Bhakti-yoga: The Yoga of Surrender

Yoga, a spiritual discipline encompassing various paths, finds one of its most profound expressions in Bhakti-yoga. Chapter 12 of "A Seeker's Srimad Bhagavad Gita" by Vishwanath (Vishu) Iyer , titled "Bhakti-yoga (Yoga of Surrender)," sheds light on the essence of devotion and the transformative power it holds for practitioners. This chapter is an insightful guide for those seeking to cultivate a deeper connection with the divine through unwavering devotion and surrender.

Introduction to Bhakti-yoga

Bhakti-yoga, often referred to as the path of devotion, emphasizes surrendering one's self to a deity, guru, or higher ideal. Unlike other yoga paths that may focus on physical postures, intellectual pursuits, or meditative practices, Bhakti-yoga is centred around developing a deep, emotional bond of identity with the divine. This relationship is marked by love, faith, and complete surrender, transcending the ego and personal desires.

The Concept of ?raddhā

A cornerstone of Bhakti-yoga is ?raddhā, which encompasses intent, dedication, patience, sincerity, enterprise, focus, and effort. It signifies the quality of one's input into any activity, independent of the outcome. This concept highlights that success in Bhakti-yoga is not contingent on one's abilities but rather on the sincerity and devotion one brings to the practice.

The Practice of Surrender (?aran?a?gati)

Surrender (?aran?a?gati) in Bhakti-yoga involves renouncing the intent, action (karma) and the fruits of one's actions to the divine. This practice nullifies the feeling of being the performer of the action (ahan?ka?ra) in the practitioner, aligning one’s existence with the divine will. As practitioners offer their actions and results to a higher power, they gradually dissolve their ego (ahan?ka?ra), leading to a state of humility and devotion. This process is beautifully illustrated through the example of Hanuman, who completely merged his identity with Lord Rama, epitomizing the highest form of Bhakti-yoga.

The Challenges and Rewards of Bhakti-yoga

Bhakti-yoga is not without its challenges. The journey requires steadfastness in surrender and the removal of ego (ahan?ka?ra). Practitioners must navigate their inner obstacles and maintain a consistent attitude of devotion. However, the rewards are profound. As individuals progress on this path, they experience a deep sense of peace and fulfilment. They become dear to the divine, as described by Sri Krishna, who extols the virtues of those who practice Bhakti-yoga with sincerity and devotion.

Practical Aspects of Bhakti-yoga

The Srimad Bhagavad Gita outlines several practical steps for those following the path of Bhakti-yoga. Here are some that are easy to implement,

1. Listening and Praising (?ravana and Kīrtana): Practitioners are encouraged to listen to and praise the achievements of their chosen deity, emulating the deity's qualities in their own lives.
2. Service (Pāda-sevana): Serving at the feet of the deity or guru fosters humility and dedication, essential qualities in Bhakti-yoga.
3. Worship and Meditation (Smarana and Vandanā): Maintaining a constant image of the deity and integrating oneself with the deity through worship and meditation.
4. Friendship and Surrender (Sākhya and ātmanivedana): Cultivating a sense of friendship with like-minded individuals and achieving a state where there is no difference between the practitioner and the deity.

Conclusion

Bhakti-yoga offers a path of profound transformation through devotion and surrender. It invites practitioners to transcend their ego, align their actions with divine will, and cultivate a deep, emotional bond with the divine. As they progress on this path, they experience the ultimate peace and fulfilment that comes from merging their identity with the divine. Chapter 12 of "A Seeker's Srimad Bhagavad Gita" serves as a valuable guide for anyone seeking to understand this journey of love, faith, and surrender.