Gita Sāra 14 - ये यथा मां प्रपद्यन्ते तांस्तथैव भजाम्यहम्

Bhagavad Gita offers a clear insight into the difference between the Jīvātma and Paramātma. Despite the Jīvātma's many lifetimes, it remains unaware of his past existences. The continuous cycle of birth and death subjects Jīvātma to a range of experiences, both joyful and sorrowful. In stark contrast, the incarnations of the Paramātma arise purely out of compassion, displaying divine attributes like wisdom, bliss, and eternal power, free from any shortcomings. Recognizing the disparity between the Jīvātma's journey and Paramātma's manifestations unveils a natural separation.

Shri Krishna further elucidates the distinction between those who have attained enlightenment through the path of Karma Yoga and others. The enlightened souls are distinguished by their unwavering dedication to Shri Hari, their devotion transcending the boundaries of mundane desires. Their commitment remains unblemished by worldly ambitions, They refrain from pursuing trivial rewards from various Devatās, for their hearts are set on a higher pursuit. It is their steadfast allegiance to Shri Hari that earns them the title of "Bhāgavatās".

Frequently, we encounter individuals who, propelled by desires for worldly gains, involve themselves in the worship of various Devatās, occasionally recollecting Shri Hari. Such individuals often fall into the category of "Trividyās". Despite their devotion to Shri Hari, their grasp of His profound significance remains fragmented. Their devotion lacks the profoundness needed to seamlessly integrate it into the tapestry of their lives. In their pursuits, they often overlook the omnipotent nature of Vishnu, erroneously attributing actions either solely to themselves or to other Devatās. This delusion of independence both within themselves and within the Devatās leads them astray.

The one who bestows even the smallest rewards we receive from worshiping any Devatā is none other than Shri Hari Himself! The Supreme Brahman exists as the singular entity and is omnipresent within all Devatās through their forms and names. He orchestrates actions as the Antaryāmi and is worshiped and revered by all. Yet, all homage and offerings made are ultimately dedicated to that supreme personality Shri Krishna.

People who worship with desires for worldly rewards, even without realizing it, are unknowingly moving towards Shri Krishna. They offer their devotion without understanding that the very thing they revere is the Paramātma Himself. While they might not reach the highest spiritual achievements of knowledgeable devotees, Shri Krishna acknowledges their sincerity by granting their modest wishes. When the individual's inner nature is Sātvika, and their devotion shifts from other Devatās to Vishnu. Even their desire-fueled devotion is solely focused on Vishnu and not spread among other Devatās. When seeking blessings from Rudrādi Devatās or Gurus, they acknowledge that these entities are servants of Vishnu and that their desires are fulfilled through Vishnu's grace. In essence, even though their worship might be driven by personal desires, their unintentional movement towards Shri Krishna is a result of their genuine dedication. Shri Krishna, being the embodiment of compassion, responds to their authenticity by fulfilling their humble wishes.

श्रीमध्वेशकृष्णार्पणमस्तु

To be continued.

Image courtesy- Vid. Shishira Jois