The Journey from Death to Liberation
When the time of death comes, a soul faces great fear and helplessness. The body collapses, the senses fade, and all material possessions vanish in a moment. At that critical hour, the scriptures say that sinful reactions, Yama-dūtas, and terrifying visions appear before the soul.
But for one who has served or worshiped Tulasī Devī, the scene is entirely different.
The Divine Promise of the Scriptures
The Skanda Purāṇa, Padma Purāṇa, and Garuda Purāṇa all declare that anyone who leaves their body in the presence of Tulasī Devī—whether by seeing her, touching her, being smeared with her paste, wearing a garland made from her leaves, or having her wood placed on their body—will never be taken by the servants of Yamarāja.
Instead, the Viṣṇudūtas, glowing with effulgence, descend from Vaikuṇṭha to receive that soul. The fearful messengers of Yama dare not come near, for Tulasī Devī’s presence burns them like fire.
Tulasī leaves placed on the mouth, chest, or head of the dying person sanctify the entire body and free the soul from all bondage. Even if the person was not perfectly pious in life, if they had any contact with Tulasī Devī—watering her, bowing to her, planting her, or honoring her just once—she remembers and intercedes on their behalf.
Her Boundless Compassion
Tulasī Devī is not a judge. She is a merciful mother, full of affection for anyone who even slightly serves the Lord. Her heart melts at the remembrance of even one act of devotion performed in her presence.
If a person dies in the same room as Tulasī, even unknowingly, the scriptures promise liberation from repeated birth and death. Such is her benevolence and spiritual potency.
Her Protective Influence in Life and Death
Tulasī Devī is not only the companion of Viṣṇu, but also the protector of His devotees. During one’s life, she ensures spiritual advancement; at death, she ensures freedom from suffering and safe passage to the eternal abode.
Wise Vaiṣṇavas thus keep Tulasī nearby throughout life, place her leaves in their drinking water, chant before her, and prepare for death by taking refuge in her.
Lessons to Be Learned
1. Tulasī Devī Is the Most Powerful Intercessor for Liberation
Śrīla Prabhupāda emphasized that dying with Tulasī nearby or in the mouth ensures freedom from Yama’s control. She acts as the devotee’s shelter and advocate at the most critical moment of life.
“Just see the mercy of Tulasī Devī. She is the greatest Vaiṣṇavī, and she saves even the fallen if they once bow to her.” – Śrīla Prabhupāda
2. Bhakti Performed in Her Presence Bears Eternal Results
Even if a person cannot perform great austerities, if they serve or honor Tulasī with sincerity, they receive the same result as great sages. A single drop of bhakti in her shelter destroys countless lifetimes of karma.
3. Tulasī Should Be Present in Every Home and by Every Devotee’s Side
Śrīla Prabhupāda instructed that every devotee should grow Tulasī, offer her leaves daily, and ensure her presence at the time of death. This is a vital instruction for those who desire Kṛṣṇa’s mercy at the final hour.
4. She Is Non-Different from Bhakti Herself
Tulasī is not symbolic—she is living bhakti in plant form. To care for her is to nourish one’s own spiritual life. Her compassion is limitless, and she never forgets even a single act of honor.
5. The Power of the Lord’s Association Is Extended Through His Devotees
Just as contact with Kṛṣṇa purifies the soul, contact with His dearest devotee, Tulasī, also brings immediate spiritual transformation. She is the gateway, the guide, and the messenger of divine grace.
