Every path expects certain abilities or qualities from its practitioners. For example, athletes need to be physically fit and agile; students need to be intellectually sharp and steady. Similarly, spiritual paths expect practitioners to be pure because impurities obstruct and obscure the soul’s spiritual potential.

Unfortunately, even when we seek to grow spiritually, our inner impurities sometimes impel us to regrettable actions. In many paths, such falls become disqualifications. Thankfully however, we are never disqualified from bhakti-yoga, no matter how unqualified we may become. The Bhagavad-gita assures that those who stay fixed in their devotional intention, even if they succumb to wrongdoings, are still well-situated  (09.30) and will eventually become restored to purity and spirituality (09.31). 

What differentiates bhakti-yoga from other paths? Some religious paths seek to remove impurities by self-denial and some seek to replace impure impressions with pure impressions. But bhakti-yoga does something more: it invokes the presence of the omnipotent divine, Krishna. Isn’t he always present within and without? Yes, but he is largely unperceivable to us. Bhakti-yoga makes his presence perceivable, giving us glimpses of his sublime glory, beauty and love. Once we relish those glimpses, we can never be satisfied with anything else, even if we are temporarily diverted by our impurities (Srimad-Bhagavatam 1.5.19).  

Not only is the higher taste provided by bhakti unmatchable, but also Krishna’s love for us is infallible. While he loves everyone (05.29), he especially cares for his devotees (09.29). If we take just a few steps toward him by practicing bhakti-yoga, he becomes extra-vigilant to ensure that we never get spiritually lost again. He uses his omnipotent resourcefulness to rectify and purify us, thus drawing us toward eternal love for him.

One-sentence summary: 

Bhakti-yoga protects and restores us from impurities by giving us the unmatchable taste of perceiving Krishna’s beauty and by attracting his infallible grace. 

Think it over: 

  • What is expected from spiritual practitioners? Why?
  • In dealing with impurities, how does bhakti-yoga differ from other paths?
  • How does bhakti-yoga attract Krishna’s grace? 

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09.30: Even if one commits the most abominable action, if he is engaged in devotional service he is to be considered saintly because he is properly situated in his determination. 

 

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