Seeds of Bhakti
What is the main topic of the Narad Bhakti Sutra?
Devotion (Bhakti) to God.
In Sutra 1, what does Sage Narad declare he will explain?
The nature of Bhakti.
T/F: The association of great souls can be attained- but only by the Lord's mercy.
True
According to Sutra 2, how is Bhakti described?
Supreme love for God.
What does Sutra 3 say is the essence of Bhakti?
Complete surrender and loving service to God.
According to Sutra 4, when does one attain Bhakti?
When one gives up all worldly attachments.
What does Sutra 5 emphasize about Bhakti and selfish desires?
Bhakti is free from selfish desires.
T/F: Bhakti is dependent on Knowledge.
False. Bhakti is its own fruit - independent of knowledge.
What state does a person reach according to Sutra 6 when immersed in Bhakti?
Blissful and sorrowless state.
What does Sutra 7 mention about Bhakti and knowledge (jnana)?
Bhakti is greater than knowledge.
According to Sutra 9, what is Bhakti not dependent on?
Bhakti is universal. Not dependent on caste, creed, or gender.
In Sutra 10, Narad advises that Bhakti can be attained through what method?
By hearing and singing about God's glories.
What is said in Sutra 13 about avoiding distractions?
Avoid anything that hinders devotion.
What does Sutra 11 emphasize regarding ego and Bhakti?
Bhakti thrives when the ego is surrendered.
According to Sutra 12, what quality must a devotee cultivate?
Humility
Sutra 14 says Bhakti should be offered with what attitude?
Simplicity and purity.
What does Sutra 15 warn against even after gaining Bhakti?
Pride or arrogance.
Sadhana should be a seamless stream: ________, _________, and full of devotion.
constant, unshaken
According to Sutra 16, how should a Bhakta view happiness and misery?
As God's will; with equanimity.
What type of company should one avoid according to Sutra 17?
Company of non-devotees or worldly-minded people.
According to Sutra 19, what is the highest goal according to Narad Ji?
To attain pure love for God.
Sutra 21 describes Bhakti as the fruit of both ______ and ______.
Knowledge and renunciation.
T/F: The association of guru is rarely obtained, difficult to understand, and infallible.
True
According to Sutra 22-24, what are the three paths that converge into Bhakti?
Knowledge (Jnana), Action (Karma), and Meditation (Dhyana).
In Sutra 47, how does Narad conclude the discussion on Bhakti?
By affirming that Bhakti is beyond definition and can only be experienced.