Saranagati - Witness the grace of the Lord

Jun 3rd, 2008 | By admin | Category: spiritual

Saranagati is a principle wherein one can witness the ultimate grace of the lord, even before realizing the true self or obtaining moksha. For instance, neither Vibheeshana nor Kubja, neither Kumbhakarana nor Akrura had complete realization. Yet, they were all accepted by the lord, and were blessed with boons. This was possible by following the path of Saranagati.

The 4 steps to Saranagati:
Gamanam, Arpanam, Yacanam, and Svikaram.

Approaching the Lord - Gamanam
The first step is approaching (gamanam) the Lord. Here, the we talk to the Lord and continue to communicate with him. It can be about anything like asking boons, wishing for welfare, or having any normal conversation. This regular communication develops into a personal relationship with the Lord in course of time. As a result, we get hope that we will be heard, and acquire faith in him.

Offering unto Him - Arpanam
The second step is offering. Each one of us definitely have something to offer the Lord. Some offer fruits, some donate money, and some do voluntary service. In this stage, we evolve from mere talking with the Lord, to offering him whatever we could. When the devotee offers to please the Lord, there is a desire in the Lord also to fulfil the needs of the devotee.

Praying to Him - Yacanam
We pray the Lord to bless us. The Lord may respond to our desires in different ways. Sometimes, he may grant the wish immediately. At other times, he may save the best for later. His methods are never understood by us because we are filled with our own desires. So, it is ideal to pray the Lord for his blessing, and request him to do whatever is best for us. The Lord is never a passive listener. He understands the devotee and shall uproot all his sorrows.

He Accepts - Svikaram
The final step is the acceptance of the Lord. The Lord bonds with the devotee’s heart in love and empathy (sahanubhuti).

Did you observe the slow transition from a layman’s communication with the Lord to witnessing the grace of the Lord. This is the knowledge and path proven by several devotees and well documented in the sacred texts.

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