Obstacles Bhakti - Kunjeshwari Home

Obstacles in Bhakti
Tell me, if Dâs Goswâmi would have accepted Lord Jagannâth’s prasâdam,
would it hurt? Definitely not. Then why did he forsake Jagannâth dev’s
prasâdam and resort to begging at the Lion-gate? The answer is – because
this is the dharma of the vairâgi. If we do not behave like this then what is
the use of renouncing? If we intend to enjoy within the strictures of the
regulative principles, without having material attachment, then why become
a vairâgi and show that we are following Sri Rup and Sanâtan?
“The vairâgi must constantly chant the Holy Name. He should beg in order to
live. A vairâgi who harbors material expectation from others, is never
successful in spiritual life and Krishna only neglects him.” – (C.C.)
Vivek das – Suppose we have a desire for material enjoyment and we still
become a vairâgi - and struggle with hardships - will we not become hardhearted?
Gour Kripa – Those who have material desires should not become Vairâgis.
If we practice self-control by force, then it is useless. This path was followed
by our Goswâmis. It is a very glorious path. We shall do nothing but disgrace
their fair name. Srimad-Bhâgavatam mentions –
“(Sri Krishna is saying) – Until and unless you are deeply attached to Me
alone and feel complete detachment from everything else, and you have firm
faith in hearing about Me, perform your daily duties within the strictures of
the regulative principles.”
It is clear that, if we force renouncement on ourselves, it will not bring any
good result. Needless to say, when we are naturally detached from material
objects and we have gained unwavering faith in Sri Harikathâ, we are worthy
of joining the renounced order.
How should the vairâgis perform Yukta renunciation ?
Well the vairâgi should accept only that much as is barely enough to sustain
himself. He should not accept any more than this. If a torn rug can keep me
warm in the winter, why should I use a blanket? If I can survive on dry
bread, why should I eat vegetables? If I can make food with an earthen pot,
why should I use a metal bowl? I should ponder and decide how much do I
need exactly ? Talking about needs – now it is raining; I need an umbrella. In
winter I need shoes and warm socks. In winter it is cold; I cannot sleep well.
I need blankets, mattresses and bed sheets. It is not an exaggeration to
state that a vairâgi must not live like this.
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