The King’s Challenge
Once, the king of Devagiri heard the fame of Saint Namdev. He was told, “There is a tailor in Pandharpur whose songs make Lord Vitthal appear before him. Even the gods listen when he sings.”
The king, proud of his wealth and power, decided to test the saint. He sent messengers to Pandharpur with the command: “Bring Namdev here, so I may see if this common man truly makes God dance.”
When the messengers arrived, Namdev bowed respectfully and said, “If it pleases my Lord Vitthal, I shall go wherever He sends me.” He prayed before the deity and received an inner command: “Go, Nama. I will be with you always.”
At the Royal Court
When Namdev entered the grand palace, musicians, poets, and scholars gathered. The king said, “O saint, I hear that your God eats from your hands. Show us this miracle, and I shall honor you. But if you deceive us, I shall imprison you.”
Namdev replied gently, “My Lord is not bound by command; He comes only where there is faith. If you truly believe, He will surely appear.”
The king laughed. “Faith or not, I wish to see your God!”
The Test of Faith
Namdev placed before him a simple plate of rice and ghee, folded his hands, and began to sing softly:
“Victory to the Lord of Pandharpur, whose feet rest upon the brick,
Who steals the hearts of His devotees, whose smile melts the universe.”
The court fell silent. The fragrance of tulasī and sandal filled the air. Suddenly, a divine light spread across the hall, and there stood Lord Vitthal Himself—dark-hued, radiant, adorned with yellow silk and a pearl necklace.
The King’s Surrender
Overwhelmed, the king fell from his throne and prostrated at the Lord’s feet. “Forgive me, my Lord,” he cried. “I was blinded by pride. I thought saints were mere beggars, but they are the true kings of the world.”
Vitthal smiled and said, “O king, Nama is My dearest devotee. He has conquered Me with love. Those who bow before such a devotee are more blessed than those who rule kingdoms.”
The king rose, washed Namdev’s feet with tears, and offered him jewels and gold. Namdev accepted nothing, saying, “I am rich already—my treasure is Vitthal’s name.”
Reflection – Humility Before the Divine
- The Power of Bhakti: True devotion needs no proof; it reveals God naturally.
- The Fall of Pride: The king’s arrogance mirrors our own ego, which dissolves only when divine truth appears.
- Saints as True Royals: Namdev’s poverty hides inner wealth—love that makes even kings bow.
- Miracle of Presence: Where there is faith and purity of heart, the invisible becomes visible.
Lesson for Today
This story teaches that worldly authority cannot summon divinity—only humility can. To “see God” is not to demand a vision, but to soften the heart through love. When we serve without pride, the Lord stands revealed.
Source: Mahīpati, Bhaktavijaya, Chapter XXV, verses 1–60.
