SIRD Malaysia

Devotion must have its constant bearing upon the mind, whereby all unwelcome and hindering elements are detected and eliminated, and in their place the desirable and expansive notes are incorporated. This inner process itself becomes the true devotional pursuit. This is what the devotees report to Krishna himself:

"One who has offered his heart to the Lord will not aspire for anything else at all – neither the abode of Indra nor the emperor's throne; neither the Brahmaloka nor the lordship of

True devotion itself delights and fulfils one's mind and heart directly and wholesomely. The rewards of true devotion are not after the fall of one's body, nor are they in the other higher regions. Fullness and fulfillment devotion brings are verily here and now. See how Krishna describes the lofty devotee, whose mind has been purified, refined and fully enriched:

"Contented with his devotional fondness for the Lord, rid of all sense of possession about anything and everything, his body and senses sufficiently regulated, mind quiet and evenized, a true devotee will perceive the Lord in all and everywhere. For such a one, all places and directions are permeated with joy." [Sreemad Bhaagavatam 11.14.13]

Normally you hear about the devotees wishing to follow the Lord. Bhaagavatam proclaims that the power and greatness of true devotion are such that they draw the Lord irresistibly to follow the devotee wherever he goes. Sri Krishna, the Lord, announces:

I always closely follow one who has no expectation whatever, who is given to contemplation, who is calm and has none as enemy, so that the dust of his feet may purify Me. [Sreemad Bhaagavatam 11.14.16]

How bold, confident and invaluable is the pronouncement of Krishna! This is the great fruition and fulfillment of devotion! This is why Sreemad Bhaagavatam is said to be a Paaramahamsya Samhita. Only Paramahamsas, the truly enlightened ones can speak in such a note of striking clarity.

Is devotion then a practice, courting external aids and assistance? Or is it something far greater and deeper, resting beautifully upon the human mind and heart? Where should be the right focus?

Sreemad Bhaagavatam describes devotion and devotees in the same light of sublimity and supremeness as it extols God and His Grandeur. Once you have cultivated devotion to the Lord, your next emphasis should be to ensure that you grow as a devotee, with excellent qualities and refinement. A true devotee will be a model human, from all angles.

[An extract from talk given by Poojya Swamiji at Ramakrishna Mission, New Delhi on 16th November 2007.]