T Ram Sewak

KRIPA - BHAAV

How is Bhakti attained? Kakabhushundiji answers this question in Shri Ramcharitmanas 7.120. He states:

So ahai, Ram lahai

Bhaav prani, Paav khani

"Though this jewel of devotion (Bhakti) is manifest everywhere, no one can attain it without the grace (Kripa) of Shri Ram. Moreover, only those who seek it with loving devotion (Bhaav) can attain this jewel of Bhakti, the treasure house of all happiness."

Kakabhushundiji highlights two elements: HIS Kripa and the seeker's Bhaav. But which comes first? In Shri Ramcharitmanas, Tulsidasji clarifies that one embarks on the Bhakti Marg only when bestowed with HIS immense grace.

Kakabhushundiji elucidates that Bhakti is everywherein scriptures, temples, among bhakts, and in every heart. However, it cannot be attained through a complex kriya or sharp intellect; the decisive factor is Shri Ram's grace. Divine compassion is the keya clear reflection of Shri Krishna's declaration in Gita 7.21.

Bhakti is not an 'earning' proportionate to the effort put in. It is received as 'prasad' after a state of longing and love for the Aaradhya that leads to the dissolution of the ego and complete surrender. It emerges from the disappearance of 'I' when 'You' are no longer present; only HE is. Shri Krishna asserts this in Gita 18.66 when HE instructs Arjun to abandon all Dharmas (of the body, mind, intellect, i.e., desire, anger, greed, attachment, and ego) and take refuge in HIM.

Bhakti is an effortless effort. It is not about doing but about being. The effort required of a Bhakt is simply Bhaavsincere love and pure emotional intent, a sacred sentiment emanating from a pure heart filled with a deep longing for HIM.

Bhakti is the infinite love for the Infinite. It is not mathematical; it does not rely on the logic of a certain input, leading to a predictable outcome. Bhakti is received through Kripa and Bhaav and not acquired through Kriya and Buddhi!/ DAILY WORLD /

The author is a former electrical Engineer and resides in the Himalayas. He can be occasionally reached at ramam.namami@gmail.com