When we succumb to a temptation, we may resolve, “Never again will I fall for that temptation.”

While such a resolve is well-intentioned, it is not the most helpful, being like the resolve of warriors wounded by a sword: “Never again will I fall to a sword.” Such a resolve is difficult to stick to – what if the enemy ambushes with a sword? And, more importantly, that resolve doesn’t guarantee safety – even if the warriors vigilantly watch out for a sword, still they may be felled by some other weapon.

Similarly, when we resolve not to fall for a particular temptation, we can’t guarantee that it will never be able to ambush us. More importantly, even if we could ensure that, we might still fall for some other temptation. Therefore, we can protect ourselves much better by focusing on what we will stand for instead of what we will not fall for. We can contemplate, based on scripture, how wonderful our Lord is and how sweet pure devotion to him is. Such contemplation will inspire us to fight alertly against any temptation.

Further, devotional absorption will give us inner satisfaction, thereby making us less vulnerable to temptation. And if we somehow fall for temptation and become disheartened, remembering Krishna’s merciful nature will boost our morale, inspiring us to rise and fight again. Phrased in terms of the war metaphor, absorption in Krishna is the best protection from wounds and the best treatment for healing from wounds.

Pertinently, the Bhagavad-gita (02.60) warns that the senses can fell even the discerning. And the next verse (02.61) underscores what they need to do for becoming successful: focus on Krishna.

Thus, by striving steadily to stand for Krishna, we can slowly but surely rise to a level of purity beyond temptation.

To know more about this verse, please click on the image

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