SRIMAD BAHGAVATAM Meditation Canto 1 Anandamayi Dasi

 MEDITATION

“SRIMAD-BHAGAVATAM Meditation 9”

27.10.2018

In this section the glorious 'Exemplary' departure of Bhismadeva is described.

CANTO 1.9

Maharaja Yudhisthira, went to the scene of the massacre on the Battlefield of Kuruksetra,. His brothers followed him with Vyasa and rsis and many others. Lord Sri Krsna, the Personality of Godhead, also followed, seated on a chariot with Arjuna. There, Bhismadeva was lying on a bed of arrows, about to pass away. They bowed down before him.

Lord Sri Krsna is situated in everyone's heart, yet He manifests His transcendental form by His internal potency. This very Lord was sitting before Bhismadeva, and since Bhismadeva knew of His glories, he worshiped Him duly.

The sons of Maharaja Pandu were sitting silently nearby, overtaken with affection. There were tears of ecstasy in his eyes, for he was overwhelmed by love, and he said: Oh, what terrible sufferings and what terrible injustices you good souls suffer, although did not deserve, yet you were protected by the brahmanas, God and religion. In my opinion, this is all due to inevitable time, under whose control everyone in every planet is carried, just as the clouds are carried by the wind, no one can know the plan of the Lord [Sri Krsna].

O best among the descendants of Bharata [Yudhisthira], you are now the appointed administrative head, and, my lord, you should now take care of those subjects who are now rendered helpless.

This Sri Krsna is no other than the inconceivable, original Personality of Godhead. He is the first Narayana, the supreme enjoyer. But He is moving amongst the descendants of King Vrsni just like one of us and He is bewildering us with His self-created energy. Lord Siva, Narada the sage amongst the demigods, and Kapila, the incarnation of Godhead, all know very confidentially about His glories through direct contact.

O King, that personality whom, out of ignorance only, you thought to be your maternal cousin, your very dear friend, well-wisher, counselor, messenger, benefactor, etc., is that very Personality of Godhead, Sri Krsna. Being the Absolute Personality of Godhead, He is present in everyone's heart. He is equally kind to everyone, and He is ('kaivalya') free from the false ego of differentiation . Therefore whatever He does is free from material inebriety. He is equibalanced. Yet, despite His being equally kind to everyone, He has graciously come before me while I am ending my life, for I am His unflinching servitor. The Personality of Godhead, who appears in the mind of the devotee ('yogi-devotee') by attentive devotion and meditation ('samadhi') and by chanting of the holy name, releases the devotee from the bondage of fruitive activities at the time of his quitting the material body.

May my Lord (of Vaikuntha), who is four-handed (Narayana) and whose beautifully decorated lotus face, with eyes as red as the rising sun, is smiling, kindly await me at that moment when I quit this material body.

 

Maharaja Yudhisthira, after hearing (glorious, experienced, perfect Mahajana) Bhismadeva speak in that appealing tone, asked him, in the presence of all the great rsis, about the essential principles of various RELIGIOUS DUTIES.

Bhismadeva first defined all the classifications of castes and orders of life in terms of the individual's qualifications (given by God to accelerate transcendental qualities of the individual person). Then he systematically, in twofold divisions, described counteraction by detachment and interaction by attachment.

He then explained, by divisions, acts of charity, the pragmatic activities of a king ('Raja-dharma') and activities for salvation. Then he described the duties of women and devotees, both briefly and extensive. Then he described the occupational duties of different orders and statuses of life, citing instances from history, for he was himself well acquainted with the truth.

 

While Bhismadeva was describing occupational duties, the sun's course ran into the northern hemisphere. This period is 'Desired by Mystics who Die at Their (“sweet”) Will'.

Thereupon he stopped speaking and, being completely freed from all bondage, withdrew his mind from everything else and fixed his wide-open eyes upon the original Personality of Godhead, Sri Krsna, who stood before him, four-handed, dressed in yellow garments that glittered and shined ('The subject matter which attracts the dying man becomes the beginning of his next life'). By pure meditation, looking at Lord Sri Krsna, he at once was freed from all material inauspiciousness and was relieved of all bodily (illusion) pains caused by the arrow wounds. Thus all the external activities of his senses at once stopped, and he prayed transcendentally to the controller of all living beings while quitting his material body.

 

The great general Bhismadeva said: Let me now invest my thinking, feeling and willing, which were so long engaged in different subjects and occupational duties, in the all-powerful Lord Sri Krsna ('vibhu'). He is always self-satisfied, but sometimes, being the leader of the devotees, He enjoys transcendental pleasure by descending on the material world. He is the intimate friend of Arjuna. He has appeared on this earth in His transcendental body, which resembles the bluish color of the tamala tree. His body attracts everyone in the three planetary systems [upper, middle and lower]. May His glittering yellow dress and His lotus face, covered with paintings of sandalwood pulp, be the object of my attraction, and may I not desire fruitive results.

 

On the battlefield [where Sri Krsna attended Arjuna out of friendship], the flowing hair of Lord Krsna turned ashen due to the dust raised by the hoofs of the horses. And because of His labor, beads of sweat wetted His face. All these decorations, intensified by the wounds dealt by my sharp arrows, were enjoyed by Him. Let my mind thus go unto Sri Krsna. Lord Sri Krsna entered the arena of the Battlefield of Kuruksetra between the soldiers of Arjuna and Duryodhana. The Lord eradicated Arjuna's ignorance by delivering transcendental knowledge. Fulfilling my desire and sacrificing His own promise, He got down from the chariot, took up its wheel, and ran towards me (playing the part of being His enemy, to please Him) hurriedly, just as a lion goes to kill an elephant. May He, Lord Sri Krsna, the Personality of Godhead, who awards salvation, be my ultimate destination. At the moment of death, let my ultimate attraction be to Sri Krsna, the Personality of Godhead. I concentrate my mind upon the chariot driver of Arjuna. Those who saw Him on the Battlefield of Kuruksetra attained their original forms after death.

Let my mind be fixed upon Lord Sri Krsna, whose motions and smiles of love attracted the damsels of Vrajadhama [the gopis].

 

Thus Bhismadeva merged himself in the Supersoul , Lord Sri Krsna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, with his mind, speech, sight and actions, and thus he became silent ('nirvikalpa-samadhi'), and his breathing stopped.

Knowing that Bhéñmadeva had merged into the unlimited eternity of the Supreme Absolute, all present there became silent like birds at the end of the day.

Thereafter, both men and demigods sounded drums in honor, and the honest royal order commenced demonstrations of honor and respect. And from the sky fell showers of flowers.

All the great sages then glorified Lord Sri Krsna, who was present there, by confidential Vedic hymns.

 

After this, the great religious King, Maharaja Yudhisthira, executed the royal power in the kingdom strictly according to the codes and royal principles approved by his uncle and confirmed by Lord Sri Krsna.

 

“SRIMAD-BHAGAVATAM Meditation 8”

19.10.2018


In this Meditation Lord Krsna protects His devotees and Kunti Devi (His aunt) offers Him deeply conscious prayers.

CANTO 1.8

The Pandavas went to the Ganges. Lord Krsna was also there. Lord Sri Krsna and the munis began to pacify those who were shocked and affected (because of the killing of the sons of Draupadi).

Lord Krsna caused three well-performed Asvamedha-yajnas [horse sacrifices] to be conducted by Maharaja Yudhisthira and thus caused his virtuous fame to be glorified in all directions. Then Krsna prepared for His departure, after having been worshiped by the brahmanas, headed by Srila Vyasadeva. The Lord also reciprocated greetings.

As soon as He seated Himself on the chariot to start for Dvaraka, He saw Uttara (Abhimanyu's widow) hurrying toward Him in fear. Uttara said: O Lord of lords, Lord of the universe! You are the greatest of mystics. Please protect me.

Lord Sri Krsna, who is always very affectionate to His devotees, could at once understand that Asvatthama, the son of Dronacarya, had thrown the brahmastra to finish the last life in the Pandava family (Uttara's embryo, Pariksit Maharaja).

The almighty Personality of Godhead, Sri Krsna, having observed that a great danger was befalling His unalloyed devotees, who were fully surrendered souls, at once took up His Sudarsana disc to 'Protect' them. He covered the embryo of Uttara by His 'Personal Energy'. Thus saved from the radiation of the brahmastra, Kunti, the chaste devotee of the Lord, and her five sons and Draupadi addressed Lord Krsna as He started for home.

Srimati Kunti said: O Krsna, I offer my 'Obeisances unto You' because You are the 'ORIGINAL PERSONALITY' ('purusam adyam') and are unaffected by the qualities of the material world. You are existing both within and without everything, yet You are 'Invisible' to all.

Being 'BAYOND' the range of limited sense perception ('Adhoksaja'), You are the 'Eternally IRREPROACHABLE' factor 'Covered by the CURTAIN of Deluding Energy' (Maya). You are 'Invisible' to the ('mudha', 'asuras') foolish observer, exactly as an actor (artist, 'Nata') dressed as a 'PLAYER' is not recognized.

You Yourself descend to 'Propagate the Transcendental Science of Devotional Service' unto the hearts of the advanced transcendentalists ('Paramahamsas') and mental speculators ('munis'), who are purified by being able to discriminate between matter and spirit. How, then, can we women know You perfectly?

Let me therefore offer my respectful obeisances unto the Lord ('Govinda'), who has become the son of Vasudeva, the pleasure of Devaki, the boy of Nanda and the other cowherd men of Vrndavana, and the enlivener of the (brahmanas,) cows and the senses.

My respectful obeisances are unto You, O Lord, whose Abdomen is marked with a 'Depression like a Lotus Flower', who are always Decorated with 'Garlands of Lotus Flowers', whose Glance is as 'Cool as the Lotus' and whose Feet are 'Engraved with Lotuses'.

O Hrsikesa – master of the senses and Lord of lords, You have released Your mother, Devaki, who was long imprisoned and distressed by the envious King Kamsa, and me and my children from a series of constant dangers.

My dear Krsna, Your Lordship has protected us from (enemies, Duryodhana,) a poisoned cake, from a great fire, from cannibals, from the vicious assembly, from sufferings during our exile in the forest and from the battle where great generals fought. And now You have saved us from the weapon of Asvatthama.

I wish that all those calamities would happen again and again so that we could see You ('Jagat-guru', Lord of the Universe) again and again, for ('darsan') seeing You (take Shelter of Your lotus feet – 'as boat') means that we will no longer see repeated births and deaths.

My Lord, Your Lordship can easily be approached, but only by those who are materially exhausted. One who is on the path of [material, 'anartha' (puffed up)] progress, trying to improve himself with (1) respectable Parentage, (2) great Opulence, (3) high Education and (4) bodily Beauty, cannot approach You with sincere feeling.

My obeisances are unto You, who are the property of the materially impoverished ('mahatmas', 'atmaramas'). You have nothing to do with the actions and reactions of the material modes of nature ('nivrtta-guna-vrtti'). You are self-satisfied, and therefore You are the most gentle ('santa') and are master of the monists ('kaivalyas').

My Lord, I consider Your Lordship to be 'Eternal Time', the 'Supreme Controller' ('Isvara'), 'Without Beginning and End' ('anadi', Brahman), the 'All-Pervasive' one (Paramatma: 'Kala'). In distributing Your mercy, You are 'Equal' to everyone. The dissensions between living beings are due to social intercourse.

O Lord, no one can understand Your transcendental pastimes, which appear to be human and are so misleading. You have no specific object of 'Favor', nor do You have any object of 'Envy'. People only imagine that You are partial.

Of course it is 'Bewildering', O soul of the universe, that 'You Work', though 'You are Inactive', and that 'You Take Birth', though 'You are the Vital Force and the Unborn'. You Yourself 'Descend' amongst Animals, Men, Sages and Aquatics. Verily, this is bewildering...

My dear Krsna, Yasoda took up a rope to bind You when You committed an offense, and Your perturbed eyes overflooded with tears, which washed the mascara from Your eyes. And You were afraid, though fear personified is afraid of You. This sight is bewildering to me.

O Krsna, those who continuously hear, chant and repeat Your transcendental activities, or take pleasure in others' doing so, certainly 'SEE' Your Lotus Feet, which alone can stop the repetition of birth and death.

O my Lord, You have executed all duties Yourself. Are you leaving us today, though we are 'Completely Dependent' on Your mercy and have no one else to protect us, now when all kings are at enmity with us?

As the name and fame of a particular body is finished with the disappearance of the living spirit, similarly if You do not 'LOOK' upon us, all our fame and activities, along with the Pandavas and Yadus, will end at once.

Our kingdom is now being marked by the impressions of Your feet, and therefore it appears beautiful. But when You leave, it will no longer be so.

All these cities and villages are flourishing in all respects because the herbs and grains are in abundance, the trees are full of fruits, the rivers are flowing, the hills are full of minerals and the oceans full of wealth. And this is all due to Your glancing over them.

O Lord of the universe, soul of the universe, O Personality of the Form of the Universe, please, therefore, 'SEVER MY TIE OF AFFECTION' ('sneha-pasam') for my kinsmen, the Pandavas and the Vrsnis.

O Lord of Madhu,... 'As the Ganges Forever Flows to the Sea Without Hindrance, 'LET MY ATTRACTION BE CONSTANTLY DRAWN UNTO YOU WITHOUT BEING DIVERTED TO ANYONE ELSE'...

You are the destroyer of those political parties which are 'Disturbing Elements' on this earth. Your 'Prowess' never deteriorates. You are the 'Proprietor of the Transcendental Abode', and You descend to 'Relieve the Distresses' of the cows, the brahmanas and the devotees. You 'Possess All mystic Powers', and You are the 'Preceptor of the Entire Universe'. You are the 'Almighty God', and I offer You my respectful obeisances...

 

Suta Gosvami said: The Lord, thus hearing the prayers of Kuntidevi, composed in choice words for His glorification, mildly smiled. That smile was as enchanting as His mystic power...

 

“SRIMAD-BHAGAVATAM Meditation 7”

12.10.2018

Before commenting Srimad-Bhagavatam Sri Vyasadeva realized the 'Whole Truth' by Trance in Devotional Service.

CANTO 1.7

On the western bank of the River Sarasvat, which is intimately related with the Vedas, there is a cottage for meditation at Samyaprasa which enlivens the transcendental activities of the Sages. In that place, SrIla Vyasadeva, in his own asrama sat down to meditate after touching water for purification. Thus he fixed his mind (in trance 'atmarama'), perfectly engaging it by linking it in devotional service [bhakti-yoga – internal energy] without any tinge of materialism, and thus he saw the Absolute Personality of Godhead (unveiled 'Vasudevah sarvam iti') along with His external Energy, which was under full control.

 

Vyasadeva compailed Srimad Bhagavatam (natural comment on his Brahma or Vedanta-sutras) and taught it to Sukadeva Gosvami, his son, who although already on the path of self-realization, took the trouble to undergo the study of such a vast literature.

'Atmaramas ca munayo nirgrantha apy urukrame kurvanty ahaitukim bhaktim ittham-bhuta-guno harih'..., All different varieties of 'Atmaramas' [those who take pleasure in atma, or spirit self], especially those 'Established' on the path of self-realization, though 'Freed' from all kinds of material bondage, desire to render 'UNALLOYED' Devotional Service unto the Personality of Godhead. This means that the Lord possesses 'Transcendental Qualities' and therefore can 'ATTRACT' Everyone, including Liberated Souls.

 

Suta Gosvami thus addressed the rsis headed by Saunaka: Now I shall begin the transcendental narration of the Lord SrI Krsna...

 

When the respective warriors of both camps, namely the Kauravas and the Pandavas, were killed on the Battlefield of Kuruksetra, the son of Dronacarya [Asvatthama] beheaded the five sleeping sons of Draupadi and delivered them as a prize to his master, foolishly thinking that he would be pleased. Duryodhana, however, disapproved of the heinous act, and he was not pleased in the least.

Draupadi, the mother of the five children of the Pandavas, after hearing of the massacre of her sons, began to cry in distress. Trying to pacify her in her great loss, Arjuna spoke to her thus: O gentle lady, when I present you with the head of that brahmana, I shall then wipe the tears from your eyes and pacify you. Then, after burning your sons' bodies, you can take your bath standing on his head.

… Asvatthama, the murderer of the princes, seeing from a great distance Arjuna coming at him with great speed, fled in his chariot, panic stricken. Asvatthama considered that there was no alternative for protection outside of his using the ultimate weapon, the brahmastra [nuclear weapon]. Since his life was in danger, he touched water in sanctity and concentrated upon the chanting of the hymns for throwing nuclear weapons, although he did not know how to withdraw such weapons. Thereupon a glaring light spread in all directions. It was so fierce that Arjuna thought his own life in danger, and so he began to address Lord Sri Krsna.

Arjuna said: O my Lord Sri Krsna, You are the almighty Personality of Godhead. There is no limit to Your different energies. Therefore only You are competent to instill fearlessness in the hearts of Your devotees. Everyone in the flames of material miseries can find the path of liberation in You only. You are the original Personality of Godhead who expands Himself all over the creations and is transcendental to material energy. You have cast away the effects of the material energy by dint of Your spiritual potency. You are always situated in 'Eternal' 'Bliss' and 'Transcendental Knowledge'. And yet, though You are beyond the purview of the material energy, You execute the four principles of Liberation characterized by religion and so on for the ultimate good of the conditioned souls. Thus You descend as an Incarnation to remove the burden of the world and to benefit Your friends, especially those who are 'Your Exclusive Devotees' and are 'Rapt in Meditation upon You'.

O Lord of lords, how is it that this dangerous effulgence is spreading all around? Where does it come from? I do not understand it.

The Supreme Personality of Godhead said: Know from Me that this is the act of the son of Drona. He has thrown the hymns of nuclear energy [brahmastra]. Only another brahmastra can counteract this weapon. Since you are expert in the military science, subdue this weapon's glare with the power of your own weapon.

Arjuna touched water for purification, and after circumambulating Lord Sri Krsna, he cast his brahmastra weapon to counteract the other one.

When the rays of the two brahmastras combined, a great circle of fire, like the disc of the sun, covered all outer space and the whole firmament of planets. All the population of the three worlds was scorched by the combined heat of the weapons.

Thus seeing the disturbance of the general populace and the imminent destruction of the planets, Arjuna at once retracted both brahmastra weapons, as Lord Sri Krsna desired.

Arjuna, his eyes blazing in anger like two red balls of copper, dexterously arrested the son of Gautami and bound him with ropes like an animal.

Lord Sri Krsna said: O Arjuna, you should not show mercy by releasing this relative of a brahmana [brahma-bandhu], for he has killed innocent boys in their sleep.

A person who knows the principles of religion does not kill an enemy who is careless, intoxicated, insane, asleep, afraid or devoid of his chariot. Nor does he kill a boy, a woman, a foolish creature or a surrendered soul. A cruel and wretched person who maintains his existence at the cost of others' lives deserves to be killed for his own well-being, otherwise he will go down by his own actions. Furthermore, I have personally heard you promise Draupadi that you would bring forth the head of the killer of her sons. Kill him immediately.

Although Krsna, who was examining Arjuna in religion, encouraged Arjuna to kill the son of Dronacarya, Arjuna, a great soul, did not like the idea of killing him.

After reaching his own camp, Arjuna, along with his dear friend and charioteer [Sri Krsna], entrusted the murderer unto his dear wife. Draupadi then saw Asvatthama, who was bound with ropes like an animal and silent for having enacted the most inglorious murder. Due to her female nature, and due to her being naturally good and well-behaved, she showed him due respects as a brahmana. she said: Release him, for he is a brahmana, our spiritual master. It was by Dronacarya's mercy that you learned the military art of throwing arrows and the confidential art of controlling weapons. He is certainly still existing, being represented by his son. O one who knows the principles of religion, it is not good for you to cause grief to glorious family members who are always respectable and worshipful. If the kingly administrative order, being unrestricted in sense control, offends the brahmana order and enrages them, then the fire of that rage burns up the whole body of the royal family and brings grief upon all.

King Yudhisthira fully supported the statements of the Queen, which were in accordance with the principles of religion and were justified, glorious, full of mercy and equity, and without duplicity. Nakula and Sahadeva and others all unanimously agreed with the King.

Bhima, however, disagreed with them and recommended killing this culprit who, in an angry mood, had murdered sleeping children.

Caturbhuja [the four-armed one], or the Personality of Godhead, after hearing the words of Bhima, Draupadi and others, saw the face of His dear friend Arjuna, and He began to speak as if smiling: A friend of a brahmana is not to be killed, but if he is an aggressor he must be killed. All these rulings are in the scriptures, and you should act accordingly. You have to fulfill your promise to your wife, and you must also act to the satisfaction of Bhimasena and Me.

Just then Arjuna could understand the motive of the Lord by His equivocal orders, and thus with his sword he severed both hair and jewel from the head of Asvatthama.

He [Asvatthama] had already lost his bodily luster due to infanticide, and now, moreover, having lost the jewel from his head, he lost even more strength. Thus he was unbound and driven out of the camp. Cutting the hair from his head, depriving him of his wealth and driving him from his residence are the prescribed punishments for the relative of a brahmana. There is no injunction for killing the body.

Thereafter, the sons of Pandu and Draupadi, overwhelmed with grief, performed the proper rituals for the dead bodies of their relatives...

 

 

“SRIMAD BHAGAVATAM Meditation 11/6”

05.10.2018

Here Naradaji will describe how he was able to have a brief audience with the Lord.

CANTO 1.6

Vyasadeva, the incarnation of God (as a disciple of Narada, inquird from his guru 'sad-dharma-prccha' to make progress) inquired as follows: What did you do after the departure of the great sages who had instructed you in scientific transcendental knowledge before the beginning of your present birth? How did you pass your life after initiation, and how did you attain this (spiritual) body, having quit your old one (as a maidservant's son) in due course?

Sri Narada said: The great sages, who had imparted scientific knowledge of transcendence to me, departed for other places, and I had to pass my life. I was the only son of my mother, who was not only a simple woman. Since I was her only offspring, she had no other alternative for protection: she bound me with the tie of affection. When I was a mere child of five years, I lived in a brahmana school.

Once upon a time, my poor mother, when going out one night to milk a cow, was bitten on the leg by a serpent, influenced by supreme time. I took this as the special mercy of the Lord, who always desires benediction for His devotees, and so thinking, I started for the north.

After my departure , I passed through many flourishing metropolises, towns, villages, hills and mountains, forests which were very difficult to go through alone (the duty of a Parivrajakacaryas-Mendicants-Sannyasis is to travel). Thus traveling, I felt tired, so I took a bath in a river lake. After that, under the shadow of a banyan tree in an uninhabited forest I began to meditate upon the Supersoul situated within, using my Intelligence, as I had learned from liberated souls. As soon as I began to meditate upon the lotus feet of the Personality of Godhead with my mind transformed in transcendental love ('bhava'..., after Sraddha, Sadhu Sanga, Bhajana Kriya, Anartha Nivrtti, Nistha, Ruci, Asakti there is Bhava – prior stage of 'Unalloyed Love/Prema' for God in Separation which leads to Eight different kinds of Ecstasies:), tears rolled down my eyes, and without delay the Personality of Godhead Sri Krsna appeared on the 'Lotus of my Heart'. At that time, being exceedingly overpowered by feelings of happiness ('prema'), every part of my body became separately enlivened. Being absorbed in an ocean of ecstasy, I could not see both myself and the Lord. The transcendental form of the Lord, as it is, satisfies the mind's desire and at once erases all mental incongruities. Upon losing that (Independent) form, I suddenly got up, being perturbed, as is usual when one loses that which is desirable. I desired to see again that transcendental form of the Lord, but despite my attempts to concentrate upon the heart with eagerness to view the form again, 'I Could Not See Him' any more, and thus dissatisfied, I was very much aggrieved.

 

Seeing my attempts in that lonely place, the Personality of Godhead spoke (unseen) to me with gravity and pleasing words, just to mitigate my grief: O Narada I regret that during this lifetime you will not be able to see Me anymore. Those who are 'Incomplete in Service' and who are 'Not completely Free from all Material Taints' can hardly see Me. You have only once seen My person, and this is just to 'Increase your Desire for Me', because the more you 'Hanker for Me', the more you will be freed from all 'Material Desires'. By Service of the Absolute Truth, even for a few days, a devotee attains 'Firm and Fixed Intelligence in Me'. Consequently he goes on to become My associate in the Transcendental World after giving up the present deplorable Material Worlds. Intelligence engaged in My devotion cannot be thwarted at any time. Even at the time of creation, as well as at the time of annihilation, your remembrance will continue by My mercy.

Then that supreme authority, 'Personified by Sound' and 'Unseen by Eyes', but most wonderful, stopped speaking. Feeling a sense of gratitude, I offered my obeisances unto Him, bowing my head.

 

Thus I began chanting the Holy Name and Fame of the Lord by repeated recitation, ignoring all the formalities of the material world. Such chanting and remembering of the transcendental pastimes of the Lord are benedictory. So doing, I traveled all over the earth, 'Fully Satisfied', 'Humble' and 'Unenvious'. In due course of time I, who was 'Fully Absorbed' in thinking of Krsna and who therefore had 'No Attachments', being completely freed from all material taints, met with death. Having been awarded a 'Transcendental Body' befitting an associate of the Personality of Godhead, I quit the body made of five material elements, and thus all acquired fruitive results of work [karma] stopped.

At the end of the millennium, when the Personality of Godhead Lord Narayana lay down within the water of devastation, Brahma began to enter into Him along with all creative elements, and I also entered through His breathing. All the rsis like Marici were created from the transcendental body of the Lord, and I also appeared along with them. Since then, by the grace of the almighty Visnu, I travel everywhere without restriction both in the transcendental world and in the three divisions of the material world. This is because I am 'Fixed in Unbroken Devotional Service' of the Lord.

 

And thus I travel, constantly singing the transcendental message of the glories of the Lord, vibrating this instrument called a vina (identical with Lord Krsna), which is charged with Transcendental Sound and which was given to me by Lord Krsna.

The Supreme Lord Sri Krsna at once appears on the seat of my heart, as if called for, as soon as I begin to chant His 'Holy Activities'.

O Vyasadeva, you are freed from all sins. Thus I have explained my birth and activities for self-realization, as you asked.

Srila Narada Muni took leave of him, and vibrating on his vina instrument, he left to wander at his free will.

All glory and success to Srila Narada Muni because he glorifies the activities of the Personality of Godhead, and so doing he himself takes pleasure and also enlivens all the distressed souls of the universe.

 

 

 

“SRIMAD BHAGAVATAM Meditation 10”

28.09.2018

In this section we will hear a beautiful story about Narada Muni, how he become Krsna conscious, described by him to Vyasadeva.

CANTO 1.4

O Muni, in the last millennium I was born as the son of a certain maidservant engaged in the service of brahmanas who were following the principles of Vedanta (bhakti-vedantas). When they were living together during the four months of the rainy season, I was engaged in their 'Personal Service' (the Lord says that the service of His servants is greater than His personal service). Although they were impartial by nature (in distributing the transcendental knowledge of devotional service), those followers of the Vedanta 'Blessed me' with their causeless mercy (initiated after advancement in 'Discipline'). As far as I was concerned, I was self-controlled and had no attachment for sports, even though I was a boy. In addition, I was not naughty, and I did not speak more than required.

Once only, by their permission, I took the 'REMNANTS' of their food, and by so doing all my sins were at once eradicated. Thus being engaged, I became 'Purified in Heart', and at that time the very nature of the transcendentalist became attractive to me.

O Vyasadeva, in that 'Association' and by the 'Mercy' of those great Vedantists, I could 'Hear' them describe the attractive 'Activities of Lord Krsna' And thus listening attentively, my 'TASTE for HEARING' of the Personality of Godhead increased at every step (by such 'Attentive Hearing' one can contact/associate with the Lord directly). O great sage, as soon as I got a Taste for the Personality of Godhead, my attention to hear of the Lord was 'Unflinching'. And as my Taste developed, I could 'Realize' that it was only in my Ignorance that I had accepted gross and subtle coverings, for both the Lord and I are Transcendental (the gross body should be engaged in 'Arcana' or worshiping the Lord and subtle body, the Mind should be engaged in Nama, Rupa, Guna, Lila, chanting His Glories/Names and Thinking/Meditating about His Form, Qualities and Pastimes).

Thus during two seasons-the rainy season and autumn-I had the opportunity to Hear these great-souled Sages constantly chant the unadulterated Glories of the Lord Hari. As the 'Flow of My Devotional Service' began (dormant in everyone), the coverings of the Modes of Passion and Ignorance vanished (the flow of devotional service cannot stop till it reaches the 'Ultimate Goal', 'Love of God', being Liberated one is situated in his 'Original Position').

I was very much 'Attached' to those Sages. I was 'Gentle in Behavior', and all my sins were eradicated in their service. In my heart I had 'Strong Faith in Them'. I had 'Subjugated the Senses', and I was 'Strictly Following Them with Body and Mind'.

As they were leaving, those bhakti-vedantas, who are very kind to poor-hearted souls, INSTRUCTED me in that 'Most Confidential Subject' which is instructed by the Personality of Godhead Himself (to 'Follow the Lord Only').

By that Confidential Knowledge (or by Devotional Service), I could understand clearly the 'Influence of the Energy of Lord Sri Krsna', the creator, maintainer and annihilator of everything. By knowing that, one can return to Him and personally meet Him.

Brahmana Vyasadeva, it is 'Decided' by the learned ('samsucitam' – realized by the experts, not a childish imagination) that the best 'Remedial' measure for removing all troubles and miseries is to 'Dedicate One's Activities to the Service' of the Supreme Lord Personality of Godhead [Sri Krsna].

O good soul, does not a thing, applied therapeutically, cure a disease which was caused by that very same thing? (The material conception of things is at once changed – turned into a 'Spiritual Force' by the 'Great Will of the Lord' – as soon as it is put into the 'SERVICE' of the Lord, that is the 'Secret of Spiritual Success', then we can experience that there is nothing except the Supreme Brahman...)

Thus when all a man's activities are 'Dedicated' to the service of the Lord, those very activities which caused his perpetual bondage become the 'DESTROYER' of the 'Tree of Work' (Devotional Service cuts off deeply rooted Banyan Tree 'Net-work' described in BG ch.15, leading to the Lotus Feet of the Lord ). Whatever work ('kriya-yoga' leading to the “Independent” 'bhakti-yoga' of being spiritually engaged) is done here in this life for the satisfaction of the mission of the Lord is called Bhakti-yoga, or 'Transcendental Loving Service' to the Lord, and what is called Knowledge becomes a concomitant factor. While performing duties (as bona fide devotee) according to the 'ORDER' of Sri Krsna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, one constantly remembers Him, His names and His qualities.

 

'OM namo bhagavate..' Let us all chant the glories of... Vasudeva along with His plenary expansions Pradyumna, Aniruddha and Sankarsana (Caturvyuha is an four aides-de-camp/assistants of Lord Krsna).

Thus he is the actual seer who worships, in the form of 'Transcendental SOUND Representation', the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Visnu, who has NO material form (in recommended Pancaratrika system and through the Transparent Medium of a bona fide spiritual master the 'Lord's Transcendental Eternal Form of Bliss and Knowledge' can be 'Received Directly' within/through the Codes/Sound/Mantras, and Narada Muni is an Acarya for this Pancaratra System).

O brahmana, thus by the Supreme Lord Krsna I was endowed first with the 'Transcendental Knowledge' of the Lord as inculcated in the 'Confidential Parts' of the Vedas, then with the 'Spiritual Opulences', and then with His 'Intimate Loving Service' (attained by one who has 'Unflinching Faith' both in the spiritual master and in the Lord).

Please, therefore, describe the Almighty Lord's 'activities' which you have learned by your vast knowledge of the Vedas, for that will 'Satisfy' the hankerings of great learned men and at the same time 'Mitigate the Miseries' of the masses of common people who are always suffering from material pangs.

... Indeed, there is no other way to 'GET OUT' of such miseries...

 

In the next Meditation the conversation between Narada and Vyasadeva is continued.

 

“SRIMAD BHAGAVATAM Meditation 9”

21.09.2018

Srimad Bhagavatam is the 'Topmost' Theological Science, and therefore it can react on a laymen as a medicinal does. Because it contains the 'Transcendental Activities of the Lord', there is no difference between the Lord and the literature, through hearing it one can 'ASSOCIATE' with the Lord and gradually become 'Purified from Material Diseases'.

CANTO 1.5

Suta Gosvami said: Thus the sage amongst the gods [Narada ('vina-panih' – one who carries a vina], comfortably seated and apparently smiling, addressed the rsi amongst the brahmanas [Vedavyasa].

Addressing Vyasadeva, the son of Parasara, Narada inquired: Are you satisfied by identifying with the body or the mind as objects of self-realization? (Vyasa as a great sage should not identify the body or mind as self, in literature) Your inquiries were full and your studies were also well fulfilled, and there is no doubt that you have prepared a great and wonderful work, the Mahabharata, which is full of all kinds of Vedic sequences elaborately explained. You have fully delineated the subject of impersonal Brahman as well as the knowledge derived therefrom (in 'Vedanta/Brahma Sutra' – the subject of eternity). Why should you be despondent in spite of all this, thinking that you are undone, my dear prabhu?

Sri Vyasadeva said: All you have said about me is perfectly correct. Despite all this, I am not pacified. I therefore question you about the root cause of my dissatisfaction, for you are a man of unlimited knowledge ('agadha-bodham' - 'deep') due to your being the offspring of one [Brahma] who is self-born [without mundane father and mother]. My lord! Everything that is mysterious ('guhyam' – confidential) is known to you because you worship (a cent-percent perfect/engaged in the service of) the creator and destroyer of the Material World and the maintainer of the Spiritual World, the original Personality of Godhead, who is transcendental to the three modes of material nature.

Like the sun, Your Goodness can travel everywhere in the three worlds, and like the air you can penetrate the internal region of everyone ('antah-carah' – can penetrate into everyone's heart). As such, you are as good as the all-pervasive Supersoul. Please, therefore, find out the deficiency in me, despite my being absorbed in transcendence under disciplinary regulations and vows.

 

Sri Narada said: You have not actually broadcast the sublime and spotless 'GLORIES' of the Personality of Godhead. That philosophy which does not satisfy the transcendental senses of the Lord is considered 'Worthless'.

Although, great sage, you have very broadly described the four principles (dharma - religiosity, artha - economy, kama – sense gratification, moksa - salvation) beginning with religious performances (giving more importance to it instead of concentrating on Devotional Service, which gives full satisfaction – after liberation one is engaged in PURE devotional service, this is the stage of Self-Realization or 'brahma-bhuta' stage, the beginning of transcendental bliss, SB 4.30.20), you have not described the Glories of the Supreme Personality, Vasudeva (the Lord as the 'Top' of all Self-Realization).

Those words which do not describe the Glories of the Lord, who alone can sanctify the atmosphere of the whole universe, are considered by saintly persons to be like unto a place of pilgrimage for crows (crows like persons who take pleasure in 'material garbage'). Since the (swanlike/pure/'manasa'/'paramahamsas') all-perfect persons are inhabitants of the Ttanscendental Abode, they do not derive any pleasure there. On the other hand, that literature which is full of descriptions of the transcendental Glories of the Name, Fame, Forms, Pastimes, etc., of the unlimited Supreme Lord is a different creation, full of 'Transcendental Words' directed toward bringing about a 'REVOLUTION' in the impious lives of this world's misdirected civilization. Such transcendental literatures, even though imperfectly composed, are heard ('srnvanti'), sung ('gayanti') and accepted ('grnanti') by purified men who are thoroughly honest ('sadhus'/saints). Knowledge of self-realization, even though free from all material affinity, does not look well if devoid of a conception of the Infallible [God]. What, then, is the use of fruitive activities, which are naturally painful from the very beginning and transient by nature, if they are not utilized for the devotional service of the Lord?

 

O Vyasadeva, your vision is completely perfect. Your good fame is spotless. You are firm in vow and situated in truthfulness. And thus you can 'Think of the PASTIMES of the Lord in Trance' for the liberation of the people in general from all material bondage. Whatever you desire to describe that is separate in vision from the Lord simply reacts, with different forms, names and results, to agitate the mind as the wind agitates a boat which has no resting place (Vyasa should not recommended in various Puranas the worship of so many demigods in different forms and names, because people are puzzled how to fix their minds in the Service of the Lord, he was making deviations and havoc, which ended in many religious sects).

The people in general are naturally inclined to enjoy, and you have encouraged them in that way in the name of religion. This is Verily 'CONDEMNED' and is quite Unreasonable. Because they are guided under your instructions, they will accept such activities in the name of religion (sacrifices of animals, etc.) and will hardly care for prohibitions.

The Supreme Lord is unlimited. Only a very expert personality, retired from the activities of material happiness, deserves to understand this knowledge of spiritual values. Therefore those who are not so well situated, due to material attachment, should be shown the ways of transcendental realization (according to time and circumstances), by Your Goodness, through descriptions of the transcendental activities of the Supreme Lord...

 

In the next section Narada describes how he became Krsna conscious.

 

 

“SRIMAD BHAGAVATAM Meditation 8”

14.09.2018

Here Srila Vyasadeva is mentioned, his birth/appearance as an Incarnation of the Supreme Lord, who 'Sees' everything. Knowing that the degradation of people in Kali Yuga will be great he out of compassion gives an explanation of the Vedas in many ways, for everyone.

CANTO 1.4 cont.

Suta Gosvami said: When the second millennium overlapped the third, the great sage [Vyasadeva ('kalaya hareh' – the plenary portion of the Supreme Lord] was born to Parasara ('yogi' – the great Sage) in the womb of Satyavati, the daughter of Vasu.

 

Once upon a time he [Vyasadeva], as the sun rose, took his morning ablution in the waters of the Sarasvati (in the Badarikasrama, where Vyasa is residing) and sat alone to concentrate.

The great Sage Vyasadeva 'SAW' (clearly past,... and future of the Kali age) anomalies ('vyatikaram') in the duties of the millennium. This happens on the earth in different Ages, due to unseen forces in the course of Time.

The great Sage, who was fully equipped in Knowledge, could, through his 'Transcendental Vision' (his sharp vision of spiritual attainment), the deterioration of everything material, due to the (Time) influence of the Age (Age of quarrel & hypocrisy). He could also see that the faithless people in general would be reduced in duration of life and would be impatient due to lack of goodness. Thus he contemplated for the 'Welfare of Men' in all statuses and orders of life (through suitable knowledge).

He Saw that the Sacrifices mentioned in the Vedas were means by which the people's occupations could be purified. And to 'Simplify the Process' he divided the 'ONE VEDA' ('Yajur' – where the four divisions of Sacrifices were) into four (Rg, Yajur, Sama and Atharva), in order to expand them among men.

The four divisions of the 'Original Sources of Knowledge' [the Vedas] were made separately. But the historical facts and authentic stories mentioned in the Puranas are called the fifth Veda (Puranas, Mahabharata, Samhitas, etc.).

After the Vedas were divided into four divisions, Paila Rsi became the professor of the Rg Veda, Jaimini the professor of the Sama Veda, and Vaisamayana alone became glorified by the Yajur Veda (for development in various ways).

The Sumantu Muni Angira, who was very devotedly engaged, was entrusted with the Atharva Veda (as a leader of it, who strictly followed the rigid principles of Atharva Veda). And my father, Romaharsana, was entrusted with the Puranas and historical record.

All these learned scholars (different disciplic successions), in their turn, rendered their entrusted Vedas unto their many disciples, grand-disciples and great grand-disciples, and thus the respective branches of the followers of the Vedas came into being (ALL Knowledge in Material or Spiritual World expanded from the Vedas, so there is NO 'Independent Knowledge' beyond the Vedas – the 'Seed of All Knowledge').

Thus the great sage Vyasadeva, who is very kind to the ignorant masses, edited the Vedas ( – understood by persons with exceptional qualities of goodness) so they might be assimilated by (those in passion and ignorance) less intellectual men (not strictly by only a 'brahmanas by birth').

 

Out of compassion, the great sage thought it wise that this would enable men to achieve the ultimate goal of life (the Supreme Lord). Thus he compiled the great historical narration called the Mahabharata for women, laborers and (others) friends of the twice-born (the less intelligent are more interested in histories than in philosophy).

 

O twice-born brahmanas, still his mind was not satisfied, although he engaged himself in working for the total welfare of all people.

Thus the sage, being dissatisfied at heart, at once began to reflect, because he 'Knew the Essence of Religion', and he said within himself:

I have, under strict disciplinary vows, unpretentiously worshiped the Vedas, the spiritual master and the altar of sacrifice. I have also abided by the rulings and have shown the import of disciplic succession through the explanation of the Mahabharata, by which even women, sudras and others [friends of the twice-born] can see the path of religion. I am feeling incomplete, though I myself am fully equipped with everything required by the Vedas. This may be because I did not specifically point out the Devotional Service ('bhagavatah dharma') of the Lord (being fixed, the ultimate achievement, perfection beyond matter – Paramahamsa stage), which is dear both to perfect beings and to the infallible Lord (without the transcendental loving service to the Lord, everything is VOID, but in the transcendental service of the Lord everything is tangible/substantial without any separate attempt at fruitive work or empiric philosophical speculation).

 

As mentioned before, Narada reached the cottage of Krsna-dvaipayana Vyasa on the banks of the Sarasvati just as Vyasadeva was regretting his defects.

At the auspicious arrival of Sri Narada, Sri Vyasadeva got up respectfully and worshiped him, giving him veneration equal to that given to Brahmaji, the creator ('Vidhi' – Brahma is the original student of 'vidhis' – regulations, and as well professor of the Vedas, learned it from Krsna and thought to Narada first, so Narada is the second Acarya in the line of disciplic succession, of the representatives of the original spiritual master).

 

In the next Meditation we will hear Narada's instructions of Srimad Bhagavatam to Vyasadevan.

 

 

“SRIMAD BHAGAVATAM Meditation 7”

07.09.2018

In this section the Sages inquire (putting wise/important questions) about the details of Srimad Bhagavatam, how this 'Great Scripture' manifested, how it happened, why...

CANTO 1.4

On hearing Suta Gosvami speak thus, Saunaka Muni, who was the elderly, learned leader of all the rsis engaged in that prolonged sacrificial ceremony, congratulated Suta Gosvamé by addressing him as follows. Saunaka said: (the sages were in such a joy to have each other company/assembly and hear the Srimad Bhagavatam narration that Saunaka Muni expressed it by saying two times Suta Gosvami's name: 'suta' 'suta' to emphasize that joy) O Suta Gosvami ('suta' 'suta'), you are the most fortunate ('maha-bhaga') and respected of all those who can speak and recite. Please relate the 'Pious' message of Srimad-Bhagavatam, which was spoken by the great and powerful sage Sukadeva Gosvami.

In what period and at what place was this first begun, and 'WHY' was this taken up? From where did Krsna-dvaipayana Vyasa, the great sage, get the 'Inspiration' to compile this literature?

His [Vyasadeva's] son was a great devotee, an equibalanced monist, whose mind was always concentrated in monism. He was (always 'ALERT', indifferent) transcendental to mundane (dream like) activities, but being unexposed, he appeared like an 'Ignorant Person'. While Sri Vyasadeva was following his son, beautiful young damsels who were bathing naked covered their bodies with cloth (understanding the mind of Vyasa who played the role of a householder – acting according to social custom – the ladies were like his children or grandchildren), although Sri Vyasadeva himself was not naked. But they had not done so when his son had passed (without clothes). The sage inquired about this, and the young ladies replied that his son was 'Purified' (completely renounced) and when looking at them made no distinction between male and female (Bg 5.18 A learned sage looks... equally on everyone due to his spiritual vision, so Suka did not see a male or female, he saw all living entities in different 'dress'). But the sage made such distinctions (as long as such distinctions between body and soul is there one should not try to be a sannyasi like Sukadeva Gosvami).

 

How was he [Srila Sukadeva, the son of Vyasa] recognized by the citizens when he entered the city of Hastinapura [now Delhi], after wandering in the provinces of Kuru and Jangala, appearing like a madman, dumb and retarded?

How did it so happen that King Pariksit met this great sage, making it possible for this great transcendental 'Essence' of the Vedas [Bhagavatam (“Suka-samhita” - the Vedic Hymn spoken by Sukadeva Gosvami)] to be sung to him?

He [Sukadeva Gosvami] was accustomed to stay at the door of a householder only long enough for a cow to be milked. And he did this just to sanctify ('kurvan' – transforming) the residence.

It is said that Maharaja Pariksit is a great first-class devotee ('bhagavata-uttama') of the Lord and that his birth and activities are all wonderful. Please tell us about him.

He was a great emperor and possessed all the opulences of his acquired kingdom. He was so exalted that he was increasing the prestige of the Pandu dynasty. Why did he give up everything to sit down on the bank of the Ganges and fast until death?

He was such a great emperor that all his enemies would come and bow down at his feet and surrender all their wealth for their own benefit. He was full of youth and strength, and he possessed insuperable kingly opulences. Why did he want to give up everything, including his life?

Those who are devoted to the cause of the Personality of Godhead ('uttama-sloka-parayana') live only for the welfare, development and happiness of others. They do not live for any selfish interest. So even though the Emperor [Pariksit] was free from all attachment to worldly possessions, how could he give up his mortal body, which was shelter for others?

 

We know that you (Suta) are expert in the meaning of all subjects, … except some portions of the Vedas... (Suta Gosvami as Parivrajakacarya – learned preacher who disseminate transcendental knowledge to the others was not like a Brahmanas who are expert in pronouncing the Vedic mantras and who practice it systematically for administrating Vedic rites, the Brahmanas and Parivrajakacaryas are on the same level, they are one and different simultaneously because they are meant for the same end, in different ways), … and thus you can clearly explain the answers to all the questions we have just put to you.

 

Next we will hear about Vyasa's dilemma...

 

“SRIMAD BHAGAVATAM Meditation 6”

02.09.2018

… “JANMA... GUHYAM BHAGAVATO...” Whoever 'CAREFULLY RECITES' the 'Mysterious (Transcendental) APPEARANCES of the Lord', with Devotion in the morning and in the evening, gets Relief from All Miseries of Life ('vimukti' – liberation).

We are celebrating tomorrow the Auspicious Appearance Day of Lord Krsna – 'JANMASTAMI', yet the sad time of narration of Srimad Bhagavatam here is just after the departure of Lord Krsna. After His pastimes in the material world in which we may participate by His grace, The Lord, Sri Sri Radha Krsna are showing Themselves on the transcendental plane completely inside of the Spiritual World, where They want us to see with a certain/necessary/developed Adhikari.

CANTO 1.3 cont.

The conception of the Virat Universal Form of the Lord, as 'Appearing' in the material world, is imaginary. It is to enable the less intelligent [and neophytes] to adjust to the idea of the Lord's having form. But factually the Lord has NO Material Form.

Clouds and dust are carried by the air, but less intelligent persons say that the sky is cloudy and the air is dirty. Similarly, they also implant material bodily conceptions on the 'Spirit Self'. Beyond this gross conception of form is another, subtle conception of form which is without formal shape and is unseen, unheard and unmanifest. The living being has his form beyond this subtlety, otherwise he could not have repeated births.

Whenever a person experiences, by self-realization, that both the gross and subtle bodies have nothing to do with the 'Pure Self', at that time he sees himself as well as the Lord ('brahma-darsanam'). If the illusory energy subsides and the living entity becomes 'Fully Enriched with Knowledge' by the grace of the Lord, then he becomes at once enlightened with self-realization and thus becomes situated in his own glory.

Thus learned men describe the births and activities of the unborn and inactive, which is undiscoverable even in the Vedic literatures. He is the Lord of the heart. The Lord, whose activities are always spotless, is the master of the six senses and is fully omnipotent with six opulences. He creates the manifested universes, maintains them and annihilates them without being in the least affected. He is within every living being and is always independent.

The foolish with a poor fund of knowledge cannot know the transcendental nature of the Forms, Names and Activities of the Lord, who is playing like an ACTOR in a DRAMA. Nor can they express such things, neither in their speculations nor in their words.

 

Only Those Who RENDER 'Unreserved, Uninterrupted, Favorable SERVICE' unto the Lotus Feet of Lord Krsna, who carries the wheel of the chariot in His hand, can know the creator of the universe in His full Glory, Power and Transcendence.

Only by making such inquiries in this world can one be successful and perfectly cognizant, for Such Inquiries 'Invoke Transcendental Ecstatic LOVE' unto the Personality of Godhead, who is the proprietor of all the universes, and guarantee cent-percent immunity from the dreadful repetition of birth and death.

 

This Srimad-Bhagavatam is the “'LITERARY' Incarnation of God”, and it is compiled by Srila Vyasadeva, the Incarnation of God. It is meant for the 'Ultimate Good' of All People, and it is all-successful, all-blissful and all-perfect.

Sri Vyasadeva delivered it to his son, who is the most respected among the self-realized, after extracting the Cream of all Vedic literatures and histories of the universe. Sukadeva Gosvami, the son of Vyäsadeva, in his turn delivered the Bhagavatam to the great Emperor Pariksit, who sat surrounded by sages on the bank of the Ganges, awaiting death without taking food or drink.

This Bhagavata Purana is 'As BRILIANT as the SUN', and it has arisen just after the Departure of Lord Krsna to His own Abode, accompanied by Religion, Knowledge, etc. Persons who have 'Lost' their Vision due to the 'Dense Darkness' of Ignorance in the age of Kali shall get 'LIGHT' from this Purana.

O learned brahmanas, when Sukadeva Gosvami recited Bhagavatam there [in the presence of Emperor Pariksit], I heard him with rapt attention, and thus, by his mercy, I learned the Bhagavatam from that great and powerful sage. Now I Shall Try To Make You 'Hear' the very same thing as I learned it from him and as I have Realized it.

 

In the next 4^th Chapter there is the Appearance of Narada Muni.

“SRIMAD BHAGAVATAM Meditation 5”

25.08.2018

In this section the Incarnations of Lord Krsna (Radha Krsna) are explained, where His 'First' Expansion/Plenary Manifestation is Lord Baladeva or Balarama from whom manifest 'ALL' other Expansions/Incarnations/'Avataras - “those who descend”.

CANTO 1. 3

Suta said: In the beginning of the creation, the Lord first expanded Himself in the UNIVERSAL FORM of the PURUSA Incarnation (with three Purusa features Karana, Garbha and Ksira – dakasayi Visnu) and manifested all the ingredients for the material creation (Mahat Tattva “cloud “). And thus at first there was the creation of the sixteen principles of material action. This was for the purpose of creating the material universe. A part of the Purusa (Garbodakasayi Visnu) lies down within the water of the Universe, from the 'Navel Lake' of His body sprouts a lotus stem, and from the lotus flower atop this stem, Brahma, the 'Master of all Engineers in the Universe', becomes manifest. It is believed that all the universal planetary systems are situated on the extensive body of the Purusa (Virat/Visva Rupa), but He has nothing to do with the created material ingredients (One and Different). His 'Body' is eternally in spiritual existence par excellence.

The devotees, with their 'Perfect Eyes' ('adabhra-caksusa'), 'SEE' the transcendental form of the Purusa who has thousands of legs, thighs, arms and faces-all extraordinary. In that body there are thousands of heads, ears, eyes and noses. They are decorated with thousands of helmets and glowing earrings and are adorned with garlands. This form [the second manifestation of the Purusa, Garbhodakaasayi Visnu] is the source and indestructible seed of multifarious incarnations within the universe (Brahma, then Siva, Daksa, Marici, Manu,... etc). From the particles and portions of this form, different living entities, like demigods, men and others, are created.

 

* FIRST of all, in the beginning of creation, there were the Four unmarried sons of Brahmä [the KUMARAS – empowered Incarnations], who, being situated in a vow of celibacy, underwent severe austerities for realization of the Absolute Truth.

* The 'Supreme Enjoyer of All Sacrifices' (who is always in trance) accepted the Incarnation of a BOAR [the SECOND Incarnation], and for the welfare of the earth He lifted the earth from the nether regions of the Universe.

* In the millennium of the Rsis ('rsi-sargam'), the Personality of Godhead accepted the THIRD empowered Incarnation in the form of Devarsi NARADA, who is a Great Sage among the demigods. He 'Collected Expositions of the Vedas which deal with Devotional Service' and which inspire nonfruitive action (which leads to 'naiskarmya' – liberation).

* In the FOURTH Incarnation, the Lord became NARA and NARAYANA, the twin sons of the wife of King Dharma. Thus He undertook severe and exemplary penances ('tapah') to control the senses ('atma-upasama').

* The FIFTH Incarnation, named Lord KAPILA, is 'Foremost' among pPerfected Beings ('siddhas'). He gave an exposition of the creative elements and Metaphysics (Sankhya philosophy – “that which explains very lucidly by analysis of the material elements”) to Asuri Brahmana, for in course of time this knowledge had been lost.

* The SIXTH Incarnation of the Purusa was the son of the sage Atri (DATTATREYA). He was born from the womb of Anasuya, who prayed for an incarnation. He spoke on the 'Subject of Transcendence' to Alarka, Prahlada and others [Yadu, Haihaya, etc.].

* The SEVENTH Incarnation was YAJNA, the son of Prajapati Ruci and his wife Akuti. He controlled the period during the change of the Svayambhuva Manu and was assisted by demigods such as His son Yama.

* The EIGHT Incarnation was King RSABHA, son of King Nabhi and his wife Merudevi. In this incarnation the Lord 'Showed the Path of Perfection' ('darsayan vartma dhiranam' – showing the way of Perfect Beings), which is followed by those who have fully controlled their senses and who are honored by all orders of life.

* O brahmanas, in the NINTH Incarnation, the Lord, prayed for by sages, accepted the Body of a KING [PRTHU] who cultivated the land to yield ('dugdha' – 'milking') various produces and for that reason the Earth was beautiful and attractive.

* When there was a complete inundation after the period of the Caksusa Manu and the whole world was deep within water, the Lord accepted the (TENTH) form of a FISH (MATSYA) and protected Vaivasvata Manu, keeping him up on a boat.

* The ELEVENTH Incarnation of the Lord took the form of a TORTOISE whose shell served as a pivot for the Mandaracala Hill, which was being used as a churning rod by the theists and atheists of the universe.

* In the TWELTH Incarnation, the Lord appeared as DHANVANTARI, and in the THIRTHEENTH He allured the atheists by the charming beauty of a WOMAN and gave nectar to the demigods to drink.

* In the FOURTHEENTH Incarnation, the Lord appeared as NARA-SIMHA and bifurcated the strong body of the atheist Hiranyakasipu with His nails, just as a carpenter pierces cane.

* In the FIFTEENTH Incarnation, the Lord assumed the form of a DRAFT – BRAHMANA [VAMANA] and visited the arena of sacrifice arranged by Maharaja Bali. Although at heart He was willing to regain the kingdom of the three planetary systems, He simply asked for a donation of three steps of land.

* In the SIXTEENTH Incarnation of the Godhead, the Lord [as BHRGUPATI] annihilated the administrative class [ksatriyas] twenty-one times, being angry with them because of their rebellion against the brahmanas [the intelligent class].

* Thereafter, in the SEVENTEENTH Incarnation of Godhead, Sri VYASADEVA appeared in the womb of Satyavati through Parasara Muni, and he divided the one Veda into several branches and subbranches, seeing that the people in general were less intelligent (need explanation of the Vedas).

* In the EIGHTEENTH Incarnation, the Lord appeared as King RAMA. In order to perform some pleasing work for the demigods, He exhibited superhuman powers by controlling the Indian Ocean and then killing the atheist King Ravana, who was on the other side of the sea.

* In the NINETEENTH and TWENTIETH Incarnations, the Lord advented Himself as Lord BALARAMA and Lord KRSNA in the family of Vrsni [the Yadu dynasty], and by so doing He removed the burden of the world.

* Then, in the beginning of Kali-yuga, the Lord will appear as Lord BUDDHA (who preached the conception of 'ahimsa' – nonviolence ), the son of Anjana, in the province of Gaya, just for the purpose of deluding those who are envious of the faithful theist.

* Thereafter, at the conjunction of two yugas, the Lord of the creation will take His birth as the KALKI Incarnation and become the son of Visnu Yasa. At this time the rulers of the earth will have degenerated into plunderers.

 

O brahmanas, the Incarnations of the Lord are innumerable (not complete here), like rivulets flowing from inexhaustible sources of water. All the Rsis, Manus, Demigods and descendants of Manu, who are especially powerful. This also includes the Prajapatis.

All of the above-mentioned Incarnations are either plenary portions or portions of the plenary portions of the Lord (as svayam rupa, svayam-prakasa, tad-ekatma, praabhava, vaibhava, vilasa, avatara, more powerful 'avesa' and less powerful 'vibhti', and jivas)...

… But Lord Sri Krsna is the ORIGINAL Personality of Godhead (“Krsnas tu Bhagavan svayam”, 'svayam' – in Person, the SOURCE of other Incarnations, 'Summum Bonum'/ 'Supremacy').

All of them appear on planets whenever there is a disturbance created by the atheists.

The LORD INCARNATES to “PROTECT” the THEISTS.

 

This Third Chapter will continue the Meditation next.

 

 

“SRIMAD BHAGAVATAM Meditation 4”

19.08.2018

Here the Three Modes of Nature are presented up to Unalloyed Goodness where the Absolute Truth, the Supreme Lord – as the Goal above, is realized.

CANTO 1.2

The Transcendental Personality of Godhead is 'Indirectly' associated with the Three Modes of Material Nature, namely Passion, Goodness and Ignorance, and just for the material world's Creation, Maintenance and Destruction He accepts the three qualitative forms of Brahma, Visnu and Siva. Of these three, all human beings can 'Derive Ultimate Benefit' from Visnu, the 'Form of the Quality of Goodness'.

Firewood is a transformation of earth, but smoke is better than the raw wood. And fire is still better, for by fire we can derive the benefits of superior knowledge [through Vedic Sacrifices]. Similarly, Passion [rajas] is better than Ignorance [tamas], but Goodness [sattva] is BEST because by Goodness one can come to 'Realize the Absolute Truth' ('brahma-darsanam').

 

Previously all the great sages rendered service unto the Personality of Godhead due to His existence 'ABOVE' the Three Modes of Material Nature. They worshiped Him to become free from material conditions and thus derive the ultimate benefit. Whoever follows such great authorities is also 'Eligible for Liberation' from the material world.

Those who are 'Serious' about liberation are certainly 'NONENVIOUS', and they 'RESPECT ALL'. Yet they 'Reject' the horrible and ghastly forms of the demigods and worship only the All-blissful forms of Lord Visnu and His plenary portions.

Those who are in the modes of Passion and Ignorance worship the forefathers, other living beings and the demigods who are in charge of cosmic activities, for they are urged by a desire to be materially benefited with women, wealth, power and progeny.

 

… In the revealed scriptures,...

The 'Ultimate Object of Knowledge' is Sri Krsna (Vasudeva), the Personality of Godhead.

The 'Purpose of Performing Sacrifice' is to “PLEASE” Him.

'Yoga' (mystic paraphernalia) is for “REALIZING” Him.

'All Fruitive Activities' are ultimately “REWARDED” by Him only.

'He is Supreme Knowledge', and 'All Severe Austerities' are performed to “KNOW” Him.

'Religion [Dharma] is “RENDERING LOVING SERVICE” unto Him'.

He is the 'Supreme “GOAL” of Life'.

 

In the beginning of the material creation, that ABSOLUTE Personality of Godhead [Vasudeva], in His transcendental position, created the 'Energies of Cause and Effect' by His own internal energy. After creating the material substance, the Lord [Vasudeva] expands Himself and enters into it. And although He is 'Within' the material Modes of Nature and appears to be one of the created beings, He is 'ALVAYS Fully Enlightened' in His Transcendental Position.

 

The Lord, as Supersoul, pervades all things, just as fire permeates wood, and so He appears to be of Many Varieties, though HE is the “ABSOLUTE 'ONE'

WITHOUT A SECOND”.

The Supersoul enters into the bodies of the created beings who are influenced by the Modes of Material Nature and causes them to enjoy the effects of these Modes by the 'Subtle Mind'.

Thus the Lord of the universes 'Maintains' all planets inhabited by demigods, men and lower animals. Assuming the roles of 'INCARNATIONS', He 'Performs Pastimes' to “RECLAIM THOSE IN THE MODE – OF 'PURE GOODNESS'”.

 

In the next, Third Chapter the Lord as the Source of all Incarnations is explained.

 

 

“SRIMAD BHAGAVATAM Meditation 3”

12.08.2018

With this Meditation the actual narration of Srimad Bhagavatam begins, with many very important verses. Suta Gosvami first offers respectful obeisances to Sukadeva Gosvami, the spiritual master of all sages, the son of Vyäsadeva, who spoke this most confidential ('guhyam') supplement to the cream of Vedic knowledge, after having 'Personally Assimilated it by Experience'.

… “Narayanam namaskrtya, naram caiva narottamam...”, before reciting this Srimad-Bhagavatam, which is the very means of conquest, one should offer respectful obeisances unto the Personality of Godhead – Narayana, unto Nara-narayana Rsi – the supermost human being, unto mother Sarasvati – the goddess of learning, and unto Srila Vyasadeva – the author.

CHAPTER 2

Now Srila Suta Gosvami starts answering the questions of the sages, beginning with nice explanation of Devotional Service: O sages, I have been justly questioned by you. Your questions are worthy because they relate to Lord Krsna and so are of relevance to the world's welfare. Only questions of this sort are capable of 'Completely Satisfying the Self'.

The 'Supreme Occupation' [dharma] for all humanity is that by which men can attain to 'Loving Devotional Service' unto the 'Transcendent Lord'. Such Devotional Service must be UNMOTIVATED and UNINTERUPTED to completely satisfy the self. By rendering Devotional Service unto the Personality of Godhead, Sri Krsna, one immediately acquires 'Causeless Knowledge and Detachment' from the world.

The occupational activities a man performs according to his own position are only so much 'Useless Labour' if they 'Do Not Provoke Attraction for the Message of the Personality of Godhead' ('kevalam' - Entirely).

Life's Desires should never be directed toward sense gratification. One should desire only a healthy life, or self-preservation, since a human being is meant for 'Inquiry about the Absolute Truth' – 'NOTHING ELSE' should be the 'Goal' of one's works:

… 'Vedanti tat tattva-vidas, tattvam yaj jnanam advayam, brahmeti paramatmeti, bhagavan iti sabdhyate',... Learned transcendentalists who know the Absolute Truth call this nondual substance Brahman, Paramatma or Bhagavan. The seriously inquisitive student or sage, well equipped with knowledge and detachment,... 'Realizes that Absolute Truth by... Rendering Devotional Service' in terms of what he has heard from the Vedanta-sruti.

O best among the twice-born, it is therefore concluded that the 'Highest Perfection' one can achieve by discharging the duties prescribed for one's own occupation according to caste divisions and orders of life (varnasrama) is to 'PLEASE the Personality of Godhead'.

Therefore, with 'ONE-Pointed' Attention ('manasa' – of the Mind), one should constantly Hear about, Glorify, Remember and Worship the Personality of Godhead, who is the 'Protector' of the devotees. With sword in hand, intelligent men 'Cut through the Binding Knots of Reactionary Work' [karma] by 'REMEMBERING' the Personality of Godhead.

 

O twice-born sages, by 'Serving' those devotees who are 'Completely Freed from All Vice', great service is done. By such service, one gains affinity for hearing the messages of Väsudeva.

Sri Krsna, the Personality of Godhead, who is the Paramatma [Supersoul] in everyone's heart and the benefactor of the truthful devotee, CLEANSES ('vidhunoti') 'Desire for Material Enjoyment' from the Heart of the devotee who has Developed the 'Urge to HEAR His Messages',... 'srnvatam sva-katah krsna...' , which are in themselves Virtuous when properly heard and chanted.

 

'Nasta-prayesv abhadresu, nityam bhagavata sevaya...' By regular attendance in classes on the Bhägavatam and by 'Rendering of Service to the Pure Devotee' (here Two Bhagavatas: a Book – God's Incarnation, and a Pure Devotee – God's ['Incarnation']/ Direct Representative), all that is troublesome to the heart is 'ALMOST Completely Destroyed', and 'Loving Service' unto the Personality of Godhead, who is praised with transcendental songs, is 'Established as an Irrevocable Fact'. As soon as 'Irrevocable Loving Service' is established ('sthitam', firm minded) in the heart, the effects of nature's modes of passion and ignorance, such as lust, desire and hankering, disappear from the heart. Then the devotee is 'Established in Goodness', and he becomes 'Completely Happy'. Thus established in the mode of 'UNALLOYED Goodness', the man whose mind has been 'Enlivened by Contact with Devotional Service' to the Lord gains positive 'Scientific Knowledge' of the Personality of Godhead in the stage of 'Liberation' from all material association.

… Thus the 'Knot in the Heart' is pierced, and all misgivings are cut to pieces. The Chain of fruitive actions is terminated... when one sees the 'SELF as MASTER' ('Atmani Isvare' – 'Self Dominating').

Certainly, therefore, since time immemorial, all transcendentalists have been rendering Devotional Service to Lord Krsna, the Personality of Godhead, with 'Great Delight', because such Devotional Service is 'Enlivening to the Self'...

 

In the next section we will continue with Chapter 2.

 

“SRIMAD BHAGAVATAM Meditation 2”

05.08.2018

The next Meditation brings us into the specific/unique world of 'Srimat' (Beautiful) Bhagavata Purana.

This Srimad Bhagavatam, rejecting religious activities materially motivated, propounds the 'Highest Truth', for those 'Pure in Heart', and is sufficient in itself for God Realization (so there is no need for other scriptures).

As soon as one 'Attentively and Submissively HEARS that Message', by this 'Culture of Knowledge' the Supreme Lord is 'Established within his Heart'.

… “O expert and thoughtful men (rasikah),... relish ('rasam alayam' – that which is relishable,... until liberation, or even in a liberated condition) Srimad Bhagavatam,... the 'Mature Fruit of the Desire Tree of Vedic Literatures'...”

CAPTER 1

In a holy place in the forest of Naimisaranya, Great Sages headed by the Sage Saunaka assembled to perform a great thousand-year sacrifice for the satisfaction of the Lord and His devotees.

The Great Sages made inquiries, with great respect, to Suta Gosvami ('anagha' – completely free from all vice, expert, the eldest learned Vedantist).

Please, explain to us, in an easily understandable way, what you have ascertained to be the 'Absolute and Ultimate Good' ('ekantatah sreysah') for the people in general (who are in the age of Kali quarrelsome, lazy, misguided, unlucky, and above all always disturbed).

There are many varieties of scriptures, and in all of them there are many prescribed duties, please select the 'Essence' of all these scriptures and explain it for the good of all living beings.

You know for what purpose the Personality of Godhead appeared in the womb of Devaki as the son of Vasudeva. we are eager to learn about the Personality of Godhead and His Incarnations. Please explain to us those teachings imparted by previous masters [acaryas], for one is uplifted both by speaking them and by hearing them.

Living beings who are entangled in the complicated meshes of birth and death can be freed immediately by 'Even Unconsciously Chanting the Holy Name of Krsna', which is feared by fear personified.

O Suta, those Great Sages who have 'Completely taken SHELTER of the Lotus Feet of the Lord' can 'At Once Sanctify Those who Come in Touch with Them', whereas the waters of the Ganges can sanctify only after prolonged use.

Who is there,... 'Desiring Deliverance' from the vices of the age of quarrel, who is not 'Willing' to hear the Virtuous Glories of the Lord?

His Transcendental Acts are magnificent and gracious, and Great learned Sages like Narada sing of them. Please, therefore, speak to us, who are eager to hear about the adventures He performs in His various Incarnations.

Such auspicious adventures and pastimes of the Lord, the Supreme Controller, are performed by His Internal Powers.

We never tire of hearing the transcendental pastimes of the Personality of Godhead, who is glorified by hymns and prayers. Those who have developed a 'Taste' for transcendental relationships with Him 'Relish' hearing of His pastimes at every moment.

Lord Sri Krsna, the Personality of Godhead, along with Balarama, played like a human being, and so masked ('gudhah kapata manusah' – masked as apparently human beings) He performed many superhuman acts.

Knowing well that the age of Kali has already begun, we are assembled here in this holy place to hear at great length the transcendental message of Godhead and 'In This Way Perform Sacrifice'.

We think that we have met Your Goodness by the 'Will of Providence', just so that we may accept you as 'Captain of the Ship' ('karna-dhara' – vanguard, elite leader, most advanced) for those who 'Desire to Cross' the difficult ocean of Kali, which deteriorates all the good qualities of a human being.

Since Sri Krsna, the Absolute Truth, the Master of All Mystic Powers, has departed for His own abode, please tell us to whom the religious principles have now gone for shelter...

 

Srila Suta Gosvami, being fully satisfied by 'Perfect Questions' of the Brahmanas, thanked them and thus attempted to reply.

In the next section we will hear his answer.

 

 

"SRIMAD BHAGAVATAM Meditation 1"

28.07.2018

Introduction. Recently we Meditated on Bhagavad-gita, and we are continuing this Meditiation, making the next step on the evolutionary progress on the path of the Self-Realization, now on Srimad Bhagavatam (yet,... not study, but Meditating, thinking of/focus on,... Dhimahi...). Srimad Bhagavatam is dedicated to the Paramahamsas (to those who are on Vasudeva[ya] stage, above the three Modes of Material Nature, or/also to the aspirants/beginners who are initiated to it formally or not formally), who are opened and can really understand it, and relish the nectar of that Amala Purana, Pure text. We will try to enter/penetrate this World of God and His Glory, where His Pure Devotees dwell,... enter the World we lack, we need and we desire to be in constantly...

CANTO 1

…Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

janmady asya yato' nvayad itaratas carthesv abhjnah svarat

tene brahma hrda ya adi-kavaye muhyanti yat surayah

tejo-vari-mrdam yatha vinimayo yatra tri-sargo mrsa

dhamna svena sada nirasta-kuhakam satyam param dhimahi (SB 1.1.1)

 

“O my Lord, Sri Krsna, son of Vasudeva, O 'All-Pervading Personality of Godhead', I offer my respectful obeisances unto You...

I... Meditate... upon Lord Sri Krsna... because He is the Absolute Truth and the 'Primeval Cause of All Causes' of Creation, Sustenance and Destruction of the manifested Universes.

He is directly and indirectly 'Conscious of All Manifestations', and 'He is Independent' because there is 'No Other Cause Beyond Him'.

It is 'He Only' who first imparted the Vedic Knowledge unto the heart of Brahmaji, the original living being.

By Him even the great Sages and Demigods are placed into Illusion, as one is bewildered by the illusory representations of water seen in fire, or land seen on water.

Only because of Him do the Material Universes, temporarily manifested by the reactions of the Three Modes of Nature, appear factual, although they are Unreal.

I therefore... Meditate... upon Him, Lord Sri Krsna,... who is 'Eternally Existent in the Transcendental Abode', which is 'Forever Free' from the Illusory representations of the Material World,

I... Meditate... upon Him,... for 'He is the Absolute Truth'.”

 

With this Meditation/Invocation Srila Vyasadeva begins his Srimad Bhagavatam narration. And we also, following his footsteps, through his blessings are able to enter this Mystical World of the Great Sages and their visionary sphere.

Let his introduction 'tune us' to this wonderful Srimad Bhagavatam space, let it awaken in our hearts the mood of humble position we have in relation with God, a mood the Sages never lose. Let this 'Spiritual Adventure' begins, to enlighten/enliven us and rise our consciousness higher and higher up to the Lotus Feet of our Lord, to Sri Sri Radha Krsna...

Cont....