The Story of Shivaji Maharaj and Tukaram
Meeting of Two Great Souls
Sant Samartha Ramadass and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj were contemporaries of the revered saint Tukaram. Sant Ramadass, a spiritual guide to Shivaji, had heard of Tukaram’s greatness and encouraged Shivaji to meet him if he visited Dehu. Following his guru’s advice, Shivaji decided to meet Tukaram.
Upon meeting Tukaram, Shivaji recognized his spiritual greatness and began to visit him frequently. Shivaji considered both Ramadass and Tukaram as his two guiding eyes and sought their blessings and advice for all his endeavors.
The Gift of Gold
One day, Shivaji wanted to present Tukaram with some gifts. He took a plate of gold coins and went to meet Tukaram. After placing the plate in front of Tukaram and prostrating to him, Tukaram started shivering, got up, and ran away. Perplexed, Shivaji asked the other disciples why Tukaram reacted this way.
The disciples explained that Shivaji had always visited Tukaram alone, but this time he brought gold, which Tukaram did not like, prompting him to run away. Shivaji expressed his concern for Tukaram’s ability to feed the many sadhus who dined at his house daily and thought the gold would be helpful.
Consolation and Understanding
The disciples suggested Shivaji console Tukaram and bring him back. Shivaji went to Tukaram, apologized, and explained that although he knew Tukaram did not care for money, he thought the gold could help feed the sadhus after the bhajans and kirtans.
Tukaram responded by saying that if Shivaji, having known him for only a few months, was worried about him, then surely Vitthal, who had known him since birth and across many lifetimes, would also care for him. Tukaram assured Shivaji that Vitthal would provide for their needs.
Tukaram’s Detachment
Shivaji persisted, requesting Tukaram to accept his offering for his happiness. However, Tukaram replied that accepting gold was akin to eating cow’s meat to please someone, stating that gold was as abhorrent to him as cow’s meat.
Reflection on the Story
Divine Trust and Faith:
- Tukaram’s unwavering faith in Vitthal’s provision demonstrates the power of divine trust. He believed that God would always provide for his needs and those of the sadhus, reflecting an unshakeable faith.
Detachment from Material Wealth:
- Tukaram’s reaction to the gold coins underscores his detachment from material wealth. He viewed spiritual wealth as far more valuable than any material possession.
Humility and Sincerity:
- Shivaji’s approach to Tukaram with gifts shows his humility and sincerity. Despite his status as a king, he respected and sought to support the spiritual path of Tukaram.
Value of Spiritual Guidance:
- The story highlights the importance of spiritual guidance and blessings in making decisions, as Shivaji sought advice from both Ramadass and Tukaram for his actions.
Lessons to Be Learned
- Faith in Divine Provision:
- Trusting in divine provision ensures that one’s needs will be met without relying on material wealth.
- Detachment from Wealth:
- True spiritual growth involves detachment from material possessions and focusing on spiritual richness.
- Respect for Spiritual Paths:
- Respecting and supporting the spiritual paths of others, even when it contrasts with one’s own beliefs or practices, is a mark of true humility and sincerity.
- Importance of Spiritual Counsel:
- Seeking spiritual counsel and blessings from revered guides can provide clarity and guidance in making important decisions.
Conclusion
In summary, the story of Shivaji Maharaj and Tukaram teaches us about unwavering faith, the importance of detachment from material wealth, humility, and the value of seeking spiritual guidance. It emphasizes that true devotion and trust in the divine are paramount in the spiritual journey.
