The Kirtan on Ekadasi
One Ekadasi day, Tukaram was performing kirtans, and Shivaji, the Maratha king, was listening with great devotion. During this time, a large troop of 2,000 Muslim soldiers learned of Shivaji’s location and came to arrest him. They surrounded the house where the bhajans were being performed, not allowing anyone to enter or leave.
The Imminent Danger
Shivaji’s informers managed to get word to him about the situation. Worried, Shivaji was advised by one of his bodyguards to leave. However, Tukaram insisted that no one should leave until the kirtan was over. Trusting Tukaram and feeling the divine presence, Shivaji decided to stay, thinking that only Vitthal could save him, and if not, he would consider it an honor to die on an Ekadasi day while listening to abhangs in the company of saints.
Divine Intervention
A spy entered the house to identify Shivaji but couldn’t recognize him among the devotees. He reported this to his commander, who then ordered his soldiers to kill everyone inside, ensuring they would get Shivaji. At this critical moment, Vitthal took the form of Shivaji and rode out on a horse. The soldiers saw this and began to chase him.
The Miraculous Escape
The chase went on for several hours and covered about 40 miles into a dense jungle. Eventually, Vitthal, still in Shivaji’s form, disappeared, leaving the soldiers bewildered and blaming each other for failing to catch him. The commander was astounded that his army couldn’t capture one man.
Assurance from Vitthal
Vitthal then whispered to Tukaram about the events and assured him that they could continue the kirtans without any fear.
Reflection on the Story
Divine Intervention and Faith:
- This story emphasizes the importance of faith and surrender to God. Shivaji, facing imminent danger, chose to trust in the divine and remained calm, immersed in devotion. His faith was rewarded with divine intervention, as Vitthal himself protected him.
Spiritual Priorities:
- Tukaram’s insistence that the kirtan continue despite the threat teaches the importance of prioritizing spiritual commitments. It shows that unwavering dedication to spiritual practices can invoke divine protection and blessings.
God’s Protection:
- The miraculous rescue of Shivaji highlights the belief that God protects his devotees in times of need. It reassures that even in dire circumstances, divine help is available for those who surrender and trust in God.
Surrender and Trust:
- The story illustrates that true surrender involves trusting God’s plan, even when it is not immediately apparent how situations will resolve. Shivaji’s willingness to stay and listen to the abhangs despite the danger demonstrates profound faith and surrender.
Lessons to Be Learned
- Faith in Divine Protection:
- Believers are encouraged to maintain faith that God will protect and provide solutions in times of trouble, even when circumstances seem dire.
- Commitment to Spiritual Practices:
- Staying committed to spiritual practices and devotion can invoke divine grace and intervention.
- The Power of Surrender:
- Surrendering to God’s will, even in challenging situations, can lead to miraculous outcomes and protection.
- Divine Presence in Devotees’ Lives:
- The story reassures devotees that God is always present and active in their lives, often taking steps to protect and guide them in ways beyond human understanding.
- Trust in Divine Timing:
- It teaches that God’s timing and methods may be different from our expectations, but they are ultimately for the best.
Conclusion
In summary, this story of Tukaram and Shivaji on Ekadasi teaches us about unwavering faith, the importance of spiritual dedication, divine protection, and the power of surrendering to God’s will. It underscores the profound impact of faith and devotion in invoking divine intervention and guidance, reassuring that divine presence is always active in the lives of true devotees.
