HRASVABHAGAVATHAM - CANTO - 11 -PART -1

                                                              CANTO  -11
                                             
                                                एकादश स्कन्ध:

INTRODUCTION
The quality or लक्षण of this Canto is मुक्ति:( Liberation ) .This is explained in Canto-2 as-मुक्तिर्हित्वान्यथारूपं स्वरूपेण व्यवस्थिति: ॥ (२-१० -६ ) (2-10-6) .This explained in the commentaries as:

The jivas or souls are covered by Maya or Avidya.(Illusion and duality-thinking that jivatma and paramatma to be different identities). When this duality is removed, and the jiva realises that his real Form is Brahman,meaning that when the jiva is merged in Brahman, that state is called "mukthi' -मुक्तिर्हित्वान्यथारूपं स्वरूपेण व्यवस्थिति: ॥ .

Sri Vishvanatha Chakravarti expresses his opinion as- that when the jiva attains the state of the follower of Bhagavan in Vaikunta is called "mukthi"( Dvaitha or Vishishtadvaitha Vedanta).

Another explanation in the commentary Bala Prabodhini is ;

This is from SriVallabhacharya's " Shudhdha Krishnadvaitam " point of view.

In other terms - ' mukthi' is the liberation from repeated births and deaths for the 'jiva'. This canto describes the methods.

There are Two Prakaranas or Topics in this Canto.

1) chapters 1 to 29- Jiva Mukthi Prakaranam

2) chapters 30 and 31 - Brahma Mukthi Prakaranam

The division of the Jiva Mukthi Prakaranam can further be sub- divided into two parts.
1) Brahma Bhava Prakaranam - Chapters 1 to5
2) Sayujya Prakaranam - Chapters 6 to 29
This classification is according to Bala Prabodhini.
In order to get the liberation, there are TWO PATHS - BHAKTHI MARGA AND JNAMARGA भक्ति मार्ग: & ज्ञान मार्ग: They are different approaches . The Bhakthi Marga can be practised by any one. See the Table below:

                                                            भक्ति: व ब्रह्मविद्या वैलक्ष्ण्ं

                         DIFFERENCES BETWEEN BHAKTI MARGA & JNANA MARGA

भक्ति:- Bhakthi	ब्रह्मविद्या - Brahmavidya
द्रुतिपूर्विका भगवत् आकारकारिता सविकल्प वृत्तिरूपा भक्ति: Bhakti - Although the jiva differniates Bhagavan yet when he meditates on His Saguna Form with his heart and mind influenced by His leelas and nature and directed towards Him with love and affection.	अद्रुतिपूर्विका अद्वितीय आत्मामात्र गोचरा निर्विकल्प वृत्तिरूपा The Vedanta Shastra prescribes that the jiva should develop Knowledge to know the Paramatma and should not differntiate between Jivatma and Paramatma.
भगवत्त् गुणगरिम ग्रन्थनरूप ग्रन्थश्रवणादि भक्ति साधनं Methodology for BHAKTHI of BhakthiBy hearing and narration of the stories and leelas from the epics such as Ramayanam, SrimadBhagavatham. By chanting His names, By paricipating in Bhajans. The Nine forms of Bhakthi are the paths leading to its development	तत्त्वमस्यादि महावाक्यश्रवणादि ब्रह्मविद्या साधनं The person who wants to follow the path presribed in VEDANTA should get the KNOWLEDGE OF THE MAHA VAKYAS FROM A GURU and do meditation and Mananam. Or the person in this Marga should have Anubandha Chatushtayam  and Sadhana Chatushtayam.
भगवत् विषयिक प्रेम प्रकर्षो भक्ति फलं When the jiva develops pure love andaffection towards Bhagavan - Prema Bhakthi ( as one who has love towards his wife or her husband) and development of such intense love is the benefit accrued in Bhakthi Marga	सर्वान् अर्थमूल अज्ञान निवृत्ति: ब्रह्मविद्याफलं When the person following this path gets into a position when HIS IGNORANCE is completely removed. This is the benefit that accrues to the follower
प्राणिमात्रस्य भक्तौ अधिकार: There ii no prescribed qualification to follow this Bhakthi Marga. Anybody who is born can follow this path to reach Bhagavan. There are no restrictions. Any man, woman, young or old,virtuous or a sinner,educated or uneducated,-any body can develop Bhakthi	साधन चतुष्टय सम्पन्नस्य एव ब्रह्मविद्यायामधिकार: Only who have reached a stage by following the four fold requirements.such as 1)Niya, Anitya Vastu Vivekam 2) total detachment and uncocern about the fruits of the actions 3)Acquiring 6 fold qualities such as Shama, Dama ,Uparathi,Tithiksha,Samadhanam and Shradhdha 4) Desire to get liberation-Moksha Only these persons who possess these four qualities can follow the path prescribed in Vedanta Shastra

भक्तिर्ब्रह्मविद्या एव -स्वरूप ,साधन ,फल ,अधिकारि वैलक्षण्यात्

Now to Hrasva Bhagavatham.

                          1

भूम्नः संकल्पमात्रात् परिहसितमुनीन्द्राभिशापोरुभीता

अब्धौ साम्बस्य गर्भोद्भवमुसलमरम् चिक्षिपुश्चूर्णयन्तः।

वृष्णिश्रेष्ठा न चोचुर्हरिमिदमथ तच्चूर्णजालं तरंगैर्-

नीतम् तीरे प्ररूढं यदुकुलजमहानाशमूलं बभूव।।

Meaning: Bhagavan Sri Krishna decided that His Yadava race should be annihilated. He achieved this through the cures by the Great Maharishis on the Yadavas, who tried to play mischievous jokes on them.When the Great Maharishis - Vishvamitra, Asitha,Kanva,Durvasa,Bhrigu, Angiras,Kashyapa,Vamadeva,Atri, Vashishta,and Narada and others- had assembled at a place called Pindaraka. The sons of the Yadavas disguised Samba- as a pregnant woman- and went to the sages and asked them -" This woman is pregnant and ashamed to ask all of you. You are Great Sages and can see the future very well. She is desirous of having a son. Whom will she deliver a male child or a female child? So please tell as to what will happen? ". On hearing this the sages became angry as they could foresee the truth and considered this question to be a mischievous joke. They cursed that she (he) would deliver a pestle ( musala-मुसलं ) - an iron pestle and that would be the cause of ruin of your entire race. Then all of them were terrified on hearing this curse. Indeed Samba delivered an iron pestle. They took it with them and related the story to all Yadavas. Ahuka - the chief of the clan- then ordered the pestle to be grounded down to the powder and the powder be thrown into the sea.This was done but a portion remained. And this portion also was thrown into the Sea.. A fish swallowed that iron piece. A fisherman caught that fish and made two spears of the iron found in that fish.The powdered iron grains were carried by the waves to the coast and there they grew into reeds -"Eraka". Krishna knew about all these happenings. But He did not attempt or do any thing to counter the effects of the curse of the sages.Since He was the form of Time. He accepted and approved this curse - as He desired the ruin of Yadavas.

Commentary:Krishna annihilated all the wicked, with the association and help from Balarama. There was a mass destruction through the "Kurukshetra War ".After this, Krishna thought that the Yadava Race had become formidable and their strength had become unbearable to the Earth. He thought that since the Yadavas had surrendered themselves to Krishna but had become proud of their unrestricted opulence. As no outside force can destroy them, Krishna wanted to inspire a quarrel within the Yadava dynasty and this quarrel would act like a friction in a bamboo forest would generate fire and that fire would destroy the entire forest.Then He would have achieved the purpose of His incarnation and would return to Vaikunta.

For getting liberation one should have " vairagya -वैराग्य ". Krishna wanted to return to Vaikunta after His mission on the Earth was over.So He had developed Vairagya- a total detachment. Hence the curse of the sages. The lesson for others is that as a first step one should have 'vairagya " for attainig the liberation

                          2

शौरिर्नारदमाह - ""मे वद परान् धर्मान् यतः सद्गतिः''

स प्रत्याह - "पुराƒƒर्षभाः कविमुखाः प्राप्ताश्च सत्रं निमे: ।

पृष्टाः प्राहुरिमे- "हरे: पदयुगं ध्यायन् निरुन्धन् मनः

शृण्वन् भागवतीः कथाश्च कथयन् प्रोच्चैरभीतो भवेत्।।

Meaning: When Dwaraka was being protected by Krishna, Narada visited Dwaraka to meet Krishna.Once Vasudeva paid his respects to Narada Maharishi and asked him-" Kindly tell us all the Dharmas,-by practising which we may attain liberation of the recurrence of births and deaths (in fact Bhagavatha Dharma- भागवतान् धर्मान्) ".Narada replied -" In the ancient time-very long ago, the Rishis of the Bharatha Varsha went to Nimi;s place where they were performing an Yajna.Of the sons of Rishabha, nine became wellversed in Atma Vidya. Their names Kavi,Hari,Anthariksha,Prabudhdha,Pippalayana,Avirhotra,

Drumila,Chamasa and Karabhajana (these were nine yogishwaras). They went there. Nimi asked these nine yogis about the Bhagavatha Dharma " They taught those Dharma to him .
They told-" When one meditates the Lotus Feet of Hari,control all his organs and mind by practices. hear the stories and sports of Hari with faith and also narrating them loudly and chanting His names and also His stories and thus leading his life will become fearless in life"
Commentary: The nine yogis are:

On being asked by Nimi about the Bhagavatha Dharma, Kavi-one among them replied first.  His reply in brief- "These Bhagavatha Dharma consist of those expedients that are mentioned by Bhagavan Himself (for those who are not wise), for the speedy acquisition of Self Knowledge ( आत्म विद्या ).In following this path one is not overcome by the obstacles ( as in the path of yoga). One can follow this path with closed eyes without any fear of falling or losing steps. Then what is that path? Whatever one does with his body, mind and speech or the senses or the intellect or with the sense of I-ness that acts , let him offer or dedicate all of them to Supreme Narayana . He can come over the Maya , by listening to the Incarnations of Vishnu and His blessed deeds,chanting His names with faith,Singing His songs without any uneasiness and unmindful of the surroundings. Then roam over the earth free from all worldly attachments . The Bhagavatha sees everywhere and in every thing in this universe as the form of Vishnu. He develops Bhakthi towards Vishnu (attachment) but detachment to all other mundane matters and things". Then Nimi asked - " What are the charecteristics of a Bhaghavatha and by what are the signs by which a Bhagavatha is known? ".

To this question, Hari- another yogi replied- " There are three type of Bhaghavathas- 1) He is a uttama (उत्तम भागवत )- who sees Bhgavatha in all beings as his own self and sees all things in the Bhaghavat within himself 2) he is the middle order of Bhagavatha who bears love towards Ishwara, kindness towards His dependents and friendship and kindness towards the ignorants,indifference towards his enemies (these are in the next class ) 3) One who worships the image of Vishnu-Hari,but has no regard for His Bhakthas or devotees and other beings is only a beginner as Bhaktha.
The highest Bhagavatha does not know "Mine" and "Thine (Yours ) " either in wealth or body. He looks upon all beings with equal eyes.His mind is always at peace.Even for the sake of three lokas, the Vaishnava will not forget the Lotus feet of Hari. He is the Greatest of all Bhagavathas , to whose heart Hari is bound down by the tie or bond of LOVE"

   3

भक्ताः प्राकृतमध्यमोत्तमतया त्रेधा, तितीर्षुहरे:

मायां सद्गुरूमाश्रितो हरिपदं चाध्यात्मशास्त्रं पठन् ।

नो कुर्वन् परनिन्दनं च सुमना ध्यायन् परं ब्रह्म तत्-

प्रीत्यर्थम् विहितं करोतु सकलं कर्म स्वयं निःस्पृहः।।

Meaning: The Bhakthas or devotees are classified into three groupa as -1) Superior 2) of the middle order 3) a beginner. He who wants to get rid of Maya (Illusion ),he should approach a qualified Guru and he should surrender himself to the Lotus Feet of Hari.With a pure heart and mind (casting and totally getting rid of anger and other qualities which inhibit a peaceful mind),he should meditate on the "BRAHMAN " . He should not condemn others or speak or think ill of others. He should not covet any thing. He should perform "Karma " or act only to please Hari. In other words he should practise "NISHKAMA KARMA"

Commentary : Yogi Hari's reply was explained in the previous verse2 . In this chapter 3, Nimi raises four questions about Bhagavatha Dharma after hearing from Hari. The 4 questions are answered by -Anthariksha,Prabudhdha, Pippalayana and Avirhotra.

The questions are : 1) What is then this Maya of Bhagavan (Bhagavat )?-To this question Antariksha replied -"Maya of Bhagavan is that causes the creation, preservation or sustenance and final dissolution of this universe.

2) How can one whose mind is not controlled and who is of dull understanding ,easily get over or cross over this Maya?

To this Prabudhdha replied and gave a detailed account of " BHAGAVATHA DHARMA".

The essentials are mentioned here. One has to read this chapter of the Purana -verses 18 to 33.

Have a recourse to a Guru who knows the Truth and whose mind is fixed on 'Brahman" .Learn the भागवतान् धर्मान् from him.. Practise non-attachment.Keep the company of Sahus and Bhagavathas.Be kind to your inferiors,friendly to your equals be obedient ant respectful to your elders.Keep your body and mind pure.Regulate your life with fixed routine and rules.Have forgiveness.Do not indulge in idle uth always.gossip.Read the Sared Texts.Be harmless to all beings (practise Ahimsa ).Bear good and evil,pleasure and pain.with equanimity.See Atma and Ishvara everywhere. Be content with anything and every thing.Have faith in the BHAGAVATHA SHASTRA. Speak truth always. Control your inner and outer senses.Hear,Recite , and Meditate on the deeds and Avatharas of Hari. Inthe company of Bhagavathas,interchange devotion and love. Let your mind be fixed in the thoughts of "Achyutha " always.

3) How can one be fixed in devotion to NARAYANA?

To this Pippalayana replied- When through the desire of attaining the Lotus Feet of Narayana,one has a strong or true devotion or Bhakthi. Then the impurities of one's mind are totally destroyed. When the mind is purified,it becomes fixed in " Atma "

4) Nimi then asked the yogis to tell him about Karma Yoga कर्म योग: - by yhe performance of which the Karma is easily destroyed ?

To this question Avirhotra replied - Vedic Karma does not directly lead one to moksha मोक्षम्.

Perform all actions without any worldly attachment ,practise निष्काम कर्म योग:. Dedicate all your actions and the fruits thereof to Narayana's Lotus Feet..

He who wants to cut the 'Ahankara अहंकारं should worship Vishnu as per tthe procedures of Agamas or Tantras.

4

बिभ्रद्ररूपाण्यरूपो नट इव विविधान्यच्युतो धर्मपुत्रौ

भूत्वा नारायणाख्ये नर इति च बदर्याश्रमे तापसेन्द्र:।

कामक्रोधादि जित्वा निजयुवतिगणैर् मोहयन् दिव्ययोषित्-

कामादीनन्वगृह्णात्, भजतु हरिमिमं स्वीयरीत्या मनुष्यः।।

Meaning : As an actor in a drama assumes different roles in the stage , but who remains without any Form , Bhagavan Vishnu had incarnated as NARAYANA and NARA -and were born as the sons of Dharma Deva and Murthi (Daughter of Daksha Prajapathi ). They went to Badarikashrama and performed penance. They conquered - Kama (Desire ), Krodha (Anger ) ,Lobha ( Greed ), Moha , Mada (Pride ) Matsarya (Jealousy). When Indra wanted to disturb them during the penance out of jealousy, Narayana produced a beautiful apsara -by name Urvashi -from His thighs(Indra sent celestial damsels to see that both of them are disturbed and stop the performance of the penance ).Narayana and Nara thus made the celestial damsels and Manmatha (Kama Deva who was also sent by Indra ) -dumb founded and were therefore ashamed on seeing Urvashi.When they expressed regret for their folly, Narayana and Nara excused t and blessed them. They took Urvashi to the heaven. Any person born as a human being, should worship Hari according to his nature, taste, and capacity.In other words, he should propitiate Narayana as best as he can and worship Him.
Commentary : Nimi's next question was - " Tell me about the Avatharas of Vishnu and His deeds in each of them ", Drumila gave the details of the various Avatharas ( Incarnations ) and His deeds in them. He described Narayana and Nara Avathara in detail first and gave a short account of other Incarnations.

 5

कुर्वन् काम्यानि कर्माण्यपि हरिविमुखो भक्तनिन्दाघभारात्

क्लिश्यत्येवै,ति तुष्टिम् खलु कलिसमये रामकृष्णेति गायन्;।

जायेरन् भक्तवर्या द्रविडभुवि कलावार्षभैरेवमुक्तं

""कृष्णं सर्वेशमाराधय नियतमनाः सर्वमुक्तो भवे' ति ।।

Meaning: If a person performs "Karma " - with a view to get fruits of his actions and is not inclined towards Hari ( ignoring Hari) - acquires only sins due to ignoring Hari and His Devotion and this results in getting mired in difficulties ,unhappiness and sorrow.In Kali Yuga, persons who chant the names of Hari - as 'Rama' and 'Krishna' are fully satisfied. In this Kali Yuga many Great Bhakthas will be born in Dravida Desha. (South India). The sons of Rishabha- the Nine Yogis -said - " You consider Krishna as 'SARVESHVARA' and worship Him. Control your mind and you will be liberated from all bondages "

Commentary: Nimi's next question was - " What is the destiny of those who do not worship Hari and also those who can not control their mind and their senses ? "

Chamasa- one of the nine yogis -replied -" They enter the regions of Darkness (Tamas). These people do not follow 'Sva Dharma'.They are not inclined to hear Hari Katha or chant His names.They ridicule who are the Bhakthas of VISHNU.They commit sins of all kinds. The result of these actions lead them to go to the hell and never get liberation. They turn away from Vasudeva.Thus committing all sins they enter the darkest regions -meaning hells "

Nimi asked his final question -" In what colours and forms does Vishnu appear in each yuga and in what names and the procedures and rules is He worshipped in this world by the humans? "

To this question Karabhajana replied _ " In Satya Yuga - His colour -White Worshipped as- Brahmachari-Names- Hamsa,Suparna Vaikunta Parmatma and other names.

In Treta Yuga- Red- Yajna- Hari- Names-Vishnu,Yajna, PrishniGarbha,Urukrama,Vrushakapi, Jayantha and other names

In Dvapara Yuga - Shyama ( Yellow )- Purusha- Worship by Vedic and Tantric methods. Names-Vasudeva, Sankarshana,Pradyumna, Anirudhdha, Narayana, Vishveshvara and others .

In Kali Yuga-Krishna Varna (Black )- As Rama and Krishna-By chanting His names and singing His songs which glorify Him and also by yajnas and sacrifices .

In this Kali Yuga all the perfections in life can be achieved by performance of sankirtana. In this Yuga many devotees (Bhakthas ) will be born in the Dravida Desha. Therefore Surrender yourself to the Lotus Feet of Hari. Such a person is dear to Hari. Once He is seated in the heart immeditely takes away the reactions to the sins even if committed by such souls unconsciously. "

After they responded to his questions and answered to his satisfactions, Nimi worshiped the nine Yogishwaras and afterwards, they disappeared. Vasudeva and Devaki heard this story from Narada. They realised that Krishna As Isvara and Paramatma and they acquired wisdom ( Jnana ).

6

ब्रह्माद्यैर् दिविषद्भिरीडितयशाः कृष्णो यदून् प्राह - ""भो

मोक्षार्थ मुनिशापतो वयमितो यामः प्रभासं जवात्।

श्रुत्वैतत् तु जगत्प्रभुं यदुजना हित्वा च तीर्थं 
धीमन्तं शरणागतं सविनयं प्रोचे हरिस्तूध्दवम्।।

Meaning: Then Brahma,Shiva and the Sages and the Devas came to Dwaraka to see Krishna and offered their prayers to Him . Brahma then requested Krishna to return to Vaikunta as the purpose of His Avathara was almost over ,by removing the burden of the Earth and restoring Dharma again in it.Krishna replied that although the burden of the Earth had been removed, he would ensure the destruction of Yadava Kula which had become formidable and unbearable to the Earth,After this work was completed He would return to His abode. Brahma and others returned to their abodes thereafter.

Then seeing the calamities, Krishna told all the Yadavas that in order to get liberated from the curse of the Great Rishis, they should go to Prabhasa Kshtra- which was a sacred and a pious one.The moment they heard Krishna asking them to go to Prabhasa, all of them left their homes and went to Prabhasa. They were making preparations and arrangements for going to Prabhasa. .The most intelligent,and humble UDHDHAVA surrendered himself to Krishna and told Him.

Commentary: Brahma told Krishna that all those prayed for by Him had been done,and as 125 years had passed away after Krishna incarnated in the lineage of Yadus, and as that race also was well nigh extinguished and therefore Brahma requested Him to return to Vaikunta. Krishna replied that the extinction of Yadavas 
had commenced with the curse of Rishis and that HE would remain in the Earth till it was completely brought about.There were signs of calamity. The elders approached Krishna and sought His advice. Krishna proposed a pilgrimage to Prabhasa. So Yadavas made preparations to go to Prabhasa.
Uddhava saw the evil omens and he also heard what Krishna said.He went to Krishna and said-" I am sure that You will leave the Earth as soon as Yadavas are destroyed.I can not miss You even for half a moment. So take me to Your own abode " Krishna replied-" It is true as you say.On the 7 th day from now ,Dwaraka will be drowned in the ocean.As soon as Ileave the Earth, Kali Yuga would take over, and the subjects shall become unrighteous.It is not proper for you to remain here. So give up all and make yourself free from all the attachments and bondage.Roam over this Earth,with your mind fixed on Me , looking on all beings with equal vision" Uddhava then said to Krishna-" O Lord of Yoga ! What You say is for my final bliss is a complete Renunciation (Sanyasa Yoga). It appears to me that it is not an easy task , unless my mind is totally devoted to You. I have not yet got over the sense of "I" AND "MINE" . Tell me as to how I can easily follow Your teachings"
What Krishna was going to teach Uddhava from the next chapter 7 to chapter 29 forms the main "UDDHAVA GEETHA". Krishna then started to teach His favourite friend Uddhava in privacy.

 7

नश्येद् द्वारवती जवाद्, यदुकुलं चापि व्रजाम्येष, मां

स्मत्वा गां विचारस्व, दृश्यमखिलं चावेहि मायामयं;।

धीमन्! विप्रमुखात् पुरा यदुरिव श्रेयःपथं मच्छृणु,

क्षित्यम्ब्वादिगुरुपशिक्षिततितिक्षाद्यैर भवेस्तापसः।।

Meaning: "The Yadavas and Dwaraka will be destroyed soon.I am leaving all of them and will be going to My abode.You meditate on Me constantly and roam about the Earth.You understand that this universe what you see is an illusion.O 1 Intelligent Uddhava! What Yadu heard from the brahmana previously about the path to attain "moksha', I will narrate it to you now. Considering and learning from the Earth,Water,and others as Gurus , learn the forbearance and other qualities needed and contemplating on them , become an ascetic "

Commentary: The discussion between Krishna and Uddhava had been mentioned in the commentary of the previous verse 6.

Krishna said to Uddhava -" Generally,those who are skilful in discrimination ,rescue the Self from the worldly desires by means of Self ( by means of the self discrimination alone without the help of a GURU) .Self is the instructor of Self in a Purusha( man ).For it is Self that finds out final bliss by direct perception and by inferences.Wise men well versed in Sankhya Yoga recognize Me as the Purusha, prevailing in all beings and possessing all powers.Man is dear to Me compared to the other creatures.Those who meditate on Me with fixed devotion find Me. In the matter of self-instruction, hear the story of an AVADHUTHA (an ascetic,who is completely removed of all worldly attachments and connections - sanyasa ), who instructed Yadu (when Yadu asked him as to how he- the Avadhutha could get a clear spiritual vision by which he was able to give up all the attachments and roam on the earth like a child without any concern or worry whatsoever) that he learnt the methods from the various 24 Gurus. They are - Earth, Air, Akasha (sky),Water,Fire, the Moon, the Sun,the pigeon,pythons, the ocean, the insect, the bee, the elephant, the collector , of the honey,the deer, the fish,Pingala ( a woman of loose morals),the osprey (kurara) , the child, the maid , the maker of arrows, serpents,the spider and the wasp. From these 24 Gurus he learnt one quality in each of them - by which an ascetic could lead a well contented life."

In the chapter 7, the first 8 Gurus are described. In the chapter 8, the other 9 Gurus are described. In the chapter 9, the remaining 7 Gurus are described .

 8

गंभीरापारपूर्णों जलाधिरिव भवेस्तुष्टचित्तो यदृच्छा-

लाभेन  स्या महासर्पव;दमितरसावेशतो मत्स्यवच्च।

मृत्युं मा गच्छ, बद्धो भव न च करिणीस्पर्शलुब्धेभवत्; स्या

निस्संगःपिंगलावत् सकलविषयतो निः स्पृहत्वात् सुखी च।।

Meaning: The Avadhutha said-" I learnt tranquility and calmness from the ocean , as it is never affected by receiving water from various rivers.- its level remains the same and is never disturbed. I learnt contentment from the Big Snake (Ajagara-python ) , because it never goes after its prey. It remains in one place and is satisfied with whatever prey comes to it. I learnt from the fish that the tastes of the tongue should be conquered. Because the fish gets killed when tempted by a bait.I learnt from the elephant that an ascetic should avoid woman's company. As a male elephant , when it desires the company of a female elephant, is killed by a stronger elephant.Or, an elephant is controlled by the female elephant when it desires physical association. I learnt from Pingala (a courtesan in Vidheha) that by giving up all hopes, desires and expectations in life one is happy. When desires overtake a person he is unhappy.Because after giving up all desires and hopes and expectations she became happy "

Commentary: In this chapter 8, the Avadhutha describes nine (9) Gurus and what was learnt by him from each of them. Only 5 of them are described in brief in this verse. For details please read the chapter 8 of the Purana.

   9

निश्चिन्तो बालवत् स्या; वलय इव कुमार्याश्च निश्शब्दयोगी

वर्तस्वैकाग्रबुद्धिः परमिषुकृदिव ब्रह्मणीदं यतोƒभूत्।

ऊर्ण्णवाप्यूर्णनाभेर्  भवति परपदप्राप्तये मर्त्यजन्म

स्रष्टा वृक्षाद्यतुष्ट: किल विधिरभवन्मर्त्यसृष्ट्या च तुष्टः।।

Meaning: The Avadhutha continued -" I learnt the self- contentment from a child.The child has no sense of honour or dishonour.It is self contented and it plays with self. I roam like a child without any worry whatsoever. The child is however ignorant. But the sages cross the limit of the three gunas.I learnt solitariness from a maid. When the maid was pounding some grains, she found that the bangles made noise. As she went on breaking the bangles till only one of them remained in one hand , then the noise stopped. To be a solitary person in this world in solitude is good for an ascetic. The maker of the arrows concentrates on his work till satisfactory completion of the making perfect arrows. I learnt from him that concentration of the mind is essential to reach the goal attaining the bliss of Brahman. The spider from himself spreads out a thread, plays with it for some time and finally swallows it. I learnt from the spider that it is Narayana- from whom this universe is created, preserved and draws the whole creation at the end of a Kalpa. This body of a human (meaning that the birth as a human ) is meant for getting the liberation of recurrence of the births and deaths -getting "moksha". After BRAHMA created the trees, animals, birds and other creations , He was not satisfied till He created the "man "As this human birth is a rare phenomenon and is obtained after many, many births.Only this human birth affords an opportunity to get the liberation "mukthi". So a human being should endeavour to utilise the opportunity to get the liberation " Krishna concluded His narration of the episode of Avadhutha and told Uddhava that Yadu hearing the words from the ascetic became free from all material attachment and his mind was evenly fixed on the spritual path.

Commentary In this chapter 9, the remaining Seven -7 Gurus and what was learnt by the ascetic is described. For details , read this chapter.

 

  10

हित्वा कर्म प्रवृत्तं मयि निहितमनाः कर्म कुर्वन् यमादी-

नभ्यस्वैको गुरूपासननिरतमतिर्निर्ममोƒमत्सरश्च।

लोकः पुण्यार्जितो नश्वर इति च विदन् दारूणोƒग्निर् यथाƒन्यो

देहादेर् भिन्न आत्मा स्वदृगिति च सखे सर्वमुक्तो भव त्वम्।।

Meaning: Krishna continued -" O! My Friend ! You abandon those actions which lead to the recurrence of the births and deaths- meaning not to undertake Kamya Krama and Nishidhdha Karma.You devote your mind to Me and dedicate all actions to Me.Practise Yama constantly, and also Niyama .Devotedly follow one Guru who knows Me and is full of Me,being calm and quiet at heart and mind.. Be humble and have no envy and free from the sense of "Mineness" and strong in friendship towards your Guru. The worlds you acquired through your virtuous actions are perishable.As the Fire is different from the firewood , Atma also is different from the body.The Atma is neither the gross body or subtle body.It is the self illuminated Seer.One should learn Atma Vidya from the Guru. Knowing the Atma will liberate you from all bondages "

Commentary: Krishna mentions that the actions are four fold- 1) Kamya Karma 2) Nishidhdha Karma 3) Nitya Karma 4) Naimittika Karma. The first two are "Pravirtika Karma"- which lead to recrrence of the births and deaths. They should be avoided. The latter two are "Nivritta Karma" -which lead to moksha and non performance of which one may incur sins. Smritis say that those who want moksha or liberation must not perform Prvritta Karma.Ahimsa, Satya, Astheya, Brahmacharya, Aparigraha-These are Yamas and pracitsed constantly. This material world or wealth is perishable Atma is Swayamprakasha. Atma is different from the body. For the details please read the chapter 10

Uddhava asked as how a jiva is said to be bound by the three gunas and yet he is said to be not bound by them.He asked Krishna to explain the signs and symptoms by which one can find out as to if a jiva is bound by the gunas or liberated from them. The answer is given by Krishna in the next chapter.

                          11

बन्धो मोक्षोƒपि जीवस्य न; यदि स "करोमी'ति" भोक्ताह'मित्थं

मन्वानो बद्ध एव; प्रकृतिरिह करोतीति जानन् स मुक्तः।

कर्ता भोक्ता न चाहं प्रकृतिरनुभवत्येव दुःखं सुखं चे-

त्येतज्ज्ञानाप्तये मां स्मर भज सततं; साधुसंगं च कुर्याः।।

Meaning:Krishna said-" In fact the jiva is nether bound or liberated. Only when the jiva has a false sense of feeling that " I do this act" " I am the enjoyer ", the jiva is bound the samsara. When the jiva realises that it is the "Prakruthi" which performs all actions and the "Purusha " is independent , the jiva is liberated .To get the Knowledge that it is the " Prakruthi" which performs all actions and experiences the sorrow or happiness and the 'Atma ' or "Purusha " is independent and not a doer -such as ' I am not a doer ' ' I am not the enjoyer'- one 

should meditate on Me constantly and do devotional service to Me. Have the company of Sadhus always '.

Commentary:So long as the jiva is dependent on others , it has fear from Ishvara.Those who worship guna transformations are given up to sorrow and they become deluded . ( This is the result of the association with the three gunas by the jiva) - see verse 33 of chapter 10. Then Uddhava asked as to how to differntiate between one who is bound by the gunas or liberated from them.

Krishna answered that in reality the jiva is neither bound or liberated. It is these gunas that are either bound or liberated. The " Atma " is a Nitya Muktha - always liberated. So when the jiva influenced by the Prakruthi ,he feels that "I am a doer'. To get rid of this illusion one should dedicate his mind to Vishnu.One should perform actions without expecting any fruits thereof..Always should hear His stories and perform actions only for the sake of Hari.Have association of Sadhus.. Udhdhava asked as to how to have Bhakthi and who are Sadhus. Krishna replied that SADHUS ARE those having these qualities- compassionate,harmless,forgiving,firm in truth,faultless,impartial,doing good to all, undisturbed by desires,self restrained, mild,pure, not asking for any thing,indifferent, temperate in eating with controlled mind,steady in performing the duties,seeking refuge in Me,performing meditation,careful.profound,patient,having control over sixfold waves -hunger, thirst,sorrow and delusion,infirmity and death,not seeking respect from others, but respecting others , able, friendly,tender hearted, and wise. (see verses 29 to 33 of chapter 11). Those who worship Hari either knowing about Him or not knowing,but with total devotion to Him and identifying Him in self and others are the Great Bhakthas.A detailed narration about the methods to pracise Bhakthi is given in verses 34 to 49 of the chapter.

12

यज्ञाद्यैरपि दुर्गमोƒहमजितः प्राप्यश्च सत्संगतो

मर्त्या येन  रजस्तमःप्रकृतयो दैत्याश्च रक्षांसि च।

नाधीतश्रुतयश्च गोपवनिताः प्राप्ता हि मां तत् सखे!

सत्संगेन निकृत्तसंसृतिभयो भूयाश्च विद्यामयः।।

Meaning: Krishna continued - " I can not be conquered or controlled or reached by undertaking Yoga,Sankhya, Dharma, by study of Vedas,Penance,Sacrifice,Not by undertaking works for the welfare of Society, Offerings,Vows,Yajnas, Pilgrimage Niyama, Yama, or Mantras. I can be controlled or reached only by "Satsanga"- association of Sadhus. Many men,asuras, rakshasa, gopikas who had no knowledge of Vedas or Upanishads , animals, birds,Gandharvas, Apsaras, Nagas. Vidhyadharas and others who were influenced more by Rajo and Tamo gunas - All these jivas have attained 'mukthi" or reached Me only by associating themselves with the company of Sadhus.My Friend !Therefore You also have the association of Sadhus and by that connection get liberated from the "samsara". Become a Knowledgeable One (Jnani ) "

Commentary: Krishna said that He who worships Him in the Form of Vishnu and serves the Sadhus acquires Devotion- Bhakthi .Except by acquiring Bhakthi in the company of Sadhus there in no ther way to get liberation I am attainable only through the association of Sadhus. Many who did not possess Satva guna but even possessing excessive of rajo a n tamo gunas had reached only by associating themselves with Sadhus - who made them as true devotees. Total surrender to Hari would ensure the liberation.

Udhdhava asked a doubt as if he should follow svadhrma (by performing his duties ) or should he surrender to Hari leaving the performance of Karma. Udhdhava asked as how a person while performing Karma could sacrifie the Karma itself. Krishna replied that the Maya can be removed only by worshipping the Guru and with Bhakthi, one is neither affected by Karma either by performing or non performance of Karma.Hari is one but appears in many forms. This is due to Maya.

One has to get the Knowledge that One as many through Maya, by the Grace of his Guru. One can get liberation through the wisdom and the Bhakthi acquired by the worship of his Guru , by cutting the sheaths of the jiva and on attaining Paramatma leeave that instrument also.

13

बुद्धे: सत्त्वरजस्तमांसि च गुणा नैवाƒत्मनो; नाशये:

सत्वोद्वृद्धतयेतरे, अथ तद्प्य;न्तेभवेर् निर्गुणः;।

चित्तं च ग्रथितं गुणा अपि मिथः प्रगेव तद्रोधने

तर्ये मय्यतिभक्तिमेव शरणं हंसस्त्वभाषे मुनीन् ॥

Meaning: "The three Gunas- Satva, Rajo, and Tamo- manifest in the intellect but in no way connected to 'Atma'.You can remve completely or destroy the other two gunas -Raja and Tamo-by ensuring that more and more Satva Guna is cultivated in one.When one destroys that Satva Guna also , one is enlightened about "NIRGUNA". The chitta (mind ) is connected to the three gunas.To remove this connection between attachment to gunas with the mind, one should develop deep and total Bhakthi towards Me - who is the fourth and above all these three gunas"- I (Krishna ) taught this to the Sanakadi Rishis in the previous avathara as "HAMSA "

Commentary: Krishna continued-" The three gunas-Satva,Rajas, and Tamo gunas -are gunas of Buddhi(Prakruthi) and not of Atma. One has to control Rajas and Tamo gunas by means of the Satva guna and the Satva guna by the Satva guna itself.When Satva guna grows in a person, he acquires Dharma-which is "Bhakthi towards Me". When one worships Satvic objects, Satva guna increases and Dharma is the result of that action. Dharma when practised, removes the other two gunas-Rajas and Tamas.These ten-Scriptures (Vedas),water, men, land, time ,karma ,progeny, meditation, mantra, and purification - are accessaries to the gunas. They influence the development of each of them in men. One should practise SATVA GUNA ALONE FOR THE FURTHER GROWTH OF SATVA GUNA".Uddhava asked Krishna-" Generally people know that the objects of senses -gratification of senses lead them to more miseries and not to happiness for them. Still they involve themselves into them like an ass, or dog or goat. Why do they still try to enjoy the pleasures of senses?" Krishna replied " The false sense of "I" in a person gives rise to the Rajo guna to the mind , which is Satvivic in nature. This Rajo guna leads to doubts and desires.Guided by this, the person resorts to Adharma.The minds of the wise men also are influenced by these two Rajas and Tamas. Gradually and steadfastly direct and fix your mind on Me , by practising yoga and then you will be able to control your mind.This is the yoga which was taught to my disciples Sanakadi Rishis by me , in my incarnation as Hamsavathara. Their doubt was-' The mind enters the gunas and vice versa also. Then how can one make the separation or destroy this mutual relation ship between the two with a view to get over the gratification of senses and get liberation '. When they asked Brahma to remove this doubt, Brahma was unable to answer and then meditated on Me. I appeared before the Sanakadi Rishis as" Hamsa" and taught them the yoga (symbol for the discriminating sage as a hamsa , being able to separate the milk from water mixture). I taught -" It is true that the mind is influenced by the three gunas and also that the three gunas influence the mind(they enter into each other).These two are in the body of a 'jiva' and the 'jiva' is in 'ME" BUT THE ESSENCE OF THE 'JIVA' IS BRHAMAN. The mind is only attributed to the jiva and not to the 'brahman'.Therefore by the devotion to Bhagavan Vishnu , the jiva rests on the 'Self''.Therefore by fixing the mind on "ME" -the fourth ( who is beyond the three gunas), one can get over the bondage of the mind over the 'JIVA" That will be the mutual giving up or the separation of the three gunas and the mind. Knowing this, fix your mind on 'Me' and give up all the thoughts of 'samsara'". Then I returned to my abode"
This is called HAMSA GEETHAM.

  14

श्रेयोमार्गेषु भक्तिर् बहुषु निरूपमा जन्मकर्माणि श्रृण्वन्

गायन् नामानि भद्राणि च मम सुमना लोकमेतं पुनाति,।

भक्तो नो मोक्षसिद्धिम् त्वभिलषति; स मां मेघवर्ण शुभांगं

ध्यायन्देशे न्विविक्ते वसति सुख,महं विद्धि भक्तैकगम्यः।।

Meaning: "of the various paths which lead to the liberation, the path of Bhakti is the greatest and has no equal to it. When the Bhktha-after hearing my stories and deeds in my various incarnations - after chanting my names- after singing songs about me - in the company of other Bhakthas-, such a Bhaktha not only purifies himself but also the entire world.Such an ardent Bhaktha do not seek the 'moksha ' also.He is more concerned and find happiness only in meditating My Form in a secluded place which is of bluish- black similar to the cloud, and possessing all beautiful and charming limbs and face with the weapons and a lotus in My hands.I am attainable only through such Bhakthi "
Commentary: Uddhava asked Krishna-" When others say that there are different other mehods and paths to reach You,You say that Bhakthi Yoga is the path to reach You.Then what is important method among them.In important methods also, what is special about Bhakthi Yoga? How is it achieved? "
Krishna replied -" The tendencies of men are different, according to the differences in the nature That is why many and different paths are spoken of. But these paths have an end in Tamas. The pleasures in other paths are small and mixed with sorrow.The bliss that is found in Me ,can not be superior to any other pleasure.Fixed in Me and finding bliss in Me all is blissful to my Bhakthas.My Bhakthas will never desire any other thing other than Me.Therefore I always seek My Bhakthas, I am attainable only by faithful devotees . Bhakthi consumes all the impurities of the mind. For a true and ardent Bhaktha,- the hairs stand on the end-the heart melts away- tears of bliss roll down the cheeks- voice gets choked with the devotional feelings- he weeps.smiles, sings and dances forgetting himself like a mad person. Such a Bhaktha not only purifies himself but also the whole world.
So the path of BHAKTHI is superior to Sankhya Yoga, Dharma, Yajnas,Tapas and other paths.Practising Dharma does not purify the mind, whereas Bhakthi does. Therefore avoid the company of women or any other objects that detract your mind . Be seated in a comfortable posture, practise Pranayama along with Pranava mantra.Then slowly concentrate your mind on the form of Me- as dark bluish in colour-with Four Hands with My weapons and lotus- My charming face and body with all ornaments-My lotus Feet.As your meditation becomes more in duration with the practice and it reaches in Samadhi state, you shall see Me in Atma , and as identical with the other Atmas. The delusion about the objects, knowledge and action will disappear"
In this chapter 14, the greatness of Bhakthi Yoga and the Dhyana Yoga for getting liberation is explained.

15

चित्तं धारयतो मुनेर् मयि जितश्र्वासस्य चाष्टादशा-

निष्टाः सिद्धय आपतन्ति विदिता या मत्प्रधानाश्च ताः।

अष्टैवाप्यणिमादयोƒथ च दश स्वच्छन्दमृत्यादयो

गौणा आभिरहो!न वञ्चितमतिर् वर्तस्व भक्तो मयि।।

Meaning: " To the sage who can control and fix his mind on Hari , who can control his breath by the Pranayama , all the eighteen sidhdhis or powers overtake the Yogi. There are eighteen Dharanas for the eighteen sidhdhis.These sidhdhis reach him even when he does not desire them.There are eight sidhdhis - Anima, Mahima,Laghima (connected with the body ) Prakamya,Prerana,Ishita,Vashita,Kamavashayitha-. There are another ten of them and they cause the appearance of the satva guna. O!NO. Do not be cheated by these powers,You be the Bhaktha always and always remain so"

Commentary: In the last chapter , the greatness of the Bhakthi and DhyanaYoga was described. When the sage practises them with faith and fixing his mind on Hari, the yogic powers -eighteen in number reach the sage of their own accord , The eight sidhdhis- which are principal-remain in Narayana.There are other ten sidhdhs like Parakaya praveshanam,Svachchanda Mrithyu,Dooradarshanam and others. A sage should not be beguiled by getting these sidhdhis.He should not seek any of them. He should practise Dharana (Dhyanam ) without any motive or desire.He should desire Bhakti alone and nothing else.

                        

   16

रुाष्टा पालयिताƒहमेव जगतां हर्ता, मदन्यज्जगद्

दृश्यं नैव, विभूतियोगमिह मे धीमन्। श्रृणु श्रद्धया।

भक्तेषु त्वमहं, युगेषु च कृतं, द्वैपायनः कीर्तितो

व्यासेषु, त्वमुपासनं कुरु मनो वाचोƒपि यच्छन् यतिः ।।

Meaning:" I am the creator,preserver, and annihilator for this entire universe.There is none other than Me in this universe. O! Intelligent Uddhava! You listen to my Vibhuthis with attention. Among My Bhakthas I am in you.Iam Krutha Yuga among the Yugas. I am VedaVyasa among the various Vyasas.You control your mind and also your words or voice and after becoming a sanyasi -with total detachment to the worldly affairs,worship Me in a steadfast manner "

Commentary: Udhdhava asked Krishna as to how those- who are unable to meditate on Him ( as described in chapter 14) and become a yogi,-will be able to worship Him. Krishna replied that there are many forms of Him . They are His Vibhuthis. Any one can worship them and meditate on them and reach Him, They are described in the 10 th chapter of BHAGAVAD GITA. The Vibhuthis described in this chapter 16 are more or less the same. Read this chapter.