Human Spiritual Structure: Devotion (Bhakti)
Notes in progress © 1998-2002 Alan McAllister  


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The practical importance of devotion in sadhana is that it is the essence of turning the mind inwards to our true Self. It is also love, joy, and happiness. Ideation on God (abhidhyana) has two stages: Pranidhana (the fifth niyama), basic meditation in which the vrttis are turned inwards, focused at a point, and channeled towards Paramapurusa using a mantra. The continued use of the mantra helps to purify the mind and carry it towards the Self by focusing the whole mind on that goal. The second stage is Anudhyana, which is comprised of dharana and dhyana. Here one has to chase after the Lord with the mind. With devotion comes love or bliss.

In the pursuit of true devotion two things are necessary, first the conversion of passion into love, in which brahmacarya is essential, and second to do service work, to help to bring all other beings towards Consciousness. This may initially mean helping them with mundane needs, such as food, shelter, medical care, clothing etc.

Stages of Devotion (Bhakti)

Attributional devotion has three types:

Non-attributional devotion (nirguna bhakti) has two types:

When the devotee is permanently absorbed in the Lord, wishing nothing in return, only to give pleasure, this is called Kevala Bhakti. This is a state that requires divine grace.

It is said that karma, jinana, and bhakti (action, knowledge, and devotion) are all paths to God. Actually it is devotion which carries us to the goal, but action and knowledge are also necessary for supporting ourselves and doing service in the world. However, unless they are suffused with devotion, they can lead to pride and other pitfalls. Baba has said that karma - jinana = bhakti, that karma should always exceed jinana, although jinana is necessary for performing karma, also for performing sadhana.

There is an intimate connection between devotion and surrender. See also the discussion of non-attachment.

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Last updated March 2, 1998. AHM.
© Alan McAllister

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