True devotion

The Bhagavata Purana describes the Lord’s incarnation as Rishabha in the line of Priyavrata famous for holy traditions. He appears at the yagna performed by Nabhi to beget a son equal to the Lord in all respects and grants that since He is one without a second and there can never be one equal to Him, He Himself will be born to Nabhi. The purpose of this incarnation is to show the true value of renunciation, knowledge and devotion from which enlightenment is possible, said Sri B. Kesava Dikshitar in a discourse.

Rishabha teaches by example how a householder should remain unattached, peaceful, helpful and beneficent even when he observes the scriptural ceremonies. This life of a householder is not just for worldly enjoyments but for acquisition of dharma, wealth, good name, progeny and spiritual attainment. Rishabha gives a sermon on the aims of life. Life is to be used to observe austerities to attain spiritual ends. Only then will the mind become pure and attain the bliss of Brahman. Association with the pious is the gateway to spiritual realisation. The pious are even-sighted, unperturbed, friendly and compassionate to all and, above all, have intense devotion to the Lord. He who is attracted by the senses is led into evil doing. Is it not foolish to do the same kinds of karma that keeps one bound to samsara and suffering? Only when one turns one’s enquiry inwards into the nature of the atma can the veil of ignorance be overcome.

The knot of the hearts of men is the sense of I and Mine. True devotion inspires renunciation leading to realisation Rishabha’s life exemplifies these truths and He installs son Bharata, who is ever righteous, as His successor. He then wanders as an Avadhuta to attain oneness with the Lord.