The Persistent Seeker
In January 1900, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur sought initiation from the highly revered Gaurakishora Das Babaji on the advice of his father and spiritual guide, Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur. Babaji Maharaj was known for his extreme renunciation and reclusive lifestyle as a bhajananandi (one who engages in solitary worship), and he had vowed never to take any disciples. However, he was compelled to reconsider his decision when he encountered the unwavering determination and profound devotion of Sarasvati Thakur.
Initial Responses
When Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati first approached Gaurakishora Das Babaji Maharaj to request initiation, Babaji Maharaj responded:
“If Mahaprabhu tells me to, I will.”
Undeterred, Sarasvati Thakur asked again, but Babaji Maharaj replied that he had forgotten to ask Mahaprabhu. Still, Sarasvati Thakur did not give up. He approached a third time, but Babaji Maharaj cautioned him:
“Virtuousness, scholarship, and other qualities are not the means to attain the Lord. They do not give you any right to initiation.”
Perseverance and Reward
Despite being turned away multiple times, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur did not abandon his quest. His patience, humility, and determination were reminiscent of the perseverance shown by Ramanujacharya, who was turned back eighteen times before receiving the mercy of Goshthipurna. Srila Sarasvati Thakur continued to approach Babaji Maharaj, humbly pleading for initiation.
Finally, Gaurakishora Das Babaji Maharaj’s heart softened, and moved by Sarasvati Thakur’s sincere devotion, he mercifully granted him initiation by sprinkling the dust of his lotus feet upon his head, thus accepting him as his only disciple.
Lesson to be Learned
This story illustrates the importance of patience, humility, and unwavering determination on the spiritual path. Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur’s persistence in seeking initiation, even in the face of repeated refusals, exemplifies the deep commitment required to attain spiritual blessings. The story also underscores the significance of a genuine desire for spiritual advancement, which, when coupled with humility and perseverance, can melt the heart of even the most renounced and reclusive saints.
Prayer
“O Lord, grant us the patience and determination of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur as we seek Your divine grace. May we approach our spiritual journey with humility and unwavering resolve, understanding that true spiritual advancement requires both perseverance and a heart full of sincere devotion. Let us be blessed with the dust of the lotus feet of pure devotees, so we may progress on the path of bhakti and attain Your eternal service. Hare Krishna.”
