Asserted Topics:
To prioritize devotion over virtues that obstruct it.
Key Points:
- Do what pleases Bhagwan and His devotees; avoid what displeases them.
- Accept the words of instruction with humility.
Explanation:
In this Vachanamrut, Shreeji Maharaj kindly advises devotees that a devotee of Bhagwan should never do anything that displeases Bhagwan or His devotees. Instead, one should do what pleases them and not prioritize anything that obstructs devotion. Such obstacles should either be abandoned or regarded as secondary. What aids devotion should be considered primary and embraced. Maharaj states that if one has close relationships that hinder worshipping Bhagwan, those relationships should be renounced. This is the approach and opinion of true devotees from the past.
It is said that when Mirabai faced obstacles from her in-laws in her devotion, she sought the advice of the contemporary devotee, Shrinath Narsinh Mehta. In response, Mehta composed a beautiful devotional hymn, which conveyed:
- Prahlad renounced his own father, who opposed Bhagwan.
- Bharat abandoned his mother, who distanced him from Bhagwan.
- The Gopis forsook their husbands, who tried to prevent them from surrendering to Bhagwan.
- Bali Raja gave up his guru, who hindered his dedication to Bhagwan.
- King Anga renounced his atheist son, Vena, who was opposed to Bhagwan.
- Vibhishan abandoned his own brother, who was equal in stature to him, but opposed Bhagwan.
This is the way of true devotees and should be followed. These devotees were not deeply versed in scriptures, but based on their actions, Mirabai received such guidance.
Similarly, in this Vachanamrut, Maharaj conveys that even if one has close relations, they should be renounced if they obstruct devotion. Maharaj takes it even further by stating that if there is a negative trait within oneself that displeases Bhagwan, it should be discarded like an enemy. However, one should never side with someone who has turned away from Bhagwan.