The Devotee’s Love
There was a well-known devotee named Vithal Nath who held a profound affection for Krishna, treating Him as his own son. Vithal Nath had seven sons and also respected Krishna as his divine child.
The Bangles Incident
One day, Vithal Nath asked a woman selling bangles to deliver bangles to his seven daughters-in-law. After delivering the bangles, the woman returned to collect the payment and mentioned that she had sold eight pairs of bangles.
Confused, Vithal Nath noted that he had only seven daughters-in-law. He requested the woman to return the next day to receive the payment while he investigated the discrepancy.
Divine Revelation
That evening, Vithal Nath visited the temple and heard the voice of Sri Radhe, who revealed, “I am the one who received the 8th pair of bangles. Am I not also your daughter-in-law?”
Overwhelmed by this revelation, Vithal Nath’s hair stood on end. The divine mercy of Sri Radhe was evident as She considered Herself his daughter-in-law because Vithal Nath considered Krishna as his son.
Lessons to be Learned
- Divine Mercy and Relationship: The story illustrates the profound mercy of the Divine. Vithal Nath’s pure devotion and the way he regarded Krishna as his son evoked such a deep response from the Divine, highlighting the reciprocal nature of divine relationships.
- Respecting the Divine: Just as Vithal Nath’s reverence for Krishna was reciprocated by Krishna’s and Radhe’s divine acknowledgment, it is important to honor and respect the divine presence in all forms and aspects of life.
- Reciprocity in Devotion: The story underscores that sincere devotion to the Divine, expressed through personal affection and reverence, invites divine grace and reciprocation.
Teachings from Srila Prabhupada’s Books
Srila Prabhupada often emphasized the reciprocal nature of devotion and divine relationships. In his teachings, he describes how the Lord responds to the sincere love and devotion of His devotees. This story aligns with the understanding that Krishna and His divine energies are always intimately connected with His devotees’ expressions of love and reverence.
Prayers
Prayer for Devotion: “O Krishna, who resides in the hearts of Your devotees, may we always perceive You as our most beloved and cherished divine companion. May our love for You be as pure and selfless as that of Vithal Nath, and may we receive Your divine mercy and guidance in all aspects of our lives.”
Prayer for Divine Mercy: “O Sri Radhe, whose grace surpasses all understanding, we humbly pray for Your divine blessings. Just as You showed Your mercy to Vithal Nath, may You also shower us with Your boundless love and kindness, acknowledging our sincere devotion to You.”
Conclusion
The story of Vithal Nath and the divine revelation of the extra pair of bangles reflects the deep and loving relationship between the devotee and the Divine. It serves as a reminder of the divine reciprocation of sincere devotion and the profound mercy that the Divine bestows upon those who truly love and honor Them.
