2026-03-22 15:51:05 by ambuda-bot
This page has not been fully proofread.
INTRODUCTION
3
Now you have taken up the problem of devotion. Its
full explanation will be given by you in your Srimad
Bhagavatam. I shall explain Bhakti in the form of
Sutras." So saying Narada delivered a discourse on
devotion in 84 aphorisms.
The collection of these Sutras forms a short
treatise, known as Narada-Bhakti Sutras. (Vide
Srimad Bhagavata I-4 and 5).
DEVOTION
The path of Bhakti consists of a gradation of
steps. The desire for release from the evil of morta-
lity and the sufferings is its starting point. Para
Bhakti or Higher devotion is its goal. It is Para
Bhakti that leads to Mukti.
Subsidiary to Para Bhakti, Ekanta-bhava, whole
hearted devotion, there are various forms of devotional
states, 81 in number.
Illiterates, females, outcastes-are all equally
competent to follow the path of devotion. Desire for
release or Mumukshutwa is the minimum qualifica-
tion.
An objector says, God is far above the power of
comprehension of man. How, then, can one cultivate
devotion to Him?
Live in the company of saints. Hear the Lilas
of God. Study the sacred scriptures. Worship Him
first in His several forms as manifested in the world.
Worship any image or picture of the Lord or Guru.
Recite His name. Sing His glories. You will develop
devotion.
3
Now you have taken up the problem of devotion. Its
full explanation will be given by you in your Srimad
Bhagavatam. I shall explain Bhakti in the form of
Sutras." So saying Narada delivered a discourse on
devotion in 84 aphorisms.
The collection of these Sutras forms a short
treatise, known as Narada-Bhakti Sutras. (Vide
Srimad Bhagavata I-4 and 5).
DEVOTION
The path of Bhakti consists of a gradation of
steps. The desire for release from the evil of morta-
lity and the sufferings is its starting point. Para
Bhakti or Higher devotion is its goal. It is Para
Bhakti that leads to Mukti.
Subsidiary to Para Bhakti, Ekanta-bhava, whole
hearted devotion, there are various forms of devotional
states, 81 in number.
Illiterates, females, outcastes-are all equally
competent to follow the path of devotion. Desire for
release or Mumukshutwa is the minimum qualifica-
tion.
An objector says, God is far above the power of
comprehension of man. How, then, can one cultivate
devotion to Him?
Live in the company of saints. Hear the Lilas
of God. Study the sacred scriptures. Worship Him
first in His several forms as manifested in the world.
Worship any image or picture of the Lord or Guru.
Recite His name. Sing His glories. You will develop
devotion.