The Incident
Once, a few sannyasis (renunciates) visited the home of a devout man in the late afternoon. As per the tradition of hospitality, he invited them in, honored them, and offered them space to rest. Later, when it was time for a meal, he prepared food and invited the sannyasis to dine.
However, the sannyasis informed him that they did not eat after sunset, and they noticed that the sun was on the verge of setting. Concerned for his guests and determined to serve them properly, the man looked outside at the setting sun and made a decision.
He requested the sannyasis to wait for a moment, then went outside to a lemon tree in his yard. Climbing to the top of the tree, he used his yogic powers to stop the movement of the sun, thereby preventing it from setting.
Returning to his guests, he informed them that the sun would not set until they had finished their meal, allowing them to eat without breaking their vow. The sannyasis were amazed and deeply moved by his dedication and spiritual power.
From that day forward, he became known as Nimbaditya or Nimbarkacharya. In Sanskrit, “Nimb” refers to the lemon tree, and “Aditya” or “Ark” refers to the sun. Thus, his name symbolizes the divine feat he performed—stopping the sun while atop the lemon tree.
Legacy
Nimbarkacharya later became the revered Acharya (spiritual leader) of one of the four authentic Vaishnav Sampradayas, specifically the Kumar Sampradaya. His teachings emphasized the worship of Radha and Krishna and the philosophy of Dvaitadvaita (dualistic non-dualism), which harmonizes the unity and diversity of the divine.
Lessons to Be Learned
- The Power of Devotion and Hospitality: The story highlights the importance of hospitality and serving others with sincerity. Nimbarkacharya’s deep devotion allowed him to perform a miraculous act, demonstrating that with true faith, anything is possible.
- Yogic Powers and Spiritual Authority: Nimbarkacharya’s ability to stop the sun is a testament to the powers that can be attained through intense spiritual practice and devotion. However, his humility and service-mindedness are what truly define his greatness.
- The Importance of Vows and Commitment: The sannyasis’ commitment to their vow of not eating after sunset was respected and upheld by Nimbarkacharya, showing the importance of adhering to spiritual disciplines and vows.
Prayer
O Supreme Lord Krishna,
Grant me the humility and devotion of Nimbarkacharya,
That I may serve Your devotees with love and sincerity.
May I attain the strength to uphold my spiritual vows,
And the wisdom to act in accordance with Your divine will.
Please bless me with the power to overcome any obstacles in the path of my devotion.
Quote from Shastra
“dharmasya tattvaṁ nihitaṁ guhāyāṁ
mahājano yena gataḥ sa panthāḥ”
Translation:
“The truth of dharma is hidden in the heart of the devotees, and the path they follow is the true path.”
— Mahabharata, Vana Parva 313.117
This verse underscores the principle that the true understanding of dharma (righteousness) is found in the hearts of great devotees like Nimbarkacharya, who live according to the divine will and guide others on the path of devotion.