and divine practices and merits accumulated over infinite Googol (1 with a hundred zeros) births. |
| 657. |
The awakening of Supreme Divine Emotion (Mahabhav) for GOD is a very rare and extraordinary thing. Only a rare, fortunate soul attains this Supreme Divine Emotion. |
| 658. |
To attain Supreme Divine Emotion (Mahabhav) for GOD, saints renounce their homes, comforts and conveniences. They forget their wealth, opulence and family. |
| 659. |
If we receive even a fraction of the intense longing for GOD that the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) obtained by praying to Shreeji Bhagwati Radha Mata, we will be supremely blessed. |
| 660. |
Having intense longing for GOD is a sign of a truly fortunate person. Therefore, when GOD saw such longing in the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD), He welcomed them at the start of the Shri Raas by addressing them as Great Fortunate (Mahabhagya). |
| 661. |
In the ordinary view of the world, people consider a soul fortunate by seeing their servants, bungalows, cars and property. However, on the touchstone of spirituality, one who turns the beads of GOD's mala, sings a devotional hymn (Bhajan), listens to the Holy pastimes (Katha), undertakes devotion and is connected to GOD is considered truly fortunate. |
| 662. |
Possessing only property and money but being distant from GOD due to a lack of devotion, such people are considered spiritually ill-fated (Karmaphoota) from an spiritual perspective. |
| 663. |
Saints believe that when our sins increase and the time comes to be distanced from GOD, wealth and property come to us because they lead us away from Him. |
| 664. |
Wealth is not meaningful for the sake of sensory indulgences. Wealth is only meaningful when it is utilized in the service of GOD. |
| 665. |
Shri Adi Shankaracharyaji once said that today, I saw a truly fortunate person. He said that today he saw a person wearing only a loincloth (Kaupindhari) on the banks of Bhagwati Ganga Mata, contemplating the words of GOD in the Holy Scriptures - that person is truly fortunate. |
| 666. |
The original form of the soul is GOD Himself. Therefore, the soul who keeps their intellect fixed on GOD day and night is the truly fortunate one. |
| 667. |
Even by consuming all kinds of sweets, a wealthy man cannot be as satiated or happy as a saint who is satiated and satisfied by receiving GOD's sanctified food (Prasad). |
| 668. |
A wealthy man earns money, which will remain only as long as his lifespan. But a devotee earns the devotion of GOD, which remains throughout their life and continues even after life ends. Therefore, a devotee is more fortunate than a wealthy man. |
| 669. |
The earnings of devotion of GOD can never be destroyed and no one has the power to destroy them. |
| 670. |
A person deposited five lakh rupees in a bank in old age, which was to double in five years, but in the meantime, that soul passed away. If they return to the bank in a new birth, the bankers will push them out and will not give them the money. However, if a person has earned the wealth of devotion even in old age and passes away, GOD Himself brings that earning of devotion to them in their next birth so that they can continue their practice for GOD-realization. GOD keeps the earnings of devotion intact for that soul’s next birth. |
| 671. |
The wealth consisting of GOD's name-chanting, devotional hymns (Bhajans), prayer (Puja) and service cannot be divided among brothers, the government cannot tax it, thieves cannot steal it and even GOD Shri Yamrajji (the Lord of Death) honors those who possess such spiritual wealth. |
| 672. |
Worldly wealth is temporary and belongs to us only as long as the body remains. The wealth of devotion is permanent and goes with us even after the body is gone. |
| 673. |
What you have enjoyed or consumed will not go with you, only the devotion you have undertaken will go with you. |
| 674. |
The earnings of devotion never perish, while all other types of earnings eventually decay. Therefore, the one who earns devotion is considered truly fortunate in the Scriptures. |
| 675. |
The race in devotion is toward GOD, and this is a race of great fortune. Otherwise, everyone in the world is running, but they are running in the wrong direction. |
| 676. |
We are running for wealth, power, sensory pleasures, fame and family, but is this race meaningful, will this race give us satisfaction ? Only the race of devotion will provide true satisfaction. |
| 677. |
Chasing after money can never provide satisfaction because the one with a hundred wants a thousand, the one with a thousand wants ten thousand, the one with ten thousand wants a lakh, and in this way, the cycle of dissatisfaction never stops. |
| 678. |
Will we ever feel upon obtaining something that now I do not need anything else. This is only possible through devotion. Only when we attain GOD through devotion will it feel that way, because complete satisfaction is found upon GOD-realization. Then, no necessity remains in life, no aspiration remains and no sorrow remains. |
| 679. |
When running for property and wealth, there will always be people ahead of us, but in the race of devotion, only GOD will be ahead of us. |
| 680. |
No matter how much worldly activity one does, the conscience (Chitta) will never become peaceful. Only by undertaking devotion will the conscience find peace. |
| 681. |
Our race will never end by running toward the world. Only by running toward GOD will our race end and we will find rest. |
| 682. |
Chasing after sensory pleasures is like chasing a mirage (Mrigjal). While running after a mirage, a deer feels that it will find water and quench its thirst, but it gives up its life while running because it never finds water in the end, it is only a mirage and water isn't actually there. |
| 683. |
GOD has named the world the abode of sorrow (Dukhalaya). This is the name given to the world by GOD Himself. Just as one receives education in a school, similarly, one ultimately receives only sorrow in the world. |
| 684. |
We keep running in the world to find happiness, just as a deer keeps running to find a mirage, and in the end, we receive only sorrow, just as the deer ultimately meets death. |
| 685. |
Our mind should get stuck in the Divine Lotus Feet of GOD and never come out, this should be our highest state. |
| 686. |
Bhaktraj Shri Surdasji wrote verses for GOD throughout his life and sang them to GOD. GOD used to manifest in His real-life form and come to him personally to listen to the singing of his verses. |
| 687. |
One who runs toward GOD will finish their race and will also experience elated ecstasy (Parmanand). |
| 688. |
If we take shelter of GOD and He once places His Divine Lotus Hands (Shri Karkamal) on our head, the race of our life ends forever. GOD never sends such a soul back into the world and keeps them with Him forever. |
| 689. |
Sometimes GOD sends His dear devotees into the world to perform His special tasks. A devotee of GOD, upon coming into the world, tries to awaken devotion within all souls so that everyone's salvation becomes possible. |
| 690. |
GOD knows very well how to speak sweetly, and He also loves to hear sweet words. |
| 691. |
Before the Shri Raas, GOD told the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) to go back and fulfill their family, religion and duty, but the Gopis stayed right there. The essence of this episode is that only by renouncing everything do we find GOD. |
| 692. |
Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran is a unique Holy Scripture. There have been many great souls who spent their entire lives contemplating every single sentence of this Mahapuran and providing commentary on them, thus blessing their lives. |
| 693. |
Simply by having love for GOD, all our tasks happen automatically of their own accord. |
| 694. |
Mere constant contemplation of GOD in life leads to our welfare. |
| 695. |
Saints say in jest that when GOD Shree Krishnaji stands to give Darshan, He is bent in three places (the Tribhanga pose), yet this bending is supremely transcendental, divine and filled with supreme sweetness. Saints also say in jest that when GOD Shree Krishnaji speaks, His speech is also complex because in Shrimad Bhagavad Geetaji, He entangled everyone so much that for the last five thousand years, saints have been trying to understand it. However, at the end of the Shrimad Bhagavad Geetaji, while explaining the essence to everyone, the compassionate GOD Shree Krishnaji untangled everything by giving the mantra of surrender and devotion, thus blessing everyone. |
| 696. |
At the time of death, whatever desire is finally in our conscience, we receive a similar next birth. Therefore, we should contemplate GOD throughout life so that at the final moment, the contemplation of GOD remains, and we find a place at the Divine Lotus Feet of GOD forever. |
| 697. |
All devotees of GOD are residents of Shri Vaikuntha (the abode of GOD) and are sent to Earth by GOD for some special task. A specific unique task of GOD is associated with every devotee. |
| 698. |
The nectar of devotion is so wonderful that even those who have realized Brahma (GOD) and are liberated souls remain ever-eager to attain it. |
| 699. |
GOD distributes different tasks to all saints and devotees for the salvation of all souls. |
| 700. |
GOD sends different saints to Earth to teach different principles of spirituality. |
| 701. |
The entire world is GOD’s stage, and all beings, like actors, play their respective roles here. |
| 702. |
Considering the faults of modern era (Kaliyug), saints have deemed it essential to let the flow of devotion reach every individual. |
| 703. |
All sages, devotees and saints appeared in Shri Brij, taking the form of the Gopi (loving devotees of GOD), to participate in the Divine play with GOD. |
| 704. |
Devotees say that we do not want a GOD who remains hidden as formless (Nirgun Nirakar). We want GOD in His real-life incarnation form (Sagun Saakar) who revels in love everywhere. |
| 705. |
Devotees of GOD are habituated to devotion. Therefore, they practice GOD's devotion slowly, savoring every drop of its essence. |
| 706. |
GOD's form is full of nectar, and such sweetness is hidden within it that devotees constantly drink that nectar-like essence by turning their eyes into cups. |
| 707. |
Saints say that one should behold GOD's form by making cups of the eyes, listen to the Holy pastimes (Katha) by making cups of the ears, and chant GOD's nectar-like name by making cups of the tongue. |
| 708. |
The name of GOD Shree Ramji is so wonderful and filled with so much nectar that such essence will not be found anywhere else. |
| 709. |
Does it ever feel to us in our lives that GOD is touching our skin with His Divine Lotus Hands or stroking our cheeks with His Divine hand ? If it does not feel this way, then there is still a deficiency in our devotion. |
| 710. |
Do we ever feel the desire to touch GOD. There should be so much love for GOD in our heart that our mind feels this way. |
| 711. |
When we learn to savor the real-life incarnation (Sagun Saakar form) of GOD with all our senses, it manifests Gopi-bhava (the sentiment of the Gopis, loving devotees of GOD) within us. |
| 712. |
If one's mind is full after seeing GOD's form just once and does not feel like seeing Him again and again, they are only in the primary class of devotion. |
| 713. |
With extreme love, true devotees come again and again to behold GOD's form. With extreme love, true devotees listen to the Holy pastimes (Katha) of GOD again and again. |
| 714. |
Every Holy pastime (Katha) of GOD should create a fresh sentiment in our heart. |
| 715. |
One should listen to Holy pastimes (Katha) because one never knows through which sentiment or which word GOD might descend into our conscience. |
| 716. |
Saints constantly immerse themselves in Holy pastimes (Katha) and dedicate their lives to it because, through this medium, new sentiments for GOD are always being awakened in their hearts. |
| 717. |
Devotees and saints belong to GOD alone, and they are sent to the earthly plane by GOD Himself for the salvation of all souls. |
| 718. |
When saints and devotees bid farewell to the world at the time of leaving their lives, there are no tears in their eyes. This is because they feel extreme happiness and elated ecstasy (Parmanand) about going to their own Abode, the Abode of GOD. Being residents of GOD's Abode, they return to their home happily. In their final state, the joy of returning to their true home is clearly reflected on their faces. |
| 719. |
Completing the task given by GOD and considering that task as their duty, saints and devotees depart from the world and return to GOD's Abode. |
| 720. |
Before the Shri Raas, GOD told the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) to go, go and do your work, follow your dharma, fulfill your duty and remember Me from your home. But only when the Gopis did not do so did the Shri Raas occur. The essence of this episode is that only when we renounce our action (karma) and dharma for GOD does the Shri Raas with GOD become possible. |
| 721. |
The Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) desired the proximity of GOD and the union with GOD. Therefore, they did not leave even when GOD sent them back at the beginning of the Shri Raas. |
| 722. |
We too should learn how to properly savor the essence of devotion of GOD. |
| 723. |
There is great essence in union (Sanyog) with GOD, and there is also a very sweet essence in separation (Viyog) from GOD. Therefore, saints savor the essence of both separation and union in their lives. |
| 724. |
In devotion, a constant cycle of union and separation from GOD continues. Saints first desire separation from GOD, and by becoming absorbed in the sentiment of separation, they savor the supreme essence of that separation through their intense longing (Vyakulata). |
| 725. |
When GOD is near, we see GOD in only one place, but when there is separation from GOD, due to the intense longing, GOD begins to appear to us everywhere. |
| 726. |
After staying with them for 11 years, GOD gave the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) separation for the rest of their lives. The Gopis greatly enjoyed this separation. When GOD met the Gopis in Kurukshetra, GOD said that I gave this separation so that you would remain in constant, supreme contemplation of Me. |
| 727. |
In life, we should consider GOD as our supreme support. |
| 728. |
In life, we should never have more love for anyone else than we have for GOD. |
| 729. |
The Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) considered GOD as supreme and the most beloved of their lives, and they risked every happiness of their life for GOD. |
| 730. |
We constantly keep asking GOD for things and keep causing pain to GOD through our behavior and conduct. The devotion of the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) was true because they never asked GOD for anything and never caused pain to GOD through any of their actions. The essence of this episode is that a true devotee never asks GOD for anything, all their desires merge into GOD, and they never cause pain to GOD through their actions or behavior. |
| 731. |
Going to GOD to ask for sensory objects (Vishayas) is a common thing, but renouncing sensory objects and going to GOD is a very great thing. |
| 732. |
A devotee always says to GOD that under no circumstances should GOD leave them, GOD may keep them however He wishes, but He should never leave them. |
| 733. |
What is the fruit of one’s own duty (Swadharma), family care and fulfillment of duty ? It is that GOD becomes pleased. What is the fruit of rituals (Karmakand) ? It is that GOD becomes pleased, therefore, at the end of rituals, it is always said that may GOD be pleased. Thus, for a devotee, personal duty becomes secondary because, by undertaking devotion, they attempt to please GOD directly. |
| 734. |
One should strive to please GOD in life through every aspect of their behavior. |
| 735. |
When we bow down to any saint or devotee, GOD, making them an instrument, becomes pleased and sends His blessings in the form of grace to us through them. |
| 736. |
The Gopis (loving dovotees of GOD) say to GOD that since GOD is now standing right in front of them, there is no need to perform the "means" (Saadhan), that is, the prescribed duties, because when the Goal (Saadhya) is present, the means become secondary. |
| 737. |
All religious conduct is performed solely for the pleasure of GOD. |
| 738. |
In any method of attaining GOD, the pleasure of GOD is the most essential factor. |
| 739. |
Every duty (dharma) and every behavior in life should be performed only for the pleasure of GOD. |
| 740. |
The Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) say that the very target of our worldly duties is the pleasure of GOD. But now that GOD has appeared before us, what is the need to fulfill those duties. For when the Goal stands before you, there is no necessity for the means. |
| 741. |
Attaining GOD must be the supreme goal of our life. |
| 742. |
There are no fixed rules (Vidhi) for true devotees. In devotion, whatever action they perform becomes the rule itself. When Shri Bharatlalji came to Shri Ayodhyaji from Shri Chitrakootji carrying the Divine Sandals (Shri Charan-Paduka) of GOD and wished to install them on the royal throne, he asked the Guru, Shri Vashishthaji, if there was such a provision in the Scriptures. Guru Shri Vashishthaji replied that there is no pre-existing law for a true devotee like you, whatever you do will become the law for the future. Such is the great capability of devotion. |
| 743. |
Due to devotion, GOD comes under the control of His devotees. |
| 744. |
A soul loves themselves and their body the most, but this is a mistake. We should love GOD the most. |
| 745. |
Those in the world who love GOD the most are the most fortunate. |
| 746. |
No worldly object exists that does not eventually cause distress to man. That is why GOD has called this world an abode of sorrow (Dukhalaya). |
| 747. |
If you accumulate anything in life besides devotion, it will surely decay or exhaust one day. |
| 748. |
Anything collected in life will provide only momentary happiness, but in the end, it will decay and bring us sorrow and pain. Only devotion is the one that gives us elated ecstasy (Parmanand) forever. |
| 749. |
It is an eternal principle that if anything is hoarded or accumulated, it will eventually result in sorrow. Therefore, we should always earn the wealth of devotion that provides elated ecstasy (Parmanand) in life. |
| 750. |
In the entire world, there is no union that will not eventually end in separation, even separation from one's own body is certain. But if we undertake devotion, we will never be separated from GOD. |
| 751. |
Blessed are those who love GOD instead of the things available in the world. |
| 752. |
Not everyone’s intellect is such, nor is everyone’s destiny such, that GOD feels dear to them, but those to whom this has happened in life are truly blessed. |
| 753. |
The dawn of fortune for meeting GOD occurs only for a rare few. |
| 754. |
One whose conscience is flowing toward GOD is called truly fortunate. |
| 755. |
Saints say that only the one who turns away from the world and turn toward GOD is truly fortunate. |
| 756. |
If one begins to find bliss in the service of GOD, it should be believed that GOD's grace is showering upon their life. |
| 757. |
Developing a mind for the devotion of GOD is itself an indicator of rising merits. It is not possible for such a mind to form without our sins being destroyed. |
| 758. |
It is possible for the mind to be firmly engaged in the devotion of GOD only for one whose sins have been cut away. GOD stated this to Shri Arjunji in the Shrimad Bhagawad Geetaji. |
| 759. |
If one begins to find nectar-like essence (rasa) in the contemplation of GOD, it should be understood as absolutely certain that GOD's grace has occurred in one’s life. |
| 760. |
If the mind detaches from worldly people and the world and becomes attached to GOD, it should be taken as certain that the grace of the merciful GOD is bearing fruit in our life. |
| 761. |
A devotee does not believe in pleasing worldly people. They only strive to please the heart of GOD. |
| 762. |
GOD becomes the sole subject of a devotee’s constant contemplation. |
| 763. |
The Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) address GOD as the thief of Conscience (Chittachor). This right belongs only to the Gopis because of their selfless love, otherwise, one cannot even imagine or have the courage to call GOD a thief. |
| 764. |
GOD is the Thief of Conscience (Chittachor), meaning He is the one who steals the conscience (Chitta) of His love-filled beings. |
| 765. |
The Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) say to GOD that He has stolen their conscience, therefore, their minds no longer engage in household chores or the world. |
| 766. |
Each and every verse of the Shri Raas Panchadhyayi of the Shrimad Bhagawatji Mahapuran is priceless and extremely divine. |
| 767. |
The Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) ask GOD to bestow grace so that they may be able to forget Him. Their love for GOD is so powerful that they are unable to forget Him through their own efforts. |
| 768. |
Saints and sages spend their entire lives practicing spiritual means, trying to ensure that even a little meditation on GOD enters their conscience. But look at the fortune of the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) that they ask GOD for the ability to forget Him from their conscience. |
| 769. |
Despite effort, GOD does not enter the minds of sages, yet He does not leave the hearts of the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) even when they scold Him to depart. This alone reveals the greatness of the Gopis's love. |
| 770. |
Observe the fortune of the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD), as they ask GOD to step out of their conscience just a little so that their minds can focus on worldly tasks. Now, look at our misfortune that our minds are always occupied with the world and fail to connect with GOD throughout our lives. |
| 771. |
The mind of devotees does not stay in worldly objects, they perceive GOD even in those objects. A saint used to do the work of selling vegetables and used to say that everything is Shree Vitthal. If anyone asked the name of any vegetable, he would only say Shree Vitthal because he did not see vegetables, but only GOD Shree Vitthalji. |
| 772. |
The Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) did not ask GOD for the right to serve His Divine Lotus Feet, but rather for the right to serve the dust clinging to His Divine Lotus Feet. |
| 773. |
The Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) ask GOD as to who has ever managed to escape being influenced by GOD after getting introduced to Him. |
| 774. |
There have been so many devotees in the world whose very world was made to be left behind by the devotion of GOD, and it brought them to the Divine Lotus Feet of GOD. |
| 775. |
Saints say that upon attaining supreme devotion in life, there remains no need to fulfill one's worldly duties because GOD Himself fulfills them automatically. |
| 776. |
The attraction of GOD is so great that all other attractions of the world become pale before GOD and cannot sustain themselves. |
| 777. |
It is an eternal principle that no relationship of any soul with any other soul can be above their relationship with GOD. |
| 778. |
The Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) ask GOD which devotee, after becoming acquainted with Him, has not left their world or family and has not been attracted toward GOD by forgetting everything due to love. |
| 779. |
Leaving their elderly mother, renouncing their wife and forgetting their duty, devotees abandon everything for GOD. This madness occurs because of love for GOD. It is our misfortune that we cannot even imagine this madness of love for GOD. |
| 780. |
The love, beauty and attraction of GOD are so great that because of them, devotees renounce their worldly duties and walk the path of GOD, through this kind of love for GOD, they become immortal name in devotion. |
| 781. |
GOD alone is the protector of all beings in the universe. |
| 782. |
As much as could be said through speech, the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) said to GOD, then their restlessness took the form of tears. Seeing the restlessness of the Gopis, GOD became convinced that their love for GOD is supreme, therefore, the feeling of mercy was awakened in GOD's conscience and their union with GOD took place. |
| 783. |
Devotees do not need to pay the debts of Demigods, sages, ancestors (Pitrus) and society. For a devotee whose life has only one goal of GOD-realization, no debt remains upon them. |
| 784. |
Undertaking devotion of GOD in life is the highest goal of life. |
| 785. |
One who sets out in life to attain GOD no longer cares for anyone or anything else. |
| 786. |
If we take shelter of GOD in our life, then all our bonds become discardable and all bonds come to an end. |
| 787. |
Just as a child plays with himself by looking in a mirror, similarly, during the Shri Raas, the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) became absorbed in the Self (Atmaram). GOD Shri Shukadevji said to King Shri Parikshitji that, "Look, look, GOD Himself is dancing with GOD." |
| 788. |
If we are fortunate and are able to undertake devotion of GOD, we should never think that those who do not practice devotion are unfortunate, because this awakens our pride or ego. When this happens, GOD disappears from our lives. Union with GOD is possible only when such pride is absent. |
| 789. |
An excellent seeker is one who continuously observes their mental tendencies (vrittis). They should examine what has entered their mind and why. At the rise of even a single wrong tendency, one should become cautious. |
| 790. |
The moment the feeling of "how superior we are" arises, our downfall begins on the path of devotion. |
| 791. |
One who considers others inferior and themselves superior is not dear to GOD. Such a soul faces separation from GOD. |
| 792. |
When the Gopis (loving devotees of GOD) felt that they were superior during the Shri Raas, they were separated from GOD. When they realized their mistake and felt true repentance, they were reunited with GOD again. |
| 793. |
The soul whose style of speaking is filled with sweetness and whose heart's feelings are pure is dear to GOD. |
| 794. |
As soon as a soul's focus is fixed on GOD and they become absorbed in Him, it should be understood that the dawn of their good fortune has occurred. |
| 795. |
As soon as ego enters us, GOD goes far away from us. Therefore, saints say that when "I" (ego) enters life, GOD leaves. |
| 796. |
The highest state of devotion is that where nothing remains to be said before GOD, because everything is expressed through our feelings. |
| 797. |
When our ego (the "I") is removed and only GOD remains in our life, we reach the state of intense meditation (Samadhi). |
| 798. |
As soon as our focus shifts from GOD toward ourselves, GOD leaves our life. |
| 799. |
Sitting before GOD, one should never think about themselves. Sitting before GOD, one should always think only about GOD and contemplate only GOD. |
| 800. |
It is an eternal principle that the more we forget ourselves, the more we will continue to merge into GOD. |
