Devotee And God – In Gita Verse 18.55 One can understand Me as I am, as the Supreme Personality of Godhead, only by devotional service. And when one is in full consciousness of Me by such devotion, he can enter into the kingdom of God.
The Bhagavad Gita Verse 18.55, emphasises that true understanding of the Supreme Personality of Godhead can only be achieved through devotional service. This verse underscores a profound spiritual principle: by engaging wholeheartedly in devotion, one becomes fully conscious of the divine and gains entry into the kingdom of God. This profound concept can be further elucidated by exploring the dynamics of devotion and the transformation it brings to the devotee.
Through supreme devotion, an individual comprehends the divine essence and nature of God. This understanding is not merely intellectual but experiential, as the devotee perceives the divine in every element of existence. This deep connection through devotion enables the devotee to transcend the material plane and merge with the divine consciousness. In this state of para-bhakti, the devotee and God become one, yet they remain distinct in their roles. The devotee is still a devotee, and God remains God. The separation persists due to the subtle aspirations and desires that the devotee harbours, which act as a dividing line between the two.
Even in the height of devotion, the devotee may still have some lingering desires. These desires, no matter how subtle, create a division between the devotee and the divine. The devotee has not yet fully surrendered; there is still a part of the mind that clings to personal aspirations. Complete devotion arises when the mind seeks liberation from these desires, when it becomes weary of worldly pursuits and yearns for ultimate rest, salvation, or nirvana. However, even the desire for liberation can be an obstacle.
True para-bhakti is achieved when the devotee reaches a state of absolute contentment, where there is no longer any demand or desire, not even for liberation. In this state, the devotee accepts everything as it is, with no trace of rejection or dissatisfaction. This ultimate satisfaction dissolves all boundaries between the devotee and God, allowing them to become one. It is at this moment that the devotee enters the divine consciousness instantly, without any delay.
Krishna’s statement, “One can understand Me as I am,” signifies a profound realisation of the divine nature and the interconnectedness of all existence. This realisation prompts a fundamental question: Is it more important to be oneself or to know oneself? These two aspects are not separate but are intertwined in a single process. To truly know oneself, one must be oneself, and vice versa. This dual journey of self-discovery and self-realisation is essential for spiritual growth.
The journey begins with shedding the layers of conditioning imposed by society, family, and other external influences. These external voices and expectations create a psychological slavery that hinders true self-expression. To break free from this slavery, one must identify and discard these external influences. This process involves introspection and discernment, recognising that many of the thoughts and decisions we make are not truly our own but are echoes of others’ voices.
By acknowledging and rejecting these external influences, one can begin to hear their own inner voice, the true self that has been suppressed. This inner voice is the authentic guide that leads to self-realisation and spiritual fulfilment. The journey of self-discovery is inherently challenging and may seem dangerous at first, as it involves stepping away from the perceived safety of external guidance and protection.
However, this journey is essential for true freedom and spiritual growth. By embracing one’s aloneness and listening to the inner voice, one can navigate the path of life with confidence and authenticity. This inner voice, once recognised, becomes the guiding force that leads to fulfilment, contentment, and ultimately, a deeper understanding of the divine.
Krishna’s teachings encourage individuals to discover and follow their inner voice without fear. This inner guidance leads to the realisation of one’s true destiny and the blossoming of one’s spiritual potential. In this blossoming, true knowledge and understanding of the divine are attained.
The path to understanding the Supreme Personality of Godhead is through unwavering devotion and self-discovery. By shedding external influences and embracing one’s inner voice, one can achieve a state of para-bhakti, where the devotee and the divine become one. This journey requires courage, introspection, and a deep commitment to spiritual growth. Through this process, one attains true fulfilment and contentment, ultimately realising the divine nature of existence.
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