Examples of Perfection

In the Bhakti-rasamrita Sindhu, Rupa Goswami outlines nine examples of devotees who perfected their spirituality through these timeless practices: “Maharaja Pariksit attained the highest perfection, shelter at Lord Krishna’s lotus feet, simply by hearing about Lord Vishnu. Sukadeva Goswami attained perfection simply by reciting Srimad-Bhagavatam. Prahlada Maharaja attained perfection by remembering the Lord. The goddess of fortune attained perfection by massaging the transcendental legs of Maha Vishnu. Maharaja Prthu attained perfection by worshiping the deity, and Akrura attained perfection by offering prayers unto the Lord. Vajrangaji [Hanuman] attained perfection by rendering service to Lord Ramacandra, and Arjuna attained perfection simply by being Krishna’s friend. Bali Maharaja attained perfection by dedicating everything to the lotus feet of Krishna.” (BRS 1.2.265). It is further explained that Ambarish Maharaja engaged in all nine processes, fully engaging his mind, senses and entire being in the Lord’s service.

We see examples of perfection in the Ramayana also. Hanuman attained perfection through the process of hearing (sravanam), while Valmiki Rishi adopted the process of chanting (kirtanam). Sita, who was constantly absorbed in thought of Rama while held captive by Ravana, attained perfection through remembering (smaranam), while Bharata, who put Rama’s slippers on the throne and worshipped them while He was in exile, attained perfection by serving the lotus feet (pada-sevanam). Sabhari, who unconventionally tasted eatables before she actually offered them, attained her perfection through worship (arcanam), while Vibhisana, who took shelter of Rama in a deep mood of surrender, attained perfection through prayer (vandanam). Laksman, who was a fully faithful servant of Sita and Rama, attained perfection through humble service (dasyam), while Sugriva met with spiritual success by dint of his friendship (sakhyam) with Lord Rama. Jatayu, the valiant vulture, offered his very life in the Lord’s service as he attacked the mighty Ravana and subsequently lost his life. His perfection was through the surrendering of his entire self to the Lord (atma-nivedanam).