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# Defining Suddha-Bhakti

The Goswamis of Vrindavana were deputed with the task of documenting the philosphy, practice and perfection of *bhakti*. To this end, Rupa Goswami wrote an entire treatise to summarise the subject matter, and entitled the book ‘Bhakti-rasamrita Sindhu,’ which literally means ‘The nectarean ocean of devotional service.’ The entire book is based upon a very famous verse which clearly defines what pure devotional service is: 

*anyabhilasita-sunyam* \
*jnana-karmady-anavrtam*\
*anukulyena krsnanu-* \
*silanam bhaktir uttama*

*“When first-class devotional service develops, one must be devoid of all material desires, knowledge obtained by monistic philosophy, and fruitive action. The devotee must constantly serve Krishna favourably, as Krishna desires.”* (BrS 1.1.11)

This verse has been analysed by the *acaryas* in a variety of ways in order to give us a clear understanding and application for our own lives. There are six main qualities described in this verse - three of them are considered *svarupa-laksana*, or primary (essential) qualities, while the other three are considered *tatastha-laksana*, or secondary (marginal) qualities. The *svarupa-laksana* define the inherent nature of *bhakti*. The *tatastha-laksana* are those characteristics which are often observed in pure devotional service but are not an inherent part of.