The Jealousy of Rukmini and Satyabhama
A story goes that Rukmini and Satyabhama, the wives of Krishna, were very jealous of Draupadi. Despite all the love and care they showered on Krishna, they felt he was always thinking about Draupadi. For Draupadi, Krishna was her Guru, guide, dear brother, and friend.
Confronting Draupadi
One day, Rukmini and Satyabhama decided to confront Draupadi. They went to her chambers and asked her why Krishna loves her so much and why he is always thinking of her. No matter what they do for him, it seemed Draupadi was always on his mind.
Draupadi’s Explanation
Draupadi answered that of course, she loves Krishna, just as they do. She cares for Krishna just like they care for him. However, she pointed out a difference in their love for Krishna. She said that in their love for Krishna, they always say, “Krishna is mine, Krishna is mine.” In her love for Krishna, she says, “I am Krishna’s, I am Krishna’s!”
Moral of the Story
This story is an example of surrender to the Master, of living a life of being the perfect instrument of the Master. Draupadi had a tough life, to say the least, yet she had no complaints, no questions. “I am Krishna’s!” “I am his instrument.” “My life is his, my joys are his, and so are my sorrows!” Then, does he have a choice but to have her on his mind?
Lessons to Be Learned
- Complete Surrender: Draupadi’s declaration, “I am Krishna’s,” exemplifies complete surrender and devotion. It highlights the essence of bhakti (devotion) where one sees oneself as an instrument of the Divine.
- Srila Prabhupada states, “To think in ‘I’ and ‘mine’ consciousness is ignorance, and to think in ‘Krishna’s’ consciousness is liberation.” (Srimad Bhagavatam 4.29.68, Purport)
- Selflessness in Love: Draupadi’s love for Krishna was selfless. She did not possess or claim Krishna, but rather gave herself to him entirely.
- Srila Prabhupada explains, “Devotional service is the art of giving everything to Krishna. Nothing is kept for oneself.” (Bhagavad Gita 9.27, Purport)
- Unwavering Faith: Despite her hardships, Draupadi maintained unwavering faith in Krishna. She saw all aspects of her life as part of Krishna’s plan.
- In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna says, “A person who is not disturbed by happiness and distress and is steady in both is certainly eligible for liberation.” (BG 2.15)
Conclusion
Draupadi’s life and her unwavering devotion to Krishna serve as an inspiration for all devotees. Her perspective of complete surrender and selflessness in love for Krishna is a lesson for us to cultivate in our own spiritual journeys. By seeing ourselves as instruments of the Divine and dedicating our lives to serving Krishna, we can attain true peace and happiness.
Prayer
O Supreme Lord Krishna, please grant us the strength and devotion to surrender to you completely. Help us to see ourselves as your instruments and to live our lives in your service. May our love for you be selfless and unwavering like Draupadi’s. Jai Draupadi Maiya Ki Jai! Hare Krishna!
Quote from Srila Prabhupada
“One who surrenders to Krishna and lives for Krishna is the greatest of all devotees. Such a person is always protected by Krishna and is always on his mind.” (Bhagavad Gita 18.66, Purport)
