The Devotee’s Quest for the Best Benediction
Once, a poor brahmana worshiped Lord Siva with great devotion, seeking a benediction. Pleased with the brahmana’s devotion, Lord Siva appeared before him and advised the brahmana to seek out the great devotee Sanatana Gosvami for the best benediction.
Sanatana Gosvami’s Touchstone
Following Lord Siva’s advice, the brahmana traveled to meet Sanatana Gosvami. Upon meeting him, the brahmana informed Sanatana Gosvami of Lord Siva’s instruction. Sanatana Gosvami, who lived a very simple life, had a touchstone which he kept carelessly with the garbage. On the brahmana’s request, Sanatana Gosvami gave him the touchstone. The brahmana was overjoyed, as he could now turn iron into gold simply by touching it with the stone.
The Brahmana’s Doubt
However, as the brahmana was leaving, a thought crossed his mind: “If this touchstone is the best benediction, why did Sanatana Gosvami keep it with the garbage? Perhaps he has something even more valuable.” Driven by curiosity and doubt, the brahmana returned to Sanatana Gosvami and questioned him about it.
Sanatana Gosvami’s Real Benediction
Sanatana Gosvami smiled and replied, “Actually, this touchstone is not the best benediction. Are you prepared to receive the best benediction from me?” The brahmana, recalling Lord Siva’s guidance, readily agreed, “Yes, sir. Lord Siva sent me to you for the best benediction.”
Sanatana Gosvami then instructed the brahmana to throw the touchstone into the nearby water and return. The brahmana obeyed without hesitation. When he returned, Sanatana Gosvami initiated him with the Hare Krishna maha-mantra, which is infinitely more valuable than any material possession.
Lesson to Be Learned
This story teaches us that material wealth and possessions, represented by the touchstone, are insignificant compared to the spiritual wealth one gains through devotion and the chanting of the holy names of the Lord. True benediction lies not in material gains but in the realization of the divine and eternal bliss that comes from spiritual practice.
Prayer
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare
May we all understand the true value of spiritual blessings and seek the eternal benediction of devotion to the Supreme Lord.
Moral of the Story
From this narrative, we learn that real wealth is spiritual wealth. Material possessions, no matter how valuable, are temporary and insignificant compared to the eternal value of chanting the holy names of the Lord. By taking shelter in the holy name and devotion to God, we attain the highest benediction and eternal happiness.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward and share these moral/instructive stories so that everyone can be benefitted by hearing about Krishna and His dear devotees
