Hear now, all of good understanding: thus he met Ramanujacharya. When Swami awoke from the dream, he began to reflect:
"Did I truly meet him directly, or was this merely a dream?" As he pondered this within, he found his body marked with the fivefold sacraments -
he saw the twelve urdhva-pundraurdhva-pundraA yellow ‘U’ mark applied to the forehead made with tilak sandalwood paste, and a chãndlo of kum-kum if made in the centre. The tilak signifies Nãrãyan (Bhagvãn), and the chãndlo signifies Lakshmi. The tilak and chãndlo are applied during pujã in the morning. It must be applied everyday is it is the ãgnã of Swãminãrãyan Bhagvãn for all of His bhaktas. The tilak and chãndlo shows that a person has completely surrendered his life to Bhagvãn and has become His bhakta. Females only apply the chãndlo of kum-kum.Tap to open in glossary → marks upon himself, and a beautiful garland about his neck. The mantras he had been given remained fixed in his heart, and so he considered his purpose fulfilled.
Beholding these marks upon his body, great joy filled his mind; seeing the manifest signs upon his own form, he was certain he would surely meet the Lord.
Then Ramanand, greatly pleased, recited the mantramantra1) A repeated word or phrase. 2) A sacred verbal phrase repeated in prayer, or meditation, such as ‘Swãminãrãyan’. Wicked people use mantras to cast evil curses.Tap to open in glossary → in silence, sitting firmly in his seat, and looked deeply within himself.
Swami forgot all awareness of his body, his consciousness filled with immense joy. Within he beheld an intense radiance, and within that radiance he beheld a divine form -
it was LakshmiLakshmiA devi (goddess) who is the wife of Vishnu. She is the devi of wealth. Therefore, money and gold is also called Lakshmi. She eternally remains in the sevã of Bhagvãn.Tap to open in glossary →-Narayan, KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary → himself, whose vision he now attained. Exceedingly beautiful, the very abode of splendor, he beheld the Lord, whose purpose is ever complete.
He fell at his feet again and again, filled with the greatest joy. His mind grew utterly absorbed; having met KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary →, nothing remained lacking.
Exactly as he had contemplated in his mind, exactly so did the vision appear before him. Having granted him this vision, the Lord then vanished from sight.
When Swami awoke from his samadhi, he was filled with immense joy, saying, "Blessed, blessed is this place, where my heart's longing has been fulfilled."
Then, remembering his guruguruA teacher. He will guide you on the path of kalyãn.Tap to open in glossary →'s words, he remained established in dharmadharma1) Universal law or principle that 'sustains' or 'upholds' the entire world. Righteousness, morality, religion,Tap to open in glossary →, increasing his devotion. He maintained modesty, peace, and compassion in his heart, never giving way to anger even for a moment.
He held not the slightest trace of greed, delusion, or pride, and gave instruction to seekers of liberation. He would recite the two mantras into their ears, and had them hold meditation upon KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary →.
Thereby they too would attain the vision of KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary →, and his mind grew exceedingly joyful. Many people came and became his disciples, all accepting Swami's words.
But the old residents of that place, men and women, did not accept him. Then the Shri Vaishnavas there grew angry, and came before Swami at once,
saying, "You, a newcomer of just yesterday, have made yourself quite at home here, drawing all the people away from us - seeing us as helpless and poor.
So if you value your life, flee at once by morning, understand this well." Saying this, they went off to the north. Then Swami reflected within himself:
"If trouble arises for us because of this, what is gained by remaining here? Vrindavan, dear to KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary → - let us go there and find joy."
Then he departed from there with enthusiasm, along with many of his disciples, and arrived at Vrindavan, where he beheld Govindji with great love.
Beholding this form, the very source of happiness, he recognized it as KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary → manifest directly before him. The ascetic's mind was filled with wonder, his joy increasing, utterly absorbed.
Then, seating himself there in that place, Swami satsat1) True. Real. 2) Permanent, imperishable and unchanging. Is unbound by the past, the present, and the future.Tap to open in glossary → with his body held straight and steady. He recited the great treasure-mantras his guruguruA teacher. He will guide you on the path of kalyãn.Tap to open in glossary → had given him, reciting them silently within, without ceasing.
With his mind fixed one-pointedly, he recited the mantramantra1) A repeated word or phrase. 2) A sacred verbal phrase repeated in prayer, or meditation, such as ‘Swãminãrãyan’. Wicked people use mantras to cast evil curses.Tap to open in glossary → of Shri KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary →. At once an intense radiance manifested, and within it he beheld the Lord of Rama and Radha.
The charming form of KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary → - he attained his vision directly. A flute at his lips, two arms, dark and beautiful, the very dancer (Natvar) himself.
Ornaments adorned him, a crown upon his head, a VaijayantiVaijayantiUnique garland adorned by Bhagvãn and His avatãrs, generally depicted as reaching down to the feet. Made of five types of gems (rubies, pearls, sapphires, emeralds and diamonds – representing the five elements) and/or divine flowers that never wither.Tap to open in glossary → garland visible about his neck. Such was the Shri KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary → Swami beheld, and beholding him, his heart was filled with joy.
He beheld this radiant, sun-like form, and then Swami spoke, bowing his head, saying, "Blessed is this sweet and beautiful form; blessed, blessed is this merciful one to the humble.
He offered praise, becoming humble in his mind, standing before him in complete surrender, saying, "You have taken care of us; blessed, blessed is this merciful one to the humble.
You watch over your sadhus, and you take by the arm those of many names (your devotees); you never abandon them at any time - blessed, blessed is this merciful one to the humble.
You have taken this form out of love for your sadhus, caring for your own devotees; such is the treasury of compassion, the merciful one - blessed, blessed is this merciful one to the humble.
You cut away the sorrows of your servants, and grant them your gracious darshandarshanSeeing. To see with admiration and devotion. To see Bhagvãn, a sat-purush, and murtis, with inner or outer vision, with the intention of receiving their grace and blessings. By doing darshan properly a bhakta develops affection for Bhagvãn, and Bhagvãn develops affection for that bhakta. [Sãrangpur – 2].Tap to open in glossary →; you are the protector of your own people - blessed, blessed is this merciful one to the humble.
For the love of the people of Vraj, the King of Vraj came into Vraj, bringing happiness to the gopis and cowherds - blessed, blessed is this merciful one to the humble."
Thus Swami offered his praise, and hearing it, the Lord was pleased, saying, "Ask of me, Ramanand, whatever you wish; I shall fulfill it."
Then Swami said, "Let me have your vision whenever I remember you. And accept the offerings of my worship -
grant me this grace." He continued, "And let me remain however you wish me to remain; I am entirely at your refuge."
KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary → said, "You are Uddhav; you and I have both come here due to a curse. So establish a new tradition (sampradaya); from today I name you Uddhavi (of Uddhav's lineage)."
Saying this, he vanished from sight, and Swami awoke, filled with great joy. Having attained PurushottamPurushottamGod. Supreme being. Bhagvãn. He is unparalleled, omnipotent and the all-doer, omniscient, omnipresent, the ocean of all forms of bliss, does not have any attributes of Mãyã, divine, always taking birth on earth forTap to open in glossary → KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary →, Swami's purpose was now fulfilled.
From then on, whenever he held meditation, he would behold KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary → Bhagwan. And when he worshipped the image with love, he would behold Shri KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary → within it always.
Whatever worship-garland he offered, he would receive it as though offering it directly to Shri KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary → each time. Through this he attained supreme happiness and peace, and Swami's mind became utterly absorbed.
He remained a month in Vrindavan, and seekers of liberation there became his disciples. Then, recalling his guruguruA teacher. He will guide you on the path of kalyãn.Tap to open in glossary →'s command, he spread devotion to KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary → throughout the land.
Taking many disciples with him from there, he went joyfully to Prayag. There too he made many disciples, defeating all the debaters and false teachers himself.
He remained there for some months, and BhaktiBhaktiDevotion to Bhagvãn. One of the four attributes of ekãntik dharma. There are nine types of bhakti:Tap to open in glossary → and DharmaDharma1) Universal law or principle that 'sustains' or 'upholds' the entire world. Righteousness, morality, religion,Tap to open in glossary → both became his disciples there. I have already told this story earlier; all have heard it with devotion.
Then Swami, the teacher of the world, wandered to all the sacred places. From there he came to Raivatachal (Girnar), the place where KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary → sported.
He remained there one year, working for the liberation of seekers. Renunciates and householders, men and women, Swami saved countless numbers of them.
All who came became his disciples, and he had them practice devotion to KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary →. Whatever unrighteousness lay hidden within the path of his tradition,
he cut it out at its root, and spread devotion to KrishnaKrishna1) An avatãr of Bhagvãn. He incarnated in the svarup of a cowherd. This is considered to be a greater avatãr than the others, as Shree Krishna possessed all of the powers of Bhagvãn, whereas other avatãrs possessed less power. Shree Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Also, He recited the epic poem, the Bhagvad Geetã, to Arjun in which He stated: ‘Whenever dharma declines and adharma increases, I shall incarnate myself as a human to save the holy, to destroy the sin of the sinner, and to establish dharma. I come into being from yug to yug’. 2) In the Vachanãmrut, Shreeji Mahãrãj also uses the name “Shree Krishna” to describe Bhagvãn Purushottam Nãrãyan.Tap to open in glossary → widely. Such was Swami Ramanand - though he belonged to Ramanuja's lineage,
he did not hold love for others simply because they were followers of Ramanuja, saying, "These are not truly of Ramanuja's own tradition" - so he firmly held in his mind.
Such was Swami's account, told here purely for all to hear. Fifty of his sadhus, detached and indifferent to the world,
remained under Ramanandji's command, dwelling in the village of Loj. Among them was a sadhu named Sukhanand,
who came to the well to bathe, that virtuous one. There he beheld Nilkanth, and his mind became exceedingly absorbed.
Beholding him, both his eyes found rest, and he said, "I have never seen such a one as this." Then he bowed with humility, and spoke with the greatest humility,
saying, "Blessed ascetic, from where have you come? And where do you intend to go now? What great fortune to have your darshandarshanSeeing. To see with admiration and devotion. To see Bhagvãn, a sat-purush, and murtis, with inner or outer vision, with the intention of receiving their grace and blessings. By doing darshan properly a bhakta develops affection for Bhagvãn, and Bhagvãn develops affection for that bhakta. [Sãrangpur – 2].Tap to open in glossary → - beholding you, I have become purified.
The darshandarshanSeeing. To see with admiration and devotion. To see Bhagvãn, a sat-purush, and murtis, with inner or outer vision, with the intention of receiving their grace and blessings. By doing darshan properly a bhakta develops affection for Bhagvãn, and Bhagvãn develops affection for that bhakta. [Sãrangpur – 2].Tap to open in glossary → of one such as you does not come through little merit. It must be through the merit of some past birth that I have attained your darshandarshanSeeing. To see with admiration and devotion. To see Bhagvãn, a sat-purush, and murtis, with inner or outer vision, with the intention of receiving their grace and blessings. By doing darshan properly a bhakta develops affection for Bhagvãn, and Bhagvãn develops affection for that bhakta. [Sãrangpur – 2].Tap to open in glossary → today."
Thus in the Bhaktachintamani, composed by Nishkulanand MuniMuniSãdhu.Tap to open in glossary →, disciple of Shri Sahajanand Swami, the establisher of the exclusive path of devotion, ends the thirty-eighth chapter, named "The Account of Ramanand MuniMuniSãdhu.Tap to open in glossary →."