Mādhavendra Purī’s Last Days
In the final stages of his life, the great saint Mādhavendra Purī was deeply absorbed in chanting the holy names of Kṛṣṇa. Overwhelmed by separation from the Lord, he cried out, “O Lord, when shall I get Your shelter?” expressing his intense love and longing.
The Foolish Criticism by Rāmacandra Purī
One of Mādhavendra Purī’s disciples, Rāmacandra Purī, without understanding the saint’s deep devotional feelings, boldly instructed him:
“Why are you crying? You should remember Brahman, the impersonal Absolute.”
This insensitive criticism was a grave offense to the saint.
Mādhavendra Purī’s Rebuke
Mādhavendra Purī sternly rebuked Rāmacandra Purī:
“Get out, you sinful rascal! I am dying without achieving Kṛṣṇa’s shelter, and now this condemned fool instructs me about Brahman.”
His words reflect the pain caused by the offense.
The Aftermath: The Two Disciples’ Paths
- Īśvara Purī, another disciple, lovingly served Mādhavendra Purī during his last days and received his heartfelt blessings. Īśvara Purī later became a great lover of Kṛṣṇa and a revered spiritual master.
- Rāmacandra Purī, however, due to his offense, gradually developed material desires, impersonalistic tendencies, and a critical attitude. He even criticized the pure character of Lord Caitanya, causing distress among the devotees who saw him as a burden.
Spiritual Lessons
- Offenses toward gurus and great devotees cause material desires and spiritual downfall.
- Criticism of devotees leads one away from genuine bhakti and into speculation and fault-finding.
- The presence of offenders is generally unwelcome among sincere devotees.
- By pleasing the guru and devotees through humble service, one cultivates love for Kṛṣṇa.
- Conversely, displeasing the guru fosters pride, criticism, and separation from spiritual progress.
Practical Application
- Approach gurus and devotees with humility and respect.
- Avoid speculation and criticism of spiritual personalities.
- Serve devotees with sincerity to cultivate pure devotional love.
- Remember the pain offenses cause and strive to protect the community of devotees.
Visual Image Prompts
- Mādhavendra Purī chanting with tears of devotion.
- Rāmacandra Purī fearlessly criticizing the saint.
- Mādhavendra Purī rebuking Rāmacandra Purī.
- Īśvara Purī serving the saint with devotion.
- The disturbed devotees troubled by Rāmacandra Purī’s criticisms.
