The Story of Tukkaram’s Patience
Once, Tukkaramji, the great saint, was sitting near the bank of the Ganges, immersed in bhajans. An envious person wanted to disturb Tukkaram and provoke him into a fight, so he spat on his face. Tukkaram calmly got up, went to the river, took a holy dip, and returned to continue his bhajans.
The man repeated his actions 108 times, and each time, Tukkaram repeated his calm response without showing any irritation or anger. In the end, the envious man grew tired and frustrated. He asked, “How come you are not becoming angry?”
Tukkaram replied, “Why should I become angry? I should actually thank you. Because of your mercy, I took bath 108 times in the Ganges.”
Moral of the Story
This story highlights an extraordinary level of tolerance and the ability to see the divine hand in every experience. Tukkaram’s response teaches us several valuable lessons:
Lessons to be Learned
- Tolerance and Patience:
- Tukkaram’s ability to remain calm and patient in the face of repeated provocation is a profound demonstration of tolerance. Instead of reacting with anger, he maintained his composure and continued his devotional practice.
- Seeing the Divine in Every Experience:
- Tukkaram saw the spitting incident as an opportunity to take holy dips in the Ganges. He perceived every action, whether pleasant or unpleasant, as a part of Krishna’s plan and used it to his spiritual advantage.
- Gratitude in All Circumstances:
- Usually, we only thank people for favorable actions. Tukkaram, however, thanked the man for giving him the opportunity to bathe in the holy river. This teaches us to find gratitude even in challenging situations.
- Learning from Every Experience:
- Tukkaram’s attitude exemplifies the idea that every experience in life, whether good or bad, offers a lesson. We can learn from everyone and everything around us if we approach life with humility and an open heart.
Reflection on Sanity of Mind
This level of mental equilibrium and positive perception is achievable under the guidance of a spiritual master. By remembering the lives of great saints and observing our own experiences, we can learn the various lessons that Krishna has in store for us.
In life, we encounter many different people and situations, each providing us with unique experiences that shape our character and behavior. These experiences, particularly those in childhood, can have a lasting impact.
For instance:
- In households where parents exhibit negative behaviors, children can be influenced adversely. However, with proper guidance, children can learn valuable lessons about how not to behave.
- Experiences serve as powerful teachers. Good experiences teach us positive behaviors, while bad experiences teach us what to avoid.
Scriptural Insight
Lord Krishna, in Bhagavad Gita 16.6, describes the dual nature of beings:
dvau bhuta sargau loke’smin / daiva aasura eva ca daivo vistarashah prokta / aasuram paartha me shrnu
“O son of Prthaa, in this world there are two kinds of created beings. One is called the divine and the other demoniac. I have already explained to you at length the divine qualities. Now hear from Me of the demoniac.”
By presenting examples of both divine and demoniac qualities, scriptures guide us on how to live righteously and what behaviors to avoid.
Conclusion
The story of Tukkaram and the spitting man is a powerful reminder of the importance of tolerance, gratitude, and learning from all experiences. By emulating the qualities of great saints and seeking the guidance of spiritual masters, we can navigate life’s challenges with grace and grow spiritually.
Prayer
Let us pray for the wisdom to remain tolerant, grateful, and to see the divine hand in all experiences:
“O Supreme Lord Krishna, guide us to develop tolerance and gratitude in all situations. Help us to see Your divine hand in every experience and to learn valuable lessons from both favorable and challenging circumstances. May we grow spiritually and live a life of devotion, following the example of great saints like Tukkaram.”
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.
Request for Sharing
Please share this moral and instructive story with others so that everyone can benefit from hearing about Krishna and His dear devotees.
