T Ram Sewak

BHAROSA

Finally, Shri Ram illuminates the ninth form of bhakti to Sabari in Shri Ramcharitmanas (3.36);

"navam saral sab san chhal heena, mama bharos hiyan harsh na deena".

"Ninth form is to be simple-minded and guileless with all and complete reliance on Me without exultation or depression".

This form of bhakti is both its pinnacle and its epitome. Shri Ram's final dictum is that bhakti is just simple, uncomplicated behaviour with all, free from deceit and insincerity. HE repeatedly asserts that bhakti's anchor is simplicity, devoid of complex rituals or esotericism. HE proclaims that bhakti requires nothing, just an earnest demeanour without cunningness or craft. Shri Krishna also identifies this as a divine attribute, 'Arjavam' in Gita (16.1).

Most of the problems in life arise when we introduce complexity in our behaviour and relationships. This leads to expectations. Non-fulfilment of these leads to anger, and then arrogance and ego take over. The key to joyful living is contentment and simplicity in everything.

The second part of this verse reflects Gita(18.66), where Shri Krishna says that abandoning all dharma, Arjun should take refuge in HIM. This is the core of bhakti: complete surrender and reliance on HIM transcending the polarities of excitement and sadness.

These elements are all interconnected. When we have convolution and trickery in behaviour, we are caught in the trap of 'me and mine' and don't have the attitude of complete surrender and trust in HIM. Until we are guileless, simplicity will not come into our behaviour.

Further, we will remain mired in the swings of joy and despair until we perceive every sukh, dukh, and good fortune or adversity as HIS prasad. We shall rise above these dualities and develop equipoise and equanimity only when we change our attitude. Thus, we must start by annihilating any guile, developing straightforward behaviour towards all and cultivating an attitude of complete surrender and reliance on HIM. Only this would lead us to HIM. / DAILY WORLD /

Namami Ramam Musings-31

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