The search for the Supreme Brahman begins with the query, “What is the ultimate truth to be known?” Sages and seers encourage disciples to look for that Truth, having known which, there is nothing further to be known. Generations of Jivatmas have been involved in this search which finds fulfillment in God realisation.
The devout Thiruppanazhwar had his entire being filled with love for Lord Ranganatha, though he had not seen the Archa form of the Lord. When God chose to acquiesce to his Bhakti, this Azhwar was carried by the priest on his shoulders. As the Azhwar’s eyes fell on the reclining form of the Lord, he broke forth into a hymn extolling the infinite beauty and auspicious qualities of the Lord. This was the pinnacle of experience and he proclaimed that there was nothing else he desired.
This is a choice possession and a personal one as well to the devotee, a superior quality of nectar (Amudham), partaking of which one experiences everlasting bliss, pointed out Velukkudi Sri Krishnan in a lecture.
Nectar or Amrita is a divine prescription for immortality and the celestial beings drank this to protect themselves from the demons who were a threat to their existence. Its sweetness is an attraction as well. But as is the case with all eatables, the taste disappears once it is swallowed. Neither is this nectar aware of its nature and effect on beings.
The Lord is the essence of the richest of experiences, say the scriptures. He lends Himself to the most enjoyable of experiences to those who seek him. A deep attraction to Him alone can help us to turn away from all other worldly experiences that are ephemeral.
The devout would never wish to take a break from this experience, knowing its wholesome benefits and auspicious quality. Has not His descent as Krishna allowed many Jivatmas to experience His qualities? He had mingled with the simple folk at Brindavan, giving Yasodha, the Gopis and the cowherds a chance to taste His living presence.
We have to understand that He is our only succour. We are His subjects and our only duty is to serve Him at all times. He alone is to be experienced at all times. Having known Him, there is nothing further to be known. Thiruppanazhwar makes this Upanishad statement explicit.
Bhakti is knowing Him as a living presence.
