One of the inspirations from the Gita which thrills. Whosoever has in his life 39 signs/indications described in the aforesaid 7 verses, for him the word 'dear' has been used time and again; but for him who with reverence is eager to live these qualities seeking refuge in divine for him the word 'bhaktastey ati mein priya' has been used.

These 8 verses of chapter 12 of the Gita are said to be the eight-fold nectar. God Himself by using the words "Dharmayamritam" has glorified this topic. In this Shloka there are several important points for deliberation. First of all it is the true religion of a human being to bring these qualities into practice in his life. The religious law indicated is not related to any particular religion, sect or different thoughts and opinions but one which brings out the essential truth and importance of life. Just worshipping or recitation of the scriptures, visiting the temples or holy places, or using the rosary does not make one spiritual/religious. These features are the touchstones of spirituality. Beginning with 'Advesta Saravbhutanam' if these features are brought into practice in life then just think-will humanity not blossom? With mutual ill-feelings, bad qualities, bad behaviour, corruption or even terrorism-will they remain? They are there because the real nature of dharma/religion has not been understood. Think whether there is a necessity of this kind of religion in the whole world?

The use of the word amrit (nectar) along with the word dharma (religion) is like sheen added to gold. Not just religion but the true nectar. The nectar of the heavens is also of no significance in comparison to this. It is such nectar which delivers from the cycle of birth and death and makes one eligible for immortal, eternal supreme abode. Removes ill-feelings from the society and brings out the nectar of well being. Delivers one from poison-like worries forever and brings the sweetness of divine thoughts.

But a straightforward suggestion-not merely for the sake of reading or hearing. Religion is not to be restricted to reading, listening, teaching, narrating, Yathoktam Parupasyate-put into practice whatever has been stated. Scriptures have described religion to be a matter of practice-Dharmam char. Practice is also not merely for the sake of formality. It is With full faith and reverence. First of all, without faith and reverence and without being devoted to the divine, religion cannot be put into practice righteously, even if it is practised partially, even then it will get mixed with arrogance which ultimately will be cause of fall.

Take sweet transcendental scent of the inspirations from this chapter to make your life fragrant. Devotion is indispensable in life and the attainment of the divine supreme goal; make such determination. Devotion has been presented by the Blessed Lord as the easy means and for attaining Himself by propounding four different methods in the four verses He has shown His magnanimity. Whatever appears to be suitable according to one's inclinations accept the same and live your life with an aim of the attainment of the Divine. 'Durlabh saaj sulabh kari pava' (manas). Rare opportunity has come within reach by the grace of God and should not slip out of our hands; remain alert.

To Conclude:

The features described from shlokas 13 to 19 are in the context of only perfected devotees, should not make one dejected. The tenet of spiritual path is that the state of the perfected devotee is the inspiration for the aspiring seeker. Make these characterstics a forceful inspiration of your life. Keep them in front of you as a mirror. This mirror will tell where the deficiency lies. In the pursuit of devotion why is the state of completeness not felt? Worship-reading of scriptures, norms-means, fasting, religious undertakings, etc. are all fine. But the dearness of the Lord can come only if these qualities are imbibed in life. By this chapter there should be an eagerness in our minds for this indication of the Lord that such a devotee is dear to Me, should be meant for Me only. It can happen; it is not impossible. While reading and hearing the Gita get into this mode that what the Lord is explaining is meant for him and him only. In over-confidence reality should not be lost sight of; be alert to this. These qualities should be in our life, for this have special awareness. The point of concentration should be 'maye aveshya mano ye mam the mind should be full with the feelingful devotion to the Lord.

Shabri was given sermon on Navdha Bhakti (nine types of devotion) by Lord Ram. Shabri became thoughtful. Shabri's Ram understood; he clarified, Out of nine forms of devotion, through effort if any one of them is brought into practice in one's life-'atishya priya soyi bhamini more. (but) 'sakal prakar bhakti dridh tore. How did all forms of devotion come into Shabri's life? Just one statement-mind fully dwelling in Ram and Ram dwelling in the mind, the state of devoutness and full of devotion.

Why can't we come into this state? When it is coming straight from the Lord himself, then there is no question of it being impossible. Awaken yourself. Start your efforts immediately with reverence and faith and taking refuge in the divine. Fill yourself with full enthusiasm with this divine inspiration from the Gita's sermonizer-bhaktaste ativ mein priya. Devotees determined to practice are very dear to Me. Let us have our name confirmed in this list.

Thus with the recitation of these divine names Om Tat Sat', Divine knowledge (Brahmvidya) and Scripture of Yoga in the Upanishad of the glorious Shrimad Bhagvad Gita, the dialogue between Shri Krishna and Arjun-Bhakti Yoga named 12th chapter stands completed.

Hari Om Tat Sat! Hari Om Tat Sat!! Hari Om Tat Sat!!!