Tukaram’s Daily Devotion
Tukaram, a revered saint, would sing abhangs daily, drawing many sadhus and bhagavathas who left with hearts filled with love for Vitthobha. However, in Dehu, there lived a man named Rameshwara Bhatt, well-versed in the dharma shastras, who grew jealous as people flocked to Tukaram’s kirtans while ignoring his own discourses.
Bhatt’s Criticism
Bhatt criticized Tukaram, calling him a Vysya who blabbered in Marathi without knowledge of the shastras. He claimed superiority as a Brahman who had studied the shastras and puranas and derided Tukaram for composing and singing his own poems.
When Tukaram heard Bhatt’s criticism, he humbly approached Bhatt, prostrated himself, and asked if he had made mistakes in his abhangs. Bhatt chastised him for advising others without proper study and accused him of committing and leading others into sin.
Tukaram’s Obedience
In tears, Tukaram promised to follow Bhatt’s guidance, who demanded that he stop composing and singing abhangs and destroy all his existing compositions. Obediently, Tukaram gathered his compositions, tied them in a silk cloth, and took them to the river Indrayani. As he prepared to discard them, he reflected on their content, which praised Vitthal, nama mahima, guru mahima, Ekadasi, and stories of Prahalada and Dhruva.
Despite his love for his compositions, he honored his promise to Bhatt and threw the bundle into the river. Feeling devastated, he sat by the riverbank, unable to sing the praises of Vitthal, crying out “Panduranga, Panduranga.”
The Miracle
The next morning, the temple priest in Dehu discovered a wet bundle on Vitthal’s head. Upon inspection, he found Tukaram’s compositions. The priest rushed to Tukaram and returned the bundle, explaining its miraculous appearance in the temple.
Tukaram realized that Vitthal had validated his abhangs, showing there were no mistakes. Overjoyed, he understood Vitthal’s support. Rameshwara Bhatt, upon hearing of this miracle, ran to Tukaram, asked for forgiveness, and praised him as a mahatma.
Tukaram’s Humility
Tukaram, ever humble, refused to accept Bhatt’s apology, stating that Bhatt, a learned Brahman, had not erred. Instead, he saw this as Vitthal’s leela, demonstrating divine approval of his abhangs.
Following this incident, Tukaram’s abhangs gained widespread fame, sung by many, and came to be known as the Vaishnava Veda.
Reflection on the Story
Divine Approval and Humility:
- The story highlights the power of divine approval. Tukaram’s humility and devotion are rewarded by Vitthal’s miraculous intervention, affirming the spiritual value of his abhangs.
Faith and Obedience:
- Tukaram’s willingness to obey Bhatt, despite personal pain, reflects deep faith and obedience. It teaches the importance of humility and trust in divine wisdom.
Forgiveness and Understanding:
- Tukaram’s response to Bhatt’s apology shows profound forgiveness and understanding. He perceives the situation as part of a divine plan, rather than holding a grudge.
Spiritual Authenticity:
- The miraculous return of the abhangs emphasizes the authenticity of Tukaram’s spiritual expression. It validates that true devotion and sincerity are recognized and cherished by the divine.
Lessons to Be Learned
- Humility in Devotion:
- True devotion involves humility and a willingness to accept criticism, even when it is painful or seems unjust.
- Divine Validation:
- Sincere spiritual practices and expressions, even when misunderstood by others, are recognized and validated by the divine.
- Forgiveness and Compassion:
- Practicing forgiveness and understanding towards those who criticize or oppose us reflects a higher spiritual maturity and alignment with divine will.
- Perseverance in Faith:
- Remaining steadfast in one’s faith and practices, despite opposition or challenges, ultimately leads to divine support and affirmation.
- Recognition of Inner Value:
- The story teaches that the true value of spiritual work lies not in external validation but in its alignment with divine principles and its ability to uplift hearts.
Conclusion
In summary, this story of Tukaram and his abhangs teaches us about humility, divine approval, forgiveness, and the profound value of sincere spiritual expression. It encourages unwavering faith and perseverance, assuring that true devotion is always recognized and blessed by the divine.
