In spiritual literature, there are innumerous spiritual books to guide devotion, but "Bhakti Ki Adharshila" by Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj stands as one of the few clear and perfect guides to devotion. "The Foundation of Devotion," the title itself, explains what this book is about: humility is the foundation on which a strong and lasting relationship with the divine is built. This is not just a belief system; it is a working guide for anyone who desires to build a relationship with God.
True devotion, according to "Bhakti Ki Adharshila," is neither majestic acts nor grand rituals. It is, rather, defined by humility, tolerance, and respect for all beings. Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj insists that the devotees chant, sing, and remember God in loving and affectionate ways every moment. Such concentration will work only with an attitude of humility, devoid of any pride or ego.
The book has relied upon the past spiritual masters mainly Gaurang Mahaprabhu who, over 500 years ago, gave attention to humbleness, forbearance, patience, and politeness while approaching the bhakti path. Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj also emphasized these sayings, according to which aspirants have to cultivate these virtues to travel on their own towards spirituality.
Why is humility paramount? "Bhakti Ki Adharshila" elucidates that God resides in the heart of every living being. Thus, if someone hurts another's feelings by word or deed, it becomes the gravest of sins. Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj states, "There exists no sin greater than causing pain to other beings." This realization helps them feel empathy and compassion towards all, compelling devotees to respect all beings and treat them kindly.
The book makes use of a heavy-duty analogy, which showcases how dangerous pride can be. Just as a pinch of salt can ruin the taste of an entire cake, so can just a trace of pride or ego dismantle the "palace of humility" and make all devotion crumble. Thus, it signifies the need for very constant vigilance to keep a humble heart.
Humility is not preached alone by "Bhakti Ki Adharshila." Rather, it prescribes practical prescriptions for its daily use. Following these principles and supporting practice by devotional deeds, aspirants develop these qualities over gradual time and move toward an end goal of eternal happiness. This requires active seeking of opportunities to do service to others, giving help while not counting on recognition, and forgiving those who have wronged us in this process.
Ultimately, "Bhakti Ki Adharshila" is a call to action. It challenges readers to search their own hearts and look for the marks of pride and ego that have made it difficult to make any significant progress on the spiritual journey. Through humility and love and showing respect and compassion to all living beings, one can construct a solid foundation that would endure a lifetime and prepare for life's happiness and connection to God.
This book serves to remind us that true devotion is never about the outward expression, but the inward change. It is concerned with forming a heart that is pure, humble, and filled with love for God and all creation. "Bhakti Ki Adharshila" is a guide that will always be relevant to the one who desires to undertake this great journey and forge a lasting relationship with God.