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Seekers often search for a Guru who can help them navigate the difficulties of life and spirituality in their pursuit of enlightenment. From the words "gum" (darkness) and "rauti" (one who dispels), the word "Guru" refers to a person who is able to free a person from the shackles of maya (illusion). But as easy as it may sound, using an initiatory mantra to achieve divine pleasure is not a straightforward process. Deep insights into this complex process are provided by Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj, who emphasizes the significance of heart purification and genuine devotion.
Understanding a True Guru
A true Guru can free his disciple from the clutches of maya. But this freedom does not happen just at the time of giving the initiatory mantra. According to Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj, the true journey begins with accepting a genuine Saint as your Guru sincerely and then diligently following the devotional practices instructed by the Guru.
The initiation mantra, which carries the power to impart supreme divine bliss, is given only when the heart of the disciple is completely purified. This purification is necessary because only a pure heart can fully access and benefit from the divine grace of the mantra. With this readiness, receiving the mantra is akin to trying to withdraw a large sum from a bank account with sufficient funds.
The Process of Purification
Purification of the heart is a meticulous process. It needs total surrender, discipline, and following the Guru’s instructions. Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj says spiritual qualification is most important. Just as one needs to pass BA to do LL.B. or have proper electrical fittings to connect to electricity, one needs to purify the heart to be eligible for the mantra.
This purification process includes the following:
Practice of Bhakti: Daily devotional practice as directed by the Guru.
Self-reflection: Constantly reflecting on your actions, thoughts, and intentions.
Service and Humility: Serving others unselfishly and maintaining humility in all circumstances.
Renunciation: a gradual withdrawal from material desires and a focus on spiritual growth.
The view of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a descendant of Lord Krishna, gave profound knowledge about the importance of submission. He declared that if they concentrated on purifying their hearts through devotion, they did not have to follow the initiation rites to attain divine bliss.
नो दीक्षां न च सत्क्रियां न च पुरश्चर्या मनागीक्षते ।
(Paddyavali)
This teaching suggests that divine grace and bliss can be bestowed upon those whose hearts are pure, regardless of whether they have received a formal initiatory mantra. Lord Chaitanya himself blessed many eligible devotees with divine bliss without an initiatory mantra, illustrating that purity of heart and true devotion are the ultimate keys.
The Seeker's Responsibility
Ultimately, the responsibility lies with the seeker. Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj teaches that all is possible if the seeker practices true devotion diligently and in the right manner. It is not the external rituals or formalities that grant divine bliss, but the sincere and unwavering devotion to purifying one's heart and following the Guru’s guidance.
Conclusion
The path to divine bliss is clear in the teachings of Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj: Accept the true Guru, follow his guidance with devotion, purify your heart, and be patient. The initiation mantra and its heavenly bliss will come when you are truly ready. Remember that the journey to spiritual enlightenment is a personal one, based largely on devotion, discipline, and the pursuit of purity of heart.
Radhe Radhe