The Poet-Saints

of Maharashtra

No. 2

EKNATH
A TRANSLATION
FROM THE BHAKTALILAMRITA
BY

JUSTIN

E.

ABBOTT

r*s

Printed and published by the Scottish Mission Industries Co., Ltd.,

(J. R.

Eason, Manager), at the Orphanage Press,

East Street.,

Poona 1927

DEDICATED
MY BELOVED
CAMILLA,

TO THE MEMORY OF

who
who

WIFE,

died at Miraj June 26th, 1921

shared with

Poet-saints
visited

with

of

me

me

interest in the

Maharashtra;
the shrines of

who
Dnya-

Namdeva, Janardan, Eknath,

Tukaram and Ramdas, at Alandi,
Pandharpur, Devagiri, Paithan Dehu,

nesvara,

and other places dear to the

Indian heart; who, wherever she
went, left a kindly memory; whose
last conscious words were.
Parali,

We must do more to make this

a better and a happier world."
"

PREFACE.

my

volume on Bhimudas, the first in the PoetMaharashtra Series, I indulged in a rather lengthyPreface, covering the whole ground of my purpose and
plans regarding the Series. A resume of that Preface is
all that seems necessary here.
In

saints of

In that Preface I called attention to the fact that I

was moral value in the stories of the Maratha

and that that fact had influenced me to make these
translations.
For these translations I had chosen the
felt

there

Saints,

oldest original sources, or at least those that

expression of tradition. I paid

collected the old stories,

graphic

style.

my

were the best

respects to Mahipati,

and rewrote them

in his

I briefly discussed the question of the his-

toric character of these stories,

of chronology.

and the confused subject

I confessed to difficulties in the

path of

these translations, and of their production in India.

I expressed

of
if

my
I

my

But

confidence in the generosity and courtesy

Indian readers, to

may

who
own

whom

be permitted so to

was
call

offering these flowers,

them.

made my

MarathI scholars who have done so

much for the old MarathI literature, and expressed my
thanks to Dr. Nicol Macnicol for his extreme kindness
in seeing these translations through the press.

namask&r

to those

EKNATH

It

As

a special preface to this volume on Eknath the

may be referred to.

following points

The reader may ask why I translated Mahipati's

account in the Bhaktalilamrita, when that account is but
same story as

by Kesavaswami, only rewritten

in Mahipati's own words. The truthful answer is that I
had already translated it before I was properly aware of
Kesavaswami's version, and the relation of Mahipati's
Bhaktalllamrta to it.
However, Mahipati's version has
this advantage that the story of Eknath is more interestingly
told.
And moreover the slight differences between his
account and that of Kesava may possibly be accounted for

the

that told

because of access to other traditions, such as he used

when

twelve years before he wrote the short and incomplete

account of Eknath in his Bhaktavijaya.

To

this

may be

added the advantage of using Mahipati's Bhaktalilamrita

account

as

it

is

the

references to Eknath.

popular

version

for

all

The two modern Eknath

modern
charitras

by Sahasrabuddhe and Pangarkar and Ajgaonkar in

Marathi are but resumes of this Bhaktalilamrita account.

few words regarding Mahlpati, the author of the

Bhaktalilamrita will not be out of place. He was born
at Taharabad in the Rahuri Taluka of the Ahmednagar
District in the year 1715.
He was early inclined to the
religious life, but the death of his father necessitated his

engaging in secular

ment

affairs.

He was

servant, but finding his

for a time a Govern-

worldly duties interfering

with his religious inclinations he gave up the former.

Maratha
on that subject.
author of many works, but the two for which he
interest centered

on the

his writings are nearly

lives of the

all

Saints,

He

is

His
and
the

is especially

BKNATH
known

iii

are the Bhaktavijaya, completed in 1762, and the

Bhaktalilamrita completed in

(See Maharashtra

1774.

Sarasvata by Mr. V. L. Rhave,

first edition,

page 372, on

Mahlpati.)
It

would have been

possible to

add to

my

translation

any number of references and footnotes.

They would
hive interested scholars, but would be a burden to the
ordinary reader, and certainly a burden to the writer, who
feels his time and strength can be better employed.
I

am aware

translations

of

many

defects connected with these

and accompanying notes.

however, bear

in

mind

that hitherto

The reader

little

will,

has been done

to give to English readers a knowledge of the lives of the

Maratha

saints.

pioneer has always

who

difficulties that

do

Edwards' Life
of Titkaram, and the Poems of Tukar&m, translated by
Fraser and Marathe, are the only attempts hitherto made
that give a full account of a Maratha saint, and his works.
Short resumes of the lives of the most prominent of the
Maratha saints appear in many works, and in many histories of the Maratha people.
Tales of the Saints of
Pandharpur by C. A. Kincaid is a condensation of stories
from the Bhaktavijaya (the story of Eknath is strangely
omitted.)
Dr. Nicol Macnicol has very effectively put
into English verse many of the lines of the Maratha poets.
But so far as I am aware no English writer has taken up
an exhaustive study of the whole field of the Maratha
saints.
In therefore leading the way by means of translations of tiie original sources I have met with difficulties of
many kinds, and I am only too well aware of the imperfections of my work.
But, if my efforts bring about a betWr
not beset the path of those

follow.

EKNATH

iv

my

acquaintance with the Maratha saints,

have been accomplished, and the path

those who follow me.

My own

feeling regarding

will

Eknath

he does not enjoy the popularity of

real object will

is

be easier for

that,

Tukaram

although
as to his

writings, in character, in ideals, in learning, in the consis-

tency and nobleness of his life, he is the greatest of the

Maratha poet-saints. I have already expressed the opinion
that these traditional stories, told by Mahipati and others,

are not necessarily exact history, but rather history plus

come about as they were handed

mouth,
to
and yet that are in keeping
with the impression which the man made on his generation.
That impression is after all the important thing, and there
Eknath excels.
the variations that have

down from mouth

Justin E. Abbott,

Summit, N.

J.,

U. S. A.
April 1926.

CONTENTS.

Page.

Pebface
lues op Ekkath

OL08BABY

...

...

...

...

...

...

^l

EKNATH CHARITRA.

SRI

THE LIFE OF EKNATH.

As

told

by the poet

Mtilttpati in his Bhaktalilamrita,

Chapters thirteen

twentyfour.

to

CHAPTER
MAHIPATI'S
1.

13.

INVOCATION.

Obesiance to Sri Gartesa

Victory, Victory to the

Husband-of-Rukmini,
Tenderlover-of-Bhaktas,
Ocean-of-Mercy,
Sea-of-Compassion,
Deliverer-of-the-lowly,
of-All,
Lord
Pandurang.
2.
A 11-Auspicious, Supreme-lord-of-the-Auspicious, BeyondBrother-of-the-HelpIess,

all-Evil,

Lord-of-the-Senses,

Lord-all- Supreme,
3.

Victory

act,

Thee,

Pure-Intelligence,

Thou,
exist.

to

Indivisible

Thou,

Guru-of-the-World.

who-makest-the-intellect-to

Internal-Light,

who-art-beyond-Maya,

Thou,

Saviour-of-the-Univcrse,

One,

Thou,

\yoih-nir(funa-a.t\d

Slayer-of-Madhu,
in-whom-thc-,<7wa.y-

sagnna,

Ocean-of-Joy,

Thou takest great delight in the deeds of the bhaktas.

In their distresses Thou comest in person to their relief.
And
Thou doest miraculous deeds in the sight of men.
praise.
these deeds become beautiful subjects of thy
5 Plac-

4.

ing therefore, the trust of

my

heart in Thee, I have begun

EKNATH

this Bhaktalilamrita.

Do

completion, enabling
6.

it

to escape the

I indeed lack intellect, I

do not know the

right

matical relations.

language for a book.

the hand,
iron

thou carry the whole work to

is

who

will

am

many

possible disasters.

dull of understanding;

meaning of words, and

am
7.

ignorant of

But

if

show him

how

their

gram-

to use proper

the Almighty takes one

slight.

Just as

touched by the touchstone (parisa)

its

when

by
the

value becomes

So by Thy favour, O Husband-of-Rukmini, my

uncouth language will become acceptable, for I, a humble
man, am dull of understanding, as all men know.
great.

9.

as I

8.

Thou,

in reality, art the holder of the guiding string,

know most

certainly in

my

heart.

So now giving me

the assurance that I need not fear, cause

life

me

to relate the

of thy bhaktas.

THE CHILDHOOD OF EKNATH.

10.

In the last chapter there was related the delight-

which took place between Kabir,

a worshipper of Ram, and Rohidas, a worshipper of
Krishna. 11. Now, you good people, reverently listen to
the delectable tale of Eknath of Partishthana, who appeared
among men as an avatdra of Vishnu.
ful story of the discussion

12.

Bhimudas,

Sri

chief

jewel

of

bhaktas,

who

brought back the image of Panduranga, had a son of noble

His name was Chakrapani. 13. Chakrapani's
character.
son was Suryanarayana, lustrous through the brilliancy of

His wife, of noble character, had the name

To Rukmini was born in the Kali Yuga,
for the good of the Universe, Eknath, image of the supreme

his knowledge.

of Rukmini.

14.

EKNATH

15.
Brahma, the Guru-of-the-World in visible form,
his
While Eknath was still a child, both his father and
mother died, and he was cared for by his grandfather
Chakrapani. 16. And they being grandfather and grandmother, they fondled him and seeing that the child had
many noble qualities they were both very happy.
17.

children.

Eknath did not enjoy the ordinary games of

Instead, he would so arrange his marbles as to

represent gods,

and would

would place on

his shoulder

Then

lute.

in his lisping

of-Heaven.

19.

performing

klrtans.

offer

flowers.

18.

He

and pretend

it

was a

them

ladle,

words he would invoke the King-

Sometimes the Haridas would come,

Eknath would

listen attentively,

then

repeating the same words, he would dance in ecstasy.

20.

And

God, seeing his simple

the

marbles.

The

faith, would reveal himself in

Husband-of-Rama, hungry for the

worship of men, took his abode

in the marbles.

21.

He

"

names of God Ram, Krishna,

Goivinda,
Achyuta, Ananta, Aanadakanda, Sri
Govinda, Guru-of-the-World."
22.
He used to take a
little stick in his hand, and with an old rag make it into
a banner. He would then carry it on his shoulder, saying,

was always

repeating the

Hari,

"I

am

off for

Pandhari."

23.

Seeing these signs of piety

while in his childhood, his grandparents took great comfort in him.

He was always repeating the names " Ram,

Ram," never ceasing for a moment.

at all like other children,

24.

Eknath was not

who were always

complaining,

even when there was no reason for doing so. 25. He was
ever happily content with whatever sweetmeat was given
him. Thus those signs appeared in him now, which were
to be characteristic of him in the future. 26. Chakrapani

EKNATH

once said to his wife,

"My

Bhanudas, was once

worshipping before the image of Pandurang, and the Glorious-lord showed him his favor. 27. Vithoba said to him,
"Bhanudas, ask some boon of me."
Bhanudas replied,
"Become an avatara in my family. I have no other
desire."

father,

The Husband-of-Rukmini, hearing

28.

request, said, " It shall be so."

that

it

29.

His wife

is really

He who

replied,

seems to me,
has become an avatara in Eknath,

"Your surmise

of such noble character,

his father

And now

this

is

is

living,

upon him with contended eyes."

This child,

true.

not a mere

and mother were but

it

human

If

they would look

And

30.

being.

as she thus

memory of her own son came back

She became choked with emotion, and tears
31.
But at the same time the
flowed from her eyes.
grandmother took courage, and exclaimed, "If only
this
remnant of our family line lives, he will be
the saviour of our family, and bring us safely to
spoke,

to

the

her.

the

Hereafter."

32.

Thus

comforting

tenderly cared for her grandson.

When

herself,

she

he was six years

of age they lovingly invested him with the sacred thread.

Eknath conducted himself exactly as the family

Guru instructed him. He regularly performed the thrice33.

a-day devotions, with the prescribed ceremonies.

attended regularly to his morning
clay,

and the washing of

his

toilet, to

He

Before bathing he

feet.

would not so much as drink water.

34.

the use of the

While eating he would

Brahmana guru told

him to commit something to memory, he would quietly
take up the Pavamana stotra.
It was no painful effort
for him to commit it to memory.
36.
His grandfather
taught him at home the cursive handwriting (pishacha Hpi,
not utter a single word.

35.

If his

EKNATH
He

modi.)

acquired that knowledge also without any

In all his conduct Eknath was remarkable.

37.
had no liking for the ordinary worldly life. He acted
as one would, when born in a Vaishnava family. 38. One
All
of noble character is born only in a noble family.
praise such.
All honor such. The times are propitious to
Such an one has no restlessness of
such an honoured one.
soul even in his dreams. 39. And he who is free from restdifficulty.

He

lessness of soul

Vishnu.

It is to

one to be recognized as a bhakta of

is

such that Bhakti comes to serve, and

all

the

Siddhis become his slaves. 40. Well, enough of such general

was beyond compare. He loved

the worship of Sri Ram. People wondered at him. 41.
They would exclaim. " In years he is so young, and yet
remarks.

Eknath \s

his heart

seems always indifferent to the things of this

He

world.

life

jests.

He

reading of the Puranas.

42.

will not listen to

would rather
In repeating

listen

to the

funny

stories

and

and in explaining their meaning, he

si okas,

never makes the least mistake.

And

as he eagerly repeats

them, even the distinguished Twice-born listen to him with

delight.

They say he

43.

is

a yogabhrashta.

thorough knowledge of the Vedanta philosophy.

in

44.

of being alone with his pandit he would ask questions.

as the

Brahmana pandit

listened to the questions

dumbfounded, and would exclaim

been taught

us.

has
has

human form, to bring full salvation

Whenever Eknath had an opportunity

become an avatara
to the world."

He
He

45.

By

study

And

he became

"

Our knowledge has

we have acquired our

conversancy with the contents of the Puranas, for the

purpose of gaining a livelihood. His expressions do not
come within our experience. Eknath, your questions are

most extraordinary.

46.

little

pond looks

like

a great

EKNATH

6
lake, so long as the

in fact,

is

ocean

So our knowledge,

not seen.

is

insignificant before yours,

the light of the

fire fly at

Eknath.

47.

As

once and naturally vanishes before

the glare of a lamp, so I listen to your questions, but cannot

comprehend

their full meaning.

48.

The

stars are beauti-

Husband-of-Rohini (the moon) has

So in the presence of your questions my

ful only so long as the

not arisen.

mental

activities cease.

So long as one has not seen

49.

the nectar of the gods, one places the marvels of medical

remedies

first.

So, as I listen to your questions I

confused to reply.

50.

Or

am

too

when the sun rises, the

So my words pale before

as

moon looks as pale as a cloud.

your knowledge." 51. When thus lauded by the Puramfi,
Eknath would make a namaskar and say, " My words are
but those of a child.

Do

not be angry with me."

Pwrdnik would then eagerly

face,

52.

The

and tenderly caress his

saying, " One should wave the salted nimb leaves over
arise,

your noble character. 53. You look like the statue of

the Supreme Brahma, and yet you manifest the acts of a
child.
It is my good fortune to see you with my own eyes,
and my worldly existence has thereby become a fruitful
one." 54. Eknath replied, " If I should have doubts in
my mind, to whom should I go for an answer? Tell me
at once now."
55.
The Pundit answered, " In this life
below one should have the intimacy of a Sadguru. Only
thus can the snare of this life be truly broken, and the
coming and going through birth and death be avoided."
56.
No sooner did Eknath hear these words, than his
heart was pierced by them, and he exclaimed, "With undivided devotion I must go to the feet of a sadguru.
57.
The Sadguru pervades the entire Universe.
No space
is seen empty of him.
Yet one should seek for him in a

EKNATH

58.
sagun form, and serve him day and night"
With this fixed purpose in mind Eknath was ever thinking,
visible

"When

will such a Svtimi greet

day and

his great concern

night.

my sight !" And this was

He now cared for nothing

else.

EKNATH MEETS JANARDANPANT.

Now

happened one day that Eknath had gone

It was during one of the watches
into the temple of Siva.
of the night, and there all alone he was lovingly worshipping.
60.
In his heart was the great longing that a
Sadguru might appear to his sight. When suddenly he
" In Fort
heard a divine voice, saying to him, 61.
59.

Devagiri

it

there

is

one

named Janardanpant, who has

received the favor of discipleship from Sri Datta.

and see him."

voice,

he was

62.

filled

When
with joy,

Go

Eknath heard this heavenly

and at once started off alone,

and without even taking the leave of his grandparents. 63.

As one in the heat of Summer, overcome with thirst, goes
searching for water, and plunges in it, so Eknath longed
to meet his Sadguru.
He no longer had the least bodily
consciousness. 64. Or as a hungry child goes searching
for its mother, so Eknath longed; saying, "I must meet
Janardanpant."

EKNATH HEARS A HEAVENLY

65.

VOICE.

Devagiri was five yojanas from Paithan.

ing that distance eagerly, he arrived at the

home

Walkof the

Sadguru. 66. The door keeper stopped him, and would

not allow him to enter, but going within said to Janardan,

EKNATH

K
"

Some one

has come,

who

claims to be a disciple of yours.

He wishes to see you. His name is Ekoba." Janardan now bethought himself of certain signs, and said to
My
68.
himself, " To day's omens have been very good.
67.

right eyelid has been drooping to-day.

every

now and

My

arm

Some good man must have come

With this he at once arose. 69. And

then.

here to see me."

Janardan

hurrying to the door saw the heroic Vaishnava.

embraced him and

his eyes filled with tears.

seeing the

Sadguru, made him

said, "

me

me

Let

Eknath

70.

and

a saslitdng namaskar,

ever remain here in your service, and give

the assuring blessing that I need not fear."

putting palm

twitches

to palm, he added, "

71.

Sadguru, you

Then

whb

are

pure Intelligence, care for the honour of your bhaktas,

receive

me

into

your

no ether refuge.

care.

have come as one

Desires,

72.

The

Oh

save

soul are tormenting

As

the

me

greatly.

lovingly

association with

pose."

six foes of the

my

73.

drawing Eknath. closely to his

embraced

you

him,

my own

74.

Exclaiming,

life will attain its

This exclamation made Eknath rejoice.

the kind of happiness: that accompanies love.

child

soul."

Sadguru recognized these evidences of penitence,

he deeply rejoiced, and

heart,

has

troublesome

longings,

thoughts grow excessively within me.

who

Dhruva,

who had

75.

"By

true pur-

He
As

felt

the

and was wandering alone

when the Muni Narada met him,
76.
So it happened to Eknath when he met Janardana.
He lost thought of body, home, and self, in the happiness
of his soul. 77. The Sadguru, then taking Eknath by
the hand led him inside the house, and immediately gave
in the forest, rejoiced

sulked,

EKNATH

him something to eat.

78.
Janardan said to himself,
"This Eknath is truly a divine avatara, not a human
being.
My good fortune is most extraordinary.'*

EKNATH SERVES JANARDAN.

79.
to

him

in

Eknath, intent on serving his sadguru ministered

himself to

who

He

every kind of service, high and low.

fail

in nothing whatever.

looked upon

all

80.

allowed

He became

one

the animate and inanimate creation

from the standpoint of being Atma. This being his state

now in detail how Eknath served his sadguru.

of mind, hear
81.

He

used to arise while the night

still

ghatikas, for his morning's repetition of the

After performing his

toilet,

began the house-worship..

in his hands,

and with

names of God.

and rinsing out his mouth, he

82.
his

lacked four

He

took the broom eagerly

own hands swept

the house.

Gathering the sweepings in a basket he would throw them

far away,

all

servants and

smearing the

the while most happy.

maid servants were

floors,

fast

While the men

asleep he would be

83.

bringing out the vessels used in worship,

and polishing them with his own hands.

When
84.
Janardan awoke, Eknath would bring him the water for
his toilet, and place the bath board for the washing of his
feet.
85.
He never failed in having ready the clay, the
tooth stick, the warm water for his bath, and the cold
water for rinsing out his mouth.
He would also
86.
place in readiness the materials used in the worship of
God, the flowers and the tulsi. After doing this Eknath
would take his own bath, and plait his guru's dhotar. 87.
Eknath would then hand to Janardan the water for his

EKNATH

10
"bath,

He

and stand ready

at

hand with dhotar and

would wring out the wet

cloth,

eagerly place his shoes before him.

fulness of his love.

88.

scarf.

used for wiping, and

All this he did in the

The Sadguru had an abundance

89.

of servants, but Eknath thought of himself as Janardan's

He wanted

one and only servant.

be done, and he did
with love.

it

all

there

was to

with a joy that was accompanied

When the Svami

90.

do

to

sat

down

for his Vishnu

Eknath would lovingly prepare the fragrant

pigments, and place near at hand the offerings to be made,

worship,

the incense, the lights, the five-light platter.

91.

When

Eknath saw his sadguru sitting in the act of meditation,

what did this good disciple do, but go and sweep his Guru's
"bedroom and deftly arrange his bed. 92. He would spread
out the bedding carefully.
He prepared the Vida and
placed it on the tray. Lovingly he washed out Janardan's
spitoon, and placed it near him. 93. While the Sadguru
sat at his meals,

Eknath would drive away the

with supreme happiness what

would then eat

had left on his plate,
deal I shall

Svami."

become

He

Remarking,

94.
lazy,

and so

fail in

to his

his

Guru

" If I eat a great

my

therefore ate very sparingly.

would himself pass the Vida

He

flies.

duties to
95.

my
He

Svami, and stand before

him with palm joined to palm.

If the Svami went to his
bed for rest, Eknath would massage his feet. 96.
He
was ready on every occasion. He failed in nothing. In
this service months and years went by, but he never wearied.
97.
In his great joy of
service Eknath felt that the
authority to serve his Guru was his alone, and that so long
as he lived he should have no partner in that service. 98.

EKNATH
He

kept

all

11

the domestic accounts in an account book,

and he never made an

In years he was young,

error.

true, but in intelligence

he was

great.

it is

In thus devot-

99.

ing himself with enthusiasm to his Sadguru's service he

made worldly cares, and the Supreme purpose of life,

The act of worship and himself as worshipper, he made
All difference absolutely vanished.

once questioned Eknath,

saying,

mother and father, and are

are they faring?"

father are both dead.

My

are living at Paithan.

There

of the past.

that

is

And

increase

sin.

your

left

"My

how

mother and

Grandfather and grandmother

them to come here.

I left

Eknath did not permit

102.

Japa.

104.

in his

thought the

memo-

In his loving emotions he was whole-

heartedly his Guru's.

be

Janardan

with me, but

replied,

one.

no duty more important than the service of a

is

Svami."
ries

You have

living here

Eknath

101.

When

100.
"

one.

103.

The

service of a Sadguru,

The service of a Sadguru, that is tapa.

of wrong conception here, one should feel to
Eknath, the loving bhakta, so longed for his

Sadguru's blessing that in his love he regularly drank the

contents of Janardan's spitoon.
the tambul that Janardan

nectar of

Brahma

He would

105.

rechew

had chewed, and he regarded the

as inferior to

were on these occasions he

it.

told

But what

no

one.

his feelings

106.

While

Janardan would be reading aloud the Amritanubhava and

the Dnyaneshvari,

Eknath would

with fixed attention.

107.

It

listen

with delight and

was Janardan's habit to

complete his regular morning's duties and then to visit the

king.

After finishing his various

return home.

official

duties he

would

EKNATH

12

EKNATH SUBSTITUTES HIMSELF FOR

JANARDAN.
108.

Now

it

was about
invading army suddenly

happened one day, when

the fourth ghatika, that a great

arrived to capture Devagiri.

109.

it

Spies announced that a

enemy of the king was approaching with an army.

The king fell into a great fright. 110. The mace-bearers
hurried to the house of Janardan, to tell him that a great
invading army had arrived, and that he should come at
certain

once.

Now

111.

Janardan had just completed

his ablu-

To
and devotions, and was
convey to him the news at such a time would be overstepping the grounds of propriety. 112. Eknath, an avatar
able for miraculuos deeds, now performed a miracle. He
sitting in meditation.

tions

assumed the form of Janardan, but no one, other than

was aware of the fact. 113. He hurriedly put
on the garments of his Svami, and changed his own form
to that of his.
He took his dagger in hand and sat in his
palanquin.
114.
In his talk and carriage he differed not
in the least from his guru.
He went to the king's council
and learned all the news. 115. The royal patron was in
himself,

great perplexity.

he

said.

"

and

Now

"A

army has arrived,"

we adopt ? " Eknath

great invading

what plan

shall

"By

the might of your good

deeds I will conquer the enemy in no time."
So saying

listened

replied.

116.

he gave his command to the generals,

diately."

drums

117.

And

"Be

ready imme-

with this order he had the kettle-

Instruments of music gave out their

various sounds, and the army marched forward out of
the city.
118.
Eknath, an avatar able for miraculous
deeds,

beaten.

now showed

to the

enemy

his

wonderful power.

EKNATH

13

His own army was very

small, but to the enemy it seemed

The arrows now flew sana sana. The
weapons clashed khana khana.
The spirit of heroism rose
Tiigh.
Slaughter raged violently.
The struggle
120.
lasted four ghatikas.
The sky became clouded with dust,

very great.

119.

and still the Vaishnava hero had not ended

But now the whole invading army began to

The

foe

was panic

they exclaimed.
superior officer to
"I have come

messenger

of

"

stricken.

We

see

And in their dire

the Commander of
an interview."

for

the

enemy proposed

bhakta of the Sadguru,

121.

flee.

no good before us,"

straits

they sent a

the army,
122.

who

When

parley,

pity for him.

felt

his assault-

He

said,

the.

Eknath,
did not

show him harshness but met him in a playful manner. 123.

He brought this enemy into the city, introduced him to
his royal patron, gave him garments and ornaments, and
said, " Now return to your place."
124.
Having thus
gained the victory, Eknath returned to his home.

changed

his

form back

again,

He

and stood ready to serve.

JANARDAN DISCOVERS EKNATH'S

MIRACULOUS DEED.
125.
in the

During

god-room

all

this

while Janardan had been alone

in meditation.

mind- worship he came back

Finally completing his

to bodily consciousness.

126.

He

had not heard the news of what had occurred outside.

So

as usual he

fire,

made

and finished

his offering to the idol,

his meal.

127.

He

and

to the

then took his four

ghatikas of sleep, after which he called for his palanquin

EKNATH

U
and quickly went

When

to the Hall of Administration.

saw him coming he

his royal patron

arose to receive him.

He

thus addressed him, 129.

was very

to-day

affectionately

gave him a seat by his

"

The

invading

128.

army

side,

that

and

came

Yet you went against them, con-

great.

quered the enemy, gaining a notable victory." 130. After the

royal patron

had thus lauded him, the

chief

members of

the Council did the same, and ordered fresh garments to

be brought immediately.

The

131.

presented these to Janardan, saying, "

royal patron then

You

took but a small

army with you, you brought back victory."

crowd around then shouted, "Victory, Victory

The

132.

(to Janar-

dan) " and the minstrels began to sing aloud of his distinguished deeds.
thinking

it

Janardan was utterly confused by

most

strange.

" I

133.

"How

meditation," he said to himself.

things have happened?"
all

and

able

exclaimed, " It

my

could

home

in

these

all

it

must have been Eknath, an avatar

He must

134.

form, and accomplished this deed.

better not reveal this fact, or

it

Settling the matter thus in his

his

at

Then suddenly he understood

for miraculous deeds.

taken

was

all this,

will

surely have

Yet

had

become notorious."

135.

mind Janardan returned

to

home, and taking Eknath aside lovingly embraced him.

Caressingly patting him on the back, he exclaimed,

136.
" Blessed are you, bhakta of the Sadguru. You have per-

formed a most marvellous deed.

mind."

137.

I divined

in

my own

Hearing these nectar-words Eknath

his feet in sincere devotion, saying,

the holder of the guiding string.

mine."

it

fell

at

"You, Svami, you are

The deed was not

EKNATH

15

JANARDAN TESTS EKNATH.

The days

138.

thus passing

Janardan said to Eknath,

"You

accounts in your book, bring them

it

happened once that

have written up the

now

to me."

139.

" I

do so," responded the bhakta of the sadguru, and went

by himself to balance the account. He found in it an
error of one adhela.
This greatly distressed his mind.

will
off

He

140.

added

oil

again and again.

to the lamp,

and went over the account

Two

and a half watches of the night

thus passed, he conquering his drowsiness and keeping

Not willing that his Guru should suffer any

he kept up his search for the missing adhela. Sud-

awake.
loss,

141.

denly the account balanced to his great joy.

burst

out

laughing and

slapped

his

142.

thigh.

Just

He
then

Janardan happened to come and watch him from behind.

"What good thing have you

"What are you so happy about
laughing?"

Hearing

found,"
that

he.

you should be

his Sadguru's voice

his forehead to the feet of his Guru.

said

143.

now

Eknath touched

144.

"In looking

over the account," he replied, "there was an error of

one adhela. I have just discovered it and am feeling very

happy."

145.

"Now,"

by so doing can you

attain

want you to
way on Krishna. Only

said Janardan, "I

concentrate your mind in the same

your highest well being in

this

This is all the comment Janardan made.

Eknath then placed his pen at his sadguru's feet and
cried, "What you have said is what I have been longing
for, and now that you have told me what to do, your word
will not go in vain."
147.
So saying he broke out into
an Abhang.
Listen to it, ye pious bhaktas.
They are

life

146.

below."

EKNATH

16

sweet words of his experience.

I gladly quote

them

in

this book.

1.

Janardan

He
2.

The account was

He

for large amounts.

always in the name of Ram.

" I

me

gave

am He "

I reverently accepted
4.

He

me

gave

I received
5.

quickly

the three worlds.

opened an account with me.

And
3.

Lord of

the

is

as his bond.
it.

garments of

love.

from him the leaves of Salvation.

the

built

city

of

Absorption-into-

Brahma.
I

went and

I will collect

6.

will send

7.

By

sat in the bastion of Chaitanya.

the revenue of Self-knowledge and I

it

to

my

SvCimi.

the hands of the saints will I send the balance

of accounts.

Bhakti will be the beautiful receipt.

8.

Such

are

the

business

relations

through punya in a former

I
148.

am

with true devotion.

acquired

birth.

fully satisfied in Janardan.

After repeating

account book aside.

this AbJiang,

Now

hear

how he

he put the Modi

served his

Guru

EKNATH

17

EKNATH'S SPECIAL ACTS OF SERVICE.

149.

He

cleaned with his

own hands

the place

where

Janardan performed his toilet. He smeared the place with

cow dung and decorated it with coloured powders. ISO.
After some days had passed the Sadguru questioned him.
" Who is it that sweeps out the privy, tell me. 151. I see
the place smeared with cowdung, and always decorated
with the coloured powders. The Halalkhor surely does not
da this. I am wondering who does it."
152.
Eknath
replied, "Am I an ungrateful wretch? I have offered my
whole body to my Svami to serve him in every way."
153.
When Janardan heard this reply, he was deeply
moved, and said to himself, "I should not let him serve me.
Eknath is not a mere man. 154. I must see to it that he
has a visible manifestation of Sri Dattatreya, Guru-of-theworld. And what an intellect Dattatreya will see,"
thought he.

JANARDAN'S WORSHIP OF DATTATREYA.

155.

Janardan's royal patron,

the king, issued

an

order to his secretaries, that none need come to visit him

on Fridays. 156. In accordance with this order of the
king, instead of going to the Council Hall on that day,

Janardan made it his habit to devote the day to his own

most important private duties. 157. There was a very
extensive lake on the plateau of the near by mountain, the
water of which was very pure. There was no passing by
158.
There was also a dense forest,
of people there.
Simply viewing the
fruit.
beautiful with flowers and
scene brought rest to the mind. It seemed as though one
2

EKNATH

18

could not leave the spot.

If one searched over all

159.

One

that country one could not find so charming a spot.

had only to look

a

sense

of

at that clear

peaceful

and pure water

160.

rest.

Sri

to experience

Dattatreya

was

accustomed to come to that spot, and any good man who

performed anushthana here could have a visible manifestation of him.
161.
So Janardan every Friday used to
climb the mountain, take his bath in the lake and perform
his accustomed rites.
162.,
He would then make a
thousand lingas of clay, and worship them with proper
ceremony. At the completion of his worship Sri Datta

would give him a visible manifestation of himself. 163.

As each met the other, each was filled with joy. They
would converse together on the Happiness of the soul.
They experienced a shower of joy. 164. Janardan was
one day thinking to himself, " Eknath is a Sadguru Bhakta.
He very faithfully serves me. 165. I must now arrange
for him a visible manifestation of Sri Dattatreya.
He
will recognize Eknath's intellect and in mercy will give
him a special boon."

JANARDAN TAKES EKNATH TO MEET

DATTATREYA.
166.

as

he

With this
was about

asked Eknath
with joy at
lotus

feet

mind,

in

go

to

go

to
this

of his

idea

up

request,

the

to

with

him.

Eknath

on

Friday,

mountain,
167.

he

Filled

worshipped

the

Guru, and started with him at once

carrying the prayer-mat and the idol-bag.

a father prepares to go to a

feast,

and

168.

As when

calls his child to

go

EKNATH

19

with him, the child feels overjoyed, so

was in this case.

hand and led him

it

Janardan took Eknath by the

There alone by themselves he told
up the mountain.
Eknath how Sri Datta was accustomed to manifest himself
" In a Maya body he lovingly maniat that place.
170.
fests himself in any odd form.
So when you see him let
no suspicious doubt fill your mind. 171. Aside from him
no human being will come to this mountain spot."
Such were his words of instruction. 172. Janardanpant
then bathed in the water of the lake, said his usual prayers,
made his offerings, and began the linga worship.
173.
Eknath collected the clay, and brought it to Janardan, who
made of it a thousand lingas, and worshipped them with
appropriate rites.
174.
Having finished all his worship
169.

Sri

he began

his meditation of the Guru-of-the-World.

Sud-

denly the Son-of-Anusuya appeared, but in the guise of a

Muhammadan.

His body was clothed in a leather

garment. His eyes looked large and blood-red. Counting
contemplating the Beingprayers on a rosary, he sat
He had brought with him a
without-Qualities.
176.
Wish-cow, but to one's sight she appeared a bitch.
his inner sight, and
Janardan recognized him through
reverently

175.

made him a namaskar.

177.

Just as there

is

between the Sagun and the

Nirgun, so Dattatreya and Janardan lovingly embraced one
another, as one.
178.
Or indeed as light and the sun are
conjoined to one another, or as the flower and its honey

no recognizable

difference

was the love of the two. 179. Or again

just as there is no difference whatever between a musical
instrument and its sound, or as nectar and its sweetness
are alike.
180.
Or as the body and the soul are united
in love, so Janardan and Avadhuta appeared as one.
do not

differ, so

EKNATH

20
close

Sitting

181.

Eknath

happiness.
heart.

together

Dattatreya

182.

they

on Soul-

conversed

listened attentively with great joy of

now drew

out an earthen bowl

from under

his folds and asked Janardan to go at once and

milk the bitch, sitting near by.
183.
Instantly obeying,

Janardan took the bowl in his hands and quickly milked

the bitch,

filling

the vessel full of milk.

184.

He

fetched

back to where Avadhuta was sitting and placed it before

who taking out some dry pieces of bread, crumbled
them into the milk. 185. This was in reality divine food,
but to one's sight it seemed like stale bread, such as the
begging student gathers as he wanders from house to house.
it

him,

186.

was to

It

performed in

test the faith of his

bhakta that Dattatreya

their sight this strange act.

Eknath under-

187.

yet not without a suspicious doubt in his mind.

AvadhUta now said to Janardan, " Sit down now

beside

me and

stood

it,

let

At

us eat together."

this

invitation

and
Dattatreya, in his visible form, ate together out of the one
vessel.
When their appetite was satisfied by this nectar
of joy, they prepared to wash their hands. 189. They
washed their hands in the earthen bowl, rinsed out their

Janardan

overflowed

with

188.

joy.

Janardan

mouths, and to purify their mouths they took the Vida,

and each withdrew to his seat.

told to go to the lake, wash the
" I will do so surely," he said.

190.
vessel
191.

Then Eknath was

and bring

it

back.

Sitting at the edge

of the lake, he thought to himself, "This great loving gift

has come to me. Let me lovingly drink it." 192.

food left in it by the Sadguru is Ganga Bhagirathi
All the

many

my

soul.

itself.

means of acquiring what I need are to be

found right here in

for

This

193.

be the way of salvation

With this thought in mind, he put the

this.

This

will

EKNATH
earthen bowl to his
in the

When

Janardan saw

whole universe as fortunate as

He

did not

make

true

touched his
not

call

feet.

Eknath a

With

form."

to save the Universe.

these

So

Svami.

reveal to

words

Dattatreya replied, "

196.
lad.

this

obeisance to you because you have

assumed the form of a Muhammadan.

own

made

194.

" Call to your side this servant of

and give him a vision of yourself,

mine,

your

am."

Eknath's he

this act of

request to Dattatreya,

195.

saying to himself, " There can be

lips

no one

21

He
197.

Janardan

One should

an avatar of Vitthal,

is

Men

him

in order

will listen to his Klrtans,

and very many will turn to Bhakti. Through his eloquence,

his poetic power he will speak inspired words.
198. Vyasa
having churned the Vedas produced the cream of Sri
Bhagavat, and Eknath in his own words will make its
meaning very clear. 199. Of the Ramayana of Valmiki
he

make a Prakrit

will

version.

Whoever

shall

read

all

have a direct revelation from

In his Klrtans he will compose many padas

his poetic works, his soul will

God.

200.

and other poems.

moon and

His fame

will

endure as long as the

While thus speaking

these words of blessing, his form now changed and the
bitch that was lying beside him now appeared to the eye
as the Wish-cow. 202. Casting aside his Muhammadan
guise, he assumed the beautiful Sagun form six armed, of
elongated eyes, his face the ornament of the universe. 203.
Revealing himself in this form, he called Eknath to him.
Eknath touched his feet with his forehead, and then
lovingly embraced them. 204. Dattatreya stretching out
his six arms embraced Eknath and caressed his face.
He
then became invisible.
205.
Thus through the favor of
the sun endure."

201.

EKNATH

32

Janardan Eknath had the visible manifestation of ri Datta.

Then taking Eknath by the hand the two returned to their

home.
206.

story to

And now, pious

follow.
And just

listen to

folk,

the interesting

as a miser's thought does not

wander even for a moment while counting his money, so

207. It is the Husband-oflet not your minds wander.
Rukmini merciful to the humble, who is recalling the
story to my memory, for know that otherwise Mahipati
Mahipati and Dullness are
is one dull of understanding.
equivalent terms.

By merely

Bhaktalflamrita.

are

Listen then to

fulfilled.

This

is

listening to
it,

MAHIPATI'S
Obeisance

Men who

God.

What

is

the 3ri

one's desires

it

ye loving pious bhaktas.

the thirteenth interesting chapter.

CHAPTER

1.

This book,

Swasti.

208.

Verses 208.

14.

INVOCATION.
to

Ganesa.

seek the highest attainment desire to acquire

is

the supreme

method of acquiring God?

It

by associating oneself with the good.

2.
All the
and great, formed in the Puranas, the well
known and honored, these all are in the possession of the
is

tirthas, small

saints,

along with the regularly occurring holy times and

Yuga the Yoga exercises, rites, and

ceremonies are not means for acquiring God. By their means
one cannot meditate on the Supreme Vishnu. One cannot
seasons. 3. In the Kali

by them hold

in restraint the fickle

therefore, that one

may

mind.

4.

In order,

easily cross over the Sea-of-life,

EKNATH

23

The wise

has prepared a ship, namely, Hi* Name.

God

Vaishnava knows that there

is

no other supreme way.

5.

Sri Krishna has said in the Bhagavata that the acquirement

of man's highest state

is

the saying of the

assuredly through the

is

Vedas

in the

Name. So

Vishnusukta.

also

one

6. If

therefore feels the desire in his heart that his faith should
rest

for

on the Name, he should seek association with the Good,

thereby

Association

the

with

Hearing leads to

7.
mind becomes easily enlightened.
Sadhus naturally leads to hearing.
thinking, and thinking leads at once to

tense contemplation of God.

In the

8.

last

chapter

we

had the beautiful story of how Janardan looked upon

Eknath with the eye of deep interest, and brought about
the meeting with Sri Datta, revealing that wonder to his
sight.

JANARDAN INSTRUCTS EKNATH.

The Sadguru, feeling deep love for Eknath led
9.
him by the hand until they reached their home. And now
what further happened, listen. 10. Through the favor of
the Svami, Eknath's mind by full enlightenment attained
peace, and even though he was the recipient of the boon
by Datta, yet in his service to Janardan he failed in no
point whatever.

11.

More

punctilious than before, with

special love for ministering to his

the

seductions

Purushottama.

of
12.

all

Svami, and freed from

temptations,

Just

as

the

he worshipped
wind pervades

Sri

the

Universe and yet does not lose its mobility, or as the

Ganges while mingling with the ocean, yet upstream its
flow does not cease.

13.

Or

again as the bhakta,

when

EKNATH

21
worshipping Sri Hari,

is

changed into His very form, and

yet does not overstep the proper duties of a Bhakta, just

was

so

it

with Eknath.

Through

14.

the enlightenment

of his soul he had perfect peace within, and in addition

had received the boon from the Sadguru, yet for

all

was always standing ready for service, with never

The thought now came to
the least bit of laziness.
15.
Janardan, " Truly, truly in all the three worlds there is no
His love is simply
Bhakta of the Sadguru like him.
that he

marvellous.

In

16.

order

Pandurang has become an

in

my service,

to

save

world

the

If I hold

avatar.

I shall not at all be keeping within

of duty towards him."

17.

As he

Sri

him longer

my

bounds

thus thought within

He

himself he went into the house in search of Eknath.

found him

sitting alone, singing the praises of Sri Datta.

When Eknath saw

Janardan he arose and reverently

bowed to him. The Sadguru then sat in his accustomed
place, and thus instructed Eknath, 19.
"Through the
18.

favor of the Sadguru you have acquired ofma-knowledge.

mind not to do away with sagun

Yogis, by restraining their organs of sense,

Nevertheless, keep in
Bhakti.

20.

forget sensual objects, but without bhakti they cannot have

the visual manifestation of the sagun God.

power of yoga they

21.

By

the

and powers,
but unless there is bhakti with love there can be no meeting
with Sri Pati. 22. He may regard all humanity as himexhibit marvellous deeds

>

self.

He may

and yet with

tion of the

even forget himself in bodily unconsciousness,

all this

he

may

sagun God.

difficult to obtain.

23.

not have the visual manifesta-

This manifestation, Eknath,

So

long, indeed, as

one should love the sagun God.

the right thing to do.

Listen to

And now
it

one has

I will tell

with attention."

is

life,

you

EKNATH

25-

JANARDAN SENDS EKNATH TO MOUNT

SULABHA.
" In the region back of Devagiri there

24.

and there

tain called Sulabha

It is

a beautiful quiet spot.

to go to this place

a tirtha called Suryakunda.

25.

Sadhakas are accustomed

and perform

are

so dear to

bathe
Sri

in

the

my

Go

heart.

Suryakunda,

Pandurangaraya.

27.

Here God

their rites.

Therefore,

26.

a moun-

is

appears to them in fully bodily form.

and purifying.

is

The

now
at

place

listen,

once

repeating

to

holy

you

who

that

spot,

name

the

your

Concentrating

is

of

mind,

contemplate the Supreme Vishnu.

Do

not talk with anyone.

My

28.

Whatever you may

command

is

your authority.

obtain by chance, that be content to eat.

anxious thought about me, for I

was once
Purana

clearly states.

30.

within with joy.

and loving
ed a

So with loving heart

If

31.

discipline,

29.

That

fix

your mind

you should there see any thing

As Eknath listened
sadguru,
he was moved
To begin with, Eknath was a true

come back here to

his
these words
of

strange,

to

near you.

not have

of the Rishi Markandeya, so the

the abode

on Sri Krishna.

am

Do

tell

me."

and farthermore

definite act of worship.

He

felt,

his

guru had prescrib-

therefore, supremely

happy, and worshipping the feet of his guru he started off.

Other gurus instruct in knowledge, but neglect to
32.
teach the bhakti of the sagun God. Janardan was never

Knowledge, without bhakti, is like

Listen, good people, to one
the babbling of a babbler.
such an one.

33.

of Eknath Svami's

own

sayings.

EKNATH

26

Knowledge was bom from

1.

The

the

glory of Knowledge

is

Bhakti has given Knowledge

2.

Bhakti

is

the

root

of

womb

of Bhakti.

through Bhakti.
its

glory.

Knowledge

and

Vairagya.

Without Bhakti one

3.

If there

is

no

is

seized by Darkness.

root,

how can

there be

any

fruit?

He who

4.

does deeds that are united to Bhakti for

Janadan

only,

Brahma-knowledge

falls

at

his feet.

good people he who, discarding

knowledge, or he who
'Bhakti, preaches the doctrine of
argues against the communion of God and his bhakta, there
is no one as vile as he.
35. Blessed is this noble sadguru,
Janardan It appears to me he is Janardan Himself become
sagun in order to save the world. 36. But let me now
pass on, and let not the listener grow weary, because while
relating the story of the guru and his bhakta, I interrupted
it by a digression.
Only for a moment have I thus spoken
34.

Therefore

listen,

by way of

illustration.

EKNATH'S WORSHIP ON MOUNT SULABHA.

As soon, then, as the sadguru gave his command,
Eknath made a namask&r. I now turn to what the Vaishnava
hero did on reaching Mount Sulabha. 38. As he viewed
37.

the beautiful spot, he felt a sense of supreme rest.

He

EKNATH
tiatbed in the
rites. 39.

He

27

Suryakunda and completed the prescribed

then sat down, looking to the East, and concen-

trated his mind, bringing to his imagination the image o

Pandurang,

accompanied with a feeling of

While thus repeating

his

name, and while in

love.
this aot

40.

of

contemplation the Husband-of-Indira. revealed Himself to

assumed His form, and he

41.
Now on that mountain
lost all bodily consciousness.
there lived a great serpent, and as it saw Eknath sitting
in contemplation it ran to bite him. 42.
But as it began
to coil itself around Eknath its evil nature left its body,
and now full of affection, he protected him, and how, let us
see.
43.
Lest Eknath suffer from cold or heat it coiled
all around him, with the end of its tail at Eknath's navel,
and its wide spread hood over Eknath's head. 44.
The
serpent had lost his evil nature, and gained a good nature.
The moment it touched the saint this complete change of
disposition took place.
45.
As Eknath came back to
consciousness, and his body slightly moved, the serpent
46.
Because
glided away and was no longer in sight.
Eknath's soul was united with the Name and Form,
(sagun God) he had therefore been without bodily conknow of the serpents's coiling
sciousness, and did not

him.

Eknath's

vritti

(soul)

around him.

THE PIOUS FARMER ON MOUNT SULABHA

AND
Now

HIS WIFE.

mountain there was a

miserable hamlet. In it a Vaishnava lived, a pious farmer.
48.
In a former birth his austerities had been
47.

at the foot of the

EKNATH

28
(yoga

interrupted

At

pure conduct.

he

performed

He

49.

never

ate

his

without

first

and

bathing.

altar,

and

dishes

carrying

She knew

did.

to

what her

heart for doing good to others.

Saints.

She never

dutiful,

lord's mind'

fed the hungry, she gave water to the thirsty.

saw an

on

he was always repeating the names

and so reverenced S&dhus and

If she eyer

He

clean.

While

and

worship.

His wife also was supremely

50.

and lived as he
inclined,

tulsi

ablutions

his

clothes

his daily occupation,

of God.

door was the

his

regularly

kept

he was therefore one of

bhrashta),

51.

She had a

told a

ascetic performing his rite

She

lie.

52.

on Mount

Sulabha she would bring him milk to drink with expressions

Near by on a level spot on the mountain

side the farmer had sown a field of grain.
While the rich
crop was ripening he was accustomed to stay there for its
protection.
54.
So when Eknath went by to perform his
rites the farmer saw him, and taking fresh milk, heated
at his house, he went to where Eknath was.
Eknath
55.
had finished his love-accompanied contemplation, and was
of love.

53.

when
him and made the

just sitting about,

fore

brought
drink

it."

thanked

heated

this

Eknath

him.

57.

So

the farmer prostrated himself befollowing request. 56. " I have

milk.

granted

"The

The

Svami

the

man's

enjoyer

of

must

please

request
this

milk

and
is

Eknath put the vessel to his

lips.
The farmer felt great satisfacion and returned tohis place. 58. His wife, as instructed by him, brought milk
every day to the field. They first gave of this to Eknath,.
and then took their own food.
59.
Only if there is a
store of good deeds laid up in a previous birth does thereSri Krishna."

saying,

EKNATH

29

-come about such an opportunity of serving a

places obligation on God, and He
of the saint from the ocean-of-this-life.

This

saint.

then delivers the server

60.

The

Life-of-

the-world is pleased with him who serves a Saint, and there

61.
This farmer
is no higher way to please Him.

and so there was born in him a

While carrying on his wordly pursuits,
good heart.
he at the same time acquired the supreme purpose of life.
His goodness had no limit. 62. One day his wife arose
She sang verses in praise of God,
at midnight to grind.

was

fortunate,

and quickly her grinding was finished. 63. The moon

was then shining so brightly that she thought it was dawn.
So she milked the cow and put the milk in separate vessels.
64.
Although it was not time for so large a yield, she
milked a very large amount. She heated the milk in brass
vessels carefully, and placed a dung-cake over it. 65. Then
performing her toilet, bathing with cold water, and completShe
66.
ing her cooking well, just then the sun arose.
"
said to herself,
I must have arisen very early to do my
grinding, when it was still long before daylight.
If I delay
going up to the field the food will surely become cold. 67.
Thus talking to herself, the beautiful one took the bread
basket on her head, and the milk vessel in her hand and
hurried along. 68. As the beloved wife came to the hedge
of the field her husband saw her, relieved her of the milk
vessel, and went to perform his bath.
69.
After performing his usual rites and repetition of God's names he said

"You have brought

to his wife,

morning.

What

yet hungry,

month.

We

it is

The

is

the reason?

the food very early this

Tell me.

70.

am

not

not a festival day, nor the twelfth of the

ascetic is

now

sitting

cannot eat until he has eaten."

performing his
71.

The wife

rites.

replied,

EKNATH

30

" I became awake while

it

was

still

very early, and so

the food should become cold I have

come thus

lest

early. 72.

But," said she, "go up the mountain side and give the milk
to the

Brahmana, and then

eat

your breakfast."

73.

taking the vessel he climbed up the mountain side,

to his vision a most remarkable sight appeared.

So

when

Listen,

ye wise ones, with reverence.

THE FARMER SEES A SERPENT COILED

AROUND EKNATH.
Eknath had

74.

and the performing of

finished his ablution

his rites,

contemplation on Sri Krishna.

without bodily consciousness.

and

coiled itself

tail at his

and prayers,

mind was now in

He was now absolutely
75.
A serpent had come
and

his

around Eknath's body, with the end of

and

navel,

its

hood over

his head.

76.

its

When

saw this, great terror was aroused in his mind,

exclaiming, "The Brahmana is performing his rites, and the
serpent is holding him in its coil. 77. O Lord Pandhari,
the farmer

Do

hasten quickly.
at

My

all.

ascetic's

is

my

The farmer became

service have

now become

violently agitated.

79.

shouted, he loudly called for help, but the serpent

would not move away.

he exclaimed.
tain.

can render no help

mind are both in vain. 78. The

not moving.
The serpent has probably

All the results of

fruitless."

He

strength and

body

bitten him.

thou save him.

Men

80.

"

The Brahmana is dead, is dead,"

The spot was a lonely one on the moun-

did not pass by there.

Who

then could there

EKNATH
be there to

cry?

listen to his

save Eknath's

81.

life.

something at the moment.

"

loud piercing cry.

31

he made the attempt to

Still

At last he knew he must do>

So from his mouth went out a

Chakrapani, Lord-of-the-Helpless,

hasten and come to the rescue."

was making

82.

While the farmer

Eknath became gradually

and as his body began to move, the

great outcry

this

conscious of the noise,

serpent glided quickly away.

When

83.

he became fully

conscious, he applied water to his eyes, and said to the

"What

farmer,

has happened.

The farmer was

all

in

Tell

namaskar, and

now

this sight

coming

is

84.

to his senses,

With reverence he made

his

great serpent had just

around your body."

86.

And

as I

saw

a great terror seized me, and I made a loud out-

which the serpent

cry, at

dence

85.

replied, saying, "

coiled itself

quickly."

a tremor of body because of the

sight of the serpent, but gradually

he approached Eknath.

me

fled.

87.

The Svami's

confi-

at the feet of God, therefore your life has been

Death came, but it was not the time

for him, so it appears to me." 88. Hearing this explanation of the farmer Eknath replied in an Abhang. I quote
it in this book with affection.
So listen to it, ye pious folk.
saved at this time.

ABHAftG.
1.

Death came to

sting me.

But he changed to a Merciful

2.

Now

know him

well.

For heart has met

heart.

one.

EKNATH

32

Though

3.

in the body,

my

bodily consciousness

disappeared

So Death himself

Eka Janardan now dances on

4.

To
89.

power.

lost his

With

the tune of, "

No

his feet.

flavor to life or death."

these verses recited in love, Eknath closed his

eyjes,
and in his mind contemplated
Pandurang, his heart being full of love.

the

EKNATH HAS A VISION OF

90.

And

exlaimed,

image

of

GOD.

" Dweller-in-the-Ocean-of-Milk,

Husband-ofIndira, Enchanter-of-the-heart, Internal witness, Mass-ofThou-who-dost-rest-on-the-serpent,

Intelligence, Life-of-the-World, Sri Hari.

91.

Victory,

and boundless is Thy

fame.
In describing Thy glory even the Srutis have
xhausted themselves. The minds of all reach their limit
here. 92. Thou the Unborn, the unconquered, the Unchangeable, Unaffected by Maya, Tranquil, when reason
seeks to comprehend Thee it cannot reach Thy depths. 93.
Thus art Thou the Supreme-God-of-Gods. Siva, in repeating Thy names became calmed.
Thou dost pervade the
whole Universe, yet there is no way of comprehending Thy
Victory,

Lord of-Vaikunth

depths.

94.

thy Blwktas,

Still,

infinite

in order to

Thou becamest

come

to the assistance of

the Four-armed avatar.

eyes are hungry to see Thee in that form."

95.

My

Hearing

these words of praise, the Husband-of-Rukmini revealed

Himself in that form, four-armed, dark of complexion, and

adorned with the conch-shell and the disk in his hands.

EKNATH
His

96.

adorned

glorious,

33

In

enchanted the heart.

face,

were earrings in the form of crocodiles. On his

neck the beautiful Kaastubh jewel sparkled. His divine
The brilliant
97.
yellow garment was translucent.
Vaijayanti necklace, and the trivali sparkled on his breast.
his ears

The

little

on his

bells

to the soul.

98.

sandal-wood

paste.

He wore

head.

was

feet tinkled.

The

sight brings rest

His whole body was smeared with

saffron tilak well

marked

his fore-

On

a garland of the tender Tulsi stems.

So bright was his

appearance, that the light of the sun's orb seemed inferior.
As Sri Eknath opened his eyes there stood before him the
Supreme Brahma, in his beauty.
100.
\V':th
feelings of love in his heart, and with reverence Eknath
The Supreme-lord-of-the-universe
embraced his feet.
then embraced Eknath drawing him close to his heart.
his breast

the Sri valsa mark.

Having seated God beside him he worshipped

101.

in menial adoration, exclaiming,

the

shadow of

heart.

was

99.

102.

his mercy,

and

"He

has placed over

me

of

my

fulfilled the desire

This meeting together of

clearly seen

by the

supreme joy he exclaimed,

And

Him

God and Bhakta

farmer, and feeling a sense of

" I

am

the special child of For-

and again made

Eknath a namaskdr.
Suddenly Sri Hari took leave of
Eknath and vanished from sight.
104.
The farmer
recognizing that The-lord-of-life had made, as his happy
resting place, the heart of his bhakta, he bowed to Eknath
with reverence. 105. And said to him, " By my being

tune."

in

103.

so exclaiming he again

Svami I have seen with my own eyes

Otherwise I should not have done so,
of inferior caste and dull of mind.
106.
To

company with

the

the lord-of-heaven.

for I

am

save the world

3

He

has

become an avatar

in this saint.

EKNATH

34

This miracle has come into

my

experience this day." Again

He then
and again he repeated words of praise. 107.
took up the vessel of milk and offered it to Sri Eknath
earnestly pleading, "It is my earnest desire that yon partake

of

this,

Sadguru,

in

bodily

form."

108.

Recognizing the sincerity of the farmer's feelings Eknath

drank the milk, and by a motion of the eye signified to him

The farmer
that he should now return to his home.
109.
made a pradakshinS, prostrated himself on the ground before
him, and went back to his home with joy in his heart.
110. He was pierced with the conviction that Sri Eknath
was the Supreme Brahma in bodily form. Returning to
his home he related to his wife all the events that had
occurred.

EKNATH RETURNS TO TELL JANARDAN.

111.

Now

as

to

The sun had reached

had become fierce.
So

Eknath.

and the heat

withdrew
he
to the shade of a banyan tree, and
there
rested
for a
few hours.
112.
And here
while
being
relieved
from the intense heat he
suddenly remembered Janardan's command, that if he saw
anything very unusual, he was to return back to him. 113.
It was truly by the Sadguru's favor that he had seen the
visible appearance of the Sagun God.
There could be
nothing more marvellous than this. A great blessing had
come to him. 114. Thus thinking to himself he worshipped, and returning to Devagiri he met the Sadgurumurtiu
IIS.
He bowed prostrate before him, and lovingly
embraced him. Janardan recognized by his appearance
that something had happened, and said to himself, "I see
noontide,

EKNATH
signs of a changed appearance."

35

116.

Eknath in reply,
mysterious occurrences, and exclaimed.

what had happened.

The Sadguru asked

told him of all the

by the
been
had
Svami's favor that the otherwise unattainable
"It

truly

is

attained."

JANARDAN AND EKNATH GO ON PILGRIMAGE.

117.

Eknath,

It

"A

happened one day that Janardan said t&

come
want to

great desire has

Ganga, [Godavari] 118.

to

me

to bathe in the

see with

my own

eyes.

Nasik, Panchavati, and Sri Trimbakraj." Hearing this intention of the Sadguru,

Eknath was overjoyed.

119.

Choos-

ing an auspicious day Janardan prepared to start on his

pilgrimage to the Tirthas.

to ride on.

He

120.

A horse

He

assigned to Eknath a

mare

for their things, and one for him-

Brahmana cook, and all promptly

121. Whenever they found a beautiful spot there
started.
they rested for the night. Here they would discuss between
self.

appointed a

themselves in happy

They

mood

of questions about the soul.

122'..

where sddhus and saints

There they would spend the night very
"
happily, saying, " A blessed, happy day is this
especially loved those places

congregated.

THE
123.

large town.

PILGRIMS MEET CHANDRABHAT.

As
At

a
a Brahmana, named

they thus journeyed far they came lo

this place there lived

Chandrabhat, a distinguished Vaishnava.

of

his

good fame, the Guru and

his disciple

124.

Hearing

were

delighted,.

Compare Chatusloki Bhagavata 10281035;

vasvami Krit Eknath Charitra 5, 1 57.

Kesa-

EKNATH

36

And as the sun was

his house.

up for the night at

setting they put

Chandrabhat, seeing his distinguished

125.

Bowing to

Vaishnava guest, welcomed him with respect.

one another they mutually embraced.

was an

ascetic

mind was

free

Though he had a family his

Living on what came to him

Brahmana.

from

Chandrabhat

126.

desires.

unasked, he maintained himself without hindrance.

He was

127.

ever performing austerities of body, speech and

The defilement from the filth of an untruth never

so much as touched his lips. 128. In his ablutions and
mind.

prayers, in his worship of God, and in good deeds to others,

he spent

was

his

He

life.

looked on

men

all

kindliness to every creature.

all

as himself,

and

In order t6

129.

break the snares of sansar, he always sought association

with the good, saying to himself, "
lement of sansar cease
heart like an arrow.

Brahmana

free

and of an
lovingly

The

130.

from

It

When

will these entang-

ascetic idea

131.

had entered

worldly things,

whom Eknath and

After

performing

was

finished the

unfold

its

132.

Bhagavata,

Brahmadeva.

evening

As soon as

Brahmana withdrew by himself and un-

wrapped a book.
Chatusloki

Janardan

their

devotions, they partook of their simple meal.

it

his

was such a Chandrabhat, a

desires, indifferent to

mind,

ascetic

met.

"

He

turned to that portion of the

where

Chandrabhat began

meaning

in detail.

Hari

Sri

133.

discoursed

toi

comment on it, and

Eknath and Janardan

to

then came and sat near him, exclaiming, " Blessed

is this

happy day in which we have met

As he

this saint."

134.

thus found listeners loving, all-wise and expert, his heart

EKNATH
rejoiced.

And

the minds

of the listeners

37

as he explained the

meaning of the

were deeply pierced.

he related things out of his

own

135.

experience, his voice

text,

As
was

Tears of love flowed from the eyes

and all three reached the state of bodily unconsciousIt truly seems to me as though the three Gods,
136.

choked with emotion.

of

all,

ness.

Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesvara had come

thought impresses me.

137.

together.

If not that figure, then

This

one

might say, that as the three rivers Gartga, Yamuna, and

Sarasvati join together and flow on as one, so the love of
the three united.

When

And

thus they spent the night.

the reading of the book

the night a

little

was

(with sleep).

finished they

Both

felt

the desire that

they might always be in Chandrabhat's company.

Eknath and Janardan said

bhat

138.

honored

to one another,

139.

" Chandra-

deeply versed in the three Sastras, Karma, Up&sand

is

140.
Thus the night was spent.
They
morning and were about to start, when
Chandrabhat made an earnest plea. " Hear my request,"
he cried. 141. " After you finish your ablutions and devo" I will do so," replied
tions please sanctify my asrama."

and Dydna."
arose

the

in

Janardan, as he recognized his sincerity.

142.

Food was

were performed,
offerings were made to the idols and to the fire, and they
then sat down to eat. 143. Eknath, Janardan and the
host,
Chandrabhat sat
in
one
line.
After them

cooked

in the house, all the appointed rites

the food

out of

was passed

the

to others.

144.

After the rinsing

mouth, and the passing of the pan sup&ri,

Chandrabhat made another request. Said he, "A desire

has arisen in my heart to be with you night and day." 145.
To this Janardan replied, " That is exactly what is in our
mind. Without any hesitation come along with us." 146.

EKNATH

38

Chandrabhat, happy at heart, exclaimed, " Happily have I

company of

fallen into the

and the

the good, living the peaceful

ascetic life."

THE PILGRIMS CONTINUE THEIR JOURNEY.

147.

own

With worshipful

of love, and of his

spirit full

Whenever he met on

148.

he

He

accord, he began the journey with them.

to interpret the Chatusloka (Bhagavat) and

the

way

was

continued

full

sadhu, sant or yogi

them on

great love for them, and conversed with

felt

questions concerning the soul.

of joy.

149.

As

they journeyed

along in this manner they soon arrived at Panchavati, and

bathed

in

the

Ramakunda with

penitent

After the due performance of the tirtha

their

place

of

lodging,

and

hearts.

rites

later

they went to

went

to

the sight of Sri Ramchandra, with undivided love.

They worshipped
songs

of

praise.

150.

obtain
151.

many
and made the

with due ceremonials; they sang

They gave a

feast

Brahmans happy.

JANARDAN URGES EKNATH TO COMPOSE

MARATHI BOOKS.
152.

"lam

going to

you something, listen.

On your head is the boon
of Sri Datta, which by your good fortune you unexpectedly
received.
153
Chandrabhat has brought with him the
Chatusloki Bhagavata. Prepare a commentary on it in Prakrit, (Marathi) in an extensive form." 154. Hearing his Sadguru's words, Eknath became supremely happy, and began to
tell

Janardan then said to Eknath,

EKNATH

39

write the book and continued to do so with love.

first

wrote the (Sanskrit) Sloka and then gave

When
Guru.

the

work was completed he showed

Chandrabhat,

156.

Brahmans of

Janardan,

its

it

and

155.

He

meaning.

to his 5rf

the

learned

that holy place listened to the reading of the

book and were greatly pleased. 157. As his first book

Eknath produced this Prakrit Commentary on the ChatuThe Sad guru then said to him, 158.
sloki Bhagavata.
" Let your lips produce a
Prakrit version of the Sri
Ekadasa skandha (of the Bhagavata Purana). Sri Krishna
your helper, and cause you to express its complete
159.
When Janardan had thus spoken Eknath
bowed. Chandrabhat now took Eknath's commentary on
the Chatusloki (Bhagavata) and
gave readings from it.
in
the
Karma, Bhakti and
Chandrabhat
versed
160.
was
Dyana Sastras; still he adopted the practice of reading
aloud the Prakrit [Marathi] version made by Eknath. 161.
The reverential feelings of Chandrabhat were great. Said he,
" This guru and his disciple are avataras of Hari and
Sahkar for the salvation of the world. 162. Janardan is
Lord-oif-Kailas, Eknath is Vishnu in visible form." With
this feeling of reverence in his heart, he continually sang
will be

meaning."

their praise.

place heard

163.
it,

all

And as the Brahmans of that sacred

!
exclaimed, " Blessed, Blessed "
The

now

journeyed on to Tryambakesvara, and bathed

in the Kusavarta. 164. Keeping IJrahmagiri on the right

three

they visited Tripurari.

rites,

Here they performed

and remained there for three

this visit they

nights.

their Hrtha
165.

With

completed their pilgrimage and returned to

The mind of Chandrabhata, indifferent to

worldly things, had abandoned the desire of home. 166.

Devagiri.

His mind had already wearied of wife,

son,

home and

EKNATH

40

he could

wealth, therefore

not leave the company of

Janardan and Eknath, and so came with them to Devagiri.

167.
After Janardan reached his home, the very next day
he

Brahmans.

fed

tition

His tongue

revelled

the

in

of the names of God, and his heart was

repe-

full

of

Chandrabhat with feelings of sincere reverence would exclaim, " Eknath

is an avatara in humanform. In age and stature he is little, but his intellect is
great in its power of expressing thought. 169. I must

love.

168.

not leave his company as long as

I live."

With

determination he continued to remain there.

this strong

170.

After

he had passed many days there he attained bodily unconsciousness.

The whole universe including himself appeared'
to

him

in the

form of Janardan.

ciousness of the concept.

"I

He lost all consand my body." He

He viewed the whole

171.

[God]

performed good deeds automatically.

world as his own soul. 172. He became fully enlightened,

and so his name became changed.
Everywhere people
began to call him Chand Bodhala.

CHANDRABHAT DESIRES TO BE ENTOMBED

ALIVE.
After some days were passed in this way he
approached Janardan in person and said, " The desire has
173.

arisen

in

me

to

be entombed

alive."

174.

Janardan-

appreciated the desire of his heart, and arranged for his

being entombed
ciouness.

But

alive,

while in his state of bodily uncons-

lest the

Mahomedans should cause trouble

175.
They built a structure

they devised a special plan.

just like a

Mahomedan

tomb, and thus both Hindus

aridt

EKNATH
Mahomedans were

satisfied.

there to-day on Devagiri

41

*That structure is still

mountain, and many miracles
176.

take place there, seen and recognized universally.

JANARDAN SENDS EKNATH ON DISTANT

PILGRIMAGES.
177.

now happened one day

It

to himself, " I

that Janardan thought

must send Ekoba on a pilgrimage to the

This earth will be made holy

Calling Eknath aside he said to him,
178.
thereby."
" Listen to my proposal." Eknath humbly placed his head
at his guru's feet, and with his lips uttered words of praise.
sacred watering places.

179.

" Victory,

Victory to Thee, Janardan.

untouched by Maya, Spotless-one, Nirgun.

your

your

darling,

marvellous glory

The

180.

What

infant.

can I

Srutis

Thou who
I

am

know

art

merely
of

Thy

and Nostras praise

Thee, but their power of expression fails them. All the

all knowledge are insufficient to declare Thy

Puranas and
full praise.

Thee,

God

tongue was

When

181.

split

desire to praise.

the serpent attempted to praise

Gods, he

of
in

182.,

became confounded.

Of what

two.

The

value then

Lord-of-serpents,

His
is

my

who forms

NoteThe

samadhi, or tomb of Chandrabhat, or Chand

Bodhala as he is also called, is still to be seen at Daulatabad,
formerly called Devagiri.
It is situated to the East of
the fort, and is worshipped both by Hindus and Muhammadans.
fair in his honor takes place on the 5th of the
lunar half of the Hindus month of Chaitra (April). The
samadhi is near the Hammam Khana, or Hammam Bada

as

it is

called.

The

place

Godbole of Poona, from

was

recently visited

whom

have

Mr. N. R.

this information.

EKNATH

42

Thy

couch, causing thee to

accompanied by happiness.

lie

183.

woild, the Four-faced-one, even

Thy

When

upon him, enjoys love

He

The

Creator-of-the-

did not comprehend

away the calves, Thou, didst

show a wonderful miracle. 184. Thou didst in fact create
other cows and calves.
Then with his four mouths,
the Brahma, praised Thee, and cam as a suppliant to Thee.
185.
By Thy power the senses perform their
power.

he

stole

regular functions in the body.

Thee

who

possess nothing at

How am
all.

186.

I to

compensate

In the animate

and the inanimate, which appear to my sight, I see only

Thee in all. And through this my mind has truly reached
abiding rest." 187.
With these words of praise, Eknath,
with sincere reverence touched his head to Janardan's

and exclaimed, "

feet,

Whatever you now command me,

it to heart."
188.
Hearing
Eknath's nectar words, Janardan replied with a satisfied
mind. " Go and visit at least once all the sacred watering
I will,

in every particular, take

places that this earth possesses.

189.

Make a

three nights'

some places, a five nights' rest in others. Whenever

you meet with what is related to God you should make a
tiamaskdra.
190.
Though you go for the purpose of a
pilgrimage, you will at the same time meet with Saints.
Sri Krishna Himself will provide for all your daily needs.
191.
Go as far as Badrinath, and view that northern lake,
Manas, with your eyes. To the south, visit Ramesvara,
and then return to me here."
192.
As Eknath heard
these words of his Sadguru, there came to him both joy
and sorrow. If you ask how this could come about, listen
to the reason.
His heart was happy, because he
193.
would meet with Saints.
He was sad, because he would
lose the sight of his Sadguru. 194. Food was cooked in
rest in

EKNATH
the house and the two ate together

43
sitting in

line.

They

rinsed out their mouths, they took the pan supari, and

were happy together.

EKNATH STARTS ON
195.

When

Nath

Sri

Janardan saw him on

woman is going back

HIS

his
to

choked with emotion.

LONG PILGRIMAGE.
on

started

way.

Just as

it

his

pilgrimage,

happens when a

her father-in-law these two were

The way

196.

first

led through a

and Eknath placed his head on his Sadguru's breast

I place
exclaiming, " Now let your favor rest upon me.
197.
He was choked with
myself irt your affection."
emotion and tears of love flowed. The same happened to
forest,

the

Sadguru, who could not

at all restrain the expression

Janardan now said to him, " I shall

always be in your heart. Hold this thought in your remem199.
You are
brance, that you and I are not separated.
as dear to me as my own life, and I am your very soul.
Now let go the delusion of duality, and be not sad over
of his love.

this

198.

separation,.

Eknath's head his

200.

own

With
turban.

this,

And

Janardan placed on
as this great blessing

so wonderfully came to him, Eknath overflowed with loveacompanied joy. 201. Sri Eknath then made a request,

"Again

give

me

a darsan of yourself."

The Sadguru

understood the inner mystic meaning of this request and

do so." 202. Eknath made a prodakshind

replied, " I will

around Janardan, making namask&rs with expressions of

love, and so carrying in his
mind the visible form of
Janardan, he started on his way. 203. He walked away
'quickly, but every few paces he turned back to look at his
:

tGuru, and so long as he could see Janardan again and

EKNATH

44

again prostrated himself on the ground towards him. 204.

Exclaiming, "Victory, Victory to Thee, Janardan," he

went on his way in haste. The Sadguru, having thus seen

Eknath on his way, returned to his abode. 205. But very
often there would come to his mind the noble character
of Eknath, and the Sadguru felt very sad, anil his mind
was not at rest.

Pandurang in human form.

Who then can adequately describe them? I, dull of mind,,
can only babble, and this seems like a sin.
207.
But
Saints are in fact

206.

because they are dear to me,

The

foolish uncouth words.

of the

Bhima

He who

His own deeds.

text.

This
it

is

am

208.

By merely

the Sri Bhaktalilamrita.

one's desires are fulfilled.

This

is

Listen then to

Swasti.

listening to

it,

ye, loving

the fourteenth delightful chapter.

CHAPTER
MAHIPATI'S
1.

abides on the bank

neither a poet nor an author. 209.

pious Bhaktas.

is

That Pandurang, performer of

through Maya, is the one who is relating
He is making me, Mahlpati, only a pre-

river.

tilings

author of this book

real

the Husband-of-Srl Rukmini,

wonderful

speak of them, though in

15.

INVOCATION.

Obeisance to Sri Ganesa.

In singing the infinite

praise of the Limitless-One the

power of expression of even

the greatest minds has failed,

how

the

mind be equal to the task?

immense store of sea water

but

how

place

can

my

little

the opposite shore?

3.

then can

2.

To

my common-

use a simile, over

ships sail across the sea,

broken checkerboard raft cross to

The moon,

together with all the

EKNATH

45

sun arises. So it is impossible to think that before the rising sun the light of the firefly
can be great. 4. There is no balance so immense that
with it one can readily weigh this world. It is evident
that one cannot cover the etherial space with one's hand.

constellations, disappear as the

5.

Where

is

the light so brilliant that with

the entire disk of the sun?

one can see

in attempting to describe the

Supreme Vishnu the mind with its

But just as when a little infant

attributes of the

goes insane.

So

it

6.

intellect

sees its

mother it prattles all kinds of meaningless words, and she

through the power of her love laughingly supplies its little
desires. 7.

So

the Sails should accept

my

words,

foolish

considering me, Mahipati, but an ignorant child.

THE DISTRESS OF EKNATH'S GRANDPARENTS.

8.

The

last

chapter contained the noteworthy story

of Eknath's starting en his pilgrimage, and of Janardan's

feeling sad at heart, as there constantly came to his mind
Eknath's noble character.
9.

where

Eknath

Let

now

us

Eknath's
(it

turn

grandfather

will

be

back

and

remembered)

to

Pratishthana,

grandmother

lived.

had

away

to Devagiri without asking their permission.

slipped
10.

Busy

in

the service of his sad guru he had not returned to them.

Thereby the aged couple were in distress of mind, and they

began to search for him from house to house. 11. Now
of this one,

now

of that one they began to enquire, "

Have

you seen our Eknath?" When they replied, "We do not

know where he is," they both would weep.
12.
Both
wandered about the sacred city enquiring from house to

EKNATH

46

They had no

house.

their hearts.

filled

mind day or night. Eknath

Food and drink tasted good no-

rest of

13.

Their nights seemed as long as years, as there

longer.

came to their minds the goodness of the boy. And no one

was able to help them in their search. 14. They used to
say to themselves in their distress, " His father and mother
died when he was an infant. Only this family twig has
survived. With his support we had hoped to drag out
our days. 15. On what island has this blind folk's staff
got caught? When shall we ever see him again?" And

Of

the three kinds

of people in the city there were some with

evil surmisings.

so saying they deeply sorrowed.

Some

remarked, "Perhaps the

16.

grandparents had spoken

harshly to the boy, so that he ran away.

The grand-

17.

father and grandmother are attached to him, but they can-

not have feelings similar to those of a mother or father.

He

whose

others
is

he
false

the
is

child

idea.

will accept

is

trouble."

18.

the

Others

burden.

To

"That
pampered

said,

They have coddled and

Boys are boys, cruel by nature. He

simply left them and ran away. 19. We have been watchhim from his infancy.
ing coincidences connected with
First his mother and father died, then poverty came quickly.
His grandfather and grandmother remain, but he has
20.
brought them distress, and now in their old age there is
no one even to give them water to drink." 21. Well, to
continue, these three classes of people had their various
says, but the aged couple could find no rest of mind.
They

him

too

much.

made many

efforts.

22.

Pilgrims to sacred places, tra-

and cloth peddlers were approached with

the question, "Have you seen our Eknath?"
23.
They
asked even crows, and salonkis, and parrots "Have you
velling merchants,

EKNATH
They went

seen our Eknath?"

and

prostrated
24.

river,

themselves to
"

Exclaiming,

Our

47
river sand bed,

the

to

[Godavari]

the

Ganga.

eyes

do not behold our

Perhaps you have drowned him in your water.

Tell us truly and quickly." Thus they were accustomed
Through Eknath's
25.
to plead with the Ganga river.
Sadguru
the
aged
couple were sunk
going to meet with his
child.

and as they mourned day and night

their eyes were weakened by their weeping. 26. Kindred,
near relations, even the slanderers, close friends and other
good people used to come to their home and seek to comfort
them. 27. They would say, " He is young in years, but
His mind was always in the
in character he is noble.
in the sea of distress,

attitude of worshipping

He was always listening td

28.
He was strongly attached

God.

the reading of the Purans.

and sants, and distinguished Vaishnavas.

On
his lips there was unceasingly the worshipful praise ofSri
Ram.
29.
As we with pleasure watched his mental
ability, we used to feel supreme wonder.
The Lord-ofVaikuntha is surely his protector. Mourn no longer. 30.
He had a strong attraction to listening to philosophical
to sudhus

We certainly think that he must have attached

somewhere to some good man."
31.
One
suggested that as Eknath was accustomed to sit with the
books.

himself

Pandit listening to his reading of the Purans, the Pandit

may have enticed the boy away, and taken him away with

him

to the army.

32.

them, was approved by

child his disciple,

made by one of
Puranik had made the

This suggestion,
all,

that the

and enticed him away.

of this possibility the aged couple were

joy and sorrow.

and

there

They proceeded

enquired.

How

they

Thinking
moved with both
33.

to the Pandit's house

enquired,

listen.

34.

EKNATH

48

"The Puranik

has gone away to the army.

-deceived the child

and enticed him away.

We

He

has

are in great

The
35.
sorrow, and are mourning night and day."
people of the house replied to this, "The master of the house
has gone to the army, it is true, but whether he took the
child with him we do not know." 36. The people of the city,

however, continued to suspect that Eknath did go away

with him, and the sorrowing grandfather and grandmother
watched for his return. 37. They expected the Puranik

would soon return from the army, and would bring the
child back with him, so they kept watching day and night.
Four years thus passed. 38. Suddenly the army returned,
and the couple went again to thv Puranik's house, and said,
"The Puranik has seduced our boy and taken him away.
The Puranik is a vallain hero indeed
39.
He has
deceived our child in some way, made him his disciple,
and taken him far away. If he does not bring him back
safely, we shall commit suicide here at his door."
40.
The
people of the house hearing this threat were alarmed and
sent a letter to the Puranik, saying, "Have you deceived
Eka and enticed him away, or has a false charge come upon
you?" 41. When the Brahman received the letter from
his home folk he was greatly distressed, and exclaimed. " I
have truly committed no wrong, and yet this false charge
has come upon me."
42.
The Pandit acquainted his
employer with the matter, took his pay, and started home,
saying to himself, " I wonder where Eknath has gone to.
Suspicion has fallen on me. 43. Eknath did give me an
intimation of his intense desire to go to Devagiri fc. meet
!

with the Sri Guru Janardan."

44.
As this recollection
suddenly came to him he said to himself, " I will go there in
search of Eknath, and if he is there, I will bring him back

EKNATH
with me."

With

45.

this

49

thought in mind, the Puranik

and meeting Janardanpant related the

whole matter to him. 46. The Sadguru replied, " Eknath
was here up to the present. By his faithful service he

came

to Devagiri,

gratified

me.

47.

And now

at

my command

indeed

he

Janardan then sent

a.
has gone on a distant pilgrimage."
letter by the Puranik to the grandparents that they should

The
48.
not be in the least concerned about Eknath.
Puranik on his return to Pratishthana went to Eknath'a
home where he found the aged couple sitting and told them,
the news. 49. " Your Eknath went to Devagiri to visit.
Janardan. Here is a letter in Janardan's own handwriting."

And

he showed

it

Hearing the news,

they were overjoyed, excla-

to them.

of the finding of their lost son,

iming, "

We

were dying, but

life

50.

has returned.

We

had.

no one to care for us." 51. When they were certain that the
news was true they could hardly believe their ears.
They
brought sugar and put it into the Puranik' s mouth. 52..
The Puranik further added, "If you do not believe me
go yourselves to Devagiri and enquire of Janardan."
And with this remark the Brahman returned
53.
to his home.
The aged couple, however, were greatly
troubled in their minds as to what to do. 54. "If we
should send a man to Devagiri," they said to one another,
" we have no money to give him. So let us go ourselves ta
that place and see Janardan."

THE GRANDPARENTS

VISIT JANARDAN.

And

so deciding, and slowly, slowly trudging

along the path, they came to Devagiri, and met Janardan.
55.

56.

They

related to

him

their story

from beginning to

50

EKNATH

end, with eyes filled with tears.

"

Nath has

cast us off,

and has not returned home."

57.
Janardan arose to
receive them, welcomed them with affection, and told them
in loving words of the noble character of Eknath.
58.
" In order to save the Universe, Sri Vishnu has become in
him an avatSr. Blessed is your holy family line. Salvation has come to your whole lineage.
He seems to
59.
your minds to be merely a child, but in reality he is
Pandurang in human form. You will in the future observe
the course of his life, and then your doubts will vanish."
60. With these assurances of Janardan they were comforted, and said, " Full six months must pass, and then Nath
will return."
61.
Janardan made them stay in his home
for a month, and with affection he gave them to eat always
fresh and daintily cooked food. 62. He gave them clothes,
adornments, ornaments and an
abundance of money to
spend, and finally with his own hand he wrote a letter
to be given to Eknath. 63. The substance of the letter
was this, " As soon as you see this letter cease your wanderings to sacred places, and make your abode there at
64.
The Sadguru wrote this letter with
Pratishthana."
He provided horses
His own hand, and gave it to them.
and men to accompany them, and he personally saw them
65.
Janardan also further said to
on their way.
them, "After visiting the sacred watering places on
the North and the Manas Lake, Eknath will on his
Paithan,
and you must be
through
pass
return
66.
After you
on the watch to recognize him.
show him my letter he will not go on any further. Do
not be troubled any longer in your minds." Such were
The couple were made happy by
67.
his assurances.
these words of Janardan, and returning to Paithan related

EKNATH
their

whole

68.

story.

To

nobleness of Janardan.
carefully, and told every

51

every one they praised the

The

they preserved very

letter

one about

it,

69.

"If

saying,

Eknath should suddenly arrive, perhaps in the next six

months, and you should recognize him, so plan that he
remain."

EKNATH'S WANDERINGS.
70.

To

turn

now

to

Eknath.

By

the

command

of

Sadguru he had gone on this pilgrimage. His thought

and mind were filled with Janardan.
He saw only him in
all the animate and the inanimate of the three worlds.
71.
visited
many
sacred
He
Avatering places and shrines to set
an example to the people. Wherever he found a restful
place he tarried a three-night. 72. In some places finding a
company of saints he would remain a five-night.
He would
worship and bathe at such places, and leave whenever it so
his

pleased him. 73.

the

visited the great river watering places,

Purna, Payoshni, Tapati,

Mahakalesvara

He

He

at

N armada.

The

sight

Avauti brought peace to his mind.

of
74.

Mathura, Gokul and Vrindavana with great

where loving Vaishnavas wag their heads as they
sing the praises of God. 75. At such places he found
pious JJ/wktas.
He saw their cermonious worship of
Vishnu.
He looked upon them with great delight. His
heart was charmed with that place. 76. It made him
visited also

delight,

exclaim,

"Blessed,

blessed

is

this

holy

place.

Here Chakrapani performed his miraculous deeds."

In
meeting the Vaishnavas who lived at the place he was very
happy.
The performance of ras, the llari-kltans, the
77.
people

all

intent

on worship, Krishna being in

their thoughts

EKNATH

52

and minds,
spent
his

deeply impressed him.

all this

many days

at this

Vishnu

Sri

78.

namaskara to God he started on

Eknath

Then making

holy place.

his further journey.

soon arrived at Banares (Varanasi,) the supreme

holy place. He bathed in the Manikarnika, and worshipped

He

79.

before Visvesvara.

He

80.

remained there a

five-night,

and then hastened on with the idea that through the power
of Sri Janardan he might visit that place again. 81. He

way

continued his

to Prayag,

of the three rivers.

The

and bathed

sight of

at the junction

Madhava brought peace

He

journeyed on to Gaya, where with

love he bowed before the feet of rl Vishnu, and as he

to his soul.

worshipped

82.

in reverence

he experienced joy. 83. Those

with an undivided devotional

mind

spirit place

by that very

who

body, speech and

perform the
ceremonies at Gaya. Who can count their uncountable good
deeds that give them this opportunity? 84. Those who are
wholly devoted to the feet of 6rl Hari, are by that very fact
at the feet of Vishnu,

performers of

all

good deeds.

the tirthas these watering

The

rivers

And

places

fact

as their feet toucK

become

purified.

85.

Yamuna, Godavari, Bhagirthi, Krishna, Venya,

Narmada, Tapi, Bhimarathi, all long for the

coming of the saints. 86. Janardan had known of their
desire and had compassion on them. He therefore had
commanded Eknath to visit all the sacred watering places.
Sarasvati,

87.

And

Sri Nath, filled completely with the thought that

Janardan pervaded mankind, wandered from tirtha id

tirtha, the principal ones of which I have already mentioned.
88. After visiting Gaya, Prayag and Kasi, he journeyed on
to Ayodhya.
The people living at this Kshetra (holy place)

name of Ram.
89.
He worshipped
images of Ram, Sita, Lakshmana, Bharata and

are devoted to the

before the

EKNATH

53

atrughna, which brought a feeling of peace to his mind.

To Eknath

90.

all

for,

love

wag

91.

After

Vaishnavas

loving

there,

tive,

Vishnu kshetras were

their

heads

Ayodhya,

seeing

live,

singing

in

he

especially attrac-

and

Vishnu's

went

to

their

in

praise.

Badrinath,

visited the tiriha of Adipushkara, bathing in its water.

92.

Pushkara all filth of the Kali yuga is

immediately destroyed. This place also was purified by
the coming there of Eknath. 93. Then he went into the
Himalayas, to where the water of the Ehagirathi starts to
flow, where there is a very profound gorge, which the eye

At

the

mere

sight of

can hardly bear look down

into.

94.

He had

to

sit

in

the sling (of the rope bridge) in order to cross to the other

but Eknath did not experience the slightest fear.

side,

95.

With

superlative delight he viewed that spot, and seeing

Badri Narayana he made his sashtanga namaskar before

Nar-Narayana there is no idea of

difference between them, so God and a BJiakta, one in
nature, mutually increase the glory of one another.
97.
him.

96.

Just as in

All the dwellers at that Kshetra, with loving devotion praise

the

miraculous

had been

sent

deeds
to

of

this

Hari.

hermitage of

inaugurated this custom.

saints set, the pious

Sri

98.

follow

Because
Badrika,

Udhava
he

there

Whatever examples the

and all doubts

accordingly,

vanishing they become Jivanmuktas (liberated though alive)

Taking leave of Badrinath, Eknath came to Dvarka.

And seeing a lonely place in a forest he began there to
worship Sri Hari.
100.
His mind became absorbed
in his name and form and in this contemplation he lost all
bodily consciousness. The whole universe seemed to be
99.

Janardan, including himself.

mind he went

to Dvarakapuri,

101.

With

that thought in

and as he bathed on the banks

EKNATH

54

He then
of the Gomati he felt joy in his heart. 102.
proceeded to the temple, and with love made a sashtaftg
namaskar.

Seeing the image of Sri Krishna he was

made

Eknath remained here a whole montK,

observing the morning, noon and evening offerings and*
104.
And
worship, and listening to the praise services.
happy.

now

103.

to see with his

places, he turned

own

eyes the southern sacred watering

southward from

there.

Journeying, the

was Junagad, the place where

Eknath also visited the place
where the ancient idol of Dvaraka seeing the devotion o
Thus having
his bhakta came to Dakur in love.
106.
visited the northern tirthas thoroughly, and having seen the
twelve chief Siva shrines, and the seven chief cities, he
first

place to greet his sight

Narsi Mehta had

danced

lived.

in the fulness

105.

of his joy.

EKNATH RETURNS TO PRATISHTHANA.

107.

Then gradually making

the holy city of Pratishthana.

Goda

He

his

way he

arrived at

bathed by the bank of

and made his namaskar to Pimpalesvar.

any
Lest
of the people of the town should recognize
him, and so embarrass him here, he kept himself hidden in
the temple from early morning on.
109.
But as he needed
food, at noon time he had to wander into the town, and
whenever and whatever he received of food he contentedly
ate.
110.
He had conquered his appetite in restraining
the

river,

108.

He was no longer

was sweet
to the taste. Whether he was honored or dishonored was
alike to him, for enemy or friend seemed to be Janardan
himself.
111.
It was with this thought that Eknath had
visited the tirthas and now had arrived here at Pratishthana.
his senses.

conscious of what

EKNATH
As he

55

one day entered the town his grandparents suddenly

112.
Sri Nath recognized them at once,
saw him.
and made a mental namaskSr to them. " If I should make
myself known to them," he thought, "they will entangle
me in the worldly life. 113. The worldly life is a difficult

position to be

of

my

I shall fail in

in.

Sadguru.

The

command

obedience to the

southern sacred watering places are

and I must hasten away." 114. With

this thought in mind he did not make himself known to
them, but his grandfather and grandmother looking intently
115.
at him suddenly recognized the marks of his identity.
" It is a long time," they said, "since as a child he left us and
went away. His body has reached adulthood. We are in
doubt." 116. Reasoning thus they both said to him on a
How could you have
chance, " Bapa, you cast us off.
made your heart so cruel," and with this their
While the grandparents
117.
eyes were filled with tears.
were thus talking to him a crowd of men and women
collected, and they declared, "He is surely Nath."
118.
"
While one, however, said,
He is he most certainly,"
"
another remarked,
The Fates are
I have my doubts.
still

to be visited,

against the aged couple.

One cannot understand

the

ways

But Eknath would not reply, either by

saying he was or was not Eknath, and as he arose to go

of Fate."

away

119.

his grandparents seized hold of him.

120.

And

command which they had already

Janardan, in his own handwriting, they

bringing out the letter of

procured from Sri

showed it to him.

and

And

121.

Sri

Nath recognized

affectionately touched his forehead to

it

it

at once,

im worship.

sat down on the very spot

where he then was. 122. Just as the Vindhya range of
mountains fell to the earth as it bowed its head worshipf ully

taking in

its

meaning he

EKNATH

56

of the rishi Agasti, so as soon as Eknath

had read the letter of Janardan he sat down on the ground

to the

on

command

the very spot where he then was.

123.

The people

no habitation here. Come along

Vide hi would listen to none of
them. He kept dumb. He would not utter a word. 124. The
animate and the inanimate world seemed to him as Maya.
His body therefore knew
It appeared to him as Janardan.
neither cold nor heat. Though possessing a body he was
unconscious of a body. 125.
There were present pious
people who suggested that food should be brought and
served to him at once, and at that very spot. 126. What
these all-wise suggested was listened to as an acceptable
plan by the grandparents. They served him food at that
place and Sri Nath ate it lovingly.
127.
For three days
he did not rise at all from that spot. His Grandfather and
grandmother had to come there, seeing how determined he
was. 128. He had no protection from the cold, heat or
"wind, and so some of the pious people of the town built
a thatched roof over him.
129.
Here Eknath adorned
with satvik signs performed his Bhajans with enthusiasm,
and the people hearing him were astonished.
130.
And
-exclaimed, "He is still in his youth, and yet possesses comsaid to him,

"There
But

to your home."

plete vairagya.

He

One

is

this

should not

call

him a human

being.

seems a divine avatar."

EKNATH PERFORMS KIRTANS.

131.

Hum

Thus

praising him, people began to

meaning, noon, and

come

to see

night, and seeing their loving

he would perform services of praise. 132. Without
4uy previous study he would by inspiration expound them,
bhakti,

EKNATH
and compose with ease verses

57

which he described the

133.
wonderful deeds of Sri Hari.
He had no one to
take the leading part in the chorus, and so God Pandurang
felt concern and himself took the form of a Brahman and
134.
As the words flowed
aided him in his kirtans.
from Eknath's lips the Brahman would reutter them
with ease and thus with the cymbals in his hand he
would accompany Eknath in the flow of sweet music.
135.
The Divinity of every form of song, the God-of-Gods,
the Husband-of-Rukmini,

in

dwelling within

Eknath's soul

brought to his recollection the words of his song. 136.

And at the same time outwardly Sri Hari took the leading

Yet no one knew

part in the chorus (dhruvapad).

even though they were looking

at

him

this,

directly with their

eyes.

EKNATH'S INFLUENCE FOR GOOD.

lost

all

they listened to Eknath's kirtans

Hearers, as

137.

And

words fell on
minded men they were changed into good

bodily consciousness.

the ears of evil

if

his

men. 138. The dwellers in that sacred city, both men

and women, discussed him among themselves, saying, " ii
Eknath has become an avatar to save the world. 139. No
one can sing such loving songs and give such kirians, as
he can. In the mere listening to them the minds of all are
deeply impressed.

he continued

Thus people praised him.

giving

these

kirtans,

the

140.

influential

As
and

wealthy citizens of the town took notice of them, and finally

erected for
141.

They

and a

little

him a

building

also gave to

open square.

on which they spent much money.

Eknath a piece of land, a house,

They held a house warming, and

EKNATH

58

were made to Brahmans, to their entiresatisfaction. 142. His grandfather and grandmother comforted at last, brought their household gods with them and lived"
Pious people gave themwith him in this house. 143.
The goddess-offood and raiment of their free will.
plenty is always found serving him who is a friend to the
Lord-of-Vaikuntha. 144. On the Eleventh of the months
Eknath began to hold watch-night kirtans in praise of
Hari that lasted all night long. Crowds of people attended
to listen and to repeat in chorus the names and attributes
of God.
offerings of food

EKNATH CELEBRATES KRISHNA'S BIRTHDAY.

One day

Eknath suddenly announced that

on Krishna's birthday in the month of Sravana, a festival
of love would be held. The idea was approved by all.
145.

Sri

146. Rich merchants brought the things needed for the cele-

The temple was whitewashed

and decorated and a light bamboo structure was erected
for the idol. 147. Some Brahmans went to Devagiri and met
Janardan. They told him all about Eknath. Janardan heard

bration in great abundance.

their story with great joy. 148. Just as a father feels satis-

faction
feels

when he

hears of his son's success, or as a mother

keen delight

ways of her

in

her soul when she sees the cunning

child. 149. Just so the soul

And

not contain his supreme joy.

started

many

on his journey to

visit

with

Eknath.

preparations for assisting at

of the Sadguru could

all his

retinue he:

He

had made
the Krishna festival,
150.

and taking them along the journey began.

151.

Witfr

musical instruments, flags and numerous eagle banners the

procession marched along the

way with

great enthusiasm'

EKNATH
to the
to

accompaniment of

feed

stirring music.

Brahmans he took

the

59
In order

152.

provisions

along with

him, made into bundles and carried on pack bullocks, and

When Janardan
which he sent on ahead of him. 153.
arrived at Pratishthana he went to Eknath' s house. As he
a marvel greeted his eyes. 154. At the
main door Sri Dattatreya stood in the form of a door keeper.
He had in his hands the trident, and looked just like

approached

Siva

it

(Tripurari).

155.

As Janadan's

upon
and making a

eyes

fell

him he recognized the Jagadguru at once,

sashtanga namaskar he embraced him affectionately.
Sri Datta then explained to Janardan,

Pandurang

in

I have taken

With

human form;

my

"Eknath

is

156.

in reality

therefore out of love for

abode here at his main door."

him
157.

marvel occurred. Datta suddenly

took human form and went inside to announce to Eknath
158.
Janardan's arrival.
"Janardan has come from
this explanation, a

Devagiri with

all his

retinue to meet you," he announced.

announcement was overjoyed. 159.

And when he heard the coming of his Sadguru,
he prostrated himself,
affectionately embraced him, and
claspfd his feet.
Eknath
took Janardan h)' the hand
160.
and led him within the house, he seated his sadguru, and
washed his feet with his own hands. 161. And as he
drank the water with which the feet had been washed, his
soul felt supreme joy.
He then brought forward the
materials for worship and offered them to his Sadguru. 162.
He smeared on his person the pulp of the Chandan wood.

Eknath hearing

this

He

garland

and

placed

he

waved

over

of

flowers

the

Sadguru

around
in

his

neck,

human form

the

and the five-lamp-tray.

163.
After
Eknath had thus worshipped him he told him all his story
incense, the lights

EKNATH

60

from beginning to end.

with inner

The

164.

sight, yet

manifesting loving interest.

listened,

Krishna was held in

festival of the birth of

Musical instruments gave out their sweet

Eknath's house.

The

sounds.

he

Although JanSrdan was possessed

anointing and

worship of the idol was

bamboo structure. 165.

All the inhabitants of the sacred city came in an uninterrupted flow for a darsana of the idol. They brought with
them varieties of daintily prepared food, and fed the
followed by

its

Brahmans.

166.

installation in the

&rl Janardan sat

on a

seat facing the

Eknath performed the kirtan before him. To

was felt all language fails.
167.
Panduraiig, taking the form of a Brahman, led the
chorus. He danced with little bells on his feet. God has
great love
for his Bhaktas.
168.
As words of
inspiration fell from the lips of Eknath the Brahman took up the same in chorus, repeating them as if he
already knew them by heart. 169. To this the men and
women of the sacred city listened and marvelled, exclaiming " This distinguished Brahman, leader of the chorus, is
able to repeat the whole story.
170. The two (Eknath
and the Brahman) are but one body. The debt of love
they owe one another belongs to a former birth. Supreme
good fortune has come to us. It is for this that the two
have come together."
171.
During the daytime offerings of
food were made to the Brahmans.
At
night Hart Kirtans were performed and by all this
the minds
pious
of
the
folk
of
Paithan
were
audience.

describe the greatness of joy that

deeply

impressed.

172.

On

the

ninth

of

the

month, a great quantity of dainty food was prepared,

and

the partaking

crowd was

large.

The

distinguished

Vaishnavas, always of loving hearts, ended the fasting.

EKNATH

the relating of the childish prank*

Then followed

173.

61

of the infant Krishna, and the ceremony of the Gopalkala

The

was begun.

Vankude and Pendhe-

parts of Vadaje,

were taken. Many other characters were also assumed. 174.

There was wrestling and the games of lavi, hamama, humSri Nath played the part of Yasoda in-,
bari lapandava.
churning, and Hari ate the butter.

with gesticulations the games of

other kinds of amusements.
related

in

Eknath

went

appeared

through

many

in

ball,

Indeed whatever sports were

Bhagavata,

the

They performed
of phugadi, pinga and

175.

they

imitated

different

here.

176.

performance

dramatic

guises.

He

and'

repeated

The occasion was one of unusual interest.

177.
Chakrapani, who had assumed the form of
chorus leader, repeated his words after him. The hearers
marvelled and laughed heartily. 178. The six varieties
poems of

inspiration.

of darsanas, the thirty six special heresies, and the Siddhanta.

were explained by Eknath according to established truths,

and excellently uttered.
179.
The surface meaning was
made plain. The ignorant were thereby made joyous, and
the wise realized the Siddhanta.
They called his words
inspired.
180.
Thus dancing and singing, the idol of Sri
Krishna was placed finally on the swinging cot. Then an
auspicious arati was performed and sweetmeats were distributed.
181.
Janardan now asked Eknath, "Who
the

is
is

he

182.

way.

and

chorus.

the

is

ways, you and he appear as

does not seem to

183.

leads

who

Ask

him

Where

name.
he?
He leads the chorus in a most unusual
In acting and supporting your acting and in various

brilliant

It

Brahman who
from,

You have

laid

me

if

his

you were one body.

as though you were

two persons.

up a store of good deeds, therefore-

EKNATH

2
you have

this association

klrtans.

Hearers find

You and he

184.

He

with him.

rest

puts

life into

the

of soul in listening to him.

should be joined together in this

way

world would
be greatly promoted as men listen to the music of the
kirtans."
185.
Eknath then asked him, " You are a Brahman, from what place, and who are you? Where is your
for

If this could be, the salvation of the

life.

home, what
of-Rukmini

Where

your name.

Tell us."

lead
I

Vithoba

187.

186.

replied, " I

is

the

The Husband-

have no fixed abode.

spend

my

time in

name of

this

body of

men,

I discover loving pious

mine.
188.

and

listened

company.

their

is

have not the snare of wife or son.

the

chorus.

no

have

am

other

expert

desire

in

In kirtans

only

my

in

this.

jheart

but

being
content
company,
your
them
of
what
with a morsel of food." This is all he told
might identify him.
189.
Janardan listened to this
reply,
and was greatly delighted, but it did not
suggest itself to him that he was in reality the
Husband-of-Indira.
For fourteen days there
190.
had continued this giving of food to Brahmans and
to

live

when

all

always

in

these provisions were distributed, Janardan said.

JANARDAN INSTRUCTS EKNATH TO MARRY.

191.

" I

am now

going back to Devagiri."

As he

was taking leave of the aged couple, they touched their

heads to his feet and said, " We have one request to make
of you, your

lordship.

Bhanudas, Nath

is

Of

192.

member. By your
mind is unattached
has no wish to become

the only surviving

command he has remained

to things of this world.

here, but his

193.

He

the descendants of

EKNATH
So we plead

a householder.

aaay give him a command

about his marriage

we

at

63

your feet that the Sv&mi

to marry.

shall

194.

be comforted.

of our eyes will cease, and the

Svami

you bring

If

will

The

fasting

gain glory."

Janardan was deeply moved, hearing this pitiful

He called Eknath to him and
plea of the aged couple.
spoke to him nectar words. 196. "If a bride comes to
195.

you of her own

free choice, then without hesitation enter

There is no objection to your living

the householder's life, and thus freeing yourself from the

the marriage bond.

possibility of public scandal.

Asrams

the Grihaslhasram

is

Of

197.

all

the superior

Here you can conhappiness carry on all

the noblest.

organs of sense, and can in

your special duties. 198. Such as kindness to all creatures, wearing away your body in deeds of benevolence to
others, giving food to Brahmans, guests and the hungry,
199.
The worship of Vishnu with due ceremonials,
Kirtans performed in love, and the continued repeating of
the names and attributes of God with the feeling of love."
trol the

Eknath

200.

Sadguru.
feet,

should

accepted

this

command

of

his

In silence he touched his forehead to Janardan's

and then

place."

quietly

201.

give

replied, " If this is in

Leaving

this

happiness

to

my

fate,

it

will take

command with Eknath

his

grandparents

that he

by marry-

Janardan returned to Dcvagiri with all his retinue.

Eknath saw his Sadguru on his way. He kept the"
memory of him in the recesses of his heart. There was
no separation from his Guru even for a moment, for all
within him and without him was in the form of his Guru.
ing,

202.

203.
tion

And

Janardan, having

left his friendship, his affec-

and love with Eknath, arrived

retinue.

at Devagiri with his

EKNATH

64

The

204.

narrator of the delightful story in the next

I Mahipati, and
Rukminipati himself.
You wise people, realize this by
merely the pretext.
By
experience. 205. This is the Sri Bhaktalllamrita.

chapter

is

Sri

merely listening to
then to

it,

it

Listen

one's desires are fulfilled.

ye laving pious Bhaktas.

This

is

the fifteenth

delightful chapter.

CHAPTER
Of

the Bhaktalllamrita

MAHIPATI'S
1.

Obeisance

16.

Sri

to

INVOCATION.
Victory

Ganesa.

to

Thee

Recumbent
mitless,

on the serpent, Immeasurable-One, LiWithout-name, Uncomposed-of-the-three-Gunas,

Adorable-deity

of

the-God-that-burned-lhe-God-of-Love,

Protector-of-true-&/wf<w.

Enemy

2.

Lord

of

the

Serpent-

(Garuda,) Destroyer-of -Sorrow, Thou-who-lovest-

as-his-own-soul-the-daughter-of-the-Ocean.

Dweller-in-

the-Ocean, Recliner-on-the-Serpent, Saviour-of-the-Sinner,

3.
Dweller-in-Vaikuntha, InfinitelyOcean-of-mercy.
generous-One, Thou-whose-abode-is-the whole-of-the-uni-

Brahma

thy name, Supreme God, Thou art

Brahma, everlastingly good.
4.
Holder-up-of mountverse.

is

Govardhan, Lord-of-the-cows, Beloved-of-Gopis, Madanain-visible-form, Thou dwellest in the organs of beings, and
hence thou art called Gosavi. 5. Do thou now, who art
constantly seated in
recollection.

my

heart, give

whereby the love of the

my mind

power of

me this Sri Bhaktalilamrita,

hearers may well up and overflow.

Recite through

EKNATH
At

6.

66

the close of the last chapter, the story

was

that of

Janardan instructing Eknath to live as a householder, and

preach the Bhakti marga. 7. Having thus instructed him
And now good folk
he prepared to return to Devagiri.

and

pious,

the

to

listen

further

recital

full

of

deep

meaning.

THE GRANDPARENTS SEARCH FOR A

BRIDE.
The aged grandfather and grandmother now be8.
came worried night and day, thinking, "Oh if we could
but find a bride for Eknath, he might be married before
our eyes." 9. As they thus conversed with one another,
pious people remarked to them, "God is your helper in
Let not your heart be in the least troubled.
Sri Nath's mind is entirely disattached from the world,,

this matter.
10.
it

and we are troubled as to whether he will be

marry or not, but Pandurang has fulfilled our
11.
Eknath will not at all transgress the com-

true,

is

willing to

longings.

mand
arrives,

When

Janardan.

of

we

shall

make

the

reassuring words of the pious folk,

comforted.

season

Time passed

by,

for

marriages

Hearing these
the grandparents were

great effort."

12.

and now the season for

marriages arrived.

HOW THE
13.

Now

there

BRIDE WAS FOUND.

was

in a certain

town a Brahman,

whose daughter had reached the marriagable age. He had

been looking for a husband for her, but as yet the horoscope

EKNATH

66

would not agree with that of anyone.

14.

While

in this great-

was asleep at night, and Pandurang came to him in a dream, and told him in the vision
as follows. IS. "At Pratishthana, on the bank of the Ganga,
[GodavariJ there is living a Vishnu bhakta, named Eknath,
ly troubled state of mind, he

man of

Go and

beautiful character.

in that family, well adorned."

16.

place your daughter

This

vision, given

the Husband-of-Rukmini was by night.

by

The Brahman

suddenly awoke, and marvelled in his mind over the vision.

He

and himself coming

to Pratishthana enquired of the people where Eknath lived.
They pointed out his house, and the Brahman went
18.
to see him, and related what the Husband-of-Rukmini had
19.
He bowed in reverence to
told him in the vision.
the grandfather and grandmother, and said, " I give my
17.

told his wife of this vision,

daughter to your grandson."

them was acceptable

The

20.

to the grandparents.

offer

They

made

to

called in

the Joshi astrologers, and handed to them the astral birth

records.

As

21.

the astrologer read the signs of the

Zodiac and the constellations he found the combination that

revealed the future relation of bride and bridegroom to be

So

thirty-six.

mined

the

to

Brahman gave

the

day for the marriage

to Pratishthana with

give

mean

my

for

parties.

deter-

22.

The

a promise to the father of the bridgroom,

saving, " I will begin to

To

both

of

satisfaction

was

my

make

preparations, and will

daughter, wife and attendants.

come
23.

daughter, well adorned, into your family, will

me an

especially

good deed."

And

with this

promise the father of the bride returned to his home, 24.

saying to his wife, "I have found a most unusual husband
for our daughter, a most

Yaishnava.

He

seems to

pious,

me

to

and most distinguished

be a divine avat&ra."

EKNATH
Happy

25.

in

67

mind they began preparing

things (needful for the marriage.)

the

of

city

Pratishthana.

Listen

Now
to

at their
let

home

us turn to

what took place

there.

WEDDING PREPARATIONS.
26.

fame

of

The grandparents marvelled at the growing great

Eknath, an avatara in the family line of Chakra-

pani, and light of that line.

27.
Yet as they sat in their
home, they expressed their thoughts to one another thus,
"The ceremony is going to be performed at our house, but
our relatives are far away. 28. The province of Vijapur, is,
as a matter of fact, seventeen Yojanas distant. Our relatives
and dear friends are there. Let us send a letter of invitation to them."
There lived there a son of a brother,
29.
a most pious man, a Vaishnava, named Uddhava. A letter,
accordingly, was written to his address, inviting him to
the wedding. 30. Other letters of invitation were also written
to the address of other dear friends, relatives

beautifully adorned

tions,

and connecwith saffron figures, and the

contents were in the politest terms, as follows

are,

in

undertake

We

aged.

fact,

(in

our

This
life).

is

: 31. "We

ceremony we can
with all your retinue.

the last

Come

watching for you."

32.
A hired
servant was engaged as a
carrier, and the letters were
sent

shall be eagerly

by him.

(In the

mean

time) the pious people of

Pratishthana were wrestling hard over the preparations for
the wedding. 33. The Universe is kind to him, to whom
Sri Hari
to serve
tilings.

is

associated as a close friend.

him
34.

at his

The

home, and there

letters

of

is

Prosperity comes

no lack

invitation

in

worldly

were

sent
to the distant and near relatives in the province of Vijapur.

EKNATH

68

As

letters were read to them they felt very

Uddhava, the wise, the perfect Vaishnava,
carried with him all his wedding preparations, and with
his wife arrived at Pratishthana.
36.
He met the aged

soon as the
35.

pleased.

Uddhava

couple with the greatest joy.

and embraced him

feet,

lifting

up

fell

at Eknath's

his hands.

And

37.

as they thus lovingly embraced, their minds experienced

a sense of supreme

Their eyes

rest.

filled

with tears, as

they realized the unusual circumstance of their meeting.

38.

As

to the father of the bride,

who

lived at a distance

from Pratishthana, he made preparations for food on a

The packs were placed on bullocks and were
sent ahead. 39.
He provided garments, and ornaments
for both parties. Taking the marriage party with him,

large scale.

he arrived at Pratishthana.
40.
He found a spacious
Invitations were
wada and he and his wife lodged there.
sent to people in the city, announcing that the marriage
would take place on the morrow.

THE WEDDING CEREMONIES.

41.

The

preliminary ceremonies began, the honouring

of God, feasting the Brahmans,

of clothing were given

.(rifts

by Brahmans and others, playing of wedding music, the turmeric ceremony on bride and )>ri> !<::.-ocm.
42.
Divinely
dainty food of many varieties wa< nx^ed in the nwndaps
of

each

party.

The

feasting

of

worthy of the occasion, as aNo

43.

On

Uddhava
he

took

greatest

the

part

was
upon
joy.

of

chief

the

director.

himself,
44.

The

and
pious

dining of

tin

father

of

did

people

others.

bridegroom,

the

preparations

the

All
lie

Brahman < was

the

it

of

with
the

the

sacred

EKNATH
his

city paid respect to

Uddhava proposed, they

69

Whatever plan

suggestions.

acted accordingly.

panied by the relatives, by the

citizens,

45.

Accom-

by the Brahmans,

sound of the wedding music, they moved in

With
46.
procession lo pay honor to the bridegroom.
baskets full of the wedding meats, the bride's party of
women joined the procession, and having given garments
and ornaments to the bridegroom, they brought him to their
wedding mandap in gay procession. 47. The bridegroom
was duly honoured on arrival, the Brahmans held the
marriage curtain between bride and bridegroom.
The
"
solemn words were intoned,
Savadhanam, Sdvadhanam,
Think of Sri Krishna." 48.
Repeating the Ashtakas, the
to the loud

Brahmans

completed

the

and
The wedding music

marriage

the ultimate aim was accomplished.

ceremony,

sounded loud and continuous. 49. As this union of Prakrti

and Purusha took place all rejoiced. The offering of parched
rice
was then made, and gifts were distributed
present.
all
The ceremonies of Sunmukh
to
50.
and Telvan, the worshipping of the baskets, the

Dhcnda

dance,

bridegroom's

entry

the

house,

the

of

the

bride

worship of Lakshmi,

into
all

the
these

were duly performed.

51.
For five days the wedding
festivities were continued with the proper ceremonies.
Gifts of garments were distributed to all.
There was no
lack of anything.

52.

After the bride's father had thus

given away his daughter in marriage, he returned to his

home.

The grandparents

grand-daughter-in-law, were comforted. 53.

had come

in

own eyes their,

The friends who

seeing with their

marriage procession from the Province of

Vijapura, they also, supremely delighted at the events,

returend to their homes.

54.

Uddhava alone remained

EKNATH

70
behind,

filled

with the desire to serve Eknath, and in body,

speech and mind he was ever present, ready to render

service.

55.

And knowing

Eknath's thoughts, Uddhava,

knew what to do and what not to do.

Eknath thus had no worries of any kind, and his heart
without being told,

was

filled

with love.

EKNATH AND

HIS WIFE GIRJABAI.

His wife, Girjabai by name, supremely noble in

character, was always at hand ready to serve Sri Eknath.
57.
She was young in years, a mere child, but she knew
well all customary household duties, and paid respect to
the wishes of the grandparents, obeying whatever was told
Thus, as these aged grandparents saw the noble
her.
58.
character of their grand-daughter-in-law,
they were
comforted, and said, "By the
favor of Janardan
the longing of our eyes has been fulfilled." 59. The new
couple adopted the method of life of living on whatever
was given to them, yet clothing and food came to them
in abundance.
So that Brahmans received offerings and
the hungry were fed. 60. In giving out food, no question
of caste was raised. To Eknath Janardan filled the universe, and so he was all kindness to every creature. 61.
Formerly Bhanudas had installed an idol of PSndurang ifll
a shrine. Eknath worshipped this idol with loving devotion.
62.
Immediately after the second prahar of each
day Eknath gave offerings to the Brahmans, at the third
frahar he gave a reading of the Purdnas, at night there
was always a kirtan. 63. Men and women, dwellers in
that sacred city, came with love and reverence to listen, and
day by day Eknath's fame greatly increased.
56.

EKNATH

71

THE DEATH DF THE GRANDPARENTS.

The grandparents saw before their very eyes, for
many days, this mode of life. Then their bodily life came!
64.

to an end, and they went to the Vaikuntha world.

65.

Sri

Eknath, with his own hands, performed the funeral

and helped them on to their good ending. Although himself not under the law of karma or akarma, yet for the
instruction of the crowd he performed the customary
funeral rites. 66.
Sri Vitthal, in the guise of a Brahman,
rites,

continued to sing in his kirtans.

He whom

even Brahma

even He
Yogis percontemplation, but that does

and the other Gods cannot apprehend,

remained there as leader in the chorus. 67.

form

their eight

modes

in

not give them the sight of the sagun God.

But because

of Eknath 's bhakti, he was there playing on the cymbal and}

singing with him.

THE DEATH OF JANARDAN AND CELEBRATION

OF THE SIXTH.
68.

Suddenly some one came from Devagiri bringing-

Janardan Swami had left his body behind,

and gone to the Vaikuntha world. 69. Eknath heard the
news of his Sadguru's departure, and yet felt no sorrow
the

news

that

whatever, for Janardan, the Indestructibk-one, the

manifested, the All-perfect

Yet taking Uddhava

aside

was pervading all beings. 70:

he instructed him to celebrate-

the Sixth of the month, and lovingly

71.
said,

Un-

make

preparations.

Uddhava touched his forehead to Eknath's feet, and*

" Tell me what is the reason for celebrating the Sixth-

of the month."

72.

Observing his purpose, Eknttlr

72

EKNATH

told the whole reason.

"

is

the birthday

The Sixth of

of Janardan.

the month, Uddhava,

On

73.

the

sixth

of

Phalgun, during" the dark half of the moon, Janardan had

same date
this same
date also Janardan left his body behind, and became mrgun.
These, then, are the four events that have occurred, and
what is to take place in the future you will soon see.
75.
So make great preparations for offerings to the
Brahmans." Uddhava replied, "T will do so," and made a
namaskdr.
76.
In the preparations some things were
received unasked. Others were bought on credit. Seven
hundred rupees in coin were borrowed from Vanis and a
note was given for them. 77. Uddhava wrote the promissory note in Eknath's name, having agreed on the time
for repayment, and explaining the purpose of the loan.
78.
Having thus made full preparations they began with
the vision of Dattatreya given him, and on the

Dattatreya gave

me

his full blessing.

and food was cooked

On

The whole sacred

love this festival of the Sixth.

invited,

74.

sufficient for all.

city

79.

was

Pious

and loving persons laboured hard with their own hands. No

it a burden.
All worked with loving hearts. 80.
Accompanied by the players on the dindi they went first in

-one felt

procession

down

to the

banks of the Ganga, and here with

the sweet sound of cymbals,

the vinS,

and

the

drum a

was performed with great eclat.

81.
Eagle
Iranners were flying, the kettledrum sounding, musical instruments were playing festal music. The Vaishnavas were
shouting " victory, victory," and the din of the sound filled
Klrtan

to overflowing

all etherial

space.

Eknath's abode.
seated crowded in

82.

At noon,

led in die

on
The Brahmans then bathed, were then

procession by the players

lines.

the dindi they returned to

83.

Sri Eknath, with his

own

EKNATH
hands washed the

84.

them.

feet

were washed he

foe

drank the

felt gi eat joy.

He was a bhakta of Brahmans, wholly devoted to

He touched his own eyes with his thumb. His
was

strong conviction

Brahman.

the

to

Brahmans, and as

feet of the

water with which their

73

that

85.

there

is

With

his

no

superior

deity

own

hands

rubbed sandal wood paste and buka on their bodies.

.gave

them the

tulsi

leaf,

and

flowers.

And

he

He

having

worshipped the Brahmans he served them dainty

Having prepared the melted butter, and other
86.
sauces, they were served with the cooked food on the leafthus

food.

plates. In his love

of

this

he repeated the mantra that the enjoyer

food was Janardan himself,

who

pervades every

The Brahmans then sipped water from the

sat down to eat, all shouting
together the name of Vitthal. 88. Whatever pleased the
taste of any one, that was brought in dishes and served to
him, Sri Eknath, the while, requesting them to eat very
leisurely.
After all were fully satisfied, they got up
89.
to wash their hands with expressions of love.
He gave to
creature.

87.

palms of their hands, and

-all

of them the

zridd,

to their homes.
the citizens
their

meal

who had
in the

and

money. They then went

Uddhava and Eknath, and

gifts of

Vitthal,

90.

assisted so joyfully then sat

very

last line of diners.

91.

down to
As night

came on Eknath performed a kirtan. Many people came

to listen to it.
His words of inspiration being marked with
love, what lack could there then be of delight. 92. Thus the
night passed. The same kind of festivities were held on
the Seventh of the month, and on the Eighth the Gopalkala
was celebrated. 93. Led by the dindi players, the procession arrived at the bank of the Ganga. Here a great crowd
of pilgrims had assembled who were shouting the
names

EKNATH

74
of

God and

"Victory, Victory."

94.

When

the ceremony

of the Gopalkala was completed Prasad was distributed

to all. As night came on dramatic representations took

were deeply impressed thereby. 95. After

these dramatic representations were completed the Husband-of-Rukmini was put to rest. And as dawn came on
they honoured sadhus and saints. 96. In this way
the festival of the Sixth was celebrated.
All felt
happy and exclaimed, "To save the world this noble
Eknath has come down to earth, an avatara. 97. Pratishthana is a sacred city full of Brahmans. All the Brahmans
are scrupulously orthodox. To show them the perfect way
of Bhakti, he has become an avatara in human form

place,

and

all

(sagun.)"

THE MERCHANT WANTS BACK THE

BORROWED MONEY.
98.

Now

the merchant,

from

whom

things had been

bought on credit, and for which Uddhava had written a

promissory note, the note now being due, began to ask for
his money. 99.
Uddhava replied to him, "As soon as
a note is received, we shall bring the amount to your
house.

Feel confident of this."

Although thus

100.

assured, the scoundrel would not listen.

"

You

are con-

tinually receiving unasked for money,'" he declared,

you

"and
Eknath

Brahmans. 101.
has cast aside the ordinary human life, and dances wildly
in
will

spend

his

it

klrtans.

in

feeding

He

not permit this!"

made every one crazy. I

102.
Not content with saying-

has

things to Uddhava, this evil minded

man came

to Eknath's

EKNATH
Eknath

house.

he uttered a

was

curse

at

his

on him.

food before you have paid

75-

and

bath
103.

prayers.

"If you

me my money,

eat

Yet
any

then I swear

by

104.
curse he went away.
Pandurang," uttering this
Eknath, however, gave offerings to the gods and to thefire, and feasted the Brahmans as usual, but he himself
would not eat, because of the oath sworn by the V&ni. 105.
eat.

The

and as yet no money had been received.

106.

Neither would Uddhava or the good Girjabai

sun had

set,

Uddhava

laboured hard, but could not secure

where.

One prahar

money any-

of the night passed and

still

they

Seeing their troubled condition PandharinathThe Husband-of-Rukmini could not

distressed.

fasted. 107.

was

endure that his ablveda Bhakta should remain fasting. 108.

So Sri Hari took the form of Uddhava and went to the
" Comehouse of the vani, and called him to the door.
quickly outside," he said.
109.
The merchant opened the
door, and called out to

him

saying, "

Why

here at this late hour of the night."

replied, " Bring

count out
111.

me

have you come

110.

the promissory note at once,

Uddhava
and here

money, which includes the interest due."

"How can I make out the
night? My account book and the promissory

all this

The merchant answered,

account at
note are at

my

store.

112.

Come

early in the morning,

and take away the note." Listen now, ye, his devoted
Bhaktas, to what the Lord Vaikuntha replied.
113.
"If
you are so patient, then why did you put Eknath under
that oath.
I

am

heard

in

am

deeply distressed by his having to fast.

a fainting condition."

this

When

the

Vani

charge he became repentant at heart, and

went

114.

and there examined the account. 115.

And"
as he counted out the money, which was the exact amount
to his store

EKNATH

76

due him, he was astonished to see that every coin had on

The Vani returned the
116.
it the same superscription.
note, which Hari tore up with his hands, but brought the
pieces back with him to his house, and placed them in
his account book.

distressed in mind.

The Vani now became

117.

Eknath under an oath not

"and I myself came home and
laid

desire

for

the

greatly

Sleep would not come to him.

perishable,

to eat,"

he said to himself,
118.

ate.*

"I

Seized by the

have persecuted a

saint."

While thus greatly disturbed in mind the sun arose. 119.

He hastily washed his face, and went to Eknath's w&dS.
He made him a sashtaug namaskdr, and cried out, " I have
truly, wronged you."
120.
Sri Nath replied, " It is a
rule of business ethics that until one has paid one's dues,
one should not eat."
121.
When the Vani heard this
remark.he was overcome with astonishment, and turning
to Uddhava said, " You paid me the money, and took away

the promissory note.

122.

You

should have told your

Svami
Why
still kept him fasting."
Uddhava answered, " One must never tell an untruth."
123. The vani then immediately swore that what he said
was true. And Uddhava (after making search) came and
told Eknath, " The cancelled note is indeed in our account
of

'book,

and

Uddhava
bhakti.

this.

have you

now understand what has

turning to the Vani

occured."
124.
"
said,
Blessed is your loving

Through having business

relations

with Eknath

Do not, howany one soever." The

merchant prostrated himself before Uddhava and hastened
fcack to his home.
126.
5ri Nathi then made offerings to
God, ate in line with the Brahmans. Girjabai and Uddhava
you have met the Husband-of-Rukmini.

125.

ever, speak of this mysterious event to

<did also the

same, ending their fasting that day.

127.

EKNATH
Pandurang,

in the guise of

a Brahman, continued to be

The

the leader of the chorus.

77

klrtans continued to

full of delight.

All were deeply impressed, as they

to them.

It pleased

128.

the glory of Eknath.

of-the-World

used

Twelve years passed

life.

Let the saints

be

listened'

Purushottama thus to increase

In the guise of a Brahman, the Soul-

the

klrtans

in this

now

inspire

to

love.

129.

way, making an epoch in hi&

listen to

what took place later

on.

THE IDENTITY OF VITHOBA

IS

DISCOVERED.

Vaishnava bhakta, living in the sacred city of

Pandhari used to sit in contemplation.
He desired a
visible manifestation of Pandurang.
Many days passed
His lips repeated aloud the names of
in this way.
131.
God. His heart had no other desire. Suddenly one night
the Husband-of-Rukmini appeared to him in a dream,
" You wish for a visible manifestation of
132.
saying,
130.

am

under an engagement at Pratishthana,

where Eknath, the abhcda bhakta is wholly absorbed in
klrtans in my praise.
133.
I, Pandurang, have taken the
guise of a Brahman there, and lead the chorus. The world
calls me Vithoba by name.
Go quickly to the place. 134.
Go to the home of Eknath in Pratishthana, and there you
will see me."
As he saw this vision of the night he was
overcome with astonishment. 135. He started at once for
Pratishthana, and arrived at Eknath's house. He enquired
myself, but I

Brahman Vithoba, and rushed forward to embrace

And as he made a sashtanga namaskdr,
suddenly the Husband-of-Rukmini changed his form. Hefor the

him.

136.

EKNATH

78

sagun form of the

-took the

jewels in his crown.

form

lovely.

four-armed, with sparkling

His face was glorious, his

137.

necklace and the kaustubha

neck was the vaijayanti

liis

His yellow garment was dazzlingly

jewel.

Oil

Divine earrings flashed in his ears.

The shape of his body

was

138.

bright.

His

beautiful and graceful.

This
two hands looked charming, placed on his sides.
lovely form, with his two feet placed together, was beautiWith him
139.
All this the Brahman actually saw.
ful.
some Vaishnava bhaktas had also come. They also saw
this visible manifestation at that time.

them
all

God became

this visible manifestation,

who had come from Pandhari

saying,

" Blessed

avatara of Vishnu.

art

Pandurang,

himself led your chorus."

glorified

Vaishnava

thou,

After giving

140.

invisible,

Eknalh,
bhakta,

and
141.

visible

in the guise of a

Brahman,

When

Brahman

142.

the

Vithoba became invisible, Eknath's mind became overcome

with astonishment.
He said to himself, " The Life-of-the-

world has wearied himself for my sake. He has let nothing

lower his reputation of greatness. 143. It is his nature
to care tenderly for his slaves. He, whose limits even the

Vedas do not know, even He has become the helper of

144.
his bhaktas."
That Pandurang had in this way
paid his debt of gratitude to Eknath, people

The deed became

had been

now

heard.

noised abroad, that for twelve years he

the leader of the chorus.

in the flower-buds sends out

its

145.

fragrance

As

the honey

when

the breeze

motion so does the fame of the deeds of the saints, as

they relate them to one another.
146.
The qualities of
humility and sincerity are their imperishable garments. By
these their good fame is manifested to the world, and great
is in

poets sing their praise.

EKNATH
Amongst

147.

79

great books the supremely great

all

are those containing the Acts of the Saints. Only to those

148.
who are fortunate, is this a pleasing thought.

and

doubters

Continual

haters, are ever enveloped in

They have never any

the darkness of Ignorance.

All their time

149.

life.

explain,

is

leisure.

spent in the occupations of their worldly

But you good people are not such.

and comment you

make them sweet

listen to

to you.

my

As

I read,

crude words, and

By your support my
am but Mahipati, the

150.

is filled with love, otherwise I

minded,
the sinner, and truly not a poet or author.
dull
This is the Sri Bhaktalilamrita.
Svasti.
151.
By

soul

Listen
merely listening to it one's desires are fulfilled.
This is the sixteenth
then to it, ye loving, pious, bhaktas.
delightful chapter.

CHAPTER

17.

Bhaktalilamrita.

Sri

MAHIPATI'S PREFACE TO CHAPTER

Obeisance

to

Sri Panditrang.

If there are interested listeners present, a speaker

1.

has a feeling of great joy.

When

opposition and doubts

are far absent, the words of a story flow easily.

as the lotus in the lake opens
sun, so

up

when one

in the heart.

steps,

17.

when

it

is

3.

its

2.

Just

petals to the rising of the

before interested listeners, love wells

Or

as the peacock dances in various

hears the thunder in the clouds.

infant frolics,

when

when Ganpati

goes through dancing motions,

its

presence of Mridanipati.

mother

Or

as

is

before

when

it.

Or
4.

when

as the

Or

as

in the

Sarasvati broke out

EKNATH

80

when

into song

her, her father

she, with love in her heart,

Brahmadeva.

saw before

Just so, before you,

5.

a familiar way my crude sentences. The

Husband-of-Rukmini knows whatever is lacking and
saints, I utter in

whatever

is

complete in them.

EKNATH GIVES READINGS FROM THE

BHAGAVATA.
6.

At

the close of the last chapter there was the story

of how Pandharinath, in the guise of a Brahman, lovingly led

the chorus in the Mrtcms performed by Eknath. 7. And

haw

twelve years thus passing, suddenly a

Brahman

arrived

from Pandhari, who recognized the Husband-of-Rukmini,

and had a visual manifestation of him.
And how
8.
Purushottama, the Giver-of-the-bliss-of-Absorption became
immediately
generally
9.

it

invisible,

lest

being

would lead to trouble

One day Uddhava,

quest of Sri Nath,

"A

recognized

by

people

in Pratishthana.

the sadguru bhakta

desire has arisen in

to the reading of the Sri Bhagavata

my

made

this re-

heart to listen

Purana from your

Responding to this lovingly expressed desire

Eknath began reading aloud the Great Purana, and pious
hearers, having performed their worldy engagements, came
lips."

10.

women, sudras,
merchants, and great and distinguished citizens as well, came
12.
According to custom
there with reverence to listen.
the loving bhaktas sat close to him, and listened to his
reading of the Purana, Eknath translated the text, explained
its meaning in full, and thereby the snares of doubt were
to

listen.

broken.

11.

Simple

minded

people,

EKNATH

81

GOD APPEARS IN THE GUISE OF A

BRAHMAN, KESAVA.
Suddenly one day Pandharinath, in the guise of
a Brahman, appeared, and Eknath, seeing him, made him a
13.

reverent namaskdr.

he asked,

"What

listened

to

" Kesava

is

"Whence have you

14.

is

your name?"

Eknath's

my

The

Know me

name.

am

Life-of-the

and

questioning,

come,

sir,

World

replied,

15.

as one indifferent to

have come here that I

may listen to the reading of the Bhagavata from your lips.
16.
If your lips will give me assurance I shall always
remain here with you. I have heard great praise of you,
Eknath listened
17.
and I have therefore come here."
worldly things, and I

and answered,

"

My own

alone.

desire

always have your company.

is

So

also the same, that I

fulfil

the desire of

may

my

occurs to me that the Lord-of-Vaikuntha

has many forms.
He takes many guises, but he,
deeds
Sripati,
does
not
make these miraculous

heart.

18.

openly

evident.

He

It

Brahman,
it

my

is,

He

19.

and

who now

for
in

lately

twelve
the

took

years

the

led

guise

my

of

chorus.

form of Kesava has come

home, but no one is able to recognize him." 20.

The Husband-of-Rukmini now spent many years in the
company of his dbhcda bhakta. With longing desire to
hear the Bhagavata read he would sit close in front of
Eknath, listening to him. 21. If Eknath failed to bring
out all the meaning of the words or sentences he would
express a doubt and raise a question, and Eknath would
The occasions were of unusual
clear away the doubts.
interest.
22.
Uddhava also, his close friend, and full
of reverence, sat close in front of Eknath listening to him.
to

EKNATH

82

These two were the chief listeners.

The others sat all
around them. 23. The inhabitants of that sacred city,
who came to listen, all became bhaktas of Vishnu, and
forgiveness, mercy, peace, and detachment from the world,
dwelt in them. 24.
Through Eknath's preaching they
put away

all

their minds,

and

dishonest business.

filled

and great enthusiasm for repeating the names

God. 25. The sandalwood trees of Mount

attributes of

Maila have close to them the

trees.

The fragrance of

of the

latter,

26.

Zeal for religioni

common

babul and khanra

the former pervades the

and no difference then

exists

wood

between them.

Just as by virtue of association with the good, one's

changed and immediately one

gains the experimental knowledge of demonstrated truth;
pitiful state

27.

of ignorance

is

Just as in the Dvdpara yuga to Sri Krishna, in his

historic form,

Uddhava was very dear; so

in the present

28.
To love,
same bond of love existed.
ever new, ever developing and growing, is to be given
the name Bhakti. By means of it the hearts of the listeners
were deeply impressed, and the illusions of this world
29.
As a rule every day at the third
disappeared.
prahara, the reverent people came to listen. The Vadi
would become crowded, and the extatic love shown was

instance the

extraordinary.

THE BRAHMANS ARE ENVIOUS OF

EKNATH.
30.

As

they were pleased, but the

moved
the

to hatred.

little

saw Eknath's emotion,

Vedic Brahman pandits were

the loving hearers

31.

Many

hillside, reviled

of them indeed sitting idly on

Eknath, saying "

He

has set up

EKNATH

83

and is seducing all the pious

people. 32.
As to oratory he does not excel, but in his
kirtans he seems to cast a spell over the minds of men.
Explaining word by word, one after the other, and gives
them a prdkrit [Marathi] version of the Sanskrit
his shop in this sacred city,

He

33.

text.

aside

leaves

the

many

other Puranas,

He explains
and has chosen the Bhagavat.
full,
and by it the hearts >of
ing
in
deeply

impressed.

By

34.

teachings of the Bhagavata,

No

worldly things.
fulfil

worldly desires.

sophic knowledge.

to

the

are

all

religious

have become desireless of

on business simply to

all

now

one

listening

mean-

its

carries

All are absorbed in gaining philo-

Our

35.

patrons used to carry on

now

worldly business, and projects for livelihood, but

all

of them have been seduced by Eknath, through his reading

to them Prakrit books.

36.

mentary of Sridhar (on the

He

casts aside the

com-

Bhagavata) and constantly

reads the Dnyanesvari, explaining in melodious language

the excellence of Bhakti.

37.

By

listening to Eknath's

preaching the whole universe will be absorbed into

self,

what

then

learned in the

the

will

troubles us greatly.

creator

do?

This

We, Vedic Brahman

38.

Four Vedas, have none to pay

own

its

is

what

pandits,

attention to

Eknath having so deeply impressed the people. 39.

As to his knowledge, it is merely that of the Prakrit, and
yet abundance of money and grain flow to his house. He
feeds hundreds and hundreds
of Brahmans, and lacks
us,

nothing at

all.

does not work,

40.
if

We

one

are

sits still.

as to please our patrons.

that

Eknath

is

all

41.

learned Shastris, but Truth

We

have always to act so

It is true that people

say

an avatar of Vishnu, but we think he has a

grudge against us.

He

has ruined

all

business that has

EKNATH

84
Desire as

its

end.

42.

worldly businesses, but

Our patrons U9ed to carry on many

now they also are associating with

Eknath, and listening to his reading of Prakrit books."

In these words the Vedic pandits,

43.

who

sacred city, reviled Eknath, adding also, "

dwelt in the

He

has put a

stop to the Way of karma, and propounds the way of

Bhakti as the only way. 44. Let alone the state of others,
the wives of us Brahmans of the mendicant order, learning
that the worldly life is false, is indeed M&y&, spend their
time at Eknath's feet. 45. Just as in the Dvapsra Yuga
the wives of us, Brahmans of the mendicant order, learning
so

these,

our wives,

stealthily

steal

away

to

listen

to

Eknath preaches the religious

teachings of the Bhagavata to our patrons, and thereby
they have become desireless of worldly things. No one
Eknath's klrtans.

now performs

46.

those rites that look for the fulfilment of

worldly desires, and so our profits are gone."

such words the Brahmans, dwellers

47.

With

in the sacred city, all

flung their insults, but they did not think of Govind in their

and

hearts

was

experience

respecter

them

of

loving

delight.

Brahmans,

and

48.

so

with

Eknath
rever-

them with
to
serve
him or
any
one
reviled
feelings of love. 49. Whether
praised him, he looked upon every one as Janardan in
visible form.
So while some honored him, and others
dishonored him, he paid no attention to the joy of the one
or the pain of the other. 50. "Janardan fills mankind,"
he said. " It is He who causes both the insults and the
Enlightened by this conception all his feelings
praise."
disappeared. 51. All the Brahmans, dwellers in the secred
If they
city, began now to persecute him in many ways.
ence

for

saw anything of

he

continued

his that they wanted, they asked

him for

EKNATH

85

and Eknath never refused them.

it,

saw any
he

at

specially fine

once gave

in town, they

it

to them.

were

generous giver.

garment or

vessel,

If the

Brahmans

and asked for

it,

If unexpected guests appeared

"There is one Eknath here, a

Though thousands of guests come,

told,

53.

he gives them food to their

are favorable to him.

own homes

52.

full satisfaction.

So hasten

there."

The Siddhis
54.
At their

was an abundance of wealth, but these

With a hateful
Brahmans never gave food to others.
mind they would point out to the hungry the house of
there

Eknath.

HOSPITALITY OF EKNATH AND GIRJABAI

TO FOUR BRAHMANS.
55.

Now

it

happened one day that rain began

For seven days, day and

in torrents.

night,

it

falling

rained slabs

Houses became soaked, and leaked everywhere. No dry spot could be seen on the face of the
earth.
No one could collect kindling wood, and so no
cooking could take place. 57. Although there might be
plenty of money and grain in their houses, still no
of stone.

kindling

56.

wood could be

collected.

Suddenly, as the night

passed into the second prahar, four Brahmans appeared

in town.

58.

They wished

for a full meal, and to obtain

The Brahmans of the town informed them, saying, "There is a

man here of courageous integrity.
59.
His name is
Eknath," and from a distance pointed out to them his
house. The travellers went there, and said to Eknath, 60.
" We four are in the pangs of hunger. We have come to
it

they were wandering from house to house.

EKNATH

86

we have heard

So cook us a
meal in your house, and appease our hunger/' 61. Hearing what they had to say, Eknath pitied them from his
heart, and ordered Girjabai to cook a meal for them.
Eknath
62. She replied, "There is no fuel whatever."
answered, " This house has wooden sides." He then called
to Uddhava, 63.
"Rip up a section of the house, and
give her plenty of these lathes."
Uddhava replied, " It
will take too long a time to do so."
Nath then him64.
self ripped off the tape from his bed, and broke up
immediately the frame work of the straw rick. In this
way he supplied the needed fuel and the cooking was done.
65.
He heated water, and gave it to the Brahmans hot
you, because

for their bath.

And

of your fame.

because of the cold he kindled for

them the hand-warmer.

66.

Girjabai, with her

hands, served the food on their plates.

was

satisfied,

the

favor

When

their

they uttered words of thanks.

of

Pandurang

may your

heart

own

hunger

67.

keep

By
its

Eknath. then gave them pan supari

for the cleansing of their mouths, and said, " Now 0 and

beautiful character."

rest."

EKNATH'S HOSPITALITY TO THREE

MAHOMEDANS.
After some days had passed, the day for the
worship of his Ancestors arrived.
Brahmans had been
68.

and the viands were being prepared at

the house. 69. The day dawned.
It was now a prahar
and a half. The Brahmans had been invited to go and
take their baths. The cooked viands were ready, but the
Brahmans were late in returning.
70.
Eknath finished
invited to the feast,

EKNATH
his

own

the

and then

religious observances,

by

path

which

the

87

Brahmans

fixed his gaze

were

on

return.

to

Gods felt a desire to test his goodness

of heart.
So Brahmadeva, Vishnu and Mahesvara
71.
appeared in the form of Mahomedan fakirs, with heavy
beards, bloodshot eyes, and anklets with bells and crystals.
72.
They had rosaries in their hands. Their bodies were
enveloped in skins. They had long matted hair on their
Just then the three

Appearing

heads.

We

Eknath,

"

to

our

fill

three

disguise

this

hungry.

are

This

stomachs "

Nath

Sri

74.

in

listened

to

is

their

once replied, "Surely," and brought

in

73.

they

said

We

want

food

all

they

said.

request

and

and

He

75.

sat

filled their plates.

down

close to these

And when

at

a dish of food that

had already been prepared in the house, and served

them.

to

it

to

Mahomedans,

they had washed their

hands after the meal, he passed the pan supari to them.

76.

In this

way

they definitely tested Eknath's conviction

God being in every creature, and his love for them.

The three Gods then took their visible divine form, and

of

gave Eknath a visual manifestation of themselves.

And

as Eknath

have made
their
78.

me

saw

sanath, one protected."

Mahomedan

77.

their sagun form he exclaimed, "

You

The Gods then retook

guise of fakirs, and started to leave.

Just then the Earth-gods (Brahmans,) having finished

their ablutions returned to Eknath's vddi.

seeing them,

let

them hear the belchings of

And

The

fakirs,

their loaded

Mahomedan language they

" You have
satisfied our hunger.
May God bless you." 80. With
these words the Mahomedan fakirs passed outside.
stomachs.

79.

in their

bestowed their blessing on Eknath, saying,

EKNATH

88

THE BRAHMANS PERSFXUTE EKNATH.

The Brahmans began now murmuring- among them"This mingling of different castes has grown to
selves.
an extreme." 81. And so they said to Eknath, "This is
the anniversary day in honour of your ancestors, and you
have feasted those Mahomedans with the oblation food
before you have feasted us." 82. One of the Brahmans
added ironically, "The good deeds of his ancestors must
have been many, and hence these hungry fakirs have come
here for their midday meal. 83. The anniversary ceremonials

having

now

been

completed

fully

there

is

no longer need of us

here." With these words they all

turned to go away. 84.
Eknath came forward before
them, and made them a namaskar explaining, " The fakirs

were famished with hunger. I therefore fed them. 85. But

we have brought fresh unpolluted water and a second cook-

So

ing has been prepared in the kitchen.

forgive

my

fault I

beseech you svamis, and perform the ancestral worship

Eknath pled hard with them, and

besought them again and again, but those Brahmans would
ceremonies."

not

listen.

86.

They exclaimed,

prescribed rituals."
their

religious

head

87.

who

acquainted him with the

fested

the

"

You are a violator of the

The Brahmans then went to

lived

affair, telling

Mohamedans

before

and
him how Eknath had

the

in

first

sacred

city,

performing'

the

The Religious Head

Brahmans arrived at Eknath's
house in haste. The family priest (seeing them coming)
said to Eknath, " They are coming to excommunicate you."
89. The Brahmans gibed Eknath, " To day is your ancesWere they Mahomedans
tor's worship anniversary day.

ancestral anniversary ceremonials. 88.

together with the leading

EKNATH

89

caste, that you should

have feasted these Mahomedans?" 90.
Thus with many insults the Brahmans
mocked him. But Sri Nath was a great ocean of calmness.

by

He

did not feel the least bit of anger.

billows of man's insults

ocean-of-calmness

came

these

91.

The surging

rolling over him, but to this

billows

were

no

more

than

a mouthful of water. He had destroyed the very path of

Desire and Passion, an act extraordinary and unequalled.

But.Eknath regarded these Brahmans as forms of Janardan, so he made them a sasht&ng namask&r, and exclaimed,
"Be gracious to mc, O Svami and perform the ancestral
92.

worship ceremony."
The Religious Head replied,
93.
" Your good deeds seem so many, your fathers in heaven

come down and themselves partake of the feast.

94.
Sri Nath answered in a very novel way.
"A Brahman's word is a marvel.
Your word cannot fall to the
Eeven seemingly impossible things can take
ground.
will surely

In the
Great Sacrifice, God, together with Indra, has his hunger
satisfied when the Svami utters the ejaculation, Svaha,

place.

It

is

not

so

very

difficult.

95.

Brahman's word is a marvel indeed. By

a word of his, God becomes manifest in a stone idol. Madhava clasped Sri vatsa to his heart. What might not happen
to a mere human wretch like myself."
97.
To this the
Brahmans replied, " No more of your long-winded oratory.
If your heavenly fathers do not descend to the feast, we
98.
So saying they placed
shall excommunicate you."
seats
three
on the floor.
Then, as Eknath uttered the
word, " Come," suddenly the heavenly fathers descended.
They appeared to the Brahmans in a form supremely
99.
glorious and radiant. The Brahminical thread shone upon
their necks.
They wore golden rings on their hands.
Svadha.

96.

EKNATH

90

All this the Brahmans saw.

The heavenly

100.

fathers

and began loudly to repeat from the

Vedas. The Brahmans marvelled as they saw this sight.
101.
They realized that this extraordinary event was due
to Eknath, and filled with shame, they hung their heads
and sat down with! their faces between their knees. 102.
took their

seats,

Then

together with the Religious Head, these

arose,

and

who had been

invited to the feast,

themselves, they remained.

Brahmans

Those Brahmans, however,

in silence departed.

103.

and who had purified

The ceremony of the

ancestral worship having been duly performed, they all

who after
way back to

<iined with the heavenly fathers,

vida and

gifts,

departed

The Brahmans,

on

their

receiving the

heaven.

104.

seeing this miracle, were supremely asto-

Head, related what had

had eaten
in their presence and then departed upwards to Heaven.
The Religious Head became much ashamed, and exclaimed,
" We have made ourselves of no account. 106. We have
nished,

and going

happened.

105.

to the Religious

How

that the heavenly fathers

many ways, but God has been his

helper.
We have suffered defeat. What plan shall we
now adopt? 107. When Durvasa was attacking Ambapersecuted Eknath in

rish,

he

was himself

today history has

pursued

repeated

by

itself,

the

So

chakra.

and we

feel

much

While on the one side the Brahmans

ashamed."
108.
were talking thus among themselves, on the other nothing
could awaken either joy or pain in Eknath.

109.

He

did

not feel troubled in mind mat the Brahmans thus persecuted

him, nor did he even keep in his memory the miracle of
his
heavenly fathers having come down to dine.

The

God

mankind, so impressed his mind that when he heard himself insulted or praised,
110.

conviction that

filled

EKNATH
to both he

was

indifferent.

111.

91
the third watch of

At

the day, the listening to the reading of the Purans

was con-

tinued.
At night Hari kirtans took place, and the hearts
of the pious men of Paithan were deeply impressed.

BRAHMAN ENVY
112.

By day and by

STILL CONTINUES.

night crowds constantly gathered

at Eknath's house, but the

Brahmans

seeing his glorifica-

burned with envy. 113. Saying among themselves,

" The people of Paithan, listening to Eknath's kirtans have

tion,

become deeply impressed.

All are worshipping Sri Ram.
All have become Vaishnavas. 114. No one now spends
money on religious rites for the attaining of their desires.
So our means of livelihood are cut off.
The people are
living according to the teachings of the Bhagavata."
Such
was their complaint to one another. 115. Just as when
ti thief becomes enraged when he sees the moon shining
bright, so the spread of Eknath's glory

fanned the

fire

of

the Brahmans* wrath.

BRAHMANS TEMPT EKNATH

UNSUCCESSFULLY.
As day and

some weakness
in him, they soon saw an opportunity to tempt him to a
fault.
There lived there a Brahman named Krishnadas.
He was a special worshipper of Bhavani.
117.
The
116.

night they watched for

goddess seeing his painful austerities, visibly revealed herself to him.

He asked of her the boon of poetic power,
and began his great work.
118.
He wrote a Prakrit

EKNATH

92

Yuddha kand of the Ramayana, delightful

similes.
The Brahmans were delighted.
119,

version of the
in

its

They remarked,

"

Eknath produces a great deal of

poetry,,

is crude.
It passes, however, with women,
Sudras and other simple folk." 120. They even came and
sat down by Eknath and talked in his presence in the same
way. Listen now to how they praised Krishnadas Lolya.
121.
"Eknath, listen," they would say, "Many people write

but his style

poetry, but Krishnadas has

its style

favored him.
thought.
123.

composed the Ramayana, and

122.
The Goddess has

appears most delightful.

No

single verse

is

written without careful

Neither the past nor the future has such a poet.

Hearing

this

praise

of Krishnadas, Eknath

greatly pleased and exclaimed,

God's glory

"

Oh

Truly one cannot know

The Brahmans

felt

the infiniteness of
124.
its limits ! "

thus attempted to arouse in

him a

feeling

of hatred, but suoh a feeling could not enter his heart.

Astonished at this those earth-gods returned to their homes.

KRISHNADAS WARNED THAT HE MUST

125.

Now

DIE.

ask your attention to another event.

As

Krishnadas was composing his version of the Ramayana,

and had not quite completed the Yuddha Kand, suddenly

the Goddess appeared to him.
126.
Bhavani said, "At
exactly the third watcli

to-morrow you

Let your mind therefore be on

came back

its

will surely die.

guard."

127.

As he

to consciousness he felt exceedingly sad, saying,

"The book is not yet finished. What shall I do?" 128.

Taking with him as much of the book as was written, hevent to Eknath's house. As soon as Sri Eknath saw him,.

"

EKNATH
he arose and went forward

93

to greet him.

129.

Krishna-

das, in great humility touched his forehead to Eknath's

lotus feet.

of you to

Eknath, seating him,

visit

me

" It

said,

this day."

is

very gracious

Krishnadas, with

130.

expressions of affection, related his story from beginning

to end, adding, " Tomorrow death will come to my body.

From

this there is

no

Prakrit version of the

Some

escape.

131.

am

Yuddha Kand of

preparing a

Ramayana.

the

you to complete it
132.
Thus affectionately pleading, he placed the book beLoving thoughts filled Eknath's mind, and
fore Eknath.
he began to consider what to reply. 133.
He read a
chapter of the book, and was greatly pleased with it. " It
is beyond my power," he said, " to complete these verses.
134. You have begun the book well. Finish it yourself."
" But I have before me fear of
Krishnadas replied.
tomorrow." 135. Sri Eknath then asked him how many
days it would require to complete the book, and added,
" Until then Death will not so much as touch you, Saint."
136.
As Krishnadas heard this assurance of Eknath's, he
felt

of

it

remains to be done.

I ask

a sense of trust, and exclaimed, " Right here will I

day and night.

The book will then be completed."
137.
Eknath answered, " Go rather to your own home.

sit

If there should be the slightest sign of Death's approach, I

will hasten to visit you."
this reply,

and

his heart

138.

was

filled

Krishnadas listened to
with joy. He made a

reverent namaskar and returned to his home.

he

The

elated to his people the assurance given

night passed, and the sun began to

nadas

duly

devotions.

As

performed

his

bath,

139.
There
him by Eknath.

rise.

and

140.

his

Krish-

customary

the appointed hour for his death approached,

he became deeply depressed.

141.

Just at that

moment

EKNATH

94

Eknath appeared, and reassured him.

He passed his
hand over him, and then gave a command to Death,
142.
"For eleven days from to-day do not touch his body."
AH wondered as they heard this command. 143. And
Death, respecting Eknath's

command

hastily turned

away.

Krishnadas came to himself

Ramayana.
miracle.

144.

The

and began composing the

The people were all astonished at this

report of

it

reached the ears of the chief

Brahmans of Pratishthana.

145.

among themselves

said,

on the eleventh day, then only

shall

the matter

And

they discussing

"If Krishnadas dies

we

regard the miracle

as true, otherwise as false."

KRISHNADAS COMPLETES HIS BOOK AND

THEN

DIES.

146.
Thus, these evil minded ones, were watching for
some defect. In the meantime, on the tenth day the bookwas completed. 147. And the moment this Yuddha Kand
was completed,* Krishnadas gave gifts to Brahmans,
worshipped Sarasvati, and exalted the greatness of Eknath.
148.
On the eleventh day Krishnadas performed his bath,
and observed all his customary devotions. And Eknath,
realizing that the time for Krishnadas' departure had
149.
With fragrant powders,
arrived, went to visit him.
flowers, and garlands Krishnadas worshipped Eknath, and

* Note. There seems to be some doubt at present as

to whether this Yuddhakanda by Krishnadas Lojya is
extant.
(See Mr. Bhave's notes in Maharashtra Sarasvac,
pages 136, 137, first Edition and 274 in second Edition.)
Yuddhakanda by Krishnadas Mudgal is known, but his
identification, with Krishnadas Lolya is not yet proved.

EKNATH

95
the least distress of

Then without

made him a namaskar.

mind, he arrived at the life-Beyond. 150. The Brahmans

now said among themselves, "After all our extolling of

Krishnadas Lolya, in the end

it

we who have trulywe now adopt?

is

What plan shall

The more we devise evil against him, the more his
151.
Eknath's deeds are
fame spreads among the people.
152.
Our hatred only adds to them."
miraculous.
suffered

Others

God

defeat.

said,

" In his former birth he was great.

being his helper, he has

fame.

increased greatly his

Superstitious believers fall at his feet, but

153.

we do not

now

Hence,

like his deeds."

Thus

the

Maya

of Vaishnava

yoga prevented their understanding Eknath.

A RICH MERCHANT HAS AN IDOL OF

PANDURAttG MADE.
154.

It

now happened

that

in

Karnatak, there was a rich merchant.

in his

worship of Sri Pandurang.

and of good

report.

155.

make a metal image

the

Province

He was

He was

of

constant

pious, generous,

desire having

come

to

him

and its pose,

and smiling countenance, created a sense of peace in those
who looked upon it. 156. Now let us take note of what
he did, with his smiling face, the Giver-of-boons-to
Pundalik,
the
Husband-of-Rukmini, with
his
feet
placed together, and his hands on his hips.
157.
The merchant had made all preparations, and was
waiting for a good and
auspicious
day for the
ceremony of bringing life into the image, and for feasting
the Brahmans.
158.
When fast asleep at night, the lifeof-the-World appeared to him in a dream, and said, "On
to

of Vitthal, he did so,

EKNATH

96

the bank of the Ganga, in the sacred city of Pratishthana,

there

one,

lives

called

Eka Janardan.

Bhakti,

159.

knowledge, and absence of worldly desires are characteristics that are deeply impressed upon him and adorn his

Take this image of God in sagun form, which

you have made, and give it to Eknath there. 160. If you
do not obey my command, and if you should perform the
dedicatory rite here, you will suffer many evils. You will
personality.

not escape thereby the ills of this life, difficult to) overcome."
161.
This vision, in the dream of the night, caused him
xleep distress.
arose.

162.

He could no longer sleep. And now the sun

He immediately told of the vision to Pandits,

Brahmans, Sadhus and Sants, and as these omniscient ones

deliberated on the meaning of the vision, they also were
in doubt.

163.

The Purdniks and

priests finally

their opinion, that he should have patience for a

If the vision

was

gave

few days.

repeated, then the image should be at

The merchant

acqui-

esced to the suggestion of these omniscient ones.

For

once taken to Pratishthana.

164.

three nights in succession he had the very same dream.

165.
Accordingly the Brahman came to Pratishthana,

bringing with him the image of Pandurang.

awhile on the bank of the Ganga, to bathe.

He rested
166. He had

and adorned. He had with him a large

retinue of men and horses.
The chief Brahmans of the
sacred city were highly pleased when they saw him.
"He must undoubtedly patronize us," they said, as
167.
"Who is your
they came bringing the record books.
The merchant replied, 168.
priest?" they enquired.
*'
There is one Eka Janardan here in this city, who is a
Vaishnava bhakta. God revealed this to me in a dream,
and I have therefore come to see him." 169. On hearing

come

richly clothed

EKNATH

97

minds deep disquietude, audi

there arose in their
murmuring they said, " Eknath has bewitched the whole
this

universe."

170.

Deeply

"Eknath has bewitched

irritated,

they

exclaimed,

the people of this town, and

They changed their

of money. 171. They there-

those elsewhere he gives dreams.'

speech in order, to secure gifts

to>

'

fore said to the merchant, "If you have this earnest desire
to meet Eknath, then you surely are our patron".

with this hope in mind, they began to

bath

ritual.

172.

The

And!
repeat the word of the

rich merchant, finding

them crowd-

ing around him in their officious intermeddling, gave then*

some money

and then entered into the town. 173.

He enquired of the people where Eknath lived, and soon
arrived at his house. Here he saw Sri Eknath seated on
his mat and Uddhava before him.
174.
With reverence,
love and respect the merchant made him a sashtang
naniaskar.
Eknath at once arose and greeted him. 175.
"From whence have you come ?" he asked. "Kindly tell me
the reason. Inform me what country and city you are
from."

176.

gifts,

The merchant

replied to the Svdmi,

have made an image of Sri Vitthal.

was about

"I

to have per-

formed the ceremony for bringing the divine life into it,
when I had a dream by night. 177. The vision said to me,
"There lives in Pratishthana one Eka Janardan. Go and
give this image to him."

had this same dream for three

Therefore, with this purpose in mind, I
have come to see you, Svclmi.
I must have laid up in a

nights.

178.

former birth many good deeds, which now at last are bearing fruit."
179.
So saying, the merchant produced the
image of Pandurang with its smiling, gentle face, to look on
which created in him a sense of peace. 180. Eknath took up

EKNATH

98
the image, arid pressed
trolkr-of-the-Universe,
,this is

saw

Thy

it

to his heart, exclaiming, " Con-

Giver-of-absorption-into-Brahma,

miraculous doing."

the lovely face of the

181.

As Uddhava,

also

image, he too felt a sense

Eknath then requested him to begin at once the

The astrologers were
182.
preparations for the rite.
called immediately, and an auspicious day for the ceremony
for bringing the divine life into* the image was named.
Cddhava undertook all the preparations, and caused the
ceremony to become known in the city. 183. The inhabiof peace.

tants of the city exclaimed, " Seeing the devotion of Sri

Eknath the image of Vitthal has indeed come here from the
country of Karnatak." 184. Eknath continued the reading of the Puran during the third prahar of each day, and
the kirtans in the evenings. The merchant listened and
felt a sense of peace.
185.
Remarking to himself, "All
minds are deeply stirred by Eknath's eloquence.
He is
surely Pandurang himself, descended to save the world."
186. The preparations for the ceremony were completed.
On the morrow was the auspicious day. So during the
last prahar of the night the cooking for the expected multitude was begun. 187. Skilled women cooks, whose husbands
cooked the feast with their own hands. Food,
In abundance, and of great variety, was prepared. 188. As
soon as the morning dawned, the worship of the image

were

living,

The Vedic

came and duly performed

189.
The image was bathed
the rites and ceremonies.
with) the five nectarous substances, and the mantras were

was begun.

priests

repeated for bringing the divine life into the image. It

was then duly anointed, and clothed in golden
brocade.

and

rubies,

190.

It

was adorned with

pearls,

diamonds

and then with garlands of flowers and the

EKNATH
Ruler-of -the-World was worshipped.

tulsi leaves, this

Incense, lamps
festal

99

and the

five

lamp tray were waved over

music was played at the door of the shrine.

Vaishnavas loudly uttered God's names and

sang

of

verses

191'.

praise.

attributes,

Food cooked

192.

it;

The
and
ghee

in

and dainty food were lovingly presented as offerings to it.

Vedic mantras were recited, and handfuls of flowers were
Eknath then took a lump of butter on the
193.
offered.

palm of

and placed

his hand,

saying, "

Vitthal,

eat this

to the

it

now.

avatar you stole butter, and ate

mouth of the
194.

greedily.

it

ravenously hungry to see you do so again.

will

show

idol,

As Krishna
Our eyes are
195.

If

you

so wonderful a miracle, your glory will greatly

increase in this place."

Hearing these words of Eknath'

the image smiled.

And

up

196.

putting out

bhaktas,

shouts of " Victory Victory."

197.

They then walked around

made

before

the image, and lovingly

The sun had now

Brahmans sat down in

sOshtang namask&rs.

it

reached the noon hour, and the

lines to eat.

tongue licked

The Vaishnava

the butter in Eknath's hand.

seeing this miracle, gave

its

Eknath respectfully worshipped

own hands he washed their feet
He
Sri

198.

With his
anointed them with! sandal-wood oil and other fragrant
perfumes, and waved the incense and lamps before them.
them.

199.

He

leaf

plates,

served
at

many

dainty dishes, impartially, on their

same

the

time

uttering

the

mantra

that the real enjoyer of the feast was Janardan in each of

them.
feasted,

pleased.

200.

Thus

and receiving
201.

Brahmans of the
the pan sup&ri and

the

The merchant

city

were

gifts,

all

well

were highly

seeing the success of the

EKNATH

100

was much

festal occasion

gratified,

and said

to himself,

" I must plan some way of getting Sri Eknath to come to

my home."

THE MARRIAGE CEREMONY OF PANDURAtfG

AND RUKMINI IS PERFORMED.
So making

202.

now

"After I

return to

his obeisance to

my

country, I

Eknath he

am

going to

said,

make

a beautiful image of Rukrnini.

203.
Bring all your
retinue with you. I invite you to perform the marriage
ceremony of Sri Pandurang with Rukmini." Eknath was
greatly pleased at this invitation.

ferring

with

merchant,
departed.

Uddhava accepted

after

205.

presenting

On

rich

204.

the
gifts,

returning to his

And

after con-

invitation.

The

and
home he had an
took

leave

image of Rukmini made, and completing preparations for

the wedding, appointed the marriage day.
206.
Then
writing a letter of invitation, embellished with saffron, he
sent it to Eknath at Paithan, in which he said, " I ask you
to come soon, bringing the bridegroom and the bridegroom's
mother in marriage procession." 207. Eknath had
already received a hint of this invitation, and had made
his preparations for going.

He

invited the blind, the lame,

and the poor to go with him to the marriage. 208. He

furnished them with new wedding garments, and, urging
accompany him, the bridegroom marriage procession started on its way, led by the din of festal music. 209.
The Bridegroom, namely the idol of Vitthal, was carried
in a palanquin.
Girjab&i (as mother of the bridegroom}
rode in a carriage. The others rode on horses, all acclaiming the praise of Eknath. 210. The men and women of

them

to

EKNATH

101

the towns they passed through exclaimed,

come

"God had be-

the son of his bhakta, and as bridegroom,

to a far distant place for His marriage."

way

going

Thus

211.

seeing the marvellous splendour of the procession,

flocked to see him.

arrived

is

Eknath journeyed along, and the people along

pleasantly

the

He

212.

When

the marriage procession

merchant's town, they

at the outskirts of the

And as soon as he received word of their

encamped.
arrival, he hastened to welcome them. 213. All the inhabitants of the town also hurried out to join in the welcome,
and reverently and
to Eknath's

were

also

affectionately touched their foreheads

Uddhava, and all the other guests

and adorning the idol
greeted, and clothing

bridegroom,

feet.

all

214.

rejoiced.

From

They

215.

there with great eclat the procession

to the lodgings prepared for the guests.

ceremony
the

of

feasting

gave

gifts

of

and then worshipped Sri Pandurang.

raiment to the priest,

the

of

Rrahmans,

its

way

After the

216.

household

installing

the

wended

gods

and

marriage

the

The Brahmans held

of Vitthal and Rukmini took place.

the marriage curtain between the two, and intoned the

words " Savadhanam, savadhanam " (Attention, Attention.)
217.
As they ended the marriage formula with "

Om

Punyaha" (May
musical

it

be a day of Happiness) the din of

instruments

began.

The

"Victory, Victory," and the day was

bhaktas

made a

shouted,

great festal

Then they sought to honor the mother

of the bridegroom, all of which was received by Girjabai.
The merchant touched his forehead to Eknath's feet, and
occasion.

then

said.

218.

219.

"May we now

content a klrtan from your lips."

invitation,

hear,

to

our heart's

Eknath accepted the

he having brought with him all that was needed.
Sri

EKNATH

102

The sound of cymbal,

220.

and drum was swelled

lute,

with the acclamations of the audience. The kirtan aroused

the passion of love. The hearts of the hearers were deeply
moved. 221. He lovingly sang of the deeds of God in

form (sagun) and related the Paurdnik stories,

every
now and then causing them to repeat
love
the
names
and
aloud
with
heartfelt
remained
there
attributes
222.
Eknath
of God.
a month, and turned every one to the worship of
Vishnu. Finally he began taking leave of the merchant

his visible

merchant, highly gratified by the

money

in gifts

country.

visit,

He

gifts to the bridegroom.

223. The
many
marriage
gave

own

that he might hasten back to his

amount of

spent a large

of garments to the wedding guests.

224.

Eknath, having thus accomplished the purpose of his

When

returned to Pratishthana.

sacred city saw him, they flocked to his feet.

when

came they

night

in festal procession.

carried the

And

here,

I,

225.

to

it

Husband-of-Rukmini

His goodness. 226.

the Sri Bhaktalilamrita. By merely

is

one's desires are fulfilled.

pious

This

bhaktas.

is

Listen then to

the

And

Mahipati, a servant of

servants, sing the praises of

This book

visit,

the inhabitants of the

it

seventeenth

Svasti.

listening

ye loving
delightful

chapter.

CHAPTER
MAHIPATI'S
Obeisance

to Sri

1.

This

whom

the

Obeisance

to

Sri

Krishna.

Supreme Brahma, standing on the brick

bodily consciousness disappears, and to obtain

is

at whose sight

INVOCATION.

Ganesa.

Rama

18.

the

Husband-of-Mridani

sits

in

the

cemetery.

EKNATH
2.

Blessed

of

their

They,

are

those

hearts

live

their

love,

in

manifested

actually

who

citizens

see

in

there

visible

of

out

sacred

the

in

103

the

form.

love

Pandhari.

of

city

the

Supreme Brahma
Those who
3.

look upon the river Chandrabhaga, acquire, in so doing,

The
can bestow.
Such is its glory,
greatest of sins even are washed away.
the Purans declare. 4. Those who, withi supreme affecall

other

that

waters

sacred

tion in their hearts, feel

drawn

to visit Pandhari, return

not hither (after death) through birth, but there comes to

them Deliverance through absorption (into Brahma.) 5.

Blessed indeed are those Vaishnavas who go on pilgrimages
to Pandhari, for at the temple door of Pundalik they arrive
at the pleasures of Heaven.

Pandhari,

so

Pratishthana.

is

the

As

6.

of

glory

the

is

the glory of

sacred

city

of

Here, because of the perfect bhakti of Sri

Eknath, the Husband-of-Rukmini came.

EKNATH PLANS A PILGRIMAGE TO

PANDHARPUR.
7.

In the

his

heaven.

was

related the interesting-

Brahmans persecuted Eknath, and also

heavenly fathers in visible forms came down from

stories of

how

how

last chapter there

8.

the

Further on,

how

the image of Pandurang*

came from the Karnatak, and how,

his marriage returned to his

own

later, after celebrating

town.

9.

exceeding joy and pomp, the Lord-of -Pandhari

How, with!was carried"

That indeed was a most auspicious day

when the Soul-of-the-World was placed on His throne. MX
in procession.

EKNATH

104

And

Eknath, having invited

the

all

Brahmans

the sacred

oif

them with many kinds of savoury food. 11.

above events Sri Eknath told Uddhava in private,

city, feasted

After the

He

of a secret wish.

Him no

service, yet

to our house.

12.

said, "

Pandurang
In

my

all

this

to our house.

have never visited

my rendering him any

Just as the clouds in the sky thunder,

13.

even though the ch&faka has not opened

rain). Just as the

moon

be yet wholly unawake.

playing

rises,

its

mouth

(to the

even though the chakor

may

not be thinking

Just as a mother cares for her child while

in

the

yard

may

Just as the sun reveals him-

14.

even though the lotus

self in the sky,

of him.

form has come

in his idol
life,

rendered

form
Recliner-on-the Serpent (Vishnu) has come

Pandhari, and yet even without

of service,

we have

Although

(unconscious

of

her.)

IS.

it is

So

although I have not been to Pandhari (to render service),

the Husband-of-Rukmini has

suddenly
country.

kindly towards me, and

came here to my home from the Karnatak

16.
So now this thought has come to me, that

must see Pandhari with

upon earth, that home

Sri Eknath thus spoke,

was

felt

to be Eknath's

first

my own
of

the

eyes, that
saints."

Uddhava bowed

low.

Vaikuntha
17.

And

As

as this

pilgrimage (to that place) a good

was chosen for starting. 18. With dindi

and flags woven with gold and silver thread, with the
sweet sounding cymbal, lute and drum, Sri Eknath, and
other pilgrims prepared to start on their journey.
19.
auspicious day

Because of the

effect of association

with his goodness, in-

habitants of the sacred city prepared to accompany him,

with supreme joy in their hearts, enthusiastically shouting
the names and attributes of God.

EKNATH

105

EKNATH STARTS ON HIS PILGRIMAGE

TO PANDHARPUR.
assemblage

This

20.

of

Vaishnavas,

and
hands

singing

on

their pilgrimage, clapping their

"
Victory, Victory," and the sounds they
to their shouts of,

dancing, started

made

filled

the very heavens.

Singing God's praise

21.

Eknath journeyed on foot. A great crowd of people

from the city accompanied them a part of way. 22. Eknath
And
instructed Uddhava how to care for affairs at home.
Uddhava, solemnly promising to do so, prostrated himself
After Eknath was out of sight
at Eknath's feet.
23.
Uddhava returned home. The other citizens also returned
to the city. 24. Uddhava carried on all the affairs at
Eknath's home just as he had established the custom. In
Sri

the afternoons at the third prcuhar there

aloud of the Purans,

At night

klrtans

was the reading

were performed.

The worship of Vishnu, and the feeding of the

poor that Eknath was accustomed to perform, Uddhava

25.

"Blessed, Blessed," cried the dwellers of the

followed.

sacred

city.

" Nothing whatever

is

lacking

(from the

customary usage.)"

THE JOURNEY TO PANDHARPUR.

But now as to the pilgrimage.
Eknath, and the
many who were accompanying him, were on their way to
26.

Pandhari.

They journeyed along

the path joyously.

every stage in the journey klrtans were held.

27.

At

On

company of Sri Eknath no one

weary
felt
or exhausted.
In the
excess of joy they
repeated the names of ,Hari.
28.
The weak and the
account of being in the

EKNATH

106

needy, both in the front and the rear (of the procession,)

Every now and then there were bursts of

song with feelings of love in praise of the Husband-ofRukmini.
29.
Sri Eknath himself was an avatar of
Pandurang, come to save the world, yet for the sake of
mankind, he at no point overstepped human limitations.
For whatever example saints set, that the pious follow.
30.
In this way the latter become free from faults, and no
longer are in bondage to this world.
Whenever
31.
Eknath met distinguished Vaishnavas he made them a
namaskdr. He was a man of great humility.
He had
not the least pride. 32. He was like the sun that rises in
the sky, and pours his brightness over the earth, yet feels
were

no

assisted.

pride of his

own

love, these simple

path, praising

hearts
35.

rejoiced,

33.

With

feelings of deep

minded Vaishnavas, journeyed along

God

city of Pandhari,

glory.

in song.

34.

As they approached

the

the

and saw the pinnacle of the temple their

and they lost all bodily consciousness.

That very night Pandharinath appeared

to the officiat-

ing priests (of the temple) in a dream and said,

"Tomorrow

coming here on a pilgrimage Eka Jianardan, the

abheda bhakta.
Therefore, taking along with you
36.
dindis and banners go out to meet him, and on the fourteenth day of the moon let Eknath perform a kirtan at the
chief door of the temple." 37. It soon became known in the
there

is

sacred city that such a vision had been seen, and

all

the

people hurried to the Chandrabhaga (river) for an ovation

(of welcome.)

38.

Saints,

Vaishnavas, sang praise to

whole

etherial space

was

mahants, and distinguished

God with

filled

rejoicing, so that die

with the shoutings of God's

names, and cries of Victory! Victory!

EKNATH

107

EKNATH ARRIVES AT PANDHARPUR

When

39.

Pandhari, he

fell

Nath saw before him the city of.

prostrate on the ground.
Tears of joy-

Sri

flowed from his eyes.

All embraced one anothter,

Saying, "Blessed

cream of

have

on

Pandharpur,

seen

earth,

is this

mother-home

the

of

extolling the glory of the city, they

the

the

whom

The whole crowd of

pilgrims

(river).

And no

no

saints.

41.

waved incense

Being-of-Supreme-Goodness,

butes, Self joyous, to

very

which we
Vaikuntha

all days, in

truly

to

ThuSv

(God)

Being-of-Innnite-attri-

limits

now

40*

can be ascribed.

42.

crossed the Bhimarathi

sooner had they crossed, than the saints

and mahants approaching, welcomed them. With affection

they embraced one another. 43.
"Blessed is this day,"'
"
they cried, in which we have met Eknath." After bathing
in the Chandrabhaga, Eknath went through all his usual,
devotions. 44.
Sri Eknath then went to view the tomb of
the Muni Pundalik, that chief of all bltaktos, and lovingly
worshipped him.

45.

that he should next

there

first to

free to

go to

go

The temple

priests then suggested'

to the chief entrance of the temple,

meet the Husband-of-Rukmini, and then be

his lodgings.

46.

confidence that the voice of the

Eknath had absolute

Brahman was the

voice of

God, so with their dindis and banners they marched along

(to the temple.)

47.

At

the Eagle-platform they pros-

trated themselves to the ground with love.

And

while the-

and mahants were singing the praises of God, they

at their feet also. 48.
Pandhari is the city of"
Sri Vishnu. It is Vaikuntha itself on earth.
It is where
men and women live, who are four-armed and who have49..
no differences or distinctions between themselves.
saints

bowed

EKNATH

108
There are

many

truly very

who

sacred watering places on this

them become filled only with

SO.
Not so with Mother Pandhari.
At
of her one's evil nature and pride pass away.

earth, but those

greater pride.

the mere sight

visit

Bringing repentance to the heart of the wicked, she starts

end of man. 51. He who can

destroy the evil pride of the heart, which is the real root
of birth and death, he is to be recognized as the Supreme,

him on

the

yogi.

52.

And

such

their
is

is

He

Being.

both

way

to the chief

Yogis direct their sight to the

the appearance of (this image of) the Supreme-

on

egotism

ignorant

his

and

hips.

53.

obtain

the

Husband-of-Rukmini.
He delivers all
beings.
54.
This God-of-Gods, this Giver-

the

of-Absorption-into-Brahma,

own

Bhima (river), with

The Yogis conquer
So
highest place.

stands on the bank of the

hands

not

tip of their noses.

eyes.

with love.

With a
55.

Eknath

saw

with

heart full of joy, he embraced

his

him

Graceful in his posture, lovely in his

appearance, his beautiful hands on his hips, his face fascinating, alligator-shaped earrings in his ears.

56.

A divine

yellow
his
silk
garment fastened at his waist,
neck with a garland of tulsi and manjari, His feet together
on a brick. Merely to look at him is to have all consciousness of body dissolve away. 57. Eknath gazed at him with

and touched his forehead to his feet.

Then with his lips he sang hymns of praise, and worshipped
this Lord-of-Heaven. 58. And this sagun form, which he
saw with his eyes, he treasured in his memory. He then
went to worship Satyabhama, Rahi and Rukmini.
59.
After making a pradakshina of the sacred city, the while
feelings of love,

singing songs of praise to Pandurang, he

his lodging.

made

his

way

to

EKNATH

10

EKNATH MEETS WITH THE BHAKTAS AT

PANDHARPUR.
now

Let us

60.

bhakta.

turn to what was in the heart of the

Brahmans of

All the

an invitation (to a

feast).

the scared city

were given

Savoury dishes were prepared, andi

down to a breakfast. 61. Then on thefourteenth day of the moon the Husband-of-Rukmini (ina vision) made known his wish to all the saints, saying,.
" I am very fond of Eknath's kirtans." 62. As soon as.
the next day they sat

this

wish was revealed in the vision to the

they

priests,

We request you, Great

Svami, to perform a klrtan at the Eagle-platform. 63.

said very respectfully to Eknath, "

It is Sri

this

You have

Pandurang's wish.

"When

purpose.

honor, he

made

been honored for

Eknath heard of

this

gracious:

great preparations for the occasion.

64.

Flags and streamers, and the seven colored banners, the

cymbal,
Saints,

vina,

maJiants,

and

drum,

sadhus,

all

rishis,

people of the sacred city sat

were

ready.

65.

Vedic pandits, and

down with

reverence to

the-

listen.

They had
66.
Their hearts were filled with delight.
all were
and
already heard of Eknath's wide-spread fame,
anxious to

was

listen to his eloquence.

also a great

number of
68.

Among them

there

pilgrims, those brave, loving,

heroic Vaishnavas, and other

making a dense crowd.

67.

men and women pilgrims,

Eknath now stood up, and

began with a hymn of invocation (to God,) and declaring

that both listeners and speaker were Janardan, bowed in
worship.

69.

hands

the

to

As he thus spoke, there was

name of Vitthal, and with the

clapping of

tumultuous,

noise of these shouts of praise the etherial space

to overflowing.

70..

was

filled

"Krishna, Vishnu, Hari, Govinda,.

EKNATH

HO

Achyuta, Infinite-one, Source-of -Happiness, Supreme-Being

Sachchidananda, Sri Mukunda, Guru-of-the-World, 71.

Kesava, Narayana, Madhava, Lover-of-Bhaktas, Ocean-of-

Mercy, Lord-of-the-Coiwherdesses, God of Gods Thou dost

72.
For the
quenchi the entire fire of this life's delusion.
'sake of the dull, the stupid, the ignorant,

Thou

standest

on the bank of the Bhima. Here thou dost welcome

and dost protect them with thy pitying
glance." 73. Thus they sang the names (and attributes of
God) with hearts full of love, and dancing to his praise
the whole audience lost all consciousness of body. Ecstasy

.here

sincere bhaktas,

arose to

its

highest pitch.

EKNATH RELATES A STORY OF HIS

GREAT GRANDFATHER, BHANUDAS.
74.

"The

life

At

moment some one made Eknath a

this

of your great-grand-father, Bhanudas,

ingly interesting.

Eknath was

Let us hear

it

told in song."

request.

exceed-

is

75.

greatly pleased on hearing this suggestion,

Sri

and

had that very thing in mind, when you, Svami,

gave the command," (and he sang the story of Bhanudas,
said, "I

as

follows.)
76.

King Rama, with

Vidyanagara.

his

followers,

was

ruling in

Travelling in state, he came one day to

this sacred city of Pandhari.

77.

While looking

at the

image of Pandurang, a strong desire filled his

Said he to himself, " I want to take the Husbandheart.
of-Rukmini to my city of Vidyanagara." 78. With this
thought in mind he fasted for seven days. Krishna then
appeared to him in a dream, and bid him as follows; 79.
beautiful

EKNATH
""

111

saw the extraordinary devotion of Pundalik (to

his parents) I took up my abode here at Pandhari, and
according to the promise I made him, I here meet men of
There is no place of rest
piety.
I enjoy this place.
80.
in
the
Ocean-of-Milk
abode
and Heaven
like this.
My
Here pious and
81.
itself seem inferior places to this.
loving bhaktas are constantly coming on pilgrimage. Here,
free from all worry, I, Krishna, live in their company.
This being so, King Rama, you make your persistent
82.
Because

request in vain.

Still I will tell

you,

how

to Vidyanagara, and what you must do.

may

83.

be carried

I will

only

go there an condition that Brahmans, making themselves

ceremonially pure, carry me along in their hands, and nowhere on the journey place me on the ground."
84.
Seeing this vision of the night, the king was overjoyed in
his heart. He called his ministers together and conferred
with them in private. " Advise me," he said, " what plan

The ministers replied, "Give the

can adopt?"
85.
Brahmanns of our country large gifts, and station them
along the route. 86. Then passing the image from hand
to hand we can quickly bring it to our city."
The king
listened to this proposal, and it pleased, him greatly.
87.
He wrote humbly-worded letters to the Twice-born of the
various villages, and soon collected a multitude of Brahmans
along the route.
88.
At certain regular distances he
made arrangements for water and food, and the Brahmans
.seeing in all this a service rendered to God, were glad.
89.
The king then made his namask&r to the God, and thus
" Do me now this favor, O Pandurang,
besought Him,
and come with me immediately."
I

Thus besought by the king, the image was lifted

to be passed from hand to hand. Against this act the
90.

EKNATH

112
special servants

and

priests of the idol protested violently,

but the king would not listen to them.

91.

The monarch

had authority and no one had the strength to prevail against

him. Men and women (of the city) watched what was
going on, and tears

filled their eyes.

92.

The king had

no sooner taken the image away, than Pandharpur seemed

like a deserted city.
like a body without
It looked
life.

We

93.

turn

now

to

King Rama.

Causing the image

to be passed from hand to hand, he arrived at his

94.

He

city.

collected all the distinguished Vaishnavas together,

and had a kirtan performed.

There were dindis and

banners in profusion, and beautiful garlands of flowers.

With

95.

affection they worshipped

image of Pandurang, and placed

proclaimed a great
for joy.

96.

festival.

He

The king honored

it

and anointed the

on a throne.

The king

could not contain himself

the distinguished Vaish-

garments and ornaments, and

distributing money lavishly he made the Brahmans happy.
Adorning the Husband-of-Rukmini with ornaments
97.
navas with rich

of

gifts

raiment and strings of pearls, he

worshipped Him, and the etherial space overflowed with joy.
set with jewels, costly

98.

Now

while the king was asleep in his palace the image

of Pandurang appeared to him

in

a dream, and said,

"You

have brought me to this place. I will tell you the

on which I shall stay here. Listen.
99.
In
accordance with the laws of justice and equity you must
carry on a kingdom of righteousness. If the least injustice
takes place, I shall remain here no longer.
100.
I delight
conditions

in loving bhaktas,

when

and

you should persecute any of them,

return to Pandharpur, my former

if

innocent, I shall

EKNATH

113"

The king having

from Pandharinath, he was

received this vision, by

abode."
night

was

101.

continually
102.

formed

on the watch.

The

affectionately

greatly alarmed, andi

priests

came

worshipped the

his bath,

in the early

first

per-

and then came to watch the worship of

the idol and listen to the songs of praise.

the idol

mornings ami

The king

idol.

was adorned with

great fear of thieves.

Because

103.

priceless ornaments, there

was

Locks, therefore, were placed on.

the doors of the temple, during

all

the eight watches of

the day, even from morning to night.

104.

Until the

king came to the temple no one in the city could obtain,

a sight of the

idol,

so carefully was

king regularly worshipped

it,

it

guarded.

using the sixteen

105.

rites.

The

Thrice

a day savoury food, with a dressing of melted butter was

106.
Around it burned constantly rows of
offered to it.

camphor

lights.

Flowers, musk, and

many

other fragrant

But separation from

Pandhari pierced the heart of the God like an arrow, and
" I am imprisoned here," he said to
he was ill at ease.
himself.
"When shall I be delivered from here?"
materials were placed upon

108.

Now

let

of pilgrims had gathered.

The

mahants, siddhas and rishis were in great distress.

saints,

here.

107.

us turn to Pandhari, where in the

month of Ashadh a crowd

109.

it.

Only the most courageous Vaishnavas had gathered

The others, worldly minded, said to themselves,

(Why go there?) Pandharinath has

And thus minded they all remained at
mahants,
8

gone away.

110.

The saints,
however, made Pandhari beautiful by their
home.

EKNATH

114
presence.

Just as

111.

when

one mistakes side gullies for

season comes, there

on the earth,
But when the hot

rains heavily

it

rivers.

not a drop of water left in them.

is

That crystal which alone endures the blow of the

hammer, is considered a priceless diamond. Experts know
112.

would be smashed to powder.

113.
by intense heat, that which appears brilliant, is

that other crystals

When

tested

Brass appears

recognized as gold.

method of

testing them.

cobra's head,]

is

wound around by

thrown into the

the

gem

is

fire,

in

116.

saint.

in times of distress, but

forms accustomed

many

who

duties,

whirlpools of fiery

in

trials,

with tenacity of purpose per-

a bhakta

such

but the composing of similes

sooner had King
arrived

Rama

pilgrim

Husband-of-Rukmini on
like

own

is

dear to the

soul.

a poet's business.

is

No

taken Pandharinath away, than

saints.

118.

his throne,

a deserted

city, like

when

the body

of the senses,

an army

So

115.

Well, enough of these long drawn out remarks,

117.

them

a cotton thread and then

no wise fails, he alone deserves

He whose love does not weaken

Good-Being, as one loves one's

there

[taken from a

a sure antidote to snake poison.

he whose determination

name of

gem

the

is

and the thread does not burn, then

times of adversity, amid the

the

If the

114.

Such

dull.

Not

seeing

the

Pandharpur seemed to

the ceasing of the functions

without

119.

Like

without a king, like the night without the

moon,

is

life.

like the poetic inspiration without the grace of God.

Or, again,

like

120.

a house without the master of the house, so

Pandharpur appeared. All were troubled, but no one was

able to suggest any remedy at all.

EKNATH
then *

115

Dnyanadeva, Sopana,
Nama, Sanvata, all Vaishnavas, Muktabai storehouse of
Also Kabir,
122.
goodness, arrived on their pilgrimage.
Rohidasa, Gora the potter, Gonabai, Jani, the servant of
121.

Just

Nama, and

Rajai,

all

Nivritti,

noble bhaktas.

123.

This company

of pilgrims was seared by the Eagle-platform, and Namadeva was performing a kirtan,, when Bhanudasa suddenly

approached.

Brahma

124.

On

his

shoulder

he

carried

the

and he came along playing the lute, singing,

dwelling on the Husband-of-Rukmini in his heart, and
repeating his names (and attributes). 125. In this manner
He at once
Bhanudas arrived at the Eagle-platform.
saluted the saints and mahants and reverently made them a
namaskar. 126. He found all these distinguished Vaishlute,

navas greatly troubled in their hearts, thinking over how

the Husband-of-Rukmini had been taken away to Vidya-

Some argued that the God-ofGods, seeing

the devotion of King Rama, had gone from Pandhari. One
said, " Then why should not we, who are many Vaishnava
bhaktas, go and bring Kesava back."
128.
To this proposal of Dnyanaraj, no one responded.
Some said,

nagara.

127.

* Note. Neither Vitthal Kavi, nor Mahipati in his

Bhaktavijaya 43, 136-147 name the bhaktas present at
Pandharpur. Kesavasvami, in his Eknath charitra 14, 7578, and followed by Mahipati here, makes Bhanudas a
contemporary of Dhyanesvara and the group of saints that
tradition usually associates with him. This anachronism
may perhaps be best explained by the probable fact, that
neither Kesavasvami, nor the author from whom Kesavasvami obtained his information, knew the dates of
Bhanudas or Dnyanesvara, and therefore had no difficulty
in making them contemporaries to him, all belonging to the
distant past.

EKNATH

116
" There

no way of going against the will of God." 129.

Another spoke from the non-dualistic point of view. " God
God fills all animate and inanimate things.
is within us.
There is no place empty of Him." 130. Another said, " If
we go there, the king will be angry with us, and put us, in
is

Then what would we do?" 131. The cowardly

minded remarked, "That is none of our business." Just
then Bhanudas bowed prostrate before those saints. 132.
" If you will command me," he said, " I will speedily bring
Pandharinath back. You may put away all anxiety. I
prison.

bid you to remain here.

With

133.

And

just as

words

to

them, Bhanudas departed.

Maruti rejoiced

in

going to search for Sita,

these

In his heart he dwelt on the

so Bhanudas rejoiced.

134.

image of Pandurang.

With

His name.

Day and

Under

bringing

God

he sang the fame of

night he repeated his

name (and

heart accompanied with love.

attributes) with peace of

135.

his lips

the influence of the wonderful thought of

back, his heart

consciousness of body.

He

was

joyous.

He

lost the

forgot thirst and hunger.

136L

He

asked for no food, but if anyone happened to give it to

him, he ate it with contentment and continued his journey.
137.

Travelling in this

way along

the route,

Bhanudas

approached Vidyanagara, and enquired of the people,

whether it was here that Pandurang had been brought.
138.
For fear of the king, he found, no one would reply
finally

But

he met a good man, a Brahman, whol

told him every thing.
139.
"King Rama," he said,
*'
brought the image of Pandurang here, and has installed it
in the temple, but no one is allowed to see it.
It is constantly kept under lock and key."
140.
Bhanudas thought
to him.

finally

EKNATH
to himself, "
there after

Then I must
the hymns of

rest for the night."

the temple as usual,

praise,

and returned

see the

God

117
privately.

I will

go

him to
141.
That evening the king came to
hurried through the evening hymns of
praise are sung, that put

to his palace.

Bhanudas, the distinguished Vaishnava, now

came to the door of the temple. He found the priests outside, overcome with sleep.
143.
To the rooms within
142.

rooms there were four doors. Each door was fastened

with heavy locks.
But the Husband-of-Rukmini performed a miracle, and caused the locks to fall.
144.
Seeing all the doors unlocked, Bhanudas was happy indeed,
*'
My desire is fulfilled," he thought to himself, and at
once entered. 145. There stood the Lord-of-the-World,
His feet close together on the brick, both hands on his
hips, his eyes fastened on the tip of his nose.
146.
Bhanudas saw its beautiful face, and was filled with
rapture.
But pretending outwardly that he was angry, he
began to scold the God.
147.

"

Husband-of-Rukmini, Lord-of-Pandhari, what

meaning of these badges fastened to your feet?

Your deeds do not correspond with your promises.
I
realize this now from experience.
148.
You gave Pundalik a promise that you would for ever remain at Pandharpur, to save the dull minded and the ignorant. Apparently
you have not the slightest recollection of that promise.
You have chosen for yourself a very fine private
149.
place in the king's palace, and adorned yourself with fine
raiment, and many ornaments.
You are receiving offeris

the

ings of savoury food.

150.

staying here in enjoyment.

It is for this that

You have

you are

forgotten us in

EKNATH

118

your heart."
Bhanudas then immediately composed an
abhcmg to which I ask this wise audience to listen.

The Abhang of Bhdnudds.

On

bank of the Bhima river, standing on the

Vithoba was ruling in Pandhari.

1.

brick,

Riddhi and Siddhi wait upon

2.

Thou

the

art not obtainable even to

Him

with their retinue.

Brahmadeva and other

Gods.

Yet leaving all that you have come

has beguiled you, Kanadiya?
3.

The

4.

conchshell, the kettle drum, the

and the horn sound, and keep you,

You

5.

are

with fragrant

sprinkled with

oils, rivulets

Who

here.

hand drum,

God, awake.

champaka

of Bhivara sandal

oil,

smeared

wood

oil

are

flowing on you.

Rambha,

6.

many

other heavenly damsels

7.

On

and Menika,
have come with you.

Urvasi,

Tilottama,

and

golden paryeli jewelled lamps are waved over

your beautiful and glorious

face.

But Mother Rakhumai has naturally

depressed and how silent has Pundalik become.
8.

become

Bhaktas and Bhagavatas are displeased, and without you, have become speechless.
9.

10.

Universe.

Bhima.

Blessed

is

Blessed

Pandharpur, the mother-home of the

is

the sand-bed

on the bank of the

EKNATH
1 1

Come

119

along with me, says Bhanudas. Let the

remember the debt he owes through the promise

151.
With this pleading request, Bhanudas
God's
you,

" Tell

feet.

king

now," he cried, "

me
God?" 152.

He was

Who

As Chakrapani

He
fell

God

made.
at the

has beguiled

listened to this

He

embraced Bhanudas,
and drew him close to his heart. 153. " I am confined in a
prison here," Pandharinath exclaimed, " and you also have
hardened your heart, and have not taken me back to my
home. 154. O loving Bhakta, do not desert me here, and
go away. I truly cannot endure a single moment without
155.
Thus speaking, this Being of Mercy, gave
you."
He put around Bhanudas'
Bhanudas a love-token.
neck his own garland of tulsi leaves and flowers.

pleading,

deeply moved.

"Tomorrow," He said, "come and take me along

with you." At this request of the Husband-of-Rukmini,
Bhanudas was overjoyed. 157. Along with the garland
of flowers, however, there came the string of nine jewels.
But Bhanudas was not aware of this, as he quickly passed
The moment Bhanudas left, the Life-of-theout.
158.
miraculously
World
relocked the doors. Now as soon as
it was dawn the king hastened to the temple.
156.

159.

As he was waving

the lights before the God,

he failed to see the string of nine jewels on His neck. "
thief must have been here," he thought,
and he poured

out his rage on the priests.

160.

every direction to discover the thief.

Detectives rushed hi

Suddenly they saw

Bhanudas, the distinguished Vaishnava.

161.
He had
bathed in the Ganga, and was sitting repeating the names

and

attributes of Vitthal.

On

his

neck the servants of the

king noticed the radiant string of divine jewels.

162.

EKNATH

120

They

seized this distinguished Vaishnava,

and brought him

Showing him the string of jewels,

We have caught the thief and have brought
him here."
163.
The king became furious with rage,
and angrily addressed him. Then to his officers he said,
"You have caught the thief, and have brought him here.
Now impale him.'' 164. Without proper consideration,
and without justice, he gave this order to his officers. He
was not aware of what was to take place. His mind was
enveloped by the illusions of Maya. 165. So they gave
quickly before the king.

they said, "

Bhanudas, the distinguished Vaislinava, a severe beating;

placed the stake on his shoulder, and sendur on his forehead.
166.
But Bhanudas, with love in his heart, held
in his mind the image of Pandurang, exclaiming, " God-of-

how nobly you are treating

Because I have come to carry you back, you put
this necklace around my neck, and now you are giving me
up to be impaled. You have not the slightest love. 168.
Gods, Husband-of-Rukmini,

me.

167.

Well, since

it

thus

lies in

your mind, death

come

will

And

body, but never, never will I forget Thee."

to

my

with this

he broke out into the following abhang.

Though the heavens should roar with thunder;

1.

though the sphere of the universe should crash into pieces

though fire devour the three worlds, yet
Thee, O Vithoba.

Though

2.

though the
with me,
3.

five

wait on

the seven oceans should flow into one;

elements be dissolved, yet,

Thou

wilt be

Vithoba.

Though any

upon me,

will

yet

may my

disaster whatever,

repeating of

may

fall

heavily

Thy name never

cease,

EKNATH
just as a devoted wife does to the

Bhanudas, Hear me,

169.

121

Lord of her

Vithoba.

he became choked with

When suddenly Pandha/inath manifested his
Listen how he did it, ye pious bhaktas of His.

Thus expressing

emotion.
presence.

The sharp

170.

his purpose,

stake that had been fastened upright

in the ground, suddenly burst

into branches

and

beautiful flowers and fruit, to the astonishment of

The king was informed by

startled.

And

172.

leaves,

all.

171.

his servants that the impaling

stake had become a living tree.

and was

Says

life.

The king heard

the report

Repentant, the king hastened to

saw Bhanudas with his eyes

closed, repeating the names and attributes of the King-afPandhari.
173.
.Seeing him in this attitude, the king,
see the sight.

there he

prostrated himself on the ground before him, exclaiming,

" You fearless Vaishnava, I sinful and dull of understand174.
Bhanudas now opened
and looked about, and beheld the stake had become
a great tree. " The Husband-of-Rukmini has manifested
His presence for me," he exclaimed.
"A miracle has taken

ing, did not recognize you."

his eyes

place."
175.
The king now took Bhanudas by the hand,
and led him to the temple. And there they saw the image
of Pandurang with dejected countenance, and tears streaming from his eyes.
176.
Seeing him so, the king made a
sdshtang namaskar, and then with palm to palm before the
God, he pled with him in tender words. 177. "I have
done wrong in many ways," he exclaimed. "I have persecuted your bhakta."
Hearing King Rama's plea for

mercy,

the

Lord-of-Pandhari

here in peace, but ever bringing

brance.

am

going

back

178.
"Remain
form to your rememBhanudas to behold

replied.

my

with

EKNATH

122
Pandhari.

179.

you use any pressure to prevent this,befall you here."

Accepting this reply

If

great calamity will

of Sarangadhara, the king, ceased to speak further.

Bhanudas now
what means shall I employ
180.

" Husband-of-Rukmini,,

said,

earning you back?). Mineis not a kingly power, that I can collect a multitude of
people to carry you."
181.
The Husband-of-Rukmini
listened to his question,
and then a miracle followed.
Suddenly the image became small in size, to the amazment
of the king. 182.
Bhanudas was delighted, and placed
(in

the King-of-Pandhari in a

bamboo

little

exclaiming, " Victory to Sri Vitthal

the

Husband-of-Rukmini.

basket, the

thoughts.

The

universe

shall see the saints."

is

184.

told

Then

basket.

he carried along

Enclosed

183.

Supreme Being,
"

"

Bhanudas

his

within

the

deep inner

with joy to-day, for I

Thus, journeying along the

filled

Bhanudas, arrived near the city of Pandhari, and

this Vaishnava bhakta descended into the Padmatirtha to
bathe.
185.
He washed his dhotar, and spread it out to
route,

dry on the stone wall of the tank.

assumed again his large form. 186.
basket above his head, and the side at
to bits.
Bhanudas was amazed.

Rukmini then

said.

187.

"

The

Suddenly the God

The cover

of the

were broken
The Husband-ofand mahants have

his feet

saints

been waiting for me unceasingly at the Eagle platform.

Go quickly, and tell them (I am here). They will come
immediately to welcome me." 188. At this request of
the Lord-of-the-World, Bhanudas, glad of heart, hastened
to the Eagle-platform, and with smiling countenance made
the announcement.

189.

" I (have bought back truly the

image of Vitthal as far as the Padmatirtha."

heard this announcement, all rejoiced at heart.

As they

EKNATH
And

123

went out to welcome him, carrying with

them a palanquin. They had with them dindis and banners
in profusion, and the festal musical instruments were
The Vaishnavas sang the praise of Hari,'
played.
191.
singing and dancing in their love. All the inhabitants of
the sacred city, great and small, followed in the procession,
190.

all

Exclaiming as they went along, " How can we ever

repay our obligation to Bhanudas. Blessed is this fearless
Vaishnava hero. He has brought back our Saraugadhar."
192.

193.

As

The whole crowd now approached

the Padmatirtha.

soon as they saw the image of Pandurang, they pros-

trated themselves to the ground.

194.

Bhanudas gave a

helping hand, and Pandarinath was placed in a palanquin.

The bhaktas

shouted, " Victory,

fragrant powders in the

air.

Victory," and scattered

195.

Thus

in

pomp

the

Husband-of-Rukmini was brought to the Chandrabhaga

river.
Here they bathed him, and then brought him to
the temple.
196.
On a happy auspicious day, the image
was replaced on its throne. Immediately the God, Giverof-bliss-of-Absorption, spoke to Bhanudas a word of promise.
197.
"I cannot repay your kindness. You have
again brought Pandharpur to my sight. I shall assuredly
become an avatar in your family line."
198.
At this
promise of the Saviour-of-the-World, the bhaktas shouted
" Victory, Victory,"

and to all the inhabitants of the sacred

came great joy. 199. As rain from a cloud
the time of a drought, as life returning to a body at

city there

in

the point of death, so feeling this to be a joyous time, gifts

were given to the people.

200.

Men

and

women

of their

own accord distributed sweets from house to house. The

Vaishnavas at the Eagle-platform nodded their heads in unison to the loud music of praise.

EKNATH

124

Thus Eka Janardan sang

201.

the story of Bhanudas,

and mediants listened to the klrtan with rapt

attention.
202.
He thus sang the interesting story of his
ancestor, Bhanudas. The sound of Brahma was incarnate
there.
Loud were the strains in which the klrtan was sung.
203. Finally the last hymns of praise were sung and lights
waved before the Husband-of-Rukmini.
I, Mahipati, the

and the

saints

servant of servants,

This book

Svasti.

listening to

it,

now
is

distribute the sweetmeats.

one's desires are fulfilled.

ye loving, pious bhaktas.

This

is

204.

By merely

the Sri Bhaktalilamrit.

Listen then to

it,

the eighteenth delightful

chapter.

CHAPTER

19.

BHAKTALILAMRITA.
Mahipati's Invocation.
1.

Obeisance to Sri Ganesa.

Merciful,

to

the

Victory, Victory to the

Everlasting-Sleeper-(on-the-Serpent,)

Bumble-bee-in-the lotus-heart-of-his-.B/^a&a.s, Pervader-ofthe-Universe, Ocean-of-Goodness, Supreme-over-All.

Thou

viour-of-the World. 2.

thyself,

O Thou-with-the-eyes-

of-a-lotus, hast caused the beautiful life of

am

not an independent relater.

related.

on Thee,

subject to Thee.

hay scare-crow, so the

Thy

power,

3.

Just as the

inspiration to

Pandurang.

4.

The

Sa-

Thy
I

am

slave to be

dependent

wind sways the

comes from

my mind

pipe plays

many

tunes,

With undiscriminating mind, they

fail to recognize the player.
The earth supports the
5.
tree.
According to the soil there springs up the tender
so the ignorant say.

shoots.

So, whether

my

narration lacks, or

is

perfect, the

EKNATH
cause

135.

to be found entirely in Thee.

is

The

6.

products a tree does not always produce a cypress

the beginning or at the end, whatever
apani,

art

He upon

whom we

rest.

it

soil that

So

tree.

at

Thou SarangThou art both

be,

7.

speaker and hearer, both in one. There is nothing elsehut Thee.

So, now, looking upon us with eyes of favor,

may God

cause us to cross safely the ocean of

life.

EKNATH RETURNS TO PAITHAN.

8.

In the

last

chapter there was related the remark-

how Eknath

able story of

went to Pandhari, and

klrtan lovingly sang the wonderful life

9.

The

saints,

a
history of Bhanudas.

Mahants, and other pious folk had listened

with great joy of heart, and exclaimed, "Blessed

sacred city of Pratishthana, for

Nath.
very

in

it

is

the

enjoys the sight of Sri

Eknath is not a human avatar.

He is, in
Pandurang himself, descended as avatar." No

10.
fact,

sooner did Eknath's ear catch this praise of himself, than

he arose and went out. 11. He proceeded to the temple,

and lovingly met there Pandurang.
Here he made gift
offerings to the Brahmans, and taking God's leave departed.
Night and day Eknath thought upon the extraordinary
12.
greatness of Pandhari, and proclaimed to the people the
noble fame of the city. He then started to return to
Pratishthana.
13.

the

As he was approaching

news of

his coming,

and

all

the city,

Uddhava heard

the inhabitants of that

sacred city hastened out to welcome Him.

14.

Regarding

Eknath a9 the image of Pandurang, they reverently made

him nomasMr. They embraced him with loving emotions,.

EKNATH

126

and could not

contain themselves for joy.

15.

All lifted

aloft emblems and banners,

and marched along, while
Eknath sang the praises of God.
On the route booths
joined booths.
An extraordinary crowd had gathered.
Thus accompanied with shouts of joy, Eknath
16.
entered his home.
Here also singing sweet songs of praise,
he waved lights before the Husband-of-Rukmini.
17.
"Thus successfully ended the pilgrimage to Fandhari.
"With Uddhava, the loving disciple, always sitting beside him,

The customary worship

18.

of Vishnu, the listening to

the reading of the Purans, the feeding of the poor, the song
service in praise of Hari,

was no

all this

went on as before. There

failure in anything.

THE GREAT SANYASI,

Now there

19.

great sannySsi,

was

in the sacred city of Pratishthana

named

Sripad. He had conquered the

and had become a Paramahansa.

six enemies of the soul,

He

J20.

no

recognized

God

distinctions of less

were

alike.

21.

in every creatuie.

and more.

To him

before

it.

22.

happened to

An

all

see,

The Brahmans

themselves, "Although Sripad

the least pride.

He

recognized

beggar and king

mosquito and an elephant, a four-

legged or a two legged animal were

-ever creature he

SRIPAD.

is

alike to him.

of the city said

among

a great man, he has not

He makes namaskar

outcaste or a Brahman,

What-

he prostrated himself

a cow, a

to everyone.

23.

a dog, a pig, or a
t>ird, if he sees any of these he reverently bows to them.
24. Whether one is of low caste or high, does not at all come
into his thoughts. Truly he is out of his head, through the
influence of some mantra.
He is certainly possessed."
cat,

EKNATH

127

Each one knows himself only. He is no

concern of ours. A Paramhansa does not have to consider
in the least the differences of caste." 26. Thus of the
inhabitants of the sacred city, some reviled him, some

25.

Some

said, "

praised him, but from this he experienced in his heart,

His

neither pleasure nor pain.

state

was

that of one un-

He had

conscious of a body (conscious only of soul.) 27.

adopted a regular habit of visiting Eknath, and with fixed

attention, lovingly listening to his kirtans.

28.

Thus bow-

ing prostrate before every creature, and constantly visiting

3ri Nath, his heart

was ever

at peace,

and

with joy.

filled

SRIPAD WORSHIPS A DEAD DONKEY.

Many

29.

days thus passed,

dinary event occurred.

his obeisances

The

when a most

prostrating Svami,

extraor-

making

(namaskar) as he went along, arrived at

Ganga (the Godavari) for his bath. 30.

A donkey had drowned in the river. The dead animal had
floated down, and when the freshet had spent its force,
the bloated carcass lay on the sand. 31. The prostrating
Svami arriving at the spot made his namaskar to the carcass of the donkey. The Brahmans all laughed to see this
" O Svami/'
prostration, for it was to a lifeless thing.
32.
the banks of the

they exclaimed, "All-knowing-one.

Who is it, to whom
"
you have made this obeisance?
Hearing this question of
the Brahmans, he looked to see

what it really was. 33.

was indeed the carcass of an animal greatly bloated.
The Brahmans added, "If you will bring this

It

carcas

are

to

life,

justified.

then indeed your

34./

Regarding

feelings
this

of

world,

reverence
as

if

EKNATH

128
it

were but soul (atma), you make obeisance

to every creat-

donkey to life, then we are ready

to acknowledge that your belief is proved true." 35. The
Paramhansa listened to the proposition of the Brahmans,
If

ture.

you

raise this

replied, "

The soul (atma) pervades all animate beings.'"

Then to the Atma he prayed. 36. " God-of-Gods, King
You have disappeared out of this thing.
of Pandhari.

and

And

donkey appears in the

form of a carcass, so long prostration before it seems in
so long as the

body of

this

vain."

THE DONKEY
He

37.

IS

BROUGHT TO

had no sooner thus spoken, when an extra-

ordinary miracle took place.

lying there,
it

"This

The

The

suddenly came to

sight

carcass of the donkey,

life.

38.

Shaking

itself,

and in a moment was on its

amazed the Brahmans, and they exclaimed,

snorted, flapped

feet.

LIFE.

its

ears,

an extraordinary miracle."
39.
Putting aside
Bramans, made him a namaskar.
Great
crowds of people gathered to see what had happened, filling
with their numbers the whole sand-bed of the river. 40.
Men and women were astonished at the great acquired
power of the prostrating Svami, and exlaimed, " So great
a saint is not to be seen elsewhere on the earth." 41. The
Brahmans said to one another, " This is indeed so.
This
Eknath of our town is ever performing kirtans in the
prakrit, and beguiling all the people.
42.
But he has no?
power to raise a carcass to life. It is only empty knowledge which he is constantly preaching with his lips to the
pious people."
43.
While the Brahmans were thus
reviling him, Sri Nath happened to approach.
He just
is

their pride, the

EKNATH

bed of the river for the

44.
the Vedas (Brahtnayadnya.)

happened to be coming
purpose of

When

reciting

to the

Brahmans saw him they

the

129

let

loose hateful

words

at him, and praising the prostrating Svami, said "Blessed,

Blessed

who

is

45.

he.

It is

foolish to call

anyone a

cannot perform a miracle, and indeed

saint

does not

it

seem commendable to endure such a so-called saint among

men." 46. With these remarks all the Brahmans returned
to their homes. Suddenly the prostrating Svami approached Sri Nath, and prostrated himself before him.

EKNATH REBUKES SRIPAD FOR

47.

Eknath looked

him a namaskar.

HIS MIRACLE.

at this superior ascetic,

and made

Then be thus addressed him.

"

You

serious predicament.
48.
To
have created to-day a
begin with this is the evil Kaliyitga. Mankind is filled with
suspicions and hate.
In addition to this the king is a
Mafaomedan. One sees therefore difficulties in the way
of practising Yoga. 40. If the king hears of your powers,

he will confine you in prison, so that if any of his household

should die, he might cause them through you to come to
life.
SO.
And every where there arc men with selfish
desires.

and

They

will be

your manner of

SRIPAD

asking you continually of the past

Through

the future.

life.

IS

this

What

is

you will be interrupted

"
the remedy for this ?

in

BURIED ALIVE BY EKNATH.

The Prostrating svami accepted Eknath's nectarwords, humbly besought him that he would give him a
burial alive.
Sri Nath replied, " That you should
52.
51.

EKNATH

130

receive a burial-alive seems the best suggestion."

Some

Kamatis, therefore, were quickly called, and a hole was

In this hole the bodily-unconscious
S3.
dug by them.

There was a moment of worship, and then

the sand was filled in over him. Sri Eknath then bathed
and returned to his home. 54. The affair soon became
known in the sacred city, that the Prostrating SvSmi had
received a burial alive. On this the Brahmans all assembled
and took counsel together.
The Pandits, and the
55.
Vedic religious heads summoned Eknath to Pimpalesvara, saying, " You have performed this most unusual deed
without informing us. 56.
You had a hole dug in the
Ganga river, and you buried the distinguished Yogi alive.
ascetic sat.

Who repeated

the mantras there ?

You performed

the deed

Using pressure, you

told him to take this burial alive.
This Paramhansa is
now buried, and the charge of murder most certainly hangs
over your head.
Therefore you must be encommunicated.
58.
In what Nostra is it written that one should force a
without the prescribed

rites.

sannyasi to be buried alive.

show

it

to us."

All the

57.

If there

is

such a Sdstra,

Brahmans then exclaimed.

BRAHMANS ACCUSE EKNATH OF AN

UNLAWFUL ACT.
"The sannyasi easily raised
You could not endure the sight

59.
life.

power

in him.

know your
brave man

the dead donkey to

of such miraculous
Therefore you killed the sannyasi.

secret inner motive."

60.

One

added,

We
"A

indeed
A very great expert indeed, in the
Bhagavata religion
Turning aside from the path of righteousness, he has set up a market for selling his doctrines."
!

EKNATH
61.

Another

said, "

By some

names of God, while

them,"
62.
" This fellow

He

hocus pocus he knows some

He, only

bewitching mantras.

131

in

mere form, sings the

really seducing the pious

One very impudent man

is

and robbing

openly declared,

assuredly a violator of our religious laws.

down

violates the path laid

in the

Vedic commands,

and commits unlawful and eccentric deeds. 63. In killing

this sanny&si 'he has committed murder, yet his mind is

He

not disquieted thereby.

still

His heart

with a joyous heart.

is

carries

on

his

worship

as hard as a stone.

64.

Without possessing it himself he preaches knowledge to

others.
There was no pity aroused in his heart when he
murdered the santiy&si."

THE BRAHMANS DEMAND A MIRACLE

OF EKNATH.
The Brahmans then said to Eknath, " The charge
of murder falls on your head. Perform now a miracle,
65.

and thus save yourself from excommunication.

66.
If
this stone bull here before our eyes shall eat kadabs, stalks
from your hands, then you are without the least blame,
and we will withdraw our purpose of excommunicating
67.
Eknath listened to the words of these chief
Brahmans, and placed his forehead at their feet, saying,

you."
"

That which passes your

unture.

68.

Vasistha's

eye

Formerly
his

equal to that of
lets

cane

the

Brahmans'

sun.

word

lips,

Svamis, can never prove

by the pitying glance of

became heated to brilliancy

The Supreme being never

come false."
69.
The

EKNATH

132

Brahmans
a

longwinded

lot of

only

At

exclaimed

we

stuff.

If

your statements

70.

and brought some sheaves of kadabd,

stalks,

persistence, said to the stone bull, 71.

fault

whatever in
72.

as

Eknath, seeing their

"To-day, of

seated the sannyasi in his grave.

stalks."

talking

are

you show us a miracle, then

and placed them before Eknath.

accord

"You

true."

regard

shall

this they ran,

reply,

in

my own
kadabd

this act of mine, then eat these

As

no

If there is

these words escaped Eknath's

lips,

most strange thing happened. The stone bull ran out its
tongue, 73. And drawing a sheaf of kadaba stalks into
All the Brahmans saw this
its mouth rapidly devoured it.

And said,
74.
and were filled with amazement.
Therefore,
"Eknath, Sir, you have performed a miracle.
you are free from the penalty of excommunication which
we had intended to inflict upon you." 75. Eknath listened
to these words of the chief Brahmans, and made them a
sight,

namaskar, saying, "

am

am

indeed dull of understanding.

not acquainted with the Vedic Sastras.

ing the water with which your feet are

And

in

your

feet

are

all

76.

am

purified.

tirthas,

vratas

washed
the

By

drink-

and siddhis."
77.
The Brahmans, however, remarked among themselves, "This miraculous deed performed by Eknath is an act that cannot be acquired through
the practice of Yoga. This astonishing deed comes from
Bhakti.
78.
Because of his former devotion to his Guru,
his service to saints, and his loving worship of Sri Hari,
Pandurang has become pleased with him, and protects him
moment by moment." 79. Thus conversing among them-

Brahmans returned to
became known in the sacred

selves, all the chief

the affair

their homes.
city,

As

the people

EKNATH
marvelled.
"

praises.

133

80.
The loving pious ones sang Eknath's
The Lord-of-Heaven has descended to save the

universe," they said.

SOME BRAHMANS DISBELIEVE THE

MIRACLE.
But some of the suspicious and spiteful people
of the town declared the affair false. Among them the
chief Brahmans who had remained behind in the sacred
81.

they

city;

now

hurried

Pimpalesvara.

to

examined carefully the stone

as before.

"How

they exclaimed.

bull,

but

it

82.

They

was a stone

just

could he have eaten the Kadabd stalk?"

" The story does not impress us." 83.

Then calling Eknath, they said, "Unless you show us the

same miracle you performed yesterday, you are excomYou
municated. Not all of us saw the miracle.
84.
were here yesterday certainly but we were not, and we are
unwilling to listen to the story. They then put some sheaves
Eknath

"

Feed this to the Stone bull

(Nandi.) 85.
If you do not show us this mi rack, then
the authority of the Sastras will be employed in this contention, and the curse will surely be visited upon you for
having buried the Sannydsi alive."
86.
As Eknath
listened to this demand of the Brahmans, his thoughts bebefore

came

troubled,

prayed.
wilt

saying,

and turning

Listen,

Thou be

to the

Nandi (stone

hearers, to his prayer.

willing

to

be

constantly

87.

bull)

"How

eating

he

long

KadabS?

There are a great many more Brahmans remained in the

city.
88.
Tomorrow they will come and demand the same
thing of me, so I must quickly devise some way by which
the doubts of

all

may

be removed."

EKNATH

134

THE STONE BULL LEAPS INTO THE

Eknath had no more than uttered

89.

when a remarkable event took

those Brahmans, and other

RIVER.
this prayer,

place before the sight of

men and women.

stone bull rose up, and running

jumped

into a

The

90.

deep hole

Ganga river. It is there to this day. 91. As the

Brahmans saw this great wonder they marvelled and said,

in the

"Eknath's greatness is beyond our comprehension. It is

a deed that does not belong to man. 92. Formerly in this
town of our ancestors Dnyanesvara made a buffalo repeat
the whole of the Vedas.

93.

Siddha, came to visit him, he

And when Changadeva,

made

the lifeless wall

the

move

manner Eknath has performed now an

extraordinary deed." 94. Thus conversing among themselves, they then said to Eknath, " There is now no excomIn

forward.

like

You may return to your home. 95.

your loving devotion. You have brought life
to a stone Nandi (stone bull). The God-of-Gods is pleased
munication for you.
Blessed

is

We

now

has happened."

96.

with you.
reverently

bowed

recognize the real meaning of what

Sri

Eknath heard

at their feet, saying,

this praise,

and

"This that has

happened is through the power of your favor. As the

With
97.
humblest of all I come to your protection."
these words of Janardan's Eknath, the Brahmans were

and the people of Paithan, great and small, came

to see the Nandi. 98. At that spot the Nandi is still there,
and when the sand gets removed the Nandi is plainly visible
to the sight.
Let no one doubt this in his heart. 99.
The pious folk were
Sri Nath returned to his home.
filled with joy, and day by day Eknath's good fame became
known further far and wide.
gratified,

EKNATH

135

EKNATH GOES TO ALANDI.

100.

was about
ciple,

It

now happened

go
Uddhava,
to

at

a certain time that Sri Natk

to Alankapuri.
at

He

left his faithful dis-

home, and started with his retinue of

Influenced by the thought of such good

101.
company, a great crowd started with him on this pilgrimage.
They journeyed along the road listening the while lovingly
followers.

to loud songs of praise.

102.

Arriving at Alankapuri,

they rested on the bank of the Indrayani.

Here Dnyana-

deva, appearing to him in a dream by night, said to him,

" The roots of the Ajann tree have reached my
103.

Dig into my tomb and push the root aside." 104.

He made
Sri Nath did so, and there beheld Dnyanadeva.
a prostrate namaskdr before him, and pushed aside the
root.
105.
He then closed up the tomb again, and performed a kirtan. Also on the eleventh of the moon there
was an all night praise service, participated in by all the

neck.

pilgrims.

GOD MIRACULOUSLY PROVIDES FOOD

FOR THE PILGRIMS.
106.
At that time Alankapuri was a depopulated town.
There was no rice and other food materials to be obtained
there.
God Pandarinath performed a miraculous thing.
Listen, O, ye pious bhaktas, to what he did.
The
107.
Husband-of-Rukmini, compassionate to the needy, became

a Kanada Lingayat.

lie erected a booth, and sat there

the needed articles of food.

108.
He would say
"
Take away with you all the articles you
to the pilgrims,

with

need.

all

do not ask for any money now.

I am well
Eknath."
109
Thus remarking, the

acquainted with

EKNATH

336

Husband-of-Rukmini would measure out

of food, wheat, flour,

articles

110.

salt.

and

then,

let his

rial,

After four days had passed, he, suddenly, there

became

This Merciful-One would not

invisible.

came immediately

to Eknfith,

and

had bought their food materials on

merchant was now nowhere to be
naively

related

this

the Eagle-banner wrought,

from mortification!"

mage they
came

forward

great

crowd

city,

both

and

filled

Nath.

and

As

they

understood

its

sacred

home.
of

city

welcome

to

of

pious

with

love,

protects his bhaktas

Thus completing

113.

As

them.

their

Uddhava
Also

114.

of

inhabitants

made

their pilgri-

they came back

Pratishthana,

men and women, came

115.

flags,

He who

started to return

the

to

that they

but that the

112.

Kknfith

story.

him

credit,

seen.

The

111.

told

meaning, and e\claiined, "What has God of

secret, inner

near

vegetables and

rice, ghi,

servant lack in the very least thing.

pilgrims

thus

the needed

all

'the

sacred

welcome them,
namaskar to Sri

to

All carried aloft eagle banners, emblems,

and sang aloud

songs of praise, relating the

The clang of the cymbal,

the vina, and drum swelled in harmony with the acclamations of the crowd. The sound of Brahma was incarnate
there.
The servants of Han danced as they went along.
That day was a blessed, happy clay. 117. Thus singing,
Then they sang arati, and
they returned home.
reverently waved lights before Sri Hari.
118.
On the
next day there was the giving of gifts to Brahmans, and a
feast of many kinds of dainties was provided for them.
119.
With the vida and the generous gifts all were satisfied.
Then Eknath, with his own lips, described the
story of Dnyanesvara.

greatness of Alankapuri.

116.

EKNATH

137

*EKN\TH CORRECTS THE TEXT OE THE

DNYANESVARI.
120.

It

and joy for

happened one day that Sri Nath, with affection

his task, sat

Dnyanesvari.

121.

down

to correct the text of the book,

Although existing copies had been

-

still mistakes had been made by

meaning
and grammatical relations
copyists, until finally the
becoming unintelligible, the book had ceased to be commonly known.
122.
It was for this reason that Sri

made with

loving care,

Dnyanesvara became an avatar

in the

form of Eknath

at

Pralishthana, and corrected the text of the whole book,

Then looking with loving eye upon Uddhava, Srf

Nath told him the unfamiliar fact that Dnyanesvara, with
deep insight, had made a Marathi translation of the Gita.
124.
And that, "Through the mercy of Janardan I have
corected the text of the book. The pious minded people
123.

should, therefore, assemble together, and hear the book

* Note.
There is very strong documentary evidence
that the statement here made, that Eknath corrected the
text of the Dnyanesvari, is a historic fact.
Nearly all Mss
of the Dnyanesvari contain a colophon, stating that Eknath
made the corrections in Saka 1506 (A.D. 1584.)
very
old manuscript of the Dnyanesvari in the Tanjor Library
was written in Saka 1515 (A.D. 1593), and contains the
colophon regarding Eknath.
As this copy was actually
made during the life time of Eknath, and only nine years
after the date assigned for the correction, the evidence it
affords is exceedingly strong. The copy was made by one
Parasariimatmaja at Ahmednagar.
The exemplar from

which he made

his copy was of course older, and therefore

possible that that colophon was written by Eknath
himself.

it

is

EKNATH

138

Hearing these words from Eknath's lips,

Uddhava was greatly delighted, and the Husband-ofRukmini, in the form of Kesava, was one of the attentive

read."

125.

listeners.

Before these two, Sri Nath constantly read

126.

But in addition to these there were also

present pious men and women who came to listen.
127.
Sri Nath would clearly explain the deep meaning of the
Dnyanesvari, so that no question remaining unanswered,
the whole became intelligible to all, from child to adult.
128.
Every day at the third watch he began to read aloud
this work of Dnyanesvara.
Kesava and Uddhava were
the two principal listeners, and there was great enthusiasm.
129.
When the reading of the book was finished they
worshipped Sarasvati, waved auspicious lamps, and distrithe Dnyanesvari.

buted sweets.

GOD IN THE FORM OF KESAVA ASKS

PERMISSION TO DEPART.
130.

And

with this ending of the reading of the

Dnyanesvari, the Lord-of-Pandhari,

who had been

there in

the form of Kesava, asked Eknath's permission to depart.

131.

he

"I have

said,

"but

spent twelve years happily with you here,"

am now

homesick, and I ask you to give

permission to go away."
Li fe-of- the- World, Eknath

you

To

me

of the
"
assented, but added,
I hope
132.

me

this request

you again here." 133.

Kesava-in-visible-form listened to this request, and then
suddenly became, invisible. But the Lord-of -Heaven said to
himself " I must come here again sometime." 134. The
thought came into the mind of the Husband-of-Kamala,
*'
Eknath has served me in many ways. I must in some
will be pleased to let

see

EKNATH
way repay

135.

Dvaraka,

God

This thought pleased the

his kindness."

Thus thinking
immediately became

greatly.

139

to himself, the Lord-of-

The

invisible.

bhakia,

Uddhava, now

said to Eknath, "I will always remain with

you."

And

136.

so

when

the kirtans were performed,

with love and enthusiasm he would fallow in the refrains,

keeping time with the cymbals, and thus bringing extraordinary animation to the music.
child to the aged,

And from

137.

men and women were

the

constant listeners

to these lively kirtans.

THE PIOUS OUTCASTE, RANYA MAHAR,

AND
Now
an

there

was

HIS WIFE.

in that sacred city a very pious

man,

outcaste.

This Yogabhrashta in a former birth had been a

138.

Through some

distinguished Vaishnava.

fault

he had been

139.
His wife was supremely
She loved the image of Sri Krishna, and both,

born a Mahar, an outcaste.

virtuous.

performing loving acts of worship, would repeat his names.

140.

As

Sri

them used
fixed

When

Nath performed

his nightly kirtans, both of

to come, but sat outside.

attention,

lost

to

all

They

listened with

bodily consciousness.

141.

and the people had

left the

wadd,

they would

to their

home.

142.

bow to Eknath and then go back

And now as to how they used to

serve Eknath.

the kirtans closed,

They would always sweep the path which he used to use

when going down to the bank of the Ganga to bathe. 143.

EKNATH

140

And when

Nath was taking his bath they were accustomed to look towards him and make him a prostrate namaskar from afar, regarding him as Vishnu-in-visible-form.
Sri

144.

It

now happened one

day, a Hari day, that

Eknath, with great joy, was performing a kirfan, and wasrelating

how

showed himself

Sri Krishna

form of the Universe.

nava was expressing

145.
in

As

to

Arjun

in the

the distinguished Vaish-

song that

he repeated the

event,

beautiful verses of Dnyanesvara, used in his commentary.

At

146.

own

question to Eknath, "

lips this

pervades

all

form of

the universe,

outcaste

were

Ranya Mahar propounded with

that juncture

animate and

as

wholly

these nectar

147.

attached

to

words from the

in contemplation.

Where was
Sri

I,

Nath

lips

at that time,

replied,

Krishna".

the-

148.

"You

Hearing

of Eknath, he became lost

His ideas of difference and non-differ-

ence passed away.

The conception of

Whatever animate or inanimate

149.

who

Sri Hari,

inanimate things, assumed

am now."

When

his

duality vanished.

things he

now

saw,

He now knew no longer any

He became convinced'
caste.
150.

he became one with them.

differences of color or

mind that Eknath was the supreme Brahma-in-visible

form. Then freeing themselves from all their domestic

in his

entanglements, both of them went and took up their abode in

the kdsand.

when

151.

Nath came

It

was

their thought that

by doing

so,

Lakshmi tirtha,
the opportunity of seeing him would come to them without
effort.
152.
It was for this opportunity that they abandoned their own place, and now came to live near the bank of
the

Sri

Ganga

river.

there to bathe in the

EKNATH

141

RANYA MAHAR'S WIFE WISHES TO INVITE

EKNATH TO DINE.
happened one day that the wife of the Unmentionable
" Eknath is in very truth
said to the Lord of her life, 153.
It

Pandurang, who has become sagun to save the universe,

my mind

nevertheless

him here

go."

Svdmi,

Mahar

will

me

154.

If

and replied to

listened

his

wife, " I

will

Finding Eknath alone, Ranya told him the

155.

secret of his heart, "

he

you will go and

make the needed preparations."

home.

to eat in our

invite the

Ranya.

has conceived the purpose of inviting

said, "of serving

permission,

My

you

I will

wife has conceived the purpose,"

at a feast.

make

156.

If

you

will give

the needed prepartions at

my

home."

Recognizing his kindly feelings, Eknath did not

refuse.

157.

And

said,

"Through

the wish of your heart will be

the grace of Janardan,

fulfilled.''

Ranya

listened to

these assuring words, and received from them a sense of

peace.

He

158.

informed his wife of the encouragement

Sri Nath had given him.

In worldly goods they were

exceedingly poor, yet they collected together the materials

necessary for a feast.

placed the

tulsi altar.

cleaned their vessels.

their daily baths,
160.

They

ghi,

and

vegetables,

they

became

161.

When

when

it

all

They washed

door they

their garments,

and

Both of them regularly performed

and the names of God were ever on their

lips.

they spent

ly the side of their

50.

laid in a store of wheat, flour, dal, rice,

regular
there

and

fasting

listeners

was an

all

at

on

Hari

Eknath's

days,
kirtans.

night Hari praise service,

that time in listening to the kirtcm.

was dawn would they return

to their

home.

Only

EKNATH

U2

EKNATH

IS

INVITED BY RANYA

AND

MAHAR

HIS WIFE.

The Unmentionable's wife was an exceedingly

pious and virtuous woman.
She said to the lord
of her life, "Det us now invite the Svami to a feast."
162.

I will do the cooking here at home.

Hasten, and sit

by the bank of the Ganga, awaiting the coming of Eknath.
164. When the Svami comes there for his bath, seek an
opportunity when he is alone, and very humbly give him
our invitation. 165. " I will do so," said Ranya, and at
once went and sat down on the bank of the Ganga.
Sri
Nath soon arrived, and Ranya reverently made him a
namaskar. 166. Eknath acknowledged his loving bhakti.
After he was seated for a moment the Unmentionable
" I have a special request,"
affectionately addressed him.
he said. 167. " But I am one without caste. I have no
right to invite you, and I hesitate to do so, yet will you
come and take a meal at my house ? " and with this he fell
at Eknath's feet.
I68.T0 this request Sri Nath replied,
" You are a loving Vaishnava bhakta.
Sri Krishna has
seen your sincerity and is pleased. 169. A Brahman may
be thoroughly conversant with the Vedas and Sastras, and
163.

yet be without devotion to Sri Hari.

Though he may be

an out-caste can
adorned with the twelve noble
be superior to him. 170. Although he is an out-caste, he
may be very acceptable to God." And here Eknath
repeated a Sanskrit Sloka from the Mahabhagavata.
qualities, yet

Bhagavata Purana VII.

9.

10.

Translation.

A
God

dog-eating outcaste

who has made an

offering to

of his mind, his words, his actions, his property and his

EKNATH

143

a Brahman,
who, although gifted with the twelve charateristics of a
Brahman, has turned away from the feet of God. The

very

life,

is

to be considered far superior to

former purfies his whole family, not so the

latter puffed

up

with pride.

EKNATH RECITING A SLOKA TO RANYA

EXCITES THE ANGER OF THE BRAHMANS.
Eknath had repeated only

171.

presence of

this

one sloka in the

Unmentionable, but there

were

some

Brahmans near by, who became greatly enraged.

Then all the Brahmans came about Eknath, and

172.

vociferating,

The
from

chief

ithe

closed

Brahmans

around

loving

bhakta.
173.
"
said to Eknath,
That sloka was not

the Bhagavata, but

repeat a sloka from

the

loudly

it

from the Vedas.

Why

to this unmentionable?

did

174.

you

An

outcaste has no right to that potent philosophic knowledge.

This being so, you have done a very improper thing. 175.
Your deed appears like that of serving dogs with spiced
custard, like rubbing sandalwood oil on an ass, or presenting
a miror to a blind man.

176.

The Brahmans

further

said to Eknath, " In repeating that sloka to this outcaste

The performing of a
on your head.
penance is therefore your due." 177. Sri Nath listened
to these words of the Brahmans, and placing palm to palm,

a great

sin rests

he made a namaskdi* to them, replying in conciliatory

178.
"Ranya Mahar," he said, "is a Vaishnava
bhakta.
He is fondly attached to the worship of Sri Hari.
He has conquered all the six enemies of the soul. One
should not, therefore, call him an outcaste.
179.
When

words.

EKNATH

144

one looks

at the character of this

good quality

is

lacking in him.

Unmentionable, not one

One

the Bhagavata religion enjoins.

sees in

180.

him

am

all

convinced

that he has the right to the philosophic knowledge.

reverent devotion he has

ing in the form

made

the

By

Supreme Brahma,

of Sri Hari, subject to him.

181.

his earnest desire I repeated merely a short

that

line.

his

exist-

Seeing
T

ask

your Greatnesses to forgive me my trasgression." With

To
182.
these words, he prostrated himself before them.
"
this the Brahmans replied,
You arc very impudent, you
stiffnecked fellow.

the right to
If

listen,

you refuse

fault,

we

shall

Brahmans.

You have

openly preached to one without

thus departing from right doing.

perform a penance for removing your

excommunicate you." So said all the chief
to

184.

Sri

Nath,

the

visible-form, did not in the least resist.

demand of

183.

Suprcme-Brahma-in-

He

assented to the

Brahmans, and said, "Prescribe the

penance."
185.
So saying, he stepped into a deep pool in
the river, and remained standing.
The Brahmans
brought cowdung and ashes and repeated over him
186.
The Unmentionable saw all this,
a mantra.
and in silence returned to his home.
His wife was
engaged in cooking.
Quickly she enquired of him the
result of his errand.
187.
"Did you invite Sri Nath?"
When she said this he replied, "Ours is broken
fortune.
188.
Because Eknath spoke to me, all
the Brahmans are enraged.
They have made him
stand in a pool of the Ganga, and are giving him a
penance. 189. The good we have laid up in a former
the

birth is not sufficient to bring about the service of saints."

The wife sobbed with emotion saying, "
might as well
give up life."
Thus exclaiming, she threw herself
190.

We

EKNATH
on

to the ground

and her

145

tears flowed so copiously that

was wet with them. 191. Seeing her in this

condition, her husband called her to himself by the motion
of his hand, and said, " Eknath is an ocean of mercy. He
I will go to
192.
will not pay disrespect to the poor.
him again, and give him again our invitation. If he refuses
to come, then indeed there is no use in living, and we may
the earth

then give up our lives." 193. With this determination of

mind, he hastened to the bank of the Gaiiga. He made a
prostrate nomas kar before Eknath, and said, " I ask you
to

come to-day and

eat at

my

house."

EKNATH ACCEPTS RANYA'S INVITATION

TO
194.

DINE.

Seeing his earnestness, Eknath,

who had

volun-

assumed this human

body, replied to him, even
though there were Bran mans standing near by, " I will
come."
195.
"As soon as your cooking is ready, I will
The Unmentionable returned
come, about noon time."
delighted to his home.
196.
The Brahmans now mur" He is laying a course of
mured among themselves.
defilement.
Through him there will now come about the
mixture of castes. 197. Because he repeated the sioka
to the Unmentionable, Ave had to give him penance, and now
he has accepted the invitation of the unmentionable and is
going to eat at his house. What is it that we can do "
198. The Brahmans then assembled secretly, and planned
among themselves to set spies and catch him in the act (of
eating at the Mahar's).
199.
The whole circle of Brahmans therefore, set itself to watching here and there. They
made a study of his form (so as to recognize him.) 200.
tarily

in

EKNATH

146

Some

stood in the lanes, others sat by his door, talking to

each other under some pretence or other.

down on

the bank of the

Ganga

201.

Some

sat

river repeating mantras,

with rosaries in their hands. Others went to the house of

the Unmentionable, and concealed themselves near the door.

Thus putting aside their usual private business, all

But
these Brahmans turned their attention to spying.
they failed to perceive that
Eknath was the avatar of
The BrShmans said to one
Maharaj Vishnu.
203.
another, "Let us give no hint to Eknath. The unmentionable
will come to call him. and we can then catch him in the
202.

very act of eating at his house."

GOD

IN EKNATH'S

FORM EATS AT THE

MAHAR'S HOUSE.
204.

Now

After he had duly perhad a reading aloud of the

as to Eknath.

formed divine worship, he

Purana at his house. The sun had now reached the zenith.
205.
Uddhava, in the mean while, was rendering worshipful service to the Brahmans, and religious mendicants.

Having

offered holy water

and fragrant unguents, he began

to serve the various dishes.

Turning now to the house of the Unmentionable, after all the cooking had been finished, his
wife requested him to hasten and bring Eknath back with
him. 207. This yogabhrashta, but a true Vaishnava, had
smeared the floor, and thoroughly cleaned the house, and
with his own hands had beautifully marked the floor with
designs with coloured powders. 208. He had provided
fragrant unguents, rice,
garlands and the materials for
206.

EKNATH
worship, and was
full of joy.

209.

now

147

waiting expectantly with a heart

The Unmentionable came

to Eknath's

door and humbly besought him, "Will the Svami

now

Eknath replied to him. 210.

come with me to eat?"
At this
"You go on, and I will follow you quickly."
the Brahmans began to make signs to one another by the
motions of the eye. 211. Now what did God Pandurang
do, but take the form of Eknath, and appeared at the house

He

exclaimed

Nath has come to our house."

reverently made him a namaskar.

She, full

of the Unmentionable, to his surprise.

212.

to his wife, " Sri

of pleasure,
felt like one,

who

about to

die,

tality.

She gave him the board

washed

his feet. 214.

213.

She

drinks the nectar of immorseat to sit on,

Then promptly with

and lovingly

loving devotion

she touched her own eyelids with her thumb, applying the
sandalwood pigment, and placed a garland of tulsi around
his neck.

on

it

215.

On

his forehead she

rubbed the fragrant powder.

who were

drew the

All this

sitting as spies, distinctly saw.

them remained

sitting there, others

and
the Brahmans,

216.

tilak,

Some of

ran to Eknath's house.

Those who had been in the street exclaimed, " Coming by

what street did he escape our observation?" 217. One of the
Brahmans replied, " He must have changed his guise, and
moving stealthily like a thief, escaped our observation, and
knowledge." 218. Another said, " He has bewitched our
eyes.
From early dawn we have been sitting here, closing
the street." 219. Those who had been in the Maharwada
went to Eknath's house, and lo there was Eknath on his
board seat, with the rosary in his hands. 220. When the
Brahmans saw this uncanny sight, they were overcome with
astonishment, and informed those in the house of their
wonderful tale. 221. " The marvels done by this defiled
!

EKNATH

148

He

is

Then they

all

one," they exclaimed, "are most extraordinary.

here and he

is

there

he

is

in both places."

rushed together to the Maharwada, to look.

there sat Eknath on the board seat with

for worship in profusion before him.

rushed back and forth, and

223.

lo

all

222.

And

the materials

The Brahmans

in both places they

saw him.

Just as there does not appear the least difference

between an object and

its

reflection,

so was

it

between

There was no difference whatever. 224.

As holy water and common water are two in
name, but there is no difference as to their oneness. And
who is there who can chose between the sun and its brightness ? 225. As the blue of the sky and the sky itself, as the
flower and the honey in it, are one, so Eknath and Pandurang in human form were seen to be of the very same
shape. 226. That Eknath had become a sagun avatar in order
to save the world this, those Brahmans, failing to recognize,
were lost in perplexity.
227.
This made them exclaim,
" How is it that at the same time he is seen here and there
in both places ? " Until the third watch they vainly rushed
back and forth. 228. But they could see no difference
between the two, of less or more. He was seated in both
places.
The Unmentionable had worshipped Eknath, and
arranging
the food on the dishes before him. 229.
was
His wife with affection served Eknath with all kinds of
savoury food, regarding God Janardan as the partaker of
Eknath then sipped water. 230. Sri Hari,
the food.
who is hungry for devotion, was fully satisfied. Whatever
his taste craved, he would ask for, and received on his
plate.
231. In this way the meal passed.
She then with
love gave him water to cleanse his hands, and making the
vida with her own hands gave it to him. In doing this

Pandurang and Eknath.

EKNATH

149

The
she experienced a sense of great satisfaction. 232.
couple then made Eknath a pradakshina, and a prostrate
namaskar,

Blessed art

desire.

We

233.

exclaiming,

You have

our earnest

fulfilled

Thou Mighty-one, Guru-of-the-World.

were without devotion, without Bhakti, without

without caste, but you have

intelligence,

desire,

"

and

fulfilled

our earnest

Nath

purified us in this present life." 234. Sri

reassured them, and then suddenly vanished from their

The man and woman then

sight.

plate as

gracious

his

gift.

ate

what was

The Brahmans

235.

down

astonished in their minds, went

left

on

his

utterly

to the brink of the

Ganga to bathe, and then going to Eknath's house watched

him there. 236. While these events were taking place (at the
Unmentionable's house) Eknath with Uddhava was also
eating at his own house.
And the Brahmans exclaimed,

"We

are not able to fathom this defiled man. 237.

We

wearied ourselves rushing back and forth in vain.

places he
evil

is

the same."

imagination,

Listen

now

suggested.

In both

what one, with an

to

"Learning

238.

have

magical

mantras, he has gained the favor of the king of the demons,

and putting
this

mighty demon forward, he has made

this

extraordinary

miracle

appear."

to

remarking the Brahmans returned

Mahipati,

the

true

bard

to their

of

the

239.

Thus

homes.
saints,

herewith

240.
a public crier, Eknath's great fame.
This book is the Sri Bhaktalllamrita. By merely

proclaims, as
Svasti.

listening to
it,

ye

it

one's desires are fulfilled.

loving,

pious

bhaktas.

This

delightful chapter.

Chapter

19.

Ovis 240.

Sloka

1.

is

Listen then to
the

nineteenth


EKNATH
CHAPTER

20.

BHAKTALILAMRITA.
Invocation.

Maliipali'::

Obeisance to Sri Ganesa.

(on the serpent.) At

Thy

door

come

Listen

Pandurang.

as a beggar.

What

have conceived a desire within me.

Thee.

Everlasting-recliner

Victory to Thee, Sri Hari;

1.

I desire

2.

I will tell

it is

Husband-of-

Rukmini, constant association with Thy Bhaktas.

the longing of

my

So

heart.

fulfil this

desire of

This

my

is

heart,

homes of
those who go on pilgrimages to Pandhari, for I would then
carry on my back their provisions, and they would bring
glorious Lord.

me

to

Thy

door.

3.

would be a beast

4.

would be the stone pavings

The

sacred city of Pandhari.

me

in the

in the

would

feet of the saints

Thou
puttest me into a human body, place me there, but make me
craze for Thee, so that without hindrance I may remember
for ever in my soul Thy feet. 6.
I want not metal physithen touch

cal knowledge,

the
that

with their purifying touch.

nor learnedness

homage of men.

my

affections

may

Give

5.

Give

in the Sdstras,

this to

me,

fond of the lives of the Bhaktas, dear to Thee, to

One, give

to

me

hending mind.

me

not

Pandharinath,

be centered in Thee.

universal soul and self are one. So,

If

am

whom

the

7.

Thou Eagle-bannered

to recollect their lives.

Give

me an

appre-

EKNATH

151

BRAHMANS ACCUSE EKNATH OF WORKING

THROUGH DEMONS.
8.

last chapter there

In the

related the miraculous

was

story of the loving feelings and piety of the Unmentionable

how God

dined at his house, and

not understand the

He

deedful avatar.
the

"

Maya

He

aspect of

manifested

Brahmans conceived

how
it.

many

the
9.

Brahmans did
Eknfith was a

kinds of deeds, hut

surmisings.
has learned magical mantras," they said. 10. " By
in

their hearts

evil

gaining the favor of the chief goblin, be has

form

to

He

appear as two.

can catch him

lias

made

his

taken us by craft.

one

We

in nothing."

EKNATH AND TOUCHSTONE.

11.

There was a

Brahman

Pratishthana a very pious man.

living

He

in

the

city

of

used to perform re-

gularly his morning and evening devotions, his purifications,

and abounded

in

good deeds.

12.

By good

fortune,

acquired in a former birth, he had found a touchstone

By

means he enjoyed happiness of mind, and

every form of wealth. 13. No one in the world seemed as
happy and as favored by every circumstance as he. As
people watched him, good thoughts were aroused in them.
14.
Day after day thus passed when suddenly his son and
wife died. He was greatly depressed by this, and found
no relief whatever. 15. Where a household lacks food,
there will be found an abundant progeny. Where painful
vows are made for the purpose of having a child, there a
(parlsa.)

sickly infant

its

is

but the husband

born.
is

16.

very ugly.

One

gains a beautiful wife,

young man may be very

152

EKNATH

noble, and yet his wife

may

One

17.

die.

possesses sons,

a wife and wealth, but a horrible disease developes in has

The generous minded

body.

are the wealthy, but they are misers.

acquires a beautiful body,

ous king he
is

may be,

still

it

is

If

18.

mind of

a man

short lived, a righte19.

There

gifts,

but he

but he lives but a few days.

the desire in the

There

possess no wealth.

one to bestow

meets no one worthy, or noble enough to receive them.

Such are the strange experiences in this life.

All know
this from personal experience.
20.
Thus it was that by
fate

and fortune the man had no sooner obtained

his touch-

stone than he lost his wife and those belonging to him,

and

he

Seeing

became

how

greatly

distressed

worldly

this

life

mind.

in

deceives

21.

one,

he

became depressed in mind, and thought to himself,

" I must go on a pilgrimage to a sacred watering
Then he thought
place," and this desire seized him.
22.
to himself, "
I

see

With whom

no one who

Eknath's house.

is

shall I entrust this

He

trustworthy."

touchstone?

then went to

Finding an opportunity of being

23.

alone with him, he reverently made him a prostrate namaskar, and said, " I have conceived the purpose of going on

the great pilgrimage.

24.

have been wondering

will care for this invaluable object

which

You are a true bhakta, and a great ascetic.

me the one only honest man." 25. When
this remark,
is

the

place

assurance, the

he

replied.

for

man

"Wherever your

your object."

26.

who

have with me.

You seem to
Eknath heard
is,

that

Receiving

this

trust

placed the touchstone in Eknath's hands.

Looking at it Eknath was surprised and said to him. 27.

" This appears to be but a stone, and yet you call it a priceless object.
Tell me quickly what is the good quality it

EKNATH
possesses?"

The man took a

28.

hands, and at once applied

suddenly

it

turned into gold.

it

153

"After

of iron in hi*

bit

to the touchstone, when

" This is a touchstone," he

from the Great Pilgrimage give me this back again. The Eagle-bannered-one
You will have no use for this."
is favourable to you.
30.
Sri Nath tossed it under his seat, and the man having
made his namaskar, started immediately on his pilgrimage.
31.
But it passed from Eknath's recollection that he
explained.

29.

I return

The cloud

should carefully guard the priceless object.

may

rain

upon the ocean, but the ocean pays no regard to

Or again, the
much as cast a

32.

it.

not so

who

sun, complete in his brightness, does

look at the light of a lamp.

has obtained nectar, pays no attention to a medicinal

plant.

And

33.

so to Eknath,

consciousness, gold and

did not

remember

The

pirgrimage.

He, therefore,

first

man

the

thing he did

was

34.

returned from his

to

make

35.

obeisance

Eknath asked

The
the particulars of his successful pilgrimage.
"
thought to himself,
He will give me back the touch-

all

stone without
distinguished
Sri

attained his soul

alike.

carefully to guard the touchstone.

and lovingly embrace him.

to Sri Nath,

man

who had

cowdung were

After a year had gone by

him

One

my

asking for

Brahman

36.

it."

sat quietly for

Nath had not the

slightest

The man then

With

this idea the

an hour or two, but

recollection

about the

said to himself, "

To-day
For that reason doubtless
he passes the subject by. I will come to-morrow and see
38.
to it."
Thus thinking to himself, the Brahman went
back to his home. But his mind was not at ease. " I see
" I gave the
no good outcome to this," he said.
39.
object to him, because he seemed one without worldly
touchstone.

is

our

first

37.

meeting together.

154

EKNATH

desires and affections.

Why

me

back

my

own."

40.

is it that

he hesitates to give

Bringing such thoughts into his

mind he was troubled the whole of the night. As the sun

was rising he finished his early morning bathing.
41.
While Sri Nath was performing his worsihp of God, the
man came and bowed to him, and in answer to his quesfrom its beginning to
made no reference what-

tioning about the journey related

its

end.

42.

But Eknath

still

it

Finally the

man

becoming

bold, recalled the matter to Eknathfs mind.

43.

Then

Nath remembered it, and asked where he had

The man replied, "You tossed it under your

ever to the return of his touchstone.

placed
seat,"

Sri
it.

and pointed there with

his hand.

44.

Both of

them hunted diligently, but the touchstone pebble was not

It was customary for the offerings of flowers to
collect for a fortnight, and then on Hari day to be thrown
away. 45. Eknath said to the Brahman, "The touchstone must have gone with the stale flowers."
At this
there.

suggestion of Eknath's the man's heart beat violently. 46.

"1 have only returned home, because of the desire to have
the touchstone back again," be said. " I had no tie of

wife or son, and

47.

Sri

Nath

saying, " Let us

my mind

started

go

is

now

with him

for

greatly distressed."

the

Gafiga

river,

and see whether it may not

have been thrown in there." 48. Sri Nath comforted him
as they went along saying, "The withered flowers were
thrown into the Ganga."
Eknath stepped into the
water, and took up five or seven pebbles. 49. He then
said to the man, "Choose from these your touchstone." The
man took a piece of iron from his pocket and applied it to
the pebbles to see what would happen. 50. And Lo, every
one of the pebbles had become a touchstone, to has great
quickly,

EKNATH
astonishment.

And

them

to possess

155

the greedy desire arose in his heart

Nath said to him,

The
these as yours and take it.
But

51.

all.

"Recognize one of

Sri

remaining I will offer to the Ganga.

The man

They

be well

will

from them.
The rest Eknath tossed back into the Ganga. Eknath then
l)athed and returned to his home. 53. The poet's mind
cared for there."

is

52.

selected one

unequal to the task of extolling the glory of Sri Nath.

Where

Veda

says, "

Not

what
Sri Vishnu became
54.
is the mosquito Mahipati there!
an avat&r to save the universe, and as Eknath he lived a
life

the

itself

that,

Not

that,"

of good deeds in truth, with devotion for the sake of

mankind.

EKNATH'S DAILY

LIFE.

Eknath was accustomed to rise at a very early

hour at dawn, to perform his toilet, to wash his face and
teeth, and then to go down to the Ganga to bathe and offer
55.

-oblation to

he sun.

After performing these regular

56.

duties he used to include the

whom

Pandurang, before

worship of the image of

he waved the platter with in-

cense and lights with sweet songs of praise.

this there

was

-explanation of

57.

After

the listening to the reading of the Purana,

its

Then came again

meaning, and grammatical constructions.

a

visit

offerings to ancestors.

to the

58.

At

Ganga, to make loving

the house there

was the

practice of good deeds.

There was infinite love in his
worship of the Brahmans. He drank with pleasure the
water touched by their feet And in all this he "experienced

After the Brahmans had been

feasted he would himself partake of a scanty meal. At

great satisfaction.

59.

EKNATH

156

the fourth watch of the day he would himself read aloud

commentary on the Bhagavata. 60. As the sum

was setting he would go to the Ganga for his evening
devotions. On returning to his home he would perform
Sridhar's

the waving of incense.

61.

spirited services of song.

At night there would be the

crowd of pious people would

be present to sit and listen with reverence. 62. Eknath's

lips would describe the many acts of Ram and Krishna

And the pious

aged would wag their heads

in the joy of love.

to the

folk,
in

from the child

approval with joy.

GOD COMES TO SERVE SRI EKNATH AS

SRI KHANDYA
Thus with due rites Hari kirtans took place at
and at all times there was the repeating of God's
names. Because of all this the Life-of-the- World was deeply
63.

night,

pleased.

64.

And

as

He saw

this

service of Eknath's

he felt the immense weight of a debt, and said to Himself,

" I can never repay Eknath's kindness." Kesava loved'

Eknath greatly. 65. So Krishna, taking the form of a

Brahman, immediately started from Dvaraka, and arriving
at Pratishthana bathed in the river bed of the Ganga.

66.

Hari then went and stood before the door of Eka Janardana. There he reverently made his namaskdra, and said,
" I have come with the fixed purpose of serving you- 67.
Because of your worship of Vishnu, your service to Bratomans, and your devotion to Vaishnavas I have a longing
desire to have constant association with you. 68.
My life
long I have given loving service to the saints. I ask no
wages from you. All I care for is enough to eat. 69. I have

EKNATH

157

and maintenance sufficient for my stomach, and your constant good

But
70.
Thus the glorious-Lord spoke.
company."
because of a divine Maya outside of Eknatihi's control, he
further wants than a blanket, a garment,

no

did not recognize the Husband-of-Indira,

him
71.

and so asked

What is your city? Have you wife and dependants?"

What is your family line? What is the name of this

"

body of yours?

Hearing these questions of Eknath the

Li fe-of-the- World replied.

" I

72.

am

absolutely alone.

no snare of wife or son. This body of mine has

the name of Krishna Sri Khandya. I wander everywhere
over the country. 73. I am a Rigvedi Brahman. My home
is wherever my mind is pleased. I have conceived the desire
of serving you."
Thus spoke the Husband-of-Rukmini.
74. And Eknath replied, " I have no desire to ask that
you serve me.
Accept food and raiment here, and in
peace seek the supreme attainment."
75.
Hearing
I have

Eknath's

words,

nectar

Giver-of-supreme-Bliss

the

responded," I will accept food earned by

in

your home.

strength in

my

By your

76.

body, and

have

grace I

this

and remain
have abundant

toil,

purpose in mind to

and eat, but that would be

only for this* perishable body. I want to do kindness to
others, for thereby it would be put to the highest purpose."
78.
Thus saying the Soul-of -the- world briskly took up the
kavadi on his shoulder, and filling its vessels with the
water of the Ganga, poured it into the great earthen jar.
He, whom Brahmadeva and the other Gods regard as
79.
worthy of worship. He, whose feet are praised by Siva
and the other Gods, even He, the Li fe-of -the-World, a
deedful actor in this drama, became a Brahman. 80. In
attempting to extol whose fame the Vedas and Purans are
serve saints.

77.

might

sit

EKNATH

156
frantic,

even

He

collected

what remained on the

plates

of

Brahmans for he had a marvellous liking for service.

81. In the Ocean of milk there lies the Island of the Sun.
Here the Recliner-on-the-Serpent has his heavenly abode.
Yet He it was who used to arise as soon as it was early
dawn, and who thought lightly of his hard physical toil.
82.
He, for whom, in acquiring the eight branches of the
the

Yoga, the yogi wears himself out, even He used to rise

early and brightly polish the vessels used in ithe worship
of God.
83.
The Dark-complexioned, fine-featured
Husband-of-Rukmini, Giver-of-union-with-Brahma, and
World-renowned, even He with his own hands joyously
performed every needed work. 84. He, from whose feet
the river Bhagirathi flows, even He, the glorious Lord,

would lovingly
first

dip,

fill

the jars with the clear water of the

for the worship of God.

He,
even

85.

whom

the

thousand Rishis worship,

He would
reduce to paste the sandal-wood on the stone slab, and fill
the ointment box. 86. He, whose night-and-day slaves
eighty-eight

are

the

eight

Powers,

Hrishikeshi, would

along

with Lakshmi,

weave garlands of

even He,

and place
He, through

flowers,

them ready for the worship of God. 87.

whom the moon and the king of the constellations, the sun,
become a mass of brilliancy, even He, Adhokshaja, would
bring forward the lamps, and feel no shame in his heart
for doing so. 88.
If Eknath ever called out to him,
"Krishna",

he

immediately

appeared

before

him.

He

and was always on the alert

Because he made the sandal-wood paste the Brah89.
mans called him Sri Khandya. All the inhabitants of the
town marvelled at him.
90.
Saying, "There is a
failed in nothing whatever,

Brahman

serving at Eknath's house.

He

takes no wages,

EKNATH

L59

and yet does every thing with zeal." 91. Unknown to

Eknathi the Lord-of-Dvarka was accustomed to enter the
kitchen and lovingly and joyfully render domestic service
92.

to his wife.
divine

in-

Forgetful of

all

Eknath's spirit of bhakti.

fatuated by
his

The Dark-complexioned One was

glory,

the

Eknath, ever ready to serve.

wonderful thing happened.

before

way the Lordwhen suddenly a

In this

93.

of-the- World spent twelve years there,

of

stood

Tender-hearted-one,

Listen to

it,

ye pious devotees

his.

THE DIVINE IDENTITY OF

.

94.

KHANDYA

SRI

REVEALED.

There was a Brahman

in

practised his religious ceremonies.

Dvarka, who lovingly

That he might have a
always repeating His

God he was
Twelve years thus rolled along, but he had
no direct revelation of Him. Finally one day, he, after
fasting, to an extreme limit 96.
Mother Rukmini informed him in a dream, " You are fasting to the extreme
direct revelation of

names.

limit,

95.

but Krishna

thana there

is

is

not here.

an abheda bhakta.

has gone there and

Krishna,

as

97.

Sri

is

In the city of Pratish-

The Lord-of-Vaikuntha

serving him.

Khandya

brings

98.

water

Chakrapani
for him in a

kavadi; makes, and gives him, the fragrant pigments, and

ever ready to render service to Brahmans.

99.
Thereyou should go at once to Pratishthana. There you
will find Sri Lord Krishna."
Having seen this vision,
the Brahmana awoke.
100.
And as he thought over the

is

fore,

matter in his mind, he said, "Rukmini has given

sign by which I

may

recognize him."

me

So he hastened

the
to

EKNATH

160

Pratishthana, and bathed in the Ganga.

Sri

Khandya came down

vari), bearing the

to the

Just then

101.

bank of the Goda (Goda-

kavadi on his shoulders.

recognized the Brahman, and said to himself,

He

at once

"Why

has

I had chosen
mine come here!
102.
a worthy place here, and have been spending my time
happily.
It is Rukmini who has made this public, and
this creditor of

sent him here."

Lord-of-Dvarka

103.
felt

Thus thinking

extreme chagrin.

however, with water, and went home.

He

to himself
filled

104.

He

his jars,

entered

the god-room and sat making the fragrant pigment,

suddenly the Brahman, enquiring his

way

the

when

along, entered

Nath saw the Brahman and

They at oince embraced
one another.
Eknath gave him a seat, and thus
106.
questioned him. "Tell me, where have you come from?
What is your occupation?" 107. The Brahman made an
He said,
affectionate namaskar, and told him his story.
" I went to Dvaraka, and there worshipped before the
Eknath's wada.
reverently

Sri

105.

made him a namaskar.

image of Sri Krishna. 108. I performed there the rites

whereby I might have a direct revelation of Him in bodily
form.
Suddenly Rukmini appeared to me in a dream,
saying, 'Sri Krishna has gone to Paitthan.
109.
There,
at the house of the loving bhakta Eknath, fie is acting as a
servant.'

110.

Now

On

have hastened here.

see him at once." And with this he

seeing this vision

let

me

Nath was amazed, and replied.

atom Sri Krishna ever pervades every thing. Answer me, what space is empty of
Him ? " 1 12. The Brahman replied, " Eknath, I have no
liking whatever for this philosophy about Brahma. Let
me now see Krishna, Sri Khandya, the Brahman. 113.
fell at

111.

Eknath's

"Down

feet.

Sri

to the smallest


EKNATH

161

Vaishnava bhakta, God felt

Recognizing your affection,
heavy burden of debt, and for
Himself under a very
twelve years has been serving you here.

There

is no-

114.
Hearing the Brahman'sthe Divine."
and
lovingly
said to Uddhava,.
amazed,
was
Eknath
remark,
115.
When
"Summon Krishna, the Brahman."
Uddhava called out, Sri Hari was in the god-room. At once
he assumed his four-armed form, equipped with the shell
He had on him his resplendent crown
and disk. 116.
brilliancy
the sun seemed pale.
Dark
whose
before
to

limit

complexioned, beautiful, King-of -Heaven,

look upon

for the

is rest

earrings flashed.

Around

weary
his

with the Kaustubha stone.

soul.

117.

whom
His

but

to

brilliant

neck was the jewel-necklaoe

One's eyelids closed at the

dazzling light of his yellow raiment.

118.

On

his feet

were ornaments, the neput, the vanki and todar.

Both
hands were anointed with fragrant oil. As the Brahman

saw

the Lord-of-the-World standing at the door of the

god-room he sprang towards Him.

119.
He lovingly
greeted Him, embracing His feet. As to Eknath, he was
filled with remorse, saying, " I have been the cause of
120.
Embracwas this a right thing
became a Brahman and

weariness to the Recliner-on-the-Serpent."

ing

God, he

said,

"Sri

Hari,

for you to do?

You, yourself,
unstintingly wearied yourself for me.

Thy

glory,

weary

In describing
Lord, the four Vedas themselves became

in the attempt.

greatness have I?

Brahmadeva became amazed. What

Thou, Purifyer of the Sinful,

122.

hast fastened the todar to thy

end of Time

my

123.

As

May

not prove
This comes as an experience to
Eknath thus praised Him, and again

false to the

soul."

121.

feet.

this

EKNATH

112

and again made Him a namaskSr, the Husband-ofRukmini exclaimed to him, " Blessed is your pure bhakti."
Once before this I took the form of Vitthal and for
124.
Then in the form of
twelve years led your choruses.
Kesava, I listened to the whole of the Bhagavata Puran
from your lips. 125. Thus I have already spent twentyfour years laboring here for you, but you did not know it."
Thus spoke the Soul-of-the-World. 126. Eknath replied,
*'0

Li fe-of -the- World,

Pervader-of-the-Universe,

O, Bewitcher~of-themind, through Thy deeds, Thou whose nature even Virinchi

Omament-of-the-&/ia&fcw,

tfiou

The conversation having proceeded

The
Hari suddenly vanished from sight.

does not know."

thus

far,

Sri

Brahmana

"You

127.

embraced

are

the

only

Eknath's
blessed

feet

one,

and
in

exclaimed,

the

world."

Eknath replied to the Brahman, " Although

Krishna was actually near me, I did not recognize
him.
It was you who to-day have caused me to see
Him." 129. The ascetic, with his soul full of joy, dined
with Eknath, and remained there with him a number of
The worship of
130.
days, listening to the Hari Klrtans.
Vishnu, listening to the Purana, and bathing in the Gaiiga,
were his regular habits, and with deep reverence he became
convinced that Sri Eknath was in reality Krishna
128.

Himself.

EKNATH AND THE FOUR THIEVES.

131.

And now

pious folk, listen with respect to ano-

As Sri Eknath was once performing

a kirtm, an audience of good people had assembled. 132.
There were many men and women who had come together.

ther delightful story.

EKNATH

164

They now began

we now

do ? "

to whisper to one another,

"What

shall

They could not make out where the

They bumped their
lintels or the steps.

144.

doors were, the

We

heads against the posts. " This is all unpropitious.

145.
see in this the wrath of
God," they exclaimed.
"Eknath
is a
Repentant in heart, they said to one another,

Vishnu bhakia. This misfortune has come upon us, because we have come here to steal. 146. Life is useless
In
without eyes. We had better give up life at once.
doing harm to this servant of Vishnu, we have angered
the Husband-of-Rukmini."
147.
Thus conversing together

the

thieves

wandered

about

the

wadi,

when

suddenly they found themselves in the god-room, and standing before Eknath.
Then again another miracle
148.
took place.

The

now

repentant,

deeply

Eknath.
hearts

sight of the thieves

they

bowed

was
in

reverence

before

Because of Eknath's goodness their evil

them, and joining palm to palm, the four thieves

149.

left

stood lovingly before him, praising him.

minded

And

restored.

150.

"We,

evil

knowing you to be the image of Sri

Pandurang, came here to injure you. Because you are a
saint, forgive us this wrong."
Eknath replied to
151.
them, " Who are you ? Why are you praising me ? Tell
me what are the desires of your hearts?"
152.
They
"
We are thieves. We came here to steal. As
answered,
we were looking for booty, we suddenly lost our sight.
153.
AH of us, crazed by this loss, have been wandering
about the wadi, and now we have been brought to this
ones, not

conviction that

we have committed

a great sin."

the thieves thus spoke, the heart of Eknath, that

peace,

"You

154.

As

Ocean of

and mercy, melted within him, and he exclaimed,

have suffered much.
155.
You came into my

EKNATH

165

away now with averted

He took them
156.
faces." Thus pleading with them.
into his treasure room and showed them everything remarking,
"Take away with you whatever may please you."

Do

house with high hopes.

not go

Give to your life peace and forgiveness. It is in

living a life of good deeds, that you will be without blame.
This is my injuction." 158. As the thieves saw Eknath's
instruction sank deep into their
calmness, his word of
157.

They coveted

hearts.

his property

no

longer.

They

expressed a desire only for a blessing of food to satisfy

Eknath immediately awoke Uddhava

and Girjabai, and said, " Prepare a meal quickly." 160.
Thus requested by Eknath, they very quickly cooked a
their hunger.

meal.

He

159.

served the thieves with his

own

hands, affec-

and kindly helping them to eat. 161. Just as

people of the world honor their sons-in-law, and the
parents of their sons-in-law with respect, so he treated
162.
Eknath prepared
these thieves, pressing them to eat.
the vida with his own hands, and passed it to them, He
then saw them on their way,
making them gestures of
respect.
163.
From that day the thieves gave up all
their habits of stealing, and with supreme reverence gave
themselves to the worship of Hari.
This shows
164.
tionately

He

Eknath's state of mind.

thought of the universe as

His feelings towards enemy and friend were

alike.
His actions, therefore, were out of the ordinary, and
not to be compared with those of others. 165. The man
who acts as he, talks as he, is, indeed, an avatar of God. By
himself.

the very sight of

him

souls are saved.

166.

In even

listening to his praise the greatest of sins are destroyed,

and one gains the Ultimate Release, and no longer has

rebirths.

167.

Blessed

is

the scared city of Prattshthana,

EKNATH

166

Eknath

are

people for

its

down
they saw

came

where

as

an

avatar.

Blessed-

his deeds with their

own

eyes.

EKNATH'S MERCY TO AN OUTCASTE THIEF.

living".

There was a certain outcaste who stole for a

After many days, he was, on a certain occasion,

caught

in

168.

the act of thieving.

169.

The owner of

the

house at once seized him, and took him before a court of

justice.
He was roughly beaten a'nd his feet were placed
in stocks.

170.

He

money

paid out

until stripped of all

he had, but found no one who would release him. Many

days thus passed, and finally he was unable to obtain food.
171.
His body consequently became emaciated.
He
appeared to people like a bundle of sticks. Finally thinking that he would die in a
few days, the prisoner was
released.
By the hand of a carpenter the nails of
172.
the stocks were extracted and the outcaste was set free.

As he had no

away no guard was placed

strength to run

As

night came on, the unmentionable

"
While the stocks are in this broken
thought to himself,

over him.

173.

condition, I

had better quietly

no strength.
remembered God, and
from this place. 175.
I have

How

174.
steal away.
can I run away."

cried,

am

"

And

Merciful One, save

helpless.

am

yet

Then he

me

altogether a

many days in imprisonment. O

Dark-complexioned One, in Thy mercy take me at once
from here." 176. As he was thus thinking to himself,
sinner.

I have lain here

he suddenly heard the distant sound of a klrtan.

He
immediately began to crawl away, yet fearful of his life.
177.
He went along staggering in the direction, of the

EKNATH
Hart

kirtan.

As be heard

door of Eknath's wOdi.

sat quietly in a corner.

167

he suddenly saw the open

it

He

178.

And

entered the wadi and

as he attentively listened to

the music of the kirtan, his soul felt peace.

body and

soul of the audience

were pierced

179.
to the

Both
quick

" Blessed,
the words of Eknath.
as they listened
" This is, indeed, the place of rest
Blessed," all exclaimed.
to

for the weary."

passed, and

then

made

distributed
to

now

the lamps

"Victory,

lighted.

their

Two

180.

watches of the night thus

for the

wave

Victory," shouted

offering

the

bhaktas,

were
and

namaskar to Eknath.
181.
He
sweetmeats and all the people returned

their final

homes.

Uddhava

locked

not seeing the Unmentionable.

disciple Girjabai

now

182.

retired to sleep.

the

The

outer

door,

helpful, true

Eknath, however,

seat, and happened to cast his

where the outcaste was sitting.
183.
When he came near to look, he beheld a person like a corpse,
but still alive.
There was no strength left in his body.
Such was the sight that met his eye in the iv&di.
184.
The compassionate Eknath felt his heart melt with pity.
He sought to question him, but the man made no reply other
than that of a sign, by putting his hand to his mouth.
185.
Sri Nath understood its meaning. " This fellow is
suffering from hunger," he said, and at once going into the
house, awoke his wife. 186. Girjabai reverently touched
her forehead to his feet, exclaiming " Tell me your wish."
The zridehi replied. 187. " A sick and starving man is

continued sitting on his

glance

towards

whatever you can prepare in a

moment's time, and suitable for him, get it ready at once."
sitting out in the yard, so

188.

No

sooner was the

command

lighted the fire in the chul.

given, than she quickly

She had some wheat flour

at

EKNATH

168

hand and this she cooked.

189.
and milk to it, and came out with it
Nath then with his own hands served
his dish.

for so

many

lovingly fed

him water

And

190.

lest

into the yard.

it

to the

Sri

man from

the man, having been starving

days, should die

him

She added sugar

from eating too

small quantity at a time.

he
gave

freely

He

191.

an earthen dish, causing him to drink ever}

now and then. Finally the man's life, that has its origin
in food, came back to him, and what were the prisoner's
first

in

words?

192.

"

merciful one to the poor,

of the helpless.

Blessed, Blessed one.

your kindness.

You have

friend

have experienced

taken me, a helpless one, to

and have quickly relieved me of my distress.

193.
I am an outcaste, a Mahar.
I became a thief for
my stomach's sake. When my deed became known in the
court of justice I was severely beaten. 194. My body
oecame emaciated. They then released me from the stocks.
Hearing the sound of your klrton, I ran away here." 195.
Tknath listened to the Unmentionable's reply and quickly
assured him that he might remain there until his strength
196.
returned.
He then gave him clothes, and a place
to sleep in the manger. Eknath then reentered the house
For a very
and sat repeating the names of God. 197.
short time he paid his respects to Sleep, and awoke very
-early in the morning.
He returned from his bath in the
yourself,

Ganga, and performed

all his

customary

198.

rites.

He

then at once sent information to the mayor of the town,

saying,
199.

"Your

The mayor

accepted him.

was

prisoner came to

It is

his only reply.

my

house

last

night."

"Your Greatness, you have

not now for us to punish him." Such
200. After the Brahmans had dined

replied,

Sri Nath served the prisoner with food.

At

night the

EKNATH
prisoner

lovingly

listened

the

to

came back to his body.

Eknath.
His evil mind left
worship

Sri

is

in this

rance and grace.

filled.

He

body.

began to

of the beautiful story in the next

By

book

Mahipati

203.

words of comforting assuThis book is the Sri Bhaktali-

his

merely listening to

Listen then to

it

one's desires are ful-

ye loving pious blwktas.

it,

the twentieth delightful

is

ate the food of

the glorious Husband-of-Rukmini.

has recorded
lamrita.

He

full

affection.

The narrator

202.

chapter

his

Finally

kirtan.

201.

-strength

Hari with

169

This

Chapter 20, verses

chapter.

.203.

CHAPTER

21.

BHAKTALILAMRITA.
Mahipati's Invocation.

Obeisance to Ganesa.

As

1.

seer

is

the giver

the support of the asker, or as the

Pandurang is the
have no other refuge but Him. 2.

the refuge of the blind, so

of the Mind.
is

is

fond of the stories of bhaktas.

ed a subterfuge.
permits no

He

difficulties to

fondly

my

He

He

has, therefore, adopt-

occupies

mind.

light

3.

my

If

it

heart,
is

and

sleeping,

He

awakens it.
He gives me memory in my dreams.
Sri Hari is fond of the stories of the saints.
Without

question

He

has entered into the depths of

my

heart.

4.

In order, assuredly to save the world, Pandharinath Himiseli became a bhakta of God, doing those things that make

EKNATH

170

among men.

the good manifest

World,

of

destroyer

the

of Maya,

skilled in the use

So

fear,"

"The

5.
is

Life-of-the-

both the author and

Dvaipayana

says

the

in

Vishnusahasranama.

BRAHMANS FIND FAULT WITH EKNATH'S

KINDNESS.
was narrated

the delight-

tenderly cared for the

Unmention-

In the last chapter there

6.

ful story of

how Eknath

His kindness was praised by those free from

worldly desires, pious and loving. 7. But the greatest of
able.

the

Brahman

pandits, religious rulers,

talked disparagingly.
per," they said.
in his

8.

and learned

sastris,

"

Eknath has done what is improHe has kept the Unmentionable thief

wadi for many days. By such action caste pollution

He has added defilement to his other faults.

takes place.
9.

If there is

castes?

What

only increases

need for benevolent

is

acts, are there

evil

thereby.

10.

One

You may caress a

You may feed
habit.

scorpion, but that will not change

its

a serpent with milk, still

if one nourishes a thief

own

steal all the

not other

the value of nourishing a thief.

more."

used by the religious

it

will not cease to bite.

in one's

11.

So

house, he will later

Such were the disparaging remarks

rulers.

EKNATH AND THE BRAHMAN GHOST.

12.

Bearing the above

event in mind, some one

approached Eknath and spoke to him.

an extraordinary event took

place.

When

suddenly

Let good people

listen

EKNATH

171

Nath was accustomed to take when going to his bath there was a banyan
Out of this tree a ghost of a Brahman suddenly
tree.
appeared. 14. And as Sri Nath was going down to his
bath the ghost stood before him joining palm to palm, and
to the story.

said,

"

saved.

By

13.

Along the path

the sight of you,

that Sri

a sinful being, have been

I,

Through hating a Brahman I came to this

have no further desire but to make one request
For a long time you have been feeding
16.

15.

birth.

of you.

Brahmans.

And

the orhtr night you fed the Unmention-

Both of these good deeds are in your

possession.
17.
If you will place in my hand one of the
two, symbolized in the form of water, I shall at once be
saved.
18.
You have indeed become an avatar in order
to save the world."
When Eknath heard this humble
" I see no such thing as sin or
supplication he replied.
19.
righteousness. Whatever you wish for ask from me." The
Brahman ghost comprehended his meaning, and lovingly
" You protected that prisoner.
asked. 20.
Bestow an
me thai deed of benevolence." Sri Nath took water in his
hand and presented it to him.
21.
The moment the
water touched the palm of his hand the malevolent creaable prisoner.

ture

attained deliverance.

city

witnessed

Receiving a

the

celestial

scene

The Brahmans of
and

were

tht sacred

amazed.

22.

body, the malevolent creature went

up the path to heaven. All the people shouted aloud the

names of Hari, and praised the greatness of Eknath.
Those who had been speaking disparagingly of him
23.
had their mouths stopped. " Victory, Victory," cried the
24.
All
people as they saw this extraordinary event
experienced the very great goodness of benevolence.

Unmentionable,

whom

he had cared

for,

The

was now a loving

EKNATH

172
worshipper of God.

25.

After strength had come back

Such was Eknath,

world, who had became

to his body he returned to his home.

the benevolent, the saviour of the

an

avat&r.

EKNATH'S PILGRIMAGES TO PANDHARPUR.

26.

In the month of Ashadha, Eknath was accustomed

to go on a pilgrimage to Pandhari, and after bathing in the

Chandrabhaga, to go to meet ri Pandurang.

27.

Along

with Sri Nath a great crowd of pilgrims would make their

way

listening

as they went, with

Eknath's Hari kirtans.

28.

It

affection

and love to

was Bhanudas, who had

established this custom of annual pilgrimages to Pandhari,

and Eknath continued

29.

The

that practice without

inhabitants of the sacred city of

any

failure.

Pratishthana

listened constantly to his Hari kirtans, to his gracious

words, and his remarkable parables.

EKNATH'S LITERARY WORKS.

Nath wrote commentaries on Sanskrit works.
Listen lovingly to their names, you fortunate people. 31.
By the command of the sadguru, Eknath was the first to
make the Chatusloki Bhagavata to be easily understood,
the meaning of which is exceedingly difficult.
32.
Besides this, he wrote many verses as padas, and in other
meters.
In his abhangs are amusing compositions.
Furthermore, he wrote the most excelltnt Prakrit commentary on the Hastamalaka. 33. Then there is the Sukashfaka, and after that the Svatmasukha, with its wonderful
30.

Sri

EKNATH

173

expression of his personal experiences, which the pious

listeners thoroughly enjoy.

34.

Furthermore, the saints,

the good and pious people, reverently and earnestly besought

Eknath to write a commentary on the Bhagavata, because

of

its

dealing so largely with the mysteries of bhakti.

35.

said, " the

Bhagavata is the greatest of the Puranas.

If from your lips we can have the Uddhavagita in Prakrit,
36.
Eknath listened to>
it will be of great use to many."
this request, and was truly glad, and began his Prakrit
commentary on the eleventh chapter of the Bhagavata

They

Purana.

A BRAHMAN TAKES A COPY TO BENARES.

37.

In a few days he had finished two chapters.

There was in that city a man, a noble twice-born, who,

when he saw it, was highly pleased.
38.
He made a
copy of it, and began to read it regularly. After a while
he conceived the idea of going on the Great Pilgrimage,
39.
He chose an auspicious occasion, and
to Benares.
taking leave of Sri Nath, he, with his family, started on
their way.

40.

They journeyed along

the road with'

other pilgrims, and finally reached the great sacred city of

Benares.
the

They bathed

in the Bhagirathi

Lord-of-the-Universe.

and worshipped

(Visvesvara.)

41.

He

performed fully all the prescribed rites of the holy place,

and remained there four months, during which he was
accustomed to read aloud from the two chapters of the
Bhagavata, composed by Eknath. 42. He bathed in the
Manikarnika, and placed bis seat on its bank, himself
adorned with the twelve adornments, of gopichandan
tulsi,
etcetera.
43.
He had with him the two

EKNATH

174

chapters of the Bhagavata, and these he there lovingly

When

read aloud.

suddenly there arrived on the scene

the cause of trouble.

THE BRAHMAN

IS

ATTACKED FOR READING

PRAKRIT TRANSLATION.
44.

engaged

On

the

same bank there resided a great sannydsi,

Two

in the study of the Nostras.

came down to
they saw there

45.

Seeing his noble appearance, they said to

his seat there.

one another, "

To their surprise
man from Pratishthana, who had placed

the water to bathe.

this

of his disciples

He must

be a

Brahman

pandit.

46.

Let us

what sastra, what book, he is reading."

Thus saying, they came near the man and sat down beside
him. 47. They used the Sanskrit language in conversing with
" Tell us," they said, " what Sastra are you reading
"him.
aloud?" 48. The man replied to them, " It is a prakrit
commentary on the eleventh chapter of the Bhagavata,
The pandits replied, " Read it
that I am reading." 49.
aloud to us." The man was pleased to receive this request,
and began to read it with delight. 50. To begin with,
Eknath's style was pleasing, and the man's voice was most
There were no faults in the translation,
excellent.
The
nor in the exposition of its meaning.
51.
pandits therefore, exclaimed, "Blessed is the power
of
utterancy of that good man, but if this book
becomes
widely
known,
will
no
one
care
to
find out at once

read the Bhagavata in

two

its

disciples then said to

52.

The

one another in Sanskrit,

"We

original

Sanskrit."

liad better report the matter to the Svdmi, and have this

EKNATH
thing forbidden."

They made

53.

and one remained on

175

one another,

signs to

guard, while the other hastened to

54.
the monastery and related the news to the Svdtni.
" On the ghat of the Manikarnika," toe said " a Brahman
is sitting

reading lovingly a Prakrit version of the Bhaga-

55.

vata.

You, Svami, are the chief authority among

Therefore,

the inhabitants of this sacred city.

you
all,

to punish him.

who

If his Prakrit version

will respect

us Purdniks.

is

for

acceptable td

is

As he

56.

it

listened to

the words of his disciple, the sannyasi became enraged,

and whatever punishment
and said, " Bring him here,

should be given him, I will give

it."

57.

This

command

was no sooner given, than five or seven disciples started

on a run and angrily spoke to the man, who was sitting
" Come, bring your book along
reading the book.
58.
with you," they cried, "and come along quickly to the
monastery of the Svami."
The man was greatly frightented, but bethought himself of Eknath's feet.

enfolded the book in

its

cloth,

59.

and hastened along.

entered the monastary of the Svami,

bowed

to him,

He
He
and

stood before him.

THE BRAHMAN APPEARS BEFORE THE

SANNYASI.
With a motion of his eye the sannyasi invited
him to be seated. The Pandit spoke to him in the Sanskrit, but he was unable to understand him.
61.
Regarding him, therefore, as a fool, he addressed him in the
60.

Prakrit,

"Where

commentary?

62.

lives the great poet, the

Or

perchance

it

is

author of this

your own

intellect

EKNATH

176

that has produced this Prakrit version.

Tell the whole

truth without holding anything back."

63.
The man
"
replied in turn.
On the bank of the Ganga, in the sacred
city of Pratishthana there lives a great

name

of Nath.

He

64.

is

and good man by

constant in the worship of

He

Vishnu, in his Hari kirtans, and offerings.

lovingly

worships Brahmans and drinks the holy water of their

feet.

By

65.

the

means of the

gift

of his Guru's blessing

he has received the poetic inspiration and he has lovingly

begun a commentary on the eleventh chapter of the
Bhagavata.

Two

66.

chapters were finished.

These,

I,

an ignorant man, hastened to copy, because of my reverence for it, and I am reading it, comparing it with the
Sanskrit text.

man

is

67.

The sannyasi then

altogether blameless.

We

must

declared, " This

call

Eknath here

and punish him.

EKNATH

IS

SUMMONED TO BENARES BY THE

CHIEF SANNYASI.

68.

In the sacred city of Pratishthana, on the bank

of the Goda, there must be pandits and religious rulers.

How is it that they have permitted a Prakrit commentary

on the Bhagavata."
Sannyasi commanded

Brahmans

69.

With

this

declaration

the

his disciples to write a letter to the

at Pratishthana.

70.

As

follows.

" Vyasa,

out of the churning of the Vedas, extracted the Sri Bhaga-

And

Uddhvagita consists of the very essence

71.
One, Eknath by name, a great
poet, an inhabitant of your town, has written a Prakrit
commentary upon it.
This seems to us exceedingly
vata.

this

of the Upnishads.

EKNATH

177

You, the all-knowing, and chief Brahmans, should all become of one mind, and after punishing
him, send him immediately here. 73. I have sent herewith two of my disciples. Give them your support. They
are to vanquish him in discussion." 74. Such were the
improper.

72.

of

contents

the

letter

written

to

the

religious

rulers,

requesting them to send their town's Commentator to

at Benares.

"

Come

75.

He

also sent a letter to

Eknath saying,

here immediately, and bring with you your Prakrit

manuscript of the Bhagavata."

tents of the

two of

him

two

letters

his disciples to

76.

he wrote.

Such were the con-

He

then

commanded

go to the Deccan, and bring Eknath,

77.

Further more he snatched from the hands of the

man

the

two chapters. The two

merrily and arrived at Paithan.

disciples

journeyed along

THE TWO DISCIPLES ARRIVE AT

PRATISHTHANA WITH SUMMONS.
78.

They duly performed

and then met

their

morning devotions,

The Brahmans were

and duly informed of the events. 79.
presented the letter and as it was read aloud,
the religious rulers.

hastily assembled

The

disciples

Brahmans listened.
They then discussed the
matter among themselves. 80. " This defiled man lives
all

the

in our city," they said,

"and performs

eccentric deeds.

81.
But
Eknath has thrown a spell over the influential and moneyed
men of the city, and over other piously inclined castes.
He has made them subservient to him. 82. For this
Therefore
reason we have no influence whatever.
the chief religious ruler here openly praises him.

EKNATH

178

vanquish him in discussion.

All of us, dwellers in this

you assistance on that occasion."

83.
One proposed that Eknath should be called immediately
and vanquished in discussion. Another remarked, "He
city,

will render

must go
ment.

to the sacred watering place

He

84.

has

undertaken

composition

own

of

glory.

(Benares) he will certainly be

the great sacred city

ignominiously

the

suffer punish-

Bhagavata for his

this Prakrit version of the

At

and

disgraced."

85.

The

disciples

from

They said,
in many ways.
What an evil minded man he

Benares showed their pride

"We

can vanquish him.

And

accompanied by the Brahmans of the

town, they came to Eknath's wadi. As Eknath saw them
coming, he arose to receive them, and made them a namaskar.
They embraced one another, and in a gracious
87.
manner he caused them to be seated. "Tell me, you image of
88.
The
mercy," he said, " In what city do you live."
the
letter
in
Eknath's
hands
disciples
reply, delivered into
of the sonnyasi.
Eknath affectionately bowed his head,
and read the letter aloud. 89. Eknath then became filled
is."

86.

so,

with joy, and looking towards the Brahmans

said,

Lord-of-the-universe has remembered me, and

he has summoned me."

to hasten to

manage

all

"

The

therefore,

Eknath determined at once

Benares, and calling Uddhav, requested him to
his affairs in his absence.
91. To carry on
90.

the worship of Vishnu, the reading of the Puranas, hospitality

to

worship of Brahmans, and the nightly

" All these things I leave in your keeping,"

guests,

Hari kirtcms.
he said.
92.
Uddhava assenting, made a reverential
obeisance.
Eknath was filled with joy at the thought of
going on the Great Pilgrimage. 93. Eknath urged upon
the disciples of the sannyasi that they

sit

down

at once to

EKNATH
"

eat.

he

said.

are wearied by your

You

" It

94.

is

many days

me that you have had this

and now back." The two Brah-

and

disciples listened

replied.

95.

"We

full satisfaction in seeing

Thus thy

you."

have just

we have our

dined at the house of the religious ruler, but

And

of travel,"

because of

wearisome journey here

man

179

96.

replied.

the purpose they had conceived in their minds of

him impudently, that evil purpose passed away

" Blessed,
moment they looked upon Eknath.
97.

addressing
the

Blessed, blessed

blessed in his bliakti.

his character,"

is

so whispered these disciples to one another.

were present there some secret

There

98.

spies of the religious rulers

and they hastened away to report all the happenings. 99.

"At the very sight of Eknath" they reported, "the Brahmans from Beneras became humble.
While we were
looking on, they became meek. He has thrown a spell upon
them." 100. When the religious rulers heard them they
were amazed, and said, " Eknath has evidently discovered
the method of killing an enemy by means of courtesy.
101. The God Vishnu received all the glory by patiently enduring the mighty kick of Bhrigu. So Eknath has discovered
the art.

He

ever possesses the spirit of gentleness.

102.

Whoever comes to persecute him ends by falling at his

Thus wrath departs, through his acts of kindness,
feet.
103.

If

some mischief

to his advantage.
his praise.

God

If
is

place.

devised against him,

dishonour

is

his helper."

inhabitants of the city

good people now

is

murmured

listen

to

the

planned,

104.

it

it

turns out

turns out to

Thus the Brahman

in their hearts.

events

that

Let the

later

took

EKNATH

180

EKNATH GOES TO BENARES.

Eknath started on his journey along with the
Brahman disciples, who had been sent to bring him.
He took with him the manuscript of five chapters of the
105.

Bhagavata.

106.

He

had, neither horse nor baggages

with him, because he had

started

immediately on his

But Uddhava sent after him two Brahmans to

107.
By his own choice he journeyed along
the way with the men from Benares. Finally, one day,
they arrived at Anandavana.
108.
After bathing in
the Bhagirthi Sri Nafh naturally sat down, and the two
disciples went to the Scmny&si and made him a namaskSr.
109.
And said, "Through your might indeed, we have
been to Pratishthana and have brought back with us the
Commentator. What is your further wish?" 110. The
journey.

serve him.

Svdtni replied to this question, " I

beg.

am

just starting out to

Seat him within the monastary (until

Such was

command.

my

return)."

Having thus instructed

Accompanied by his three
hundred disciples, he took his departure. 112. The two
disciples went to the bank of the Ganga and brought
" Be seated in the monastary
Eknath back with them.
113.
"Assuredly,"
until the svami returns," they said.
was Sri Nath's reply, and so saying, quietly sat down, even
he in whom there was absolutely and eternally neither
his

111.

them, he started out to beg.

exaltation nor inquietude.

EKNATH BEFORE THE SANNYASI.

114.

begging

Now
was

let

over.

us turn to what happened after the

The Mahant gave

instructions to his

three hundred disciples to go within the monastery,

and

EKNATH
my

"Listen to

181

command," he

strict

"The

115.

said.

great poet of Paithan, author of the Prakrit Bhagavata, has

been brought here by

chastize him.

Each of you
their

You

116.
is

two

to give

heads

to

their

wish you to

disciples.

are three hundred disciples.

him

five

If he survives

blows.

further consider what to do."

I will

this,

my

117.

sadguru's command, the

Bowing
disciples

hastened away, but as they went along the way, they

themselves

bethought

thus.

powerful and worthy of respect

But

if in

"The Svami
and has commanded

118.

Brahman he should

beating the

die,

is

us.

our penance

most severe. 119. We had better take into consideration what Eknath's methods are, what his standing
will be

is,

what

his

ledge."

worship

120.

Thus

to

the

door,

and how he has acquired

his

know-

discussing, they stood near the door

Finally they said, " Let us, one by one,

of the monastery.

go

is,

and look

him."

at

121.

That being

determined, one by one the sannyasis entered the monastery.

There they saw Eknath

sitting quietly,

them in the form of Krishna.

bowed to him, and stood with
exclaiming,

"He

Satchidananda."

is*

and appearing to
Reverently they

122.
their

hands palm

to palm,

the sagun avatar of the totality of

123.

To

all

the three hundred sannyasis

he thus manifested himself in the monastery. They further exclaimed, "This is truly the image of Narayana,
manifested to save the world.
possession of man.

abode

in the

command

human

124.

For our sakes

heart.

If

Janardan has taken

He has taken His

we had

listened to the

of our Svami, an awful calamity would have

taken place."
125.
With these exclamations all the
sannyasis bowed low to Eknath, and standing before him

EKNATH

182

with hands palm to palm, said, " Truly he

Then one of

is

the Lord-of-

and said
to the SvSmi, " You have sent the sannydsis to beat Eknath
with clubs. 127. But they have broken your command.
They are all bowing to him, and standing before him with
hands palm to palm. This seems to us very extraordinary."
128.
When the Mahant heard the news, he became hot
with rage, just as Hiranyakasipu became furious in heart
when Pralhad came as a suppliant to Sri Hari. 129. Or
as Ravan trembled with rage and violently crunched his
teeth, when Bibhishana, seeing the might of Rama, came
130.
as a suppliant to him.
Just such was the Sv&mi's
state of mind, and he exclaimed, " These sannyasis are of
my own sect, and yet have broken my command and have
Heaven.

126.

gone as suppliants to him.

the disciples went

131.

What

science of magic

moment he is seen
He then gave a command to his disciple.
" Where
132.
it I will tell you, Listen.

has Eknath so fully learned that the

he casts a

The

my

substance of

usual seat

is

hang there a

who composes a
command of the SvCimi,

sight of
this

spell."

one

curtain.

do not wish the

Prakrit book."

133.

With

the disciple hastened ahead

and hung a curtain opposite the Svami's seat.

The
Svami entered by another door.
134.
He spread his
skin mat and seated himself. The three hundred disciples
were still standing by the door with eyes fastened on
Eknath' s form. 135. And as they viewed his four armed
form their consciousness of body vanished.
They no
longer thought of I and Thou. All were gazing intently
at Eknath.
136.
And in love were crying out, " Eknath,
Eknath." All were praising him with their lips, he was
that Lord-of-Heaven for whom a great penance is required.
137.
They had received the kind favor of their Svami,

EKNATH
hence they could see

this

183

sagun appearance.

as

Just

Sisupala and Vakradanta were saved by their very hate.

138.

As

disciples

Svami listened to the exclamations of

he was astonished. " He has cast a spell upon

how

but

his

the

He

cannot understand,"

said.

all,

The

139.

Svami then moved

his seat close to Eknath, with only

between them.
The chief Mahant of the
" Among all the
140.
sannydsis then addressed Eknath.
great debaters among the Sannyasis I am the most distinguished. I will crush your deceit and have }rou at once

the curtain

publicly punished."

Sri Eknath, ocean of tranqui-

141.

and kindness, listened to these conceited words, but

was not in the least troubled thereby, and returned a soft
" O Svami, great and powerful, I reve142.
answer.
rently place my head at your feet.
Do me, a helpless one,

lity

the kindness of permitting

me

have conceived the desire

to

have summoned

me

long journey.

Why

to see you.

You

143.

mere child, and

have come here by a

see me, a

here to see you.

have you drawn

this

curtain?

144.

If
have committed any wrong, forgive me now.
you will examine my intelligence, you will find that it does
not comprehend the Sanskrit.
I am without
145.
If

devotion, without bhakti, without knowledge, without in-

worldly

difference

to

S&stras.

I have not

this

life.

studied the

through serving you that

have not read the

Vedas.

146.

have received even

poetic inspiration, through which I have

of the Bhagavata.

five chapters

this slight

you

find in

147.

of the Eleventh Chapter

Will the Svami kindly look

carefully and take into consideration

If

is

composed verses

as best I could, beginning with the Bhagavata.

have prepared only

It

it

over

meaning? 148.
the manuscript, as far as I have gone, any
its

EKNATH

184

fault in its interpretation of the Bhagavata, then sink

it

would be no reason
existence.
149.
You are Narayana in visible form
great sacred city, and rich in knowledge. If you

in the Manikarnika, for then there

for

its

in this

do not approve of this idea, how will others approve? 150.

So now show me kindness and put your anger far away.
Save me a helpless one, by the sight of you." 151. These
nectar words of Eknath
were no sooner heard by the
Sannyasi than his anger left him, and the quality of goodness manifested

the night of Ignorance had densely

when

filled

his soul.

But

the sun appeared, giving him knowledge, the darkness

faded away.

The

153.

Supreme Brahma
complete

in

visible

content

of

form.

the

is

not man, but the

That which

154.

Vedanta,

the

Satchidananda, the qualityless and changeless.

evident to the senses as Narayana.

of

salvation

the

The

light penetrated his soul.

sannyasi said to himself "Sri Nath

the

The darkness of

152.

itself in his soul.

world,

155.

totality

He
And

appears
for the

Dweller-in-heaven

this

is

of

has

descended as an avatar, and coming to this monastery in

visible form, unsought by us, has given us a sight of him-

He

156.

self.

Remove now
being."

is

man

at once the curtain

157.

Thus

his good disciples,

had the

truly not

the

and

Svdmi

but a deedful avatar.

and

let

me

see this divine

listened to the

word of

his heart melted within him.

He

curtain at once removed, and Lo, to his eyes Krishna

appeared.

THE SANNYASI
158.

same

And

as the

IS

CONVERTED.

as he saw the sagim form before him, the

form for contemplation, which the great poet,

EKNATH

18&

of loving bhakti had described in the Bhagavata, he

repentant in heart.

159.

" Save, me,"

he

now

overflowed with the eight emotions, he lost

all

became
and

cried,

conscious-

made Eknath a sasht&hga namaskar.

Nath now reassumed human form, and lifted
the sanny&si up while he was shouting aloud, "Victory,.
Victory, I am saved to-day.''
161.
But Eknath on the
"
other hand exclaiming,
Obeisance to Narayana " made a
namaskar to the Satiny asi, saying "Svami, this seems
ness of body, and
160.

ri

wrong.

You

The sanny&si

are the superior in this monastery."

16Z.

words and was overcomewith amazement, exclaiming, "He has shown marvellous
deeds before our eyes. He shows reverence in the interlistened to Eknath's

pretation of scripture."

163.

Thus enjoying ecstacy of

Svami took his accustomed seat and seating

Eknath close to him had him unfold the clothi containing
the book. 164. The meaning of one sloka he read rasoul

the

and
knowledge!" And as he

the

165.

five

chapters,

Then

all,

in

"What

exclaimed,

he

listened

conjunction

a sense of peace.

felt

with

irresistable

the

sadguru

con-

sulted together, and standing before Eknath with hands

palm to palm, made him this request. 166. " You have
already composed five chapters of the Bhagavata. We ask
you to complete the Eleventh skandha here, in Benares.
Until you have finished the commentary we wish
167.
Thus the
you would joyfully remain here with us."
" I will do so," said
sanny&sis pled with Eknath-.
168.
Eknath, bowing his head to their request. He then started
to finish the book, rejoicing in his heart.

169.

As much

of the commentary as he composed each day, the Sanny&si

would examine

it,

bearing in

mind the meaning of the

Sanskrit original, but he found not the slightest inaccuracy.

EKNATH

186

Six months passed and the book was finished, and

170.

was replete with the mystery of bhakti, all

listeners were made joyous.
All were accustomed
171.
to take their seats and the head of the monastery would
have the book read aloud again and again. At night when
it was read, joy and satisfaction would come with a rush.
The hearts of all became full of happiness. 172.
As
soon as the book was completed the thought came into
the Mahant's mind to make a great celebration in the
monastery, and worship Sarasvati. 173. With this happy
inspiration he made all needed preparations, and hastened
to send invitations to the other pandits who were in the
sacred city.
174.
He said, " Eknath has written a
Prakrit commentary on the Eleventh chapter of the
Bhagavata. I have examined carefully its contents and
have experienced loving joy. 175. The book is at last
finished.
To-morrow there will be a celebration of the
event at the monastery. I invite all of you Brahmans,
because

it

great and small to come."

THE BRAHMANS REVILE EKNATH.

176.
all

began

When
to

the earth-gods heard this invitation they

revile,

the Bhagavata.

"What!

This

is

deluded

Why

How

Prakrit commentary on

an impossible idea!

this beginning of the Kali

marvellous degree.

is

177.

In

Yuga heresy has spread to a

it that the Svami has been

did he not at once stop his attempt

178.

In this great sacred city he is giving his cordial approval

to this Prakrit version. This is one of the wonders of the
Vaishnava Maya. The Svami has evidently fallen under
Eknath's

spell.

179.

Let us, however, hasten to go and

EKNATH

187

We

must
Suchi was the
certainly sink his book (in the river)."
Thus all the
180.
fixed determination of the Pandits.
Brahman Pandits, learned in the Vedic sastras, and all the

acquaint him with the injunction of the sastras.

Vedanta propagandists, arrived at the monastery of the

181.
Svami, and made him a sdshtanga namaskar.
"
Svami,
him,
Then taking the sannydsi aside, they said to

you are the chief of

All of us

all.

disciples in every respect.

of

all

great.
all

wisdom.

You

Over and above

the

four asramas.

Brahmans are your

You

182.

are the chief seat

are our Sadguru, worshipful and

this

As

you belong to the noblest of

to worthiness

of

reverence

you are supreme over all. 183. This being so, it seems
to us altogether wrong that you, Svami, have given your
commentary on the Bhagavata
approval to the Prakrit
made by Eknath of Pratishthana. 184. That which has
been evolved out of the churning of the Vedic sastras
the Bhagavata.

mentary.

On

it

is

Eknath has made a Prakrit com-

It deserves to be

sunk in the Manikarnika.

185.

Just as long ago Dvaipayana sank the Bharata, composed

by

Jaimini,

and received renown thereby.

186.

Or

as

the Acharya threw into the water the great book of the
Jains, so the Prakrit

karnika.

187.

By

Bhagavata should be sunk in Manidoing this

all

the

Brahmans

will

be

made happy, and the fame of this sacred city will increase."
Thus all the Pandits pled with the Svami.
188.
The
Sannydsi replied, "I persecuted Eknath severely, but he
is not a human being.
He is an avatar of Vishnu in visible
form. 189. All of you should indeed worship his book
with mantric rites."
Although thus exhorted by the
sannydsi, the Pandits would not at

all listen.

EKNATH

188

THE BRAHMANS THROW EKNATH'S

MANUSCRIPT INTO THE RIVER.
The

190.
vata,

Pandits asked Sri Eknath for his Bhaga-

and taking

tossed

it

from him,

into the Manikarnika.

it

culous event took place.

The

hastily rising, they

191.

Listen to

it

went and

Suddenly a miraye fortunate hearers.

Bhagirathi river lifted up both her arms and caught the

book

in her hands.

On

192.

bracelets, beautiful, divinely

book up

in her

hands

all

her arms were jewelled

marked.

And

as she held the

were amazed at the

193.

sight.

.With cries of, "Victory, Victory," the assembled crowd

rejoiced.
The sannyasi
and
exclaimed, " Chandramauli (Siva) has manifested himself to me."
194.
The chief of all the sannyasis then
leaped into the Manikarnika, and, grasping the book with
his hands, lovingly held it on his head.
195.
He brought
it to the Pandits, and they looked at it with downcast

clapped

their

countenance.

hands

The

sannyasi said to them, "

Take warning,
They listened

and go now as suppliants to Eknath." 196.

and then placed their foreheads at the Svami's

"We
they

are in every
said.

now know."

197.

way

feet.

at fault in not listening to you,"

"Eknath

is

God

visible.

The

truth

we

All the Pandits then entered the Monastery

and reverently greeted Eknath. 198.

They placed the
"
book before him and said,
This is your gracious voice.
Sri Bhagirathi put forth her hands and lovingly protected
it."
199.
And Sri Nath, as he saw the Pandits and the
sannydsi before him, made them a namask&r. The Svami
then requested the Brahmans that they should lovingly
worship Eknath.
200.
"Allow us," they said to binv
"some service to a saint, that we may be saved from the

EKNATH
sea of this worldly

bowed

at their feet

life."

and

And

said, " I

189

on his side,
beg you not to do anything
Sri Nath,

so unseemly."

a delightful story by the

mere hearing of which the pious become freed from worldly
This book is the Sri BhaktalilaSv&sti.
desires.
202.
In the next chapter

201.

By merely

mrita.

listening to

is

one's desires are fulfilled.

it

This is the
ye pious loving bhaktos.
Chapter 21, verses 202.
twenty-first delightful chapter.
Listen then to

it,

CHAPTER

22.

BHAKTALILAMRITA.
Mahipati's Invocation.

Obeisance to Ganesa.

Pandhari.

iYour

Guru-of -the-World, Lord-ofVaishnava Maya is unfathomable,

impossible

even

for

Victory

1.

Thee,

to

gods to understand.
2.

If

why!

should

Brahmadeva

and

other

the

These are matters of experience.

attempt

Vedas

to

Thy greatness,
know Thy extent!

describe

do not
And what am I but one of little intellect, a
mere servant, of humble life, a sinner, and stupid-minded.
I cannot use words correctly.
3.
The Sanskrit language
with its abundant forms has not made itself intelligible
to my mind. I speak at random and irrelevantly.
4.
O Thou Merciful-to-the-lowly, Husband-of-Rukmini, this
is the witness of my own soul, and I do not know what
this

even

my

the

poetic composition will finally be like.

5.

But

EKNATH

190

Thou, Internal-witness and Intelligence, hast caused my

mind to remember, and hast committed to my keeping the

Thy

secret store of

stupid-minded,

am

deeds.

Of

6.

and

the most ignorant,

Pandurang, shouldst

relate to

me Thy

men

I,

that Thou,

ignorant

all

deeds

is

most strange.

Formerly, in order to take away the pride of Narada

7.

Thou

The

didst cause a bear to sing.

place through

Thy

will,

impossible takes

Sri Hari.

THE MIRACULOUSLY RESCUED MANUSCRIPT

IS

WORSHIPPED.

Chapter it was related how the Pandits

threw into the water the Bhagavata, composed by Sri Nath,
In the

8.

last

and how the Bhagirathi

And

how

river held

it

aloft in

her hands.

Ganga
and how, when all came
back to the monastery, Sri Nath came to meet them. 10.
And how reverently he bowed to the Sannyasi
and Brahmana Pandits, and how the Svami, abashed,
exclaimed, "By your nobleness you have sunk our
9.

then

the chief sannyasi sprang into the

and seized the book

pride."

11.

Pandits

with

The

materials

all the

to

in his hands;

san-ny&si

for

worship

reverence

in

then

worship,
Sri
their

Nath,

and
as

hearts.

quickly

collected

commanded
he

ought

12.

The

the

to

be,

Pandits

did not have real reverence in their hearts, but they

at his feet because of the miracle they

had

seen.

fell

Eknath

begged of them that they should not do anything so improper.

13.
"I am but a servant of the servants of Brafomans, holding the hope of your favor.
Rather by
reverently worshipping this book

you

will give

me

joy."

EKNATH
They

14.

The

191

listened to Eknath's proposal

and

all

approved.

an elephant brought with a canopied seat.

15.
The elephant was caperisoned with cloth studded
with gems, and marked with setidur. And over all were
spread embroideries in gold and silver thread, and other
Thus beautifully adorned the elephant was
adornments.
The satiny dsi begged Eknath to sit
16.
quickly brought.
on the canopied seat with the book. Sri Nath replied, " I
The only right thing
17.
will not do so wrong a thing."
is

sannySsis had

to place the book on the canopied seat, and take

around in procession.

am

in every

way

desiring only the dust of your feet."

seven

them

rich

to

make

and

pandits,
all

but a suppliant,

There were

18.

sannydsi

the

it

commanded

the necessary preparations for feasting,

each one providing for one day.

proposed was acceptable

to all,

for

What

19.

who

the svami

could slight his

All the Brahmans of Benares were his suppliants.

So worshipping the book with due rites they placed it
on the canopied seat, and a great crowd assembling marched
in enthusiastic procession.
21.
There were emblems and
banners. The cymbal and drum gave sweet music. The
Vaishnavas sang lovingly and reverently, and with shouts
of " Victory, Victory," they repeated aloud the names of
God.
22.
By the sound of the drum, and the kettledrum the air was dense with sound. In great crowds men
and women watched the novel sight.
23.
Thus the
procession marched until night, and then there were let off
many kinds of fireworks, rockets, and moon-lights were

wish?
20.

fired off

many

each step of the way.

kinds of flowers, and

thrown

into the air.

the city of Benares.

A
25.

24.

Fragrant powders,

perfumed substances were

great festival

was celebrated

Wherever the procession

in

halted,

EKNATH

192

made preparations and fed the sannyOsis

and Brahmans who had assembled in great crowds. 26.

there the Pandits

For seven days the festival was joyfully celebrated.

By
-day and by night the book procession marched, and all
praised the greatness of Eknath. 27. On the eighth day
the procession came back to its starting point.
Here a
great celebration

was

carried on, and observed with joy.

The sonny &si then commanded the pandits, saying,

"Collect all the chief Brahmans and lovingly listen to a
klrtan from Eknatfa's lips." 29. Thus enjoined by the
28.

were naturally gratified. " Call to day,"

he said, "an assembly of Brahmans, and listen to the
Tclrtan."
30.
The learned pandits, the Vaishnava
bhaktas, the Vedic Brahmans, the saints and mahants, and
all the pious men and women assembled in the monastery.
chief sannyasi

31.
v'tna,

With

all

the loud noise of the cymbal, the

the sound took the very

Eknath performed the klrtan

drum and

the

form of Brahma, and as

his heart rejoiced exceedingly.

The people shouted aloud the names of Vitthal and

clapped their hands.
The air became dense with the
32.

sound as they

cried, "Victory, Victory."

33.
Eknatii
strung together stories, whose contents were replete with

bhakti.

Among them were some

that

were philosophic,

yet such as increased the glory of bhakti. 34.

In this
Kali Yuga it is the name of God that has saving power.
Illustrative proofs are found in the slokas of the Bhagavata.

Besides

Sadguru praised with his own lips

35.
As Sri Nath's words of grace

this, the

the glory of bhakti.

were

listened to, the assembled people

The Pandits

became

transfixed.

of body. They became

The Brahmans said to one

lost all consciousness

lost in contemplation.

another, " There are

36.

many who perform Hart

kirtans, but

EKNATH

198

no one who performs them with such extraAnd all the men and women
37.
ordinary love."
declared, " What philosophic knowledge, and gracious
Blessed
poetry, and yet withal with what deep humility!
The performance of
are his mother and father." 38.
the fifth day was
four
days.
On
for
the kirtans lasted
celebrated the Gopalkala. The playful acts of Sri Hari
were acted, and sweetmeats were distributed, to all. 39. All
the twice-born of the city of Benares, from the child to
He
the. aged, great and small, cried, " Blessed, Blessed.
The sannyasis also
40.
is an avatar in visible form."
truly there

is

exclaimed, "

The deeds of Sri Krishna at the time of his

being an avatar we have seen with our eyes. Blessed are
41.
The Sannyasi now said to
today's festive rites."
all the pandits, "Let all of you assemble together and
withf your own hands make a copy of Eknath's book, the
Eleventh chapter of the Bhagavata."
certainly

do

time to copy.

42.

"

We

will

so," they said,

and they took a chapter at a

mean

time Eknath began composing

In the

Rukmini Svayamvara.

on the bank of
with minds fixed on the
object, completed fully the book, on Ram's birthday.
44.
When the copy of the Eleventh Chapter was completed, the
Pandits lovingly brought it to the monastery, where the
Svimi lovingly read it each day.

the
the

43.

Sitting

Manikarnika. the pandits,

EKNATH STARTS TO RETURN TO

PRATISHTHANA.
45.

Eknath now took leave of the sannyasi and

started to return to his

own

country.

and pandits assembled and saw him

13

All the sannyasis

off.

46.

Sri

NatH

EKNATH

194

made a sSshtang namaskftr to the citizens of that

They embraced each other and said loving
city.

reverently

sacred

After accompanying Eknath for a short

distance the citizens returned to the city, and always, day
and night, held in memory the noble character of Eknath.
47.

farewell.

EKNATH MEETS DASOPANT

As Eknath

IN HIS WAY.

journeyed on, his heart always

full

of joy, he unexpectedly met Dasopant* in his path.

49.

48.

From

childhood Dasopant had cherished the desire for a

He

visible manifestation of Sri Dattatreya.

undertaken severe austerities in

You may

ask

nate hearers.

how

He

alone into the forest.

He

this loving service.

he performed them.

abandoned
51.

had, therefore,

all

He

his

50.

Listen, ye fortu-

friends and went

lived

took not the least care of his body.

on fallen

He

slept

leaves.

on the

any human
being unexpectedly appeared, he would run away from

bare rock, enduring cold and heat.

him.

52.

If

Without ceasing he kept Sri Dattatreya

53.

From

lost

all

in his

mind.

these austerities lovingly carried on, he finally

consciousness of body, and because he slept on

* Note. Dasopant Digambar was born in 1551 and

died in 1615. His tomb is at Amba Jogai, also known as
Mominabad in the Haidarabad State.
The interesting
story of his youth, how God took the form of a Mahar
and brought the necessary ransom for his deliverance from
the tyranny of the Mahomedan king is one well known.
For a translation of this story, together with a collection of
all the information available, regarding this poet-saint, who
was a voluminous writer, see an article in the Journal o
the American Oriental Society, Vol 42, pages 251-279, by
Justin E. Abbott.

..

EKNATH

195

rocks his body was covered with sores.

54.

years he carried on austerities in this way.

For
Then

twenty,
finally,

Dattatreya gave him a visible manifestation of Himself.

55.
As Dattatreya embraced him, his body became divine,

and through the

prolific poet.

blessing bestowed

56.

And

upon him be became

through the grace of the sadguru,.

good fortune, there came to him great wealth, and

the respect of great men, as they recognized his great inDasopant had placed his abode in Ambft
telligence.
57.
He had heard of Sri Eknath's good fame front,
Jogai.
every one's lips. 58. As Eknath was returning from the
They
great Pilgrimage the two unexpectedly met.
embraced one another with great joy in their hearts. 59.
They embraced one another's feet. They conversed to-

and

his

gether about their joy and happiness.

Eknath, full of
"
joy, said to Dasopant,
This is a fortunate meeting." 60.

After much

Dasopant took Eknath to his home.

Waves of joy and happiness arose in his soul, and with
pure reverence he paid him respect. 61. They dined on:
daintily cooked food.
Then came the listening to the reading of the Bhagavata, and at night Hari klrtans toot
solicitation

place, that deeply

moved

all,

as they listened.

62.

passed, and then Eknath asked leave to go on.

Dasopant pleaded with him to accept horses and money
for the journey and its expenses. 63.
Sri Eknath, how-

month thus

ever,

had a mind indifferent

to

worldly things, and would

take none of Dasopant's wealth. Nor would he even take

a horse, " because," said he, " the way is difficult." 64.

In

leaving,

at

my home

Eknath said to Dasopant

"I

am

to celebrate

the festival of the birthday of Krishna.

to the sacred city of Pratishthana at that time."

certainly will come," he replied.

Come
"I

65.

They made one another

EKNATH

196

namaskar, and Sri Eknath then hastened on his journey,

and arrived

at the sacred city of Pratishthana.

EKNATH WELCOMED BACK TO

PRATISHTHANA.
As he approached

66.

He

Uddhava.

felt

supreme

the city the

joy,

news reached
does

just as the earth

at the approach of the rain in time of drought.

He

67.

took with him emblems and banners, cymbals, vinas, and

drums, fragrant powders, the tulsi, garlands of flowers,
and all other needed things. 68. And the people of the
sacred

men and women, and

city,

the pious loving disting-

uished Vaishnavas, singing and dancing with shouts of

loving welcome, went out to meet Eknath.69.

saw

Sri Nath's

form with

With shoutings of

joy.

prostrate before him.

love,

their eyes, all

the

70.

name

And

were

as they

with

filled

of Vitthal, they

fell

Uddhava, with overflowing

Eknath embraced
feet.

touched his forehead to his

him with both arms, unable

to contain his love.

71.

And

so the other inhabitants of the sacred city greeted Eknath.

Uddhava then
tulsi,

offered him the fragrant powder and the

and put on him the garland of flowers.
72.
And,

name

of Vitthal, the Vaishnavas sang

"
Blessed is this day on which the
with joy, exclaiming,

shouting aloud the

people have come to welcome you back." 73. Singing

of the goodness of Sri Hari, and dancing, Sri Nath entered
the

city.

him.

Sweet sounding instruments were played before

The

filled their

air overflowed with the sound.

74.

They

hands with fragrant powders and flowers, and

Thus honoured, he entered his

threw them over him.

EKNATH
house, and at once his eyes

fell

197

on Pandurang.

Sri

75.

Nath made a sashtang namaskar before the God and singing sweet songs of invocation waved offerings before the
Husband-of-Rukmini.

He

76.

gave everyone favors of

sweetmeats to their great satisfaction.

He

about his welfare on his journey.

They asked him

told

lovingly as he sat on his accustomed seat.

now

the fourth ghatika of the night

when

them of it
It was

77.
all

the people

returned to their homes, and Girjabai then with her

own

hands gave Eknath a light refreshment. 78. After thus

performing a kirtan he paid his respects to Sleep. Then
began the usual worship of Vishnu, and the distribution
of food to the hungry.

CELEBRATION OF KRISHNA'S BIRTHDAY,

AND ARRIVAL OF DASOPANT.
79.

the

Two

festival

months passed

his custom, began to

80.

He

needed

make

collected in the

for

the

way, and then came

Uddhava, according to

in this

of Krishna's birth.
all

the necessary preparations.

house an abundance of things

dinner.

He

besmeared

the

within and without, and painted pictures upon them.

walls

8L

moon, Dasopant arrived

for the festival. Eknath had not heard that he had arrived,
when unexpectedly he appeared at the main door. 82. A
strange sight was now seen.
Sri Datta, with his trident in
his hands, stood watching at the entrance, as a doorkeeper.
Dasopant saw him, and was supremely amazed. He
83.
leaped from his palanquin and made him a sashtdnga
namaskar.
84.
He embraced Datta and exclaimed,
Suddenly, on the day of the

full

EKNATH

198
" Why

listened to

not a

come here ? " The Son-of-Anasuya

" Eknath is
85.
the question, and replied.
you

have

human

bhakta, but a visible avatar of Sri Pandurang.

become an avatar
in this Kali Yuga.
Only if by good fortune there
86.
exists the richness of a punya, performed in a former birth,
can one have the opportunity of serving him. Know this
fact for a truth.
87.
I hold this trident in my hand, and
guard securely the door. I will go in and inform Eknath
of your presence. Until then do not enter in." 88. As
Avadhuta thus spoke, Dasopant was overcome with astonishment, and extolling Eknath's glory, said, " I did not

For

the salvation of the world he has

recognize his extraordinary greatness."

89.

Sri

Datta

informed Eknath that Dasopant had come to see him, and

Eknath with Uddhava came out to welcome him and

made him a namashar.
They fell at one
90.
another's feet, and embraced one another. Eknath took
Dasopant by the hand and led him into the house.
91.
lovingly

Uddhava made

the needed arrangements for Dasopant's

palanquins and carriages.

and

He

gave his

men

the necessary equipment for cooking.

lacking.

92.

Formerly

in the time of

the materials

Nothing was
Sri

Krishna's

Uddhava was greatly loved by God. The desire

Uddhava to serve God was not then fully satisfied. 93.

avatarship,
of

In the former birth they were friends and sol now

the opportunity arrived
for
the
unselfish
service
of Eknath.
94.
Dasopant performed his bath, and
finished his meal with Eknath.

All night he sat listening

to the Hari klrtan, until the sun began to

rise.

95.

He

then performed the image of Pandurang, anointing him and

worshipping him with the various ceremonies, experiencing
the while loving joy.
96.
Festal instruments were

EKNATH

199

were sung. The

Brahmans recited aloud from the Vedas, and finally handsful of flowers were offered.
97.
The days were spent in
feeding the Brahmans, the nights in Hari kirtans.

played at the door.

From
was

the

first

at its

Festal invocations

day of the fortnight

On

98.

full.

to the ninth, the festival

the tenth the Gopalkala

was

Dasopant saw it all with joy in

his heart.
99.
And exclaimed, " I have seen with my own
eyes Sri Eknath with his unprecedented gracious voice,
his make up, his dramatic power, and his mine of philosoexcellently dramatised.

phic knowledge.

100.

thought myself to be a worship-

per of Datta in visible form, but since seeing the glory

my own eyes, I have become one who

no duality.
101.
The great festival being
ended, there was feasting on the twelfth day.
Dasopant
then took leave and returned to his own home.
of Eknath with
recognizes

EKNATH'S INFLUENCE FOR GOOD.

There are many good men who give salvation
to pious men, and send the impious, and haters of good,
102.

to Hell.
life

Not

103.

so in truth

as a deedful avatar.

the good, and

many

great Jagadguru.

evil

104.

He

is

the story of Eknath's

saved very

minded.

For

this

many

haters of

reason he

The sannyasi and

is

pandits

the

who

persecuted him at Benares, he turned to bhakti by showing

them a miracle.

105.
Knowledge and humility, with
compassion for every creature characterized him to a degree

extraordinarily strange.

106.

Eknath's pity for every

creature, and his great zeal at the feet of

a burden

to

Lord

Sri Krishna.

He

Brahmans became
became in fact a

debtor of Eknath's because of that service.

107.

And

EKNATH

200

so Chakrapani became a Brahman, (as

seen) and used to

we have

already

the vessels of the Kavadi with the

fill

water of the Gariga and bring

to Eknath, no one recog-

it

nizing his miraculous deed.

EKNATH FORGIVES INSOLENT MAHOMEDAN.

108.

There are

other interesting and deeply sug-

still

Listen to them, ye pious

gestive stories about Eknath.

Eknath had

people.

was returning to

his

finished his bath in the

home.

Ganga and

There was an insolent

109.

Mahommedan

sitting

about to

on the ground, Eknath came by on the

spit

110.

street.

As

the spittle fell

him

His
is

in his character.

Just as he

gate.

was

spat toward the ground

on Eknath' s person, but

Just as the Earth

Nath

city

Mahommedan

to the least anger.

111.

Sri

the

by the

this did not excite

feelings could not be hurt.

absolutely forgiving,

so

was

There are some who worship

the Earth, others throw the vilest

filth

upon

it.

112.

Just

as the Earth keeps her joy or pain to herself, and has the
characteristic of neither

anger.

113.

showing

So when

this

her affection nor her

ignorant

man

unwittingly

spat on Eknath's person he did not burst into rage, but

rather greatly pitied the man.

1 14.

certainly committed a wrong," he said, "

" This fellow has

and

go to Hell.
I must therefore now think of some means by which he
will repent."
11 5., With this thought in mind he again
will

bathed in the Ganga, and, returning to his home, worship-

ped Vishnu.
fire,

and
Brahmans was continued and
then placed in a vessel food enough for two
116.

First offering the food to the gods

the dinner with the

[finished.

He

EKNATH
men.

117.

Mahommedan,

He

took

who

it

had

bowing reverently to the

accept

this

favor."

201

spitten

man

118.

of
house
him.
on

he

to

Eknath

As

said,

the

the

And

"Kindly

Mohammedan

removed the cover he saw that it was divine food, and

remembering his fault he repented, 119, "I, an insolent
fellow, a supreme villain, a hater of Brahmans, the lowest
of the vile, spat upon you without giving the least thought
120.
You are in this city a man
to what I was doing.
all.
Your Greatness, forgive
by
honored
of goodness,
me the wrong." And with this he prostrated himself on
the ground.
121.
Sri Nath lifted him up and lovingly
embraced him, and said, " If I had watched my steps more
carefully, you would not have been guilty of this fault.
122.
This fault committed unwittingly and suddenly belongs to you only in the slightest degree. And now that
you have repented of it in your heart, there is no other
penance needed other than this repentance.
123.
And
now remember that the offense of having spitten upon
me no longer exists." With this Eknath returned to his
home.

EKNATH'S KINDNESS TO A MAHAR BOY.

124.

One day

at the time of

noon Eknath came down

to the Ganga.

about to

After finishing the Brahmayadnya he was

hurry home.
125.
It was in the month of

Vaisakhn, when the sun was scorching hot, and the sand
bank of the Ganga was intensely heated.
On the sand
a little boy was crying loudly. 126. When Eknath saw
the sight his heart melted with pity.
life at

once," thought he, and so lifted

"

He

will lose his

him up, carrying him

EKNATH

202

on

127.
Eknath wiped the boy's eyes with his
and spoke comfortingly to him. " Tell me where
your home is," he said. 128. The small child was unable
to speak, but with its hand pointed to where it lived. As
they came near the hovel the child's mother approached.
129.
When the child saw her, it cried out, " Mother,
" She
Mother," Eknath then realized the situation.
appears to be a Mahar woman," he said to himself. 130.
The moment Eknath put the boy down he ran quickly to
his mother.
Eknath returned to the GangS, and bathed
his hip.

-garment,

with

clothes on.

all his

dried his dhotar,

Then

earth.

joy.

and marked

returning to his

woman on

his

finished his

inhabitants

of

the

So the God

Teverently to

Dvarka

meal with

child of the

Mahar

unknown

to the

shoulder was absolutely

Pandurang's wish to make

known.

his forehead with

home

That Eknath had placed the

132.

Brahman

This Mercy-in- visible-form

131.

But it was
133.
fame of Eknath widely

city.

the

laid a plan.

Let the hearers

listen

it.

EKNATH CLEANSES A LEPER.

There was a learned Brahman who was afflicted
He was repentant in heart, and
was performing austerities before Tryambakesvara. 135.
It was because he had committed a great sin that this horrible disease had attacked his body.
In order to regain
health he was performing austerities that had this desire
for its purpose. 136. He refused all cooked food and
lived on bulbs and roots.
According to prescribed rules
he performed these austerities for twelve years.
137.
Suddenly Tryambakesvara appeared to him in a dream,
134.

with a wasting leprosy.

EKNATH
and

said

to

him,

the

bank

of

the

one

Eknath,

service

Go

at

Godavari.

once
138.

on

Pratishthana

to

There

lives

there

Vaishnava bhakta devoted to the

and
all
compassionate
to
has performed a special act of good-

Brahmans

of

He

creatures.
ness.

"

203

Once

139.

when

the

sand

was

scorching

to

Unmentionable boy was lying on it. Eknath

and taking him on his shoulder, 140.
Carried him to his mother. This is the great deed that
he performed. If he will give you that good deed, you
After seeing the vision
will at once become whole." 141.
the

feet,

soothed

little

him,

Brahman awakened with astonishment in his heart.

He came to Pratishthana and began enquiring of the

the

"

one Eknath here, a Vaishnava

Eknath was just then
bhakta. Where does he live?"
bathing in the Gariga, and the people pointed him out to
The Brahman plunged at once into the
the man.
143.
water and told Eknath his story, adding, " You took an
Unmentionable boy on your shoulder. That good deed is
people.

142.

There

is

your possession. 144. Sri Tryambakaraja, the Husbandof-Uma has told me of it." With a smile on his face
in

Eknath

replied.

145.

" I will give

you

all

the good deeds

I have ever performed from my birtih until now."

Brahman replied, " I am not worthy of so much.

me

Give

as

of."

his

147.

The wasting
all

it

He made

remarking to themselves.

148.

The

made their nomasand distinguished twice-born,

149.
"Eknath's manner of

of the sacred city then

bar, so also did the great

him

a namask&r to

the people witnessed the event.

men and women

me

in the leper's

leprosy immediately left

body became beautiful.

Eknath, and

146.

Tryambakesvara has informed

Eknath then took water and placed

hand.

and

much

only as

The

EKNATH

204
doing things
evil

men

is

He

most extraordinary.

into righteousness."

born became amazed

turns the evil of"

Thus speaking

all

the Twice-

in their hearts.

THE GODDESS OF THE RIVER.

1

50.

made

One day

Uddhava
You Svami, have made a

the pious bhaktas, together with

a request of Eknath.

"

Prakrit

commentary on the Eleventh Chapter of the Bhaga-

vata.

151.

We

have the earnest desire to

Eknath saw the mind of

listen

to

it

from your lips."

his hearers
and assented. 152. Choosing a good auspicious day he
began the reading of the Bhagavata. AH the pious and
loving inhabitants of the city came to listen.
153.
He
began to read the Purana at the third watch of each
day.

In the steady flow of Eknath's voice the hearers

were

lost

But a very strange event

now occured. Listen to it reverently, ye pious, and wise.
The Gariga river taking the form of a beautiful woman

came

in

to listen.

attention.

155.

154.

Lovely, charming, delicate in feature,

adorned with garments and ornaments.

So lovely and
beautiful a woman had never before been seen there.
156.
Possessed with this form this daughter of Vishnu began to

come and

There were other

women present, but none equalled her. 157. She listened
intently to the delightful words from Eknath's lips.
She
did not allow her mind to wander in the least, and in the
meantime she lost all consciousness of body. 158. Whenever he came to a story, illustrating the mystery of bhokti,
feelings of intense love filled her.
Tears would flow from
her eyes, all the people looking on.
There were
159.

among

sit

before Eknath, listening.

the listeners

some of

evil

mind, and a suspicion-

EKNATH
came into their thoughts.
young woman come from?

We

"

Where

We

205
does this beautiful

do not understand.

160.

never saw her before in this sacred city of Pratish-

thana.

Yet, she

is

coming regularly at the time for the

reading and listens with ardor in her soul.

161.

She

avoids the crowd of other women, and places her seat

away from them.

She appears to be a married woman,

young in years, but she speaks with no one. 162. She
looks steadily at Eknath, and gives loving attention."
These evil minded men, thus suspecting her, spread the
story of her in the town.
163.
There were some, whio
wanting to see her wih their own eyes, what sort of a
beautiful woman she might be, came with the pretext of
being listeners. 164. Thus many days passed, and the
reading of the book came near its end. It then came into
the minds of these persons to find out where she lived.
165.
They said, "As soon as the Purana is finished, let us follow
her, and from a distance find out where she belongs.
166.
Is she mistress of her own home, or is this young woman
at her mother's home, or is she living at her mother-inlaw's, that she comes here without asking the leave of
anyone." 167. While these evil minded men were deciding what to do, the reading of the Purana was completed.
The Gan^a then made a loving affectionate namaskar to
Eknath. 168. She impressed upon her mind the form of
Sri Nath, and immediately left.
The evil minded men
followed her, winking at one another. 169. Some walked
before her, some behind, taking in her strange conduct.

In the meantime this daughter of Vishnu, of beautiful form,

and character, arrived happily at the bank of the Ganga.

170.
She stood for a moment where the water was up to
her ankles. She took up some water in her hand, sipped

EKNATH

206
and

It,

the

immediately

lightening

became

flashes

invisible.

among

the

171.

Just

clouds

as

and

moment, in the same manner she

manifested her lustre and disappeared.
172.
The evil
vanishes

in

minded men now understood and exclaimed, " The Goda,

flowing to the ocean, has been taking the visible form of
a woman, and has been coming to liften to the Bhagavata.
173.
We truly have been dull of understanding. Our
Sri Nath is an
hearts have been defiled by suspicion.
avatar of Vishnu. We certainly must not call him human.
174.
Imagine nectar in a glass bottle, and one looking
carefully at it mistakes it for an intoxicating liquor. That

Thus repentant, they

what has happened to us."
175.
performed their devotions and worship and astonished in

is

mind, returned to their several homes. 176. On the next

day at the third watch they came again to Eknath's house

They made

namaskar to the Sv&mi at once

and took their seat. 177. Eknath undid the book from its
cloth and waited for a moment, saying, " One of our listeners has not yet come. She is very late." 178. Those
who had been suspicious now came forward and fell at
to

listen.

their

Eknath's feet.
Repentant in heart, they confessed the
whole affair. 179. " The river, beautiful and lovely, has
been coming here regularly to listen. Entertaining suspicions in our heart,

She

we

followed her out of curiosity.

180.

Ganga, and then and there became

and we then understood that she was actually
the Ganga.
181.
We have been of evil mind, and lacking
in good, therefore, we were suspicious in our hearts.
In
this we have committed a great sin.
Forgive us our
vStepped into the

invisible,

wrong." 182. Sri Nath, full of joy in his heart, replied,

" In your possession now is a full righteousness. You saw

EKNATH
Goda

207

By this your sin is shattered to*

183.
And now without doubt in your hearts
the Bhagavata. I cannot now praise enough your

in visible form.

pieces.
listen to

greatness, for

you have seen a miracle."

who

people

saw

miraculous

the

Thus-

184.

reassuring them, he began reading the Purana.

deeds

of

And

the

Ejknatli

rejoiced.

In this book

185.

I,

Mahipati,

am

good

writing of the

renown of him, to listen to whom, the Goda, in visible

form, came to Eknath with, a desire to hear the Bhagavata.
This book is the Sri Bhaktalllamxita. By
186.
Svasti.
merely listening to
then to

it,

it

one's desires are fulfilled.

ye pious, loving bhaktas.

second delightful chapter.

This

Chapter 22.

CHAPTER

is

Listen

the twenty-

Verses 186.

23.

BHAKTALILAMRITA.
Mahipati's Invocation.

Obeisance to Sri Ganesa.

Great sins are washed away by listening to the
of the saints.
Blessed are the jivanmukta (released

1.

lives

while living)
2.

One who

special

who

sit

listens

down

to listen with fixed attention.

bhakta, attains to great righteousness.

He

continue to enjoy the fruit of his righteousness in

ways, and

it

will

own

in truth to the story of one's

never pass away.

rites belonging to the system of

3.

There are

many

austrities

Works {karma).

will

and

If these

are performed one also attains righteousness (punya) but

EKNATH

208
after enjoying

moment.

its

If

4.

fruit of happiness

one

listens

it

passes

away

with fondness to the stories of

the Bhagavata, that good act never passes away.

person

finally

in a

enjoys SQyujyatS.

(Final

That

absorption

in

He, who, having great fondness for the

stories of the saints, listens with all his ears, even if he
should fall into some great calamity, God will protect him.
6.
In the last chapter, you fortunate ones, you listened
to the story of how the Ganga, assuming the form of a

Brahma.)

woman,

5.

listened attentively

to the Bhagavata.

7.

How

men of suspicion and hatred by whom the

was seen, and how their souls melted with repenand how they made their namaskar to Eknath.

there were

miracle
tance,

CONVERSION OF THE IMPIOUS MERCHANT.

8.

Now

let

the wise listen to another story.

There

was a merchant living near to Eknath, who was impious

and wicked. He never went to Eknath's house. 9. He
would never listen anywhere to the reading of the Puranas.
He would never go to hear Hari klrtans, and although the
river Ganga was near him, he preferred to bathe at home
with hot water. 10. He never performed morning and
evening devotions, nor gave offerings to ancestors. He
dined twice in the day, and cared only for his own family.
11.

for

When Eknath saw

the

him was aroused

manner of

his life, great pity

" This man," he said

in his heart.
"
to himself,
has acquired a human birth, but he will needlessly

go to

Hell.

must adopt some means whereby,

may spring up
and he may seek after the Supreme attainment."
Thus thinking, he went out into the street, and sought

through being
in his heart
13.

my

12.

neighbour, good desires

EKNATH

They exchanged salutations by word of

Out of respect for Eknath, the man stood

to meet him.

mouth.
still

209

14.

for a moment, and Sri Eknath began to question him.

"Who

are your dependents?

engaged in?

15.

What

business are

you

How

merchant listened
and wife at home.

The
do you care for your family."
"I have sons
16.
and then replied.
I live

man who

of a business

wages, and on

it

near you.

lends money.

spend

my

am
17.

To
make

days."

" I

in the service

He
this

pays
Sri

me

Natb

of you."
18;
have now a request to
the
mind
man,
blinded
by
of the
Great fear sprang into
his attachment to objects of sense, and a great miser withal,,
and so he made no answer. Eknath, however, understood'
replied,

mind and

" I have no desire to obtain

from
you any money, or any substance of any kind. I ask you
only to take a moment's time to come to my house for thektrtans."
20.
The man replied, " I have no leisure time,
his

because of

said.

my

19.

concern for our daily necessities."

Eknath'

" Listen to

this,
what I tell you. 21. I will
you a sloka from Sri Vishnu sahasranama.
Commit that much to memory. That will fully satisfy me."

responded to
repeat

22.

to

As he

listened to Eknath's voice a reverential feeling

filled his mind.

Eknath wrote the words on a bit of paper
and had him read them. 23. And as Eknath gently caressed
him with his lotus hand his heart was at once changed.
He took the words of the Sloka to heart, and quickly committed them to memory. 24. On the next day he came
and asked Eknath for another sloka. After a few days
had passed he had committed to memory the Whole of the
Sahasranama. 25. Sri Nath then told him still further,

that after his bath he should

26.

sit

in fixed contemplation.

Speaking to no one, and repeating the Sahasranama.

EKNATH

310

The man

began

now somewhat changed by

His heart

27.

He now

and assented.

listened

began to come to Eknath's house to see God.

bow

time he would

at Eknath's feet,

to

all

At

do

that.

this,

he

the same

and then hasten back

to his (home to attend to his business affairs.

28.

Many

when suddenly he was taken with a nineday fever. As his life was passing away the servants of
His voice was
Yama came to take him to Hell. 29.
days thus passed,

already choked and so the relatives gave him the penance.

And

as they were giving

bered.

And began

30.

sahasranama.

"Blessed

is

him

All
his

rememloudly the Vishnu

the bath he suddenly

to repeat

were greatly pleased and exclaimed,

fortune."

The

31.

angels of

Yama,

as

they heard the sound of his voice repeating the names of

The angels of Vishnu then came and

paying their respects to him took him with them to Heaven
(Vaikuntha). 32. If Sri Nath had not taken pity on him,
Vishnu, ran away.

he would have gone to

Hell.

It is for this

purpose that

the saint became an avatar in this Kali Yuga.

men and women

"

It is

in

no way

they

take

man

lived as a neighbour near to the

visible manifestation of

he received the
are

Saints

34.

indeed

different

the

The

of the sacred city said to one another,

because this

Saint, that

33.

guise

God

from
of

of

Him.
men,

Gods.

are

For a short time

and manifest them-

selves through extraordinary miraculous deeds.

Eknath has turned many men

They

God.

35.

Sri

to bliakti, both, those co-opera-

and those opposing him. He has thereby

driven heretical beliefs away and increased the glory of the
ting with him,

Name

of God."

EKNATH

211

EKNATH AND GIRJABAFS CHILDREN.

Girjabai, Eknath's

36.

to a jewel of a daughter.

good wife, at first gave birth

She was named Godubai. 37.

He was named

After her a son was born.

Hari.

As

his

years increased he was invested with the sacred thread,

and began studying

there

in a

Brahmana

school.

Alter him

38.

was another daughter born, and she was named

Gangabai.

whom

Listen also to the story relating to

they

There was a gentleman in

the sacred city of Pratishthana by name of Chintopant.
Godubai, the eldest daughter, was given in marriage into
his family.
In the Karnatak country, there lived one
40.
who was an old relative of his. To his son Gangabai was
betrothed, and soon married.
41.
Gangabai had a son
by name of Pundaji. He also became a loving worshipper
were given

in marriage.

39.

of Vishnu.

EKNATH'S SON, HARI, BECOMES A LEARNED

PANDIT.
42.

He

As

studied

to Eknath's son, Hari,

the sciences.

all

and

tinction in
intelligence
said.

45.

is

"

The

He became

intelligent.

proficient in

Brahmans paid him respect,

him Hari P'aiulit. 44. The Brahmans of dis" His
Pratishthana continually praised him.

the six sdsiras.

called

43.

he was very

highest

greater even than that of his father," they

Eknath, becoming a

saint,

sings his songs

Women and Sudras, listening with

become wholly absorbed in them.
46.

in the Marathi language.

all

their hearts,

Eknath, by singing in the Prakrit has captivated all the

pious people, and thereby the reading of the Purana in

EKNATH

212

Haripant has resuscitated

the Sanskrit has disappeared.

47.

reading.

its

make of

ricli

it

Gold comes out of the earth, and the

So Haripandit, be it known,

ornaments.

has become a greater

man

than his father.

Or

48.

as a lustrous diamond comes out of a rock, so

true of

is

it

just

Hari Pandit. Our minds realize this now. 49. Viewed

from the point of depth a large body of water is called
an ocean, but its water is salty. The son of the ocean,
So from Eknath's
the brilliant moon, sprays nectar. 50.
loins there has come forth this jewel, Haripandit, a Brah-

man,

and he

proficient in the six sastras,

acceptable to us."
born,

high

using

Eknath

51.

Thus

sounding

in every

is

way

these distinguished Twicesimiles

frequently

insulted

in praising his son.

HARIPANT'S CONCEIT, ASHAMED OF HIS

FATHER, GOES TO BENARES.
52.

To

begin with, Haripant's heart was

filled

the pride of knowledge, and in addition to this there

his association with scoffers.

Thus

was

his heart

with wrong thoughts, and he said to himself, "

shall I continue to listen to

my

father? "

pandit, proficient in the six sastras, but

aloud the books in Prakrit.

distinguished
in his

my

Brahmans of

feel

this city."

mind, he said to himself, "

53.

my

with

was

defiled

How

long

"lama

father reads

ashamed among the

54.
Thus thinking
will abandon at once

country, and go and live in the city of Kasi (Benares)."

And
sons.

this

he decided to do.

Two

and arrived

55.

Haripandit had three

of them he took with him, along with has wife,

at KSsi.

EKNATH

213

EKNATH'S GRANDSON RAGHOBA.

The youngest

56.

son, of beautiful character,

of Raghoba, remained lovingly with Eknath.

by name

He

57.

did

He

not sorrow for his mother and father.

remained with
his grandparents day and night, lovingly performing his

little acts,

his heart full of happiness.

was being performed

cymbals

his

in

58.

When

a kirtan

he would take the

hands, and sing with all his might to the

astonishment of

all

at Eknath's house,

the people.

59.

At

the Gopal festival

he would act out the scenes with gestures and movements,

and repeat aloud without hesitating the words sung by
Eknath. 60. One day, watching for a time when Eknath
was alone, he humbly placed his forehead on Eknath's feet

and thus

in

his

very childhood

received in his

.hie

Eknath's anugraha (mystic formula).

61.

ear

Seeing his

qualities, shown in these ways, people praised him,

saying, " lie certainly will draw to himself the greatness

good

He

worthy of taking Eknath's place.

His character appears so noble. His father, because of
of Sri Nath.

62.

is

his pride of knowledge, devotes himself to a pandit's pro-

fession."

63.

themselves.

Thus

Now

the pious discussed the matter

as to Hari pandit.

He, with

among
all

dependents, continued to live at Kasipuri (Benares).

As Hari

his
64.

pandit was proficient in the six sastras, and had

the gift of speech, he amassed great wealth.

residence in

the

great sacred

city,

He

built

and made Kasi his

permanent abode.

EKNATH LONGS FOR HIS SON

65.

On

the other

hand

Jhana Eknath continued

HARI.

in the sacred city of Pratish-

performing regularly the Hari

EKNATH

214

one to Bhakti, and to the praising of

kirtans, turning every

his teachings.

One day Eknath

66.

thus, " In this sacred city all

Krishna.

But

67.

my

its

sat alone

inhabitants

son Hari

still

and thought

now worship

Sri

takes great pride in

and ceremonies. The

true of him, "Under the lamp the darkness is

his scrupulous observance of rites

adage

is

greatest."

So, I will go to Benares personally, and

68.

bring him back.

this act

my

life

It is

my

fixed purpc.se to complete with

as an avatar.

69.

Just as

if

my

should remain solid in water, so I think of

show him some miracle to turn mv son to

Thus determined in mind. Sri Nath went
(Benares.)

a hail stone
son.

must

bhakti.

70.

Kasipuri.

to

First he bathed in the Manikarnika,

and then
went to meet Visvesvara (Lord-of-Universe).
71.
As
he was walking along to Haripandit's house, his son came
forward to greet him.
He made him a namaskar, and
embraced him with exceeding love. 72. He prepared a
seat for his father,
all

73.

and seated him upon

the rites of worship, and his heart

He

enquired of his father

finished their meal.

it.

was

He

full

performed

of happiness.

They then
And because Eknath had made this
all

the news.

journey to his home, the son was greatly

gratified.

Eknath remained there many days, during which

ministered to him.
story of

how

And

son

people everywhere related the

formerly the prakrit Bhagavata had been

written there by Eknath.

sannyasis of

his

74.

75.

the monastery

"Conduct yourself without

fail

The mahant, and

the

exhorted Hart pandit thus,

according to the injunctions

76.
Know this that he is not a human being,
but the visible avatar of Vishnu.
I also persecuted him
greatly, but his miraculous deeds are limitless."
77.
To
this Hari pandit replied, "What!
Do you mean to say

of Sri Nath.

EKNATH
that I act outside of his wishes."

215

And

Haripandit hastened back to his home.

with this remark,

After many
78.

days spent there Sri Nath said aside to his son, "
ing age nears
at hand.

my

of

My

completion. The time of my departure is

The wish of my heart is to spend the rest

its

79.

life

I cannot bear to live without you.

with you.

heart pines for you.

only begotten.
will

come now

80.

You

are

have no other close

to Pratishthana, your

crease thereby.

81.

You have

city a great residence.

to yourself

My declin-

my

fame

my

son,

my

If

you

will greatly in-

built here in this sacred

Leave here your two

permanently

good

relation.

sons,

and take

place at Pratishthana."

EKNATH ACCKPTS HAR1 PANDTT'S TWO

CONDITIONS FOR HIS RETURN.
Hari pandit listened to the words of Sri Nath

82.

and then
of you,
it.

83.

replied as follows, "I

have one request to make

my Svami, but you will not be willing to grant

Do not eat food prepared by others outside of

our home, and do not read the Purana in the Prakrit. If

you will accept these two conditions, I will go back with
you." 84. Sri Nath, now filled with joy, made no protest
whatever against this and replied, " I will conduct myself

you may desire." 85. With this promise his son was
satisfied, and the two
lovingly started to return.
86,
They journeyed along as it pleased their fancy, and finally
reached the sacred city of Pratishthana. The people were
very glad, and went out from the city to greet them. 87.
as

Eknath's returning was to the lotus eyes of the pious like

the festival of lights.

embraced him

joyfully.

They made namask&r

to him,

and

EKNATH

216

EKNATH'S KIRTANS CEASE AND HARI

PERFORMS.
Eknath entered

Thius

88.

his

cherished a hope in their hearts.

"

To-day there

a kirtan," they thought, but Eknath sat

tomed

seat.

On

89.

still

on

{nous

will be

his accus-

the next day Hari pandit read aloud

On

the Purana in Sanskrit.

the day he began

the intelligent people assembled.

Sri

90.

placed his seat and sat lovingly listening, but

had the

The

home.

desire to listen to

The news now spread

many

it

Nath
all

words from Eknath's

of

quietly

the people
lips.

91.

Eknath had abandoned the reading of the prakrit books, and the Hari klrtans,
in the city that

and had brought back Hari pandit to conduct the

And

also that he

house.

The

92.

had agreed to eat no longer

at another's

pious took this very seriously to heart.

" Our good fortune

is

broken and

therefore Eknath has given

and he himself

kirtans.

listens to

The women, sudras and

lost,"

up reading

they said, " and

the Prakrit books,

the Purans in Sanskrit."

93.

those of other castes could not

understand the Sanskrit, and so

while the Purana

was

being read they would get up and leave, abandoning the

habit of regularly listening. 94.

the

When

Sri

Nath used

Purana the wdd& (house) was more than

or ten had to remain outside regularly.

swarmed with men.

feelings of

all,

falling off in

Listen to

it,

and

95.

The

to read

filled.

Five

place simply

Eknath understood the inner

said to himself, "

bhakti" There

ye pious bhaktas.

There has been a great

now occurred another

event.

EKNATH

217

HARIPANT'S CONVERSION THROUGH A

MIRACLE.
There lived in the sacred city of Pratishthana a
rich Twice-born.
His wife made a vow to the Husband96.

of-Rukmini.

my

grant

" If

97.

Thou,

Li fe-of-the- World, wilt

She

request, I will feast a thousand (Brahmans).

had no sooner expressed this thought, when the King-ofHeaven granted her request. 98. Later through destiny
because of deeds in a former birth, his wealth was scattered.
Her husband also died, and she became poverty stricken.

Of

course to care for her body she needed daily food

and clothing, so by carrying water from house to house

"99.

she earned a few pice each day.

100.

In this

way

Brahman woman of Pratishthann passed her days.

was accustomed to come regularly to Nath's house to

heart.

"

She
listen

now happened that she mentioned

and pious Brahman the matter nearest to her
I made a vow once," she said, " that I would

to the Purana.
to a wise

this

101.

feed a thousand

It

(Brahmans).

But through the

all my wealth has been scatfinally came widowhood, and I
102.

strange vagaries of destiny

tered,

and on top of

this

have been unable to earn sufficiently for food and clothing.

By delivering water from house to house I have
103.
thus far been able to
pass my days, but I continually

remember

my

debt to God.

How

can

I pay it?"
104.
Listening to her words, the Twice-born replied, "If one
gives a meal to one who is absorbed in Brahma, there is
no limit to the result of that good deed. 105. To feast a

.hundred Brahmans

who cannot read

the Vedas, and who

have merely learned to repeat the Gayatri mantra, and to
feast one Brahman who reads the Vedas, is the same in

EKNATH

218
value.

To

106.

knowledge

comprises

and

to

the

Vedanta

107.

And

of

one

feast

life acts as

pears, has a

merely
great

philosophy,
to

feast

he

hundred

feast

pandit,

one

of

Vedic

books,

who

of

understands

same

the

who

talks, at the sight

whose

three

the

is

Brahmans

his

in

whom

value.

practice

guilt disap-

hundred times more value than to feast a

108.
To worship one who has his

Vedantic scholar.

passions under control,

who

uses the means that produce

the subjugation and the guiding of the organs of sense,

and always pure

hundred times more value

Vedantic scholar. 109. The good

in heart, has a

than the worship of a

deed of feeding at one's home a hundred of such

control their passions,

Bhakta,

who

is

is

equal to feasting one Vishnu

without envy and hate.

110.

whom

therefore, serves a meal to Eknarh, to

friend are alike, and

who

He, who,
enemy and

appears to be Janardan in visible

With
Brahman widow
her home began

form, feeds a hundred thousand Brahmans."

these loving

wha

words of the gentleman, the

experienced joy of heart, and going to

collecting materials for a feast.

112.

111.

She entertained

the desire of bringing Eknath, the deedful avatar, to her

home

him with many kinds of

daintily cooked food.
113.
Poor in worldly things was
this poor Brahman widow.
No money or grain was to
be found in her house.
Only by carrying water to the
for a feast, and of serving

houses of people could she daily save up some money.

She began to purchase, and store in her house wheat,

rice, d&l and ghi.
And with her own hands she prepared
vade, papad, and vajavate. 115. She also collected such
114.

materials as vegetables, greens and sugar.

Then taking

EKNATH

219'

the gentleman along with her she went to give her invita-

At that moment Hari Pandit was

reading the Purana, and Sri Nath was listening to him.
117.
So they sat quietly until the reading was ended.
When the reading of the Purana was completed, Hariba
arose and went into the house, and the gentleman, along
with thv Brahman widow made their request to Sri Nath.
Her story was told from beginning to end. "Her
118.
feasting a thousand (Brahmans) still remains to be done.
If you will so much as eat a mere handful, a hundred'
thousand Brahmans will have been fed."
119.
Appretion to

Fknath.

ciating

the

reason

replied with a

house.

116.

Go and

and both went

why

she felt as she did, Sri Nath

" Hariba has just gone into the

request,

ask him." 120. They listened to this request

in,

but

in

great

fear.

TTari

Pandit was

and they told him their story.

121.
cnrasred, and turned on the Brahman
" Eknath has been on the Great
widow with scorn.
"
Pilgrimage," he said,
and since then has given up taking
sitting in the house,

Hari P-indit became

food at another's house."

122.

As

the

widow

listened to-

these harsh words, she felt helpless, and coming back to

F.lviiat'i,

she stood before him with hands palm to palm.

She murmurred, " Hari Pandit does not approve,

but my desire is still very great," and tears of love flowed,
and her voice became choked with emotion,
124.
Sri
Nath was greatly troubled, and the widow's desire was so
full of love, that he hastened within to his son and said,
"Fulfil her wish."
125.
Hari pandit replied, "Father,
keep the promise you gave me. T have followed you back
to this :?acred city, because I know how your heart works."
126.
Sri Nath then proposed to his son, " You preparethe cooked food with your own hands, and then both of"
123.

EKNATH

220

us will go and dine there. This will meet her desire. 127.
In this way the promise I gave you will not be broken, and
at the
less,

same time her vow

old

widow

Haripandit
sat

"

will be fulfilled, the poor, help-

Out of

128.

consented,

and

came

Eknath

The Brahman widow continued

down.

"The vade,
pared with

outside

to plead.

and
129.

and the valvate, which I have preown hands, and which I have been keeping
months will be in vain, after all the pains I

the papad

my

for the last six

have taken.

130.

You

are indeed one

devotion, you a deedful avatar. Propose

whereby

father

respect for his

my

wish

may

be

fulfilled."

who hungers

for

svami, some plan

131.

Hearing her

loving pleading Eknath rejoiced in heart and said, "

You

have with love prepared the valavate. Now fry it with

your own hand.
132.
After I have taken the morsel
addressed to the five vital airs, then you may serve whatever you have prepared at home."

When

Nath's reply she was exceedingly happy.

also, "

she heard Sri

133.

Eknath

Whatever you yourself are fond of that will

added
134.
seem delicious to me. I have no other craving."
Listening to his nectar voice, her heart became full of
happiness, and returning to her home she began to prepare
the vegetables.
135.
She arose at dawn the next day,
3wept and garnished her house, cleansed and polished the
vessels, and then bathed by the bank of the Ganga,
136.
This poor old woman fetched water and placed it in her
house pulling the door after her.
Then she went
to Eknath's house. 137. She bowed to Hari pandit, and
said, " I have collected all the necessary materials, now
come to my house, and fulfil the desire of my heart." 138.
Sri Nath then requested his son, saying " Go and cook the
food, I will soon follow." 139. Hari pandit then went

EKNATH

221

He first bathed, and then

Brahman widow.
cooked the meal. 140. The widow lovingly brought him
whatever materials he needed, for whatever he knew how

with

the

to cook.

141.

purpose she

left

After giving him what he required for his

him

to

do her own cooking.

Now

Eknath,.

who

understood the widow's inner feelings, said to himself.

" She has no one to send and summon me."
142.
So

Hari went to the house of Vidur without being

called, so on this occasion Eknath arrived at her home u'nsummoned. 143. She gave him water for his bath. Haripandit then made the offering to fire, and with his own
just as Sri

hands served two dishes.

144.

And

served freshly heated ghi he called to the

and s:ud, " Janardan is the enjoyer of

mantra poured water on her hands.

Nath was
Brahman widow

as Sri

this,"

and with

145.

Then

ing the image of Pandurang into his mind, he

made an

offering to

Him.

Eknath then took a

this,

bring-

lovingly-

sip of water,,

and nvjrsels of food in the name of the vital airs. 146.

Father and son then sat down to eat, and the old woman
went back and forth into the kitchen, and brought out the
food.
147.
She brought a tray full of food, and placed it
before Sri Nath, and served with her own hands light puranpolis.
With her own hands she served the vade, the
148.
cakes fried in oil and the nine preparations of milk and sugar. Sri Nath refused nothing. He ate rapidly and eagerly.

was greatly pleased. The

same was happening now as when Rama ate the bor fruit
belonging to the Bhil woman.
150.
But when Haripandit
149. Seeing this strange sight she

saw

the strange sight he

was angry.

He

rolled his red eyes,

The old woman, howEknath with hands palm to palm, saying,

" You have had mercy on a helpless one and fulfilled my

and gnashed with

ever, stood before

his teeth.

151.

EKNATH

222

Jiimself

Haripandit, on the other hand, thought to

152.

desire."

" If such was his intention,

hands be scorched
control his rage.
his

bhakti,

The

God

154.

and the bhakta

woman,

lips,

to

rolling

and his whole

fond of the sweet food of

is

closely

is

my

let

bound to God through love.

who cares? 155. Anger

desires of each are sweet, but

mad

The
and

stared at the old

reddened eyes, savagely biting his

body trembling.

is

He

did he

and he was unable

(in cooking), "

153.

why

whom

elephant,

you would

control, but cannot.

pandit, however, used his reason as his elephant goad,

restrained himself.
156. He thought to himself, " If

I treat

my

father with disrespect a great sin will rest on

With

head."

full

juices

the

mind, he joined in the

this consideration in

meal with loving thoughts.

of

my

Eknath enjoyed to the

157.

He

happiness.

then

Ganga
The old

drank

water and washed hands and mouth.

158.
woman had already provided a special seat for Eknath, and
had prepared two vidas, tulsi leaves and Vishnu water.
159. After Eknath had rinsed out his mouth, he said to
his son, "

160.

Take away now

This old

one with her.

woman

at

entirely alone here.

is

Unhelped,

later to take her bath."

once our two used leaf plates.

it

will be

161.

Sri

very

She has no

difficult

Nath made

for her

this request

and Haripandit paid respect to his father's suggestion. He

tucked up his dhotar, and began taking up the leaf plates.
162.
He took up Eknath's plate and put it on Ibis own
plate, when behold, to his great amazement he saw another
plate.

163.

He

woman must have

with food."
behold, he
other.

His

thought

to

himself,

"The

old

brought him another from the kitchen

So he took
saw a third

that plate

away

leaf plate,

also.

164.

When

and so one after the

lotus heart, full of astonishment, he excitedly

EKNATH
took them up.
still

165.

He

223

took up more than a thousand, but

they did not end, and Haripandit,

now

full

of repen-

made a sashtanga namaskdr to Eknath. 166. He

stood before him with hands palm to palm. Tears rushed

tance,

to his lotus eyes, and the eight emotions

He

exclaimed, "Victory, Victory to Thee,

filled

him.

167.

Thou Eternal

be-

Unmanifested, Void-of-darkness, Imperishable, deedful

avatar, Lord-of-all, King-of-Heaven, Guru-of-the-World.
ing,

a sinner, was ignorant of your greatness. I have

You are a visible Vishnu avatar.
greatly transgressed.
168.

I,

This conviction has

now permeated my

soul.

169.

Cease

your miraculous deeds now, and have mercy upon me,

father." Thus repenting in heart, he placed his head at
Eknath \s feet.
170.
Sri Natto, in great pity comforted
his son, caressing him with his hand.
"You have been put
to much trouble darling," he said, "but there will be no
more leaf -plates to be taken up." 171. With this assurance of Kknath's Haripandit removed all the plates. He
had taken up and collected a thousand plates. He then
" Your good fortune
172.
said to the Brahman widow.
is extraordinary.
In inviting &ri Nath you have truly fed
a hundred thousand Brahmans. I am convinced of this
now by experience to the full." 173. The eight emotions
now crowded the old woman's heart. She reverently made
her namaskar to Eknath. " You have had pity on me, a
helpless one," she cried, "and have saved me."
174.
"
Haripandit said to his father,
I have become proficient in
sastras.
the six
On account of my pride of that knowledge
I did not recognize your greatness.
175.
Now, O Sv&tni,
wherever thy purpose is a pure one, there eat, and also
read aloud the prakrit books."

two returned

to their home,

176.

Thus

and the old

conversing, the

woman

took the

EKNATH

224

food

left

177.

eat.

on

Eknath's

Blessed,

and

plate

Blessed

was

her

sat

down

bhakti,

tat

where
Eknath

Eknath ate and was satisfied.

It
is
what
on his plate that Mahipati herewith lovingly
serves
(to
listeners).
you
178.
Svasti.
This
book is the Sri Bhaktalilamrita. By merely listening to
left

it

one's desires are fulfilled.

bhaktas.

This

is

the

Listen then, ye, pious, loving

twenty-third

delightful

chapter.

Giapter 23, verses 178.

CHAPTER

24.

BHAKTALILAMRITA.
Mahipati' s Invocation.

Obeisance to Sri Ganesa.

1.

being,

Victory to Thee Lilavigrahi, Noblest-being, Sagun

dark-complexioned-one,

World, Atmarama.

Thy

greatness

Glorious-Guru-of-theis

unknowable.

2.

In

the family of Bhanudas at Pratishthana Thou didst become

an avatar. Thou didst manifest Thyself in many acts and
show miracles to the wicked. 3. Thou Thyself didst become a bhakta of God, and wonderfully magnified Thine
own name. Both by the hatred of some, and by the devotion of others, Thou hast saved many.
4.
O King-ofHeaven, Thy incomparable miraculous acts cannot be
described, and where the Serpent's tongue split in

its effort

where am I a mere mosquito. 5. Praising Thee with uncouth words, somehow or other, I write
them in this book. Accept them in Thy mercy, and in
Thy supreme pity. 6. I speak of my gift of speech, but
to describe Thee,

EKNATH
my

this is

transgression.

Pandharinath,

225

Thou

art the

true mover of the mind. No one else has that power. 7.

If my mind is the least disturbed, I cannot think of a single

me

remembrance, and therefore

Using me as a pretext, O
this length to this book.
glorious-Lord, Thou dost publish Thine own good fame.
This conviction has impressed my mind. I have no other
thought. 9. Among all versifiers I am the one and only

word, but Thou dost give

8.

But Thou
and every one knows this.
When an
Pandurang dost perform strange thing. 10.
infant speaks with a lisping tongue its mother regards it
happily.
So Thou, giver of absorption into Brahma, comfort and ifk-rifv m\
ignorant

one,

EKNATH RESUMES HIS KIRTANS.

In the last chapter was the extraordinary story,
knowledge-proud
Haripandit began removing Sri
how the
Nath's leaf-plates, until more than a thousand were
removed. 12. How he became supremely ashamed, how
perspiration covered his body and how becoming humble,
he made Eknath a sashtany namaskar. 13. With hands
palm to palm he pleaded with Eknath, " You are an avatar
of Vishnu in visible form. Wherever you have a purpose,
that is pure, go there and dine,
Svdmi. 14. And the
prakrit books, which you have yourself written, and have
read aloud, continue to read them each day." And with
this he fell at Eknath's feet.
15.
While his son was thus
speaking to him, Eknath reached his home. Aside from
these two, no third person knew of the above events. 16.
In the meantime the Brahman widow ate her meal in her
kitchen, and then fastening together the thousand and more
11.

13

EKNATH

926
used

leaf-plates,

to the bank

she placed them on her head, and

of the Ganga.

17.

And

came

there to the people

With her own

of Pratishthana she related the events.

hands she committed the leaf-plates to the flowing stream

of the Ganga.
hearts

came

18.

And

the pious bhaktas, to whose

great joy, said to themselves

will give readings of the Purana,

and we

"Now

Eknath

shall listen to his

Thus people spoke to

19.
kirtans to our heart's content.
one another, and the story spread in the

city.

Haripandit

changed to one of reverent spirit, became a bhokta of his

father's 20. And with fixed attention would sit listening
to the reading of the Purana from the lips of Sri Nath.
Many pious people now gathered to listen to the Hari
kirtans.

21.

With shouts

of "Victory, Victory" the

assembled bhaktas clapped their hands and rejoiced. Tears

filled Hariba's lotus eyes.
22.
The loud noise of the
cymbals, the vina, and drum, came in reverberating waves.
Especially did they proclaim the greatness of God's name.

The mere
23.

listening to

His names made their minds happy.

Haripandit thought in his heart, "

When

the former

events happened in Paithan, I was in the ignorance of

childhood, but the

Svami has today had

misled by

my

pride of knowledge.

on me. 24.
I was greatly

pity

I did not recognize Sri Nath's great glory.

I deserted this

of-the-world and went to live in Kasi.

25.

As

Guruin the

Dvaparayuga the bhakta Arjuna was accustomed to regard

Sri Krishna as a close relative, but after he had manifested
himself in the form of the universe, he seemed to him to
be the soul of the universe." 26. So in fact did it happen
to Hariba.

He now

sat attentively at

the kirtans, and

understanding Eknath's wishes served him for his

good.

own

EKNATH

227

EKNATH CARES FOR AN IDIOT BOY, GAVABA.

There are other

27.

stories,

delightful

and deeply

listen reverently to them, ye pious folk.

suggestive,

On

was a very humble village.

His occupation was that
28.

the bank of the Ganga there

was a Brahman.
of town-clerk, but he was very poor in every respect. He
was, however, father to a large number of children, but
with no food for them to eat. 29. The last to be born
The women called
was a boy, an idiot, and dumb.
his
story.
30.
Gradually he
him Gavaba. But listen to
grew to be a big boy, and was always playing with little
boys. He became eight years of age and still could not
speak distinctly. 31. His father regarded him as of no
account, but the ceremony of the sacred thread, however,
was performed. The boy could not even say, " Kesava
In

it

there

Narayan," much less repeat the Gayatri mantra. 32. The

father said, " This is indeed destiny, from deeds laid up in
a former birth, that my last son should be dumb. He eats
a stomach full, but speaks not a word. 33. I must have
in

my

possession ten million sins, as a consequence of which

had born to me this demon. Who will in the end

care for him ? " Thus the father and mother were troubled
I have

about

him.

foolish

his

Because of

34.

son

parents?

is

How

born.

He

is

giver

sin

can

in

he

former birth

give

of pain.

35.

happiness
It

a
to

happened

Brahman celebrated a festival at

The boy was given some puranpoli, of which
his home.
he ate a stomach full. 36. On the next day, at the same
time of day Gavaji asked his mother for some more puranpoli.
She had laid some stale puranpoli aside.
She

that on a certain day the

brought

it

out and gave

it

to him.

37.

After that night

EKNATH

328

had passed, Gavaji would not eat the usual bread and greens.
With his hand he made a sign that said, "Give me some
more puranpoli."
38.
The mother became angry, and
"

wretch," she cried, " Is this why

you have been born, to ask for dainty food? " 39. Gavaji
slapped her son.

You

and rolkd on the ground. He then got up and again

running to his mother with signs asked for puranpoli. 40.
His mother now felt pity for him, " What shall I do with
this craving of his", she thought.
Then taking him by the
hand she led him quickly to Paithan. 41. She went to
Eknath's house, and reverently made namaskar to the
Sv&mi. She placed Gavaji at his feet, and said, " Merciful
One, accept him. 42. He is nine years old, as you see,
but he cannot speak one single word. Yet he asks for
dainty food. What am I to do? 43. We are weak and
cried

We

Brahmans.

helpless

live in

a humble village, but here

with you, there daily takes place a feast where Brahmans

eat dainty food.

44.

My

comSri Nath

ears have heard of your

have brought him here."

replied with these nectar words, " Let him remain here in
my home." 45. Eknath then spoke to Girjabai, and
asked her to care regularly for the boy with feelings of

and so

passion,

In accordance with Sri Nath's request she

gave Gavaji water to bathe with, a serving dish, and seated
love.

46.

him to eat. 47. Gavaji's mother was now filled with joy.
She took her leave of Eknath and hastened back to her
48.
She told her husband that she had come
village.
back from committing her dumb boy to Eknath's keeping.
"

Now

empty
former

let

us put aside feelings of affection for him, and

love.

excellent

49.

It

and
home."

birth,

was evidently well with him

therefore

Thus

he

father

has

in a

now found an

and

mother

felt

EKNATH
great

Now

50.

satisfaction.

229

as

Gavaji,

to

Eknath,

He
him with clothes.
ate both the morning and evening meals, and was always
playing with other boys. 51. He no longer remembered

with

own hands

his

supplied

His heart was

his parents.

full

He

of happiness here.

received daintily cooked food, such as he had not received

before,

and

his physical

frame became well nourished.

happened that one day Eknath was

It

Eknath

God-room.

him

to have

sitting alone in the

him

called Gavaji to

52.

there,

and

tried

name of Rama.

repeat a formula with the

53.

But that dumb boy wa* very stupid and could not repeat
a single syllabic.

my name?"

is

Eknath then questioned him.

gave him that name as

He

55.
in

on

met

dear

his

this rosary."

in his kindness,

formula for continual repeating.

sad guru.

many

knots

want you to constantly repeat

From

56.

He became

that time Gavaji

deeply

interested.

forgot to play, and enjoyed the happiness that comes

from

love.

To all

others he

He would

57.

was dumb, but

the depths of his heart.

for sweet things.

he spent

not repeat any other word.

Eknath touched
conquered his craving

affection for

58.

Taking but

He

little

food, day

and night

When

the people of the

town

his life, they

were amazed, and

said,

in worship.

saw the manner of

"

Then Eknath,

took a cord and with his hands tied

my name
He

saying to the boy "

it,

What

Suddenly the power of speech develo-

54.

" Eknath," he cried.

ped.

"

59.

No

sooner did he experience Eknath's compassion than

his conduct changed.
60.
Giivaji's father and mother

once came to
for them.

visit

He

him, but he showed no love or affection

would not even look

at them.

EKNATH

230

GOD RAM TELLS EKNATH TO COMPOSE

A PRAKRIT RAMAYANA.
After some days passed in this

61.

event took place.

his God-room.

62.

Eknath was
Sri

Rama

in

way a

notable

deep contemplation in

revealed himself there to

As

him, and taking Eknath by the hand awoke him.

Eknath opened his eyes he beheld the Husband-of-Janaki.

Eknath overflowed with the eight emotions.
With
love he embraced his feet.
Raghupati drew Eknath to
his heart in his embrace, full of love.
Raghunandana
64.
"
then gave this command,
Compose with your own lips
a Prakrit commentary on the Ramayana by Sri Valmiki."
65.
Thus commanded by the Lord-of-Ayodhya, Eknath
made this answer, "My mind cannot comprehend the
seven chapters that describe your good fame. 66. And
63.

though
little

I attempted

left

it

of the limit

my uncouth
of my life. I

in

words, yet there

doubt in

is

my mind

Raghunandana
replied to this,
Perform your devotions and your regular
religious duties moderately and to a less extent, and give
all your time to the composing of the Ramayana.
68.
.Your noble emotions and love are wonderful. I am truly
fond of your writings, and so I wish you to name the book
the
Bhavartha
Ramayana.
69.
I,
the
Darkcomplexioned one, will abide in your heart, and
at all times give you remembrance.
The Kaliyuga
and Death are under your sway; do not be in
the least troubled."
70.
Thus spoke Raghunandana,
and Eknath worshipping his feet said, "Your command
whether the book can be completed.

67.

"

is

my

authority.

I can plan nothing otherwise."

71.

EKNATH
Thus much spoke
came invisible, or

231

and at once berather Ramchandra took up his abode

the Lord-of-Ayodhya,

in Eknath's heart.

EKNATH COMPOSES THE BHAVARTHA

RAMAYANA.
72.

After

this

Eknath chose a very auspicious day

and began the Ramayana

in Prakrit.

loving pious bhaktas felt great joy.

listened to as

much

Because of this the

Each day they
73.

of the book as he composed.

sprang sweetness, sweeter than nectar.

to

it

they lost

all

As men

consciousness of body.

74.

From

it

listened

On

the

slokas of the book composed by Valmiki, Eknath wrote a

Maharashtra commentary.
As men listened to it they
became absorbed in contemplation, and the dull and stupid
became full of love.
75.
Eknath began with the
Balakanda, and completed it.
He then began the
Ayodhyakanda, and brought that also to completion. 76.
After this the Aranyakanda where Raghunandan went into the forest. Then he completed the whole chapter of the
Kishkindhakanda.
77.
Then came the Sundarakanda,
where Hanumant performed wonderful deeds accomplishing the search for Sita, and in which Raghupati goes to
Lanka. 78. Then Eknath began the Yuddhakanda and
himself completed forty- four chapters of

it.

But the time

was now near at hand. 79. And when

the pious heard Eknath say, " The time of my departure is
now truly near at hand," they became greatly troubled.
80.
They said "We hoped that from the Svami's own
lips the whole of the Ramayana would be completed.
He
of his departure

EKNATH

333

has not yet fully completed the Yuddhakanda. 81. The

whole of the Uttarakanda yet remains to be done. There-

we

fore

are very anxious.

completion and then

name

First bring the

book to

full

the time of your departure."

To

this plea of the good bhaktas Sri Nath made a

"
reply,
If Death has appointed his abode in any particular

82.

The hearers returned

answer, "When Krishnadas Lolya came supplicating you,
you caused him to escape Death for eleven days, and let
him finish the whole of the Yuddhakanda. 84. So now
body, he cannot be avoided."

stop Death, and

us see the joyous occasion of the com-

let

As we

pletion of the book.

loving poetic
replied,

bring

skill

"Listen to

my

83.

we

shall listen to the Svanii's

85.

shall all rejoice."

my

words.

To

Sri

Nath

punish Death so as to

poetry to completion seems to

me

unworthy.

EKNATH ASSIGNS GAVAJI THE TASK OF

FINISHING THE KAMAYANA.
now

Yuddhakanda to its
completion, and also the Uttarakanda. There is no other
way." 87. As Sri Nath made this statement the people
86.

Gavji will

bring the

were astonished, " What Gavaji," they cried," that lifelong

mute, who speaks to no one
88.
How can he compose
the Ramayana! This seems untrue to us."'
But Sri
!

Nath

called Gavaji to

him.

89.

He

and gave him

me

him and bestowed

lovingly placed his

his pen, saying,

With

his grace upon

hand on Gavaji's head,

"May

the poetic inspiration

boon of Eknath's grace

Gavji's mind immediately expanded and taking the paper
in his hand began writing in the book. 91.
His composition was exactly like that of Eknath's ovis.
When one

in

pass to you."

90.

this

EKNATH

233

chapter was finished the pious people listened to

They remarked, "Through

mute has become
language

is

gifted with the

92.

Eknath

this

His

power of speech.

He

also exceedingly sweet.

whole book.
one chapter.
full

the kindness of

it.

will

complete the

In the presence of Eknath he wrote

The remainder of the book he carried to

93.

completion

later.

i:knath ANNOUNCES HIS DEPARTURE

FROM THIS LIFE.
In the month of Phalgun, on the night of the
day of the dark fortnight, Sri Nath performed a

94.
fifth

kirtan.

to

my

After distributing sweetmeats, he

you, after

And

then return to your homes.

heard

and

To-morrow
bathing come as far as
95.

request.

this request

said, "

The

am

the

to depart.

Gangt

96.

"Listen

said,

As

to see

All of

me

off.

the pious folk

of Eknath's they became very sorrowful,

life

of this avat&r

hearts were in great distress.

97.

now

On

ends," and their

the next day, early

in the morning, all his circle of

friends gathered in his

were

in a fainting conditions.

wada.

Sri Nath's relatives

When

98.

the pious people

became exceeding sorrowful.

and the

They

said, "

path of death

evil

He
is

this state of affairs

Their eyes

filled

they

with tears,

The revilers, the perminded, however, made adverse remarks.

as they looked at Sri Nath.

verse,

saw

exhibited

the

99.

many wonderful

same for him

acts,

as for others.

but the

100.

He

many miracles, but now Death has

mighty grasp. At the end Ekntth's body will
be carried along on the shoulders of men." 101. As the
has shown in the past

him

in his

EKNATH

234

pious folk heard these remarks of the revilers, they were

mind the fame of Eknath's deeds.

"
102.
They said, In order to save the world you, Eknath,
became an avatar with human qualities.
We wish that
sad, but they recalled to

your death could be different from that of ordinary men."

103. When Sri Nath heard this desire of the pious, he
became conscious and sat up, like one awakened out of
sleep.
104. At this sight all clapped their hands with
shouts

"Victory,

of,

name of
then asked Uddhava
shouted the

The pious

Victory."

Vitthal and rejoiced.

folk

105.

tlhen

Eknath

to bring water quickly for his bath,

After bathing with the repetition of mantras, he with, his

own hands put on clean clothes. 106. Then taking his
seat he made the twelve marks with clay, and lovingly
the
tulsi
107.
placed
garland
around his neck.
He then repeated the names of Janardan, and pronounced
the taraka mantra. He meditated, and then loudly repeated
the names of Vitthal.
108.
Eknath took his vino" on his
shoulder, and praising the attributes of Sri Hari, and

mak-

ing namaskSr to PSndurang, he held his form in his mind.

EKNATH GOES INTO THE RIVER AND ENDS

HIS LIFE.
109.

The
is

Loudly repeating God's names he

people lovingly worshipped him.

this earth,"

they cried.

110.

men and women worshipped

left his

Every step of the way

him, offering such things as

fragrant powders, flowers and tulsi garlands.

various invocatory songs.

wad&.

" Blessed and holy

111.

As

They sang

they impressed Sri

Nath's form on their minds, tears came to their eyes.

EKNATH

2 8&

Thinking that they would never see him again, great numbers of people came from afar.
112. There was a great
collection of banners

was

and

densely crowded.

of

People from the

113.

little

came with
forms of
Before and behind Eknath there was a dense

crowd, so that the sight of him was obstructed.

marched

in procession

Lakshmitirtha.

to

place

in

The gods now came

the

114.

Ganga

numerable water

lilies

with their

fell

own

shouting the names of Hari.

people of that time,

who saw

115.

hands
Blessed were the

and clapped
116.

that

In-

These the

the ground.

to

eyes

All

called

riding on their sky

automobiles, and showered flowers on Eknath.

people saw

hamlets

their specially chosen

outside the city

procession.

The path becameheaven was filled to over-

names.

The dome

flowing with sounds.

Every now and then there

flags.

the shouting of God's

wondrous

their

scene.

The

Gods also unseen by men, viewed the scene. 117. As the

crowd reached the sand bed of the Ganga. Sri Nath told
all the people to quiet their minds, and listen to the attributes of Hari.
all

felt

118.

great joy.

Listening to the request of Sri Nath,

All the

men and women

then seated

themselves, looking intently at the form before them.

EKNATH'S FINAL MESSAGE.

With loud repeating of Vitthal's names the
Hari kirtan was commenced, Eknath wondrously described the greatness of bhakti, and the power of repeating
God's names. 120. "In this Kaliyuga there is no means
of salvation other than that of His Name. Be kind to
every creature. Keep this truth in your hearts, 121. I
had to come here into this world of mortals for your good.
119.

EKNATH

1236

am above Maya, the absolutely perfect, pure

spirit."
122.
As they were listening to Eknath's kirton,
a good man put this question to him. "You, Svami, will

Otherwise

have to become an avatar again sometime in the future,

will you not?
123.
Such is the hope of all. O image-ofcompassion, tell this." Sri Nath listened to this question and replied in an abhang verse.
124.
I will quote
this in this book.

Reverently

listen

wise bhaktas, to

ye,

these gracious words, to hear which bestows enlightenment

on the

soul.
'

1.

When

the path of righteousness

unrighteousness has lifted up

its

is

head, then

destroyed,
,1

and

must return

Many, many kinds of beand scrupulous observance of rites, and ceremonies have risen in revolt, their faces must be smashed
by the worship of Hari. 3. Whatever was Hari's deedful
life that is also mine independently.
But God and his
bhakta are united. There is no difference between them.
4.
Whatever avatar Hari assumes that I also assume.
to this worldly existence.

2.

liefs, heresies,

I proclaim

aloud Hari's names, for the salvation of the

world.

That

of

5.

God and

in all creatures there

that the blessing of

the real object of BhakH.

6.

may

be the thought

Dharma may

increase, is

It is the injunction of the

Vedas that toward all creatures one should preserve pity

and friendliness. It is this indeed that I came to do. 7.
God when assuming a deedful body is called the ever-free.
Am I indeed different from that? 8. Krishna showed
Arjuna Himself in the form of the universe. One should
never therefore so
9.

The

calves

much

as speak of various differences.

story of his taking

and herdsmen were

away the

different, but

Here the
Himself became

calves.

He

EKNATH

237

the musical instrument, the shoes and the waist cord.

Ekajanardan says, " I regard Govinda

He who

Universe.

in the

10.

form of the

considers there is a difference

is

more

contemptible than the most contemtible."

This dbhang of Sri Nath, containing his graci-

125.

ous message on the occasion of his departure, Uddhava*

taking paper in his hand, wrote

Then under

126.

Vitthal's

the praise of Hari, and

hymns were

many

looks at

men one

mind
can

and

be

there

such

meaning.

wonderful

by the

light

state of difference,

remains.

When

3.

is

the shouting of

of the

of you.

sees Janardan.

as
to

Invocatory
2.

all

Invocatory

This
lights.

attributes

non-

and

God, Victory, Victory

Hymn we
arati

has been made

As one

looks at

it,

the

that light is lighted one experiences

When

the

offered to body, quickly the difference of Jiva

and

Siva vanishes.

mass.

4.

is

No

The one who

no

state of difference.

back and no
sees

is

front, all

the one over

all.

one dense
Neither

desired nor undesired, neither secret nor disclosed.

I

of

sing

and the consciousness of body no longer

the fact that there

body

Victory

This

was

Where
appears identity. Where there
perfect unity.
Where the
insufficient to
how
describe,

thing

Chorus.

Janardan.

brilliant

are

intellect

attributes?
to

appears

there

there

at that very time.

clapped their hands.

all

there are differences there

are

name

down

Listen to them

sung.

As one

1.

it

fills all

Always seen but never comprehended

Whatever is seen is not kown by the sight.

space.

by the mind.

5.

Non-existence has swallowed existence.

strange one,

The

Ekajanardana.

This Srati

is

EKNATH

338

EKNATH'S DEATH.
own

This invocation Sri Nath sang with his

127.

He

names of God, and made a

namask&r, prostrating himself on the ground. 128. After
Sri Nath had thus prostrated himself he made a request
" Let the
of the people with his hands palm to palm.
kindly thought of you all rest upon me," he said to them,
and again bowed low to them. 129. As they thus listened
to his voice tears came to their eyes, and crying, " Victory,
Victory to Nath, Victory to Eknath," they made him a
namaskar. 130. Eknath then waded into the water of
voice.

the Ganga.

loudly repeated the

When the
He caused

water reached his navel he stood

names of
Hari, during which his soul left its abode, the Gods show132.
All the people who had
ering flowers upon him.
in their love.
the
sight
now
mourned
They
see
come to
then committed his body to the fire, according to the comstill.

mon

131.

practice.

all

133.

to repeat aloud the

After

Eknath the people returned to

seeing

the

their homes.

departure
All were

of

on

that occasion agitated by their sorrow.

THE MIRACULOUS ASVATTHA TREE

SPRINGS FROM HIS ASHES.
134.

to

On

the next day along with his son they

collect Eknath's ashes,

tulsi plant

when

lo,

came

they saw the Krishna

sprouting out of the ashes, and also a young

asvattha tree.

135.

When

the people

saw

its

tender and

green leaves they rejoiced and cried out " He has

indeed manifested himself in the form of the asvattha tree.
5ri Nath has already become an avat&r in advance. 136.
brilliant

EKNATH
Then keeping

239

the asvattha tree in the centre they built a

stone platform around

it,

and

in the shrine they installed

To this day the

Many men and women,

Sri Nath's p&duka.

place

desires.

inhabitants of the

sacred

137.
city,

sionate Sri

fulfils

one's

continually serve at that place, and the compas-

Nath

fulfils

the desires of their hearts.

138.

According to the faith of each one he obtains from the

On

God-of-Gods.

the

shashthi

there

Paithan a festival of great grandeur.

Many

at

Eknath

form of the

orther wonderful things take place

Listen to them, ye pious bhaktas.

there.

Sri

139.

gives a visible manifestation of himself in the

asvattha tree.

place

takes

Lest the

140.

stone platform should be broken the asvattha tree remains

just as small as

and

the other

city,

Even Brahmadeva

has always been.

Gods cannot know

of Sri Nath.
sacred

it

141.

fully the

miraculous deeds

Blessed are the inhabitants of the

who can always

see this manifestation of Sri

Innumerable sinners have been saved by the sight

Nath.

of his paduka (sculptured foot prints.)

142.

Those who

hear of the death of Eknath will have no agony at their

Giving them happiness the King-of-Heaven takes

death.

them

to his abode.

143.

have written

this

book in uncouth language but

by the command of Sri Fandurang<

Otherwise,

I,

a sinful

stupid man, could never have completed the story of the

saints.

144.

In the next chapter

the Vaishnava bhakta Tukaram.

long, but listen all of
to the poor, the

you to

it.

is

a pleasant story of

His story
145.

He,

is

who

exceedingly
is

merciful

Husband-of-Rukmini, Brother-of-the-help-


EKNATH

240
less,

Ocean-of-mercy,

rance; and causes

me

tions of Himself.

By merely

mrita.

He

has given me, Mahipati, assu-

to write of these visible manifesta-

146.

This book

listening to

it

is

one's desires are fulfilled

This

listen then, ye pious laving Bhaktas.

fourth delightful chapter.

the Sri Bhaktalila-

is

the twenty-

Chapter 24, verses 146.

THE WRITINGS OF EKNATH.

In his Maharashtra Sarasvata (History of Maratht
Edition page 553 Mr. V. L. Bhave gives

Literature)

first

a long

of works ascribed to Eknath.

list

Some

of those

works are, however, but chapters or porworks under another title. I am acquainted

listed as separate

tions of his

with but ten of his works, as follows

Chatusloki Bhagavata.

Abhangs.
Hastamalaka.
Sukashtaka.

Svatmasukha.
Anandalahari.

Anubhavananda or.
Anandanubhava.
Rukmini Svayamvara.
Bhagavata.

Bhavartha Ramayana.

Of
ters

the remaining in Mr. Bhave's

or portions of the above.

list

which are cFap-

EKNATH
Bhikshugita

is

the

23rd

241

chapter

Bhagavata.

The following

found in the

collection of bis Abharigs.

are

titles

of

the

Eknathi

of abhangs to be

Ekadasi Mahatmya.
Krishnadanavrata.

Gitamahatmya.

Govardhanoddharana.
Chiranjivapada.

Pralhad Charitra.

Bharud.
Sitamandodari Samvada.

Svatmabodh.
Pade.

The

following in his

list

I have

no knowledge of;

Ashtavakra.

Kaliyamardana.
Kausalya. Svayamvara.

Gaj endramoksha.
Ganeshavilasa.
Gitarthasara.

Guhyapanchaka.

Namasara.
Mudravilasa.

Vedantanirupana.

The

following brief summaries of ten of his works

will, I trust, be of suggestive value to the student
of

Eknath.

EKNATH

343

THE WRITINGS OF EKNATH.

CHATUSLOKI BHAGAVATA
The Chatusloki Bhagavata

a commentary on the

is

Sanskiit text of the Bhagavata Purana the ninth chapter of

the second skandha, consisting of 44 verses in the original

but appearing as 45 in the commentary.

text,

Near

the close of the

historical note, explaining

tion,

when

and

took

this

" Listen attentively.

work Eknath adds an interesting

why he was led to its composi(verses

place

1016-1032).

you how I came in possession of the Chatusloki Bhagavata, and the reason for my
producing this commentary. On the Godavari river, on its
I will

tell

four yojanas away,

north bank,

is

Mount Chandragiri.

Sri Janardan in his pilgrimage naturally went there.

is

a very long climb to the top of

Mount

It

Chandragiri, but

town of Chandravati. A distinguished

Brahman named Chandra (Chandrabhat) lived here, and
it happened that we put up at his house.
He was in the
habit of expounding the Chatusloki Bhagavata and praised
it highly.
Janardan was greatly pleased with Chandrabfaat's exposition, and with loud exclamations of pleasure
he told me to put the mystic teachings of the book into the
at

its

base

common
education

is

the

language

of

the

was mediocre.

people
I

(the

did not

Marathi).

know

My

Sanskrit, its

words, nor their meanings, but, because of the supremacy

of his strict command I was inspired to carry out his wish."

After citing examples of the

wonders accomplished by
commands of a guru, and his own intense
the work of composing
the
commentary,

obedience to the
absorption in

he ends by saying,

"Thus

this

Chatusloki

Bhagavata,

EKNATH

243

compounded of knowledge, by the power, might and glory

of my guru's command has been rendered in a Prakrit
version."

This historical note should be compared with the traditional account of the meeting of Eknath and Janardan with

Chandrabhat, the reasons leading to Eknath's writing the

commentary on the Chatusloki Bhagavata in Marathi.

(Bhaktalilamrita 14,123-176, and Kesavasvami's Eknath
charitra 5,1-57. A comparison of texts gives no suggestion
that Kesava Svami followed by Mahipati in the Bhaktalilamrita, obtained his information about Chandrabhat and the
writing of the commentary on the Chatusloki Bhagavata,
from this work of Eknath's. The fact that this is an indepenrlant historical account, and that Kasava's and Mahipati's

Bhaktalilamrita accounts

leads

one

agree with

it,

naturally

Kesava's and the

Bhaktalilamrita account, as truer to fact than the Bhakta-

vijaya

to

stronger

account,

and

Mahipati obtained

confidence

the

in

unknown source from which

it.

Contents of the Chatusloki Bhagavata.

work

is

As Eknath's

a commentary of the Sanskrit text of the ninth

chapter of the second skandha of the Bhagavata Purana,

he naturally follows the contents of the original text. It

is a philosophic work, and strictly Vedantic in all its conBut while following the text in his explanations,
ceptions.
he goes outside of the text in constantly emphasizing
several points to which he seems to ascribe great
importance.
1.

The need

of a guru, without

of true knowledge cannot be known.

whom

the mysteries

The

characteristics

EKNATH

244
of

guru,

true

sadguru,

and a true

disciple

are

emphasized.
2.

The importance

to be rendered to a

God

manifest in

of giiruscva, or the faithful service

guru

is

human

emphaszed.

A sadguru

is

really

flesh, and reverence, obedience,

and service should be rendered to him,

As fundamental

from Knowledge,
religious acts, and devotion to God (bhakti) there must be
a pure and sincere ethical life.
There can be no such
thing as true tapa (the outward religious life,) or true
3.

to all benefits

bhakti (the inner worship of the heart) without purity of

and heart. To this practical, ethical

and again, calls attention with emphasis.

life

side Eknath, again

4.
While Eknath is willing to concede the Way of
Knowledge (dnyanamarga,) the "Way of Works (karmam&rga), as ways of salvation (mukti); they are, however,
difficult ways for the ordinary man.
In their very success
there is the danger of pride. The Way of BJwkti, has no

such danger.

Sincerity

is

comes to the rescue of the

needed, after that

feeble

and the

God

sinful

himself

and saves

them.

From

verse

390

God Himself

is

represented

as

speaking and explaining the fundamentals of the Vedantic

philosophy and the ways of Salvation, Knowledge, Works

and Bhakti,

in all of

which

ethical purity is represented

as essential.

THE ABHAttGS OF EKNATH.

There are two easily available collections of the
abhahgs of Eknath, one the Tukaram Tatya edition of

EKNATH

245

47 by Bhanudas;
more recent edition by Tryambak Hari
Avate in 1924, and consisting of 4001 abhangs. All my
references to the Abhangs of Eknath will be from this
Avate's edition.
These two collections differ in their
1903, containing 2754 abhangs, including

another, and a

arrangement of the abhangs, as well as

1

am unaware

be based.
doubts

There are questions of textual

connected

abhangs.

with

the

number.
which they

in their

as to the original manuscripts on

authorship of

criticism,

and

some of the

discussion of this subject belongs however, to

another place.
Contents of the 4001 abhangs.

These abhangs cover a great variety of subjects mostly

of course, of a strictly religious nature, but others are
especially suited for use in worship, at festivals,

games.

and even

would be out of place here.

In general, however, they are not philosophic, but haw to
do with the practical religious life, of relationship to God
detailed analysis

and man.
God, under whatever name, or manifestation, is a
being very near to man. He is frequently addressed as,
" Father and Mother." " His mercy is to all creatures."
" He does not regard caste." " To him high and
low are
the same."

" All castes can be saved."

" In

man's relation to God he must be free from hypocrisy."

"He must have true love for God." "Without love
no one can meet with (Joel.'* " Why go on pilgrimages to
One's mind should first be pure. Can one's
mind be made pure by going to sacred places? Retire

sacred places?

rather to some quiet spot.

If the heart is pure,

God

is

EKNATH

246
there in your
sitting, if

You

own home.

your

trust is in

sized.

To Eknath
Guru

destroyed through him."

of the Sadguru, all sins are

" In this life happiness is the

O my

Sadguru.

of course, frequently empha-

guru, was a manifestation

" Salvation
Supreme Brahma."

the

comes through the favor

gift of the

is,

human

the

is

are

Him."

The need of a sadguru

of God, "

Him where you

can see

soul,

put

all

your trust in

Him."

The abhangs
of

Maharashtra,

guru, Janardan.

contain frequent references to the saints

from

Dnyatusvar

In his various

lists

to

his

own

saintly

59 names appear,

in-

cluding a few outside of Maharashtra, such as Kabir and

Rohidas.

Connected with some are extended historical

notes, such as those

notes

by

show

that

on Dnyanesvar and Namdev.

many

These

of the traditional stories recorded

later authors, suchi as

Mahipati and others, existed at

the time of Eknath, and therefore have

much

historical

value.

These ab hangs of Eknath, are well worth careful study,

many sides of man's relationship

for they pertain to the

toward God and man, and

if tihey

can be trusted as really

work of Eknath, they are through

personal life and character.
the

the light of his

own

HASTAMALAKA.
a philosophic work consisting of
of a commentary on fourthe Sanskrit original see Indian Antiquary

The Hastamafctka
674

verses.

teen slokas.

is

It is in the nature

On

EKNATH
Vol.

IX page

25, article

247

by Professor E. B. Cowell M.A.,

Cambridge.

The
mentary

and its comBrahman there was born a

story underlying the Sanskrit text

that to a certain

is

The child exhibited unusual characteristics.

It did not cry when born.
So inactive did it appear that
gathered
to see it, remarked, " One
tihe neighbours, who
son

(32).

would
If

it fell

by

ants.

Up
The

a corpse, were it not for the signs of life."

out of its cradle it would not cry, nor when bitten

call it

It

refused to take nourishment from

its

mother.

boy seemed absolutely dumb.

to have him repeat the Gayatri mantra,
As at least that amount of knowledge

to eight years of age the

parents tried

with no success.

was necessary for the investment of the sacred thread,

they tried to force him even by depriving him of food.
They were not successful, and he on the contrary, showed
no resentful feelings towards them. It now happened that
Shankaradharya, came to that house on his begging errand.

The acharya

at once understood the boy, as the parents

" Who are you?

and began to question him.
To whom do you belong? Where are you from? What is
your name? What is your caste?
Whence have you
come, and whither are you going? To my friendly question
you should give a friendly answer."
To this the boy

had

not,

am

not man, God, nor any other creature. I

am not Brahman, Kshatriya, Vaisya or Sudra. I am pure
Intelligence." To the acharya's further questions the boy
replied," I

answers to the

effect

that

he

is

pure Stma, that

differences appearing in the universe, are but the

in

all

forms

which the atma appears with names to those forms, just

as the one sun has

many

reflections in the little pool rippled

EKNATH

248

by the wind.

In these answers the boy brings out the various catagories and definitions of the Vedantic philosophy.

The Acharya,

being highly pleased with the wise answers

of the boy, whose apparent lack of intelligence,

a cover to his profound wisdom, recognized

to be invested with the sacred thread.

The Hastamalaka

was merely

his worthiness

a purely philosophic work, with

the design of explaining the fundamental conception of
is

the Vedantic philosophy of the absolute oneness of the

atma, the one substance of which

all

apparent differences

To

are but that one substance in various forms,.

stand these mysteries the need of a guru

that need

is

not emphasised.

is

stated; but

The work being purely

sophic, the practical side, namely, the

under-

ways of

philo-

salvation,

dnyGna, karma and bhakti are not emphasised, indeed the

word

bhakti even does not once occur.

The frequent

commentary from the

Upani shads show that Eknath was a

quotations in the

Bhagavadgita and the

student of those sacred books.

SUKASHTAKA*
The Sukashtaka is a commentary on eight Sanskrit
sloks.
They are the words of &uka, hence Sukashtaka, the
Eight sayings of Suka.
This short commentary of
Eknath's consists of 447 verses.

In brief the contents are as follows.

1-9

*For

Invocation.

text see I^aghukavyamala Part

four page 90.

EKNATH
10-19 References

249

Suka and the

to

Sanskrit

eight

verses.

and " abheda," as

20-129 Explanation of " Bheda "

applied to the idea of Atma, and

mentally

reaches

differences,

is

how
of

condition

that

he,

who

experi-

recognizing

no

outside of the law of vidhi and nishedha,

(laws, prescribing, or forbidding).

130-156

Many

The

atma.

illustrations are

as

one substance pervading

used to make the idea

all.

clear, as for

example, as the waves of the sea are to the sea, so indivi-

Waves

dual souls are to the atma.

but the substance of the waves

157-197

How

is

gain form and

the

same as the ocean.

the one substance, atma.

One

name and form.

the point of view of

name

is

seen from

of the illustra-

tions being that of the one substance gold, but, appearing

in

many ornamental
198-220 The

forms.

five elements,

apparently showing variety,

but really one substance.

221-256
atma,

form

it

is

When

soul

is

The

same.

is one, who, while alive in

supreme knowledge. To such,

jivanmnkta,

consequently no prescribing or forbidding laws.

No

no nishcdka,

296-324 The

no

oneness with the

like that of a river flowing into the sea.

257-295

vidhi,

his

differs but the substance, water, is the

this world, has gained the

there

realizes

differences,

life

no

of a Jivanmukta.

high,

To him

there are

no low, nothing desired, nothing

EKNATH

250
undesired, hence he

is

not under prescribing or forbidding

laws.

325-365

The

idea of

"I," and "Thou," disappears

To

in the one universal substance.

him,

who

realizes

this,,

there are no prescribing or forbidding laws.

366-447 The fruit to be obtained from the study of

this work.

Life

is

likened to a forest in which the sensual

appetites are the ferocious animals.

eight verses

is

fire that

The reading

burns up the

of these

and with

forest,

it r

of necessity, the animals, the sensual appetites.

As

in all of Eknath's writings this

illustrations

and

similes

work

is

full

of

drawn from nature and human

life.

In this

work

also mention

is

made

of his Great grand-

father Bhanudas (438).

SVATMASUKH.
The Svatmasukh

is

a philosophic

poem of 511

verses.

After an Invocation it begins with the usual Vedantic

formulae and definitions, copiously illustrated by similes

drawn from nature and human

calls attention to the

experiences.

Eknath then

need of a Guru, a qualified teacher,

what would otherwise be unis essential.

Hence the
importance of a worshipful attitude towards a Guru. With
the enlightenment obtained from a sadguru, comes joy,
hence the name of this work, sv&tmasukh, or, The Joy of
to enable one to understand

knowable.

the Soul.

The favor of a Guru

It is to

be noted that bhakti

is

not referred to.

EKNATH

251

indeed the word bltakti does not once appear.

may,
therefore, be called a treatise on the Dnyanamarga, the
Way-of-Knowledge, thus differing from the Anandalahari,
a treatise on the Way-of-Bhakti.

The

contents in the main are as follows.

sat, chit, anancfo, these three

is

Atma

17-103 Definition of Atma.

tion.

It

1-16 Invoca-

being defined as

phases are defined.

Eknath

careful to state that this trinity does not imply three

substance s, but

is

one only.

Here he introduces the need

Guru to enable one to grasp the mystery of the above

The terms Kala (destruction), and Maya are ex(103).

of a

plained,

and here again Eknath pleads

with) the reader to

seek a sadguru, that the evil effects of these

come

(142-218).

the soul,

is

From

dwelt upon.

may

be over-

verse 230 atmasukh, the joy of

He

gives his

own

personal experi-

ence, as he, through his sadguru, Janardan, acquired the

knowledge of the atma and felt the resultant joy. This
joy is attainable by all (419), hence Eknath again pleads
for all to seek a sadguru, who holds the " key to the attainment of Brahma " (421). From 432 to 450 The importance of bhSva, or trust in one's sadguru, is stressed, and
his

own

personal

experience

emphasized.

" Without

bhdva there cannot be attained the supreme end of existence " (445). Of himself he says, " (450-51) By holding
to the feet of one's guru all ignorance entirely disappears.
This praise of bhdva is not a matter for discussion; it is
my personal experience.
I have not performed cruel
austerities, I have not depended on continual repetitions of
God names, I have not taken the trouble to practise yoga
or perform sacrifices, nor have I wandered to sacred places.

For me the means of

all

means

is

the feet of

my

glorious

EKNATH

252
sadguru."
of his as "

In closing Eknath

calls attention to this

work

hard (472) for the

superficial reader, but

sweet

who get its inner meaning." He closes with

" I have written this book for the soul's good.
Merely by listening to it joy is aroused " " May the nectar
for those
saying,

of this book forever give happiness to reader and

as with one mouth they drink it in."

listener,

In 505 Eknath pays tribute to his Great grandfather

Bhanudas, as a poet likened to a

vine,

which has now

in

the form of his great grandson developed into flower and

for the happiness of the saints.

fruit,

ANANDALAHART.
The Anandalahari
verses.
calls

In the

a small

Anandalahari "Wave of Joy."

Because
received salvation through the Sadguru there

the poem,

when one has

is

work consisting of 154

concluding verses Eknath explains why he
is

happiness in the soul, and, " waves of joy."

In philosophy

it

is

Vedantic, but concerns

the practical side of salvation through the

devotion to God.

It

way

itself

with

of bhakti,

begins with an invocation to God,

using such epithets as Supreme being, Nirgun Life-of-the

World, Primal-Cause, All-Pervader, Thou who carest for

all, Invisible, Supreme-Brahma, Abode-of-Joy, The-Ruler
of-all, Ocean-of-Knowledge, The Home-of- Salvation, The
Sustainer-of-the-Universe.
"The sight of Thee produces
a joy that the Universe even cannot contain.
It breaks
the chain of births and deaths, and

heart"

makes

me

fearless in

EKNATH
Under
all
is

who
no

Him

God

the Saviour of
" There
in devotion, in true bhakti.

the epithet of Sadguru,

turn to

953
is

salvation except through the Sadguru."

no necessity for Yoga,

"There

is

sacrifices, sacred places, austerities,

abandoning the world, special religious acts, giving away

of property. The one essential is the worship of the Sadguru,"

"The worship

means of

salvation."

of the Sadguru

is

the supreme

Eknath mentions two notable examples of historic

interest, king Bhartrihari (95) and Namadeva (119) who
gave up all to devote themselves to bhakti.
This small work

is

well worth close study as showing

the emphasis that Eknath placerl on the duty and joy of

intense,

and true devotion to God.

ANUBHAVANANDA.
The Anubhavananda
It

is

also

known

as Anandanubhava.

has been published in the Kavya-sangraha-Granth-Mala

series,

Part

4,

page 122, in 1903.

of a dialogue between a guru and his disdisciple asks, Who am I? The Guru answers

It consists
ciple.

The

his question, quoting first the Bhagavadgita,

it

and following

with explanations of the Vedantic idea of the oneness of

Parabrahma and the individual ego. The guru makes

full use of a play on words, and as the mystery of the

the

philosophy deepens he has to remind the disciple frequently

of the need of a guru to understand

it.

Near the

close

the guru speaks of the joy that comes through the

know-

ledge of recognizing one's oneness with Brahma.

The

EKNATH

264
disciple

how he can

asks the Guru,

repay him for the

enlightenment that he has given him, since

The guru

are perishable things.

recompense he wants
that his oneness with
all

is

earthly gifts

all

replies

that the only

that the disciple should recognize

Brahma means

his

own

oneness with

and so that with enmity towards none he

rightly and kindly with all (220, 221).

creatures,

should live

RUKMINISVAYAMVARA.
The
on

the

in

the

chapter.

Eknath
is
based
in
the
Bhagavata Purana,
story
as
told
Uttartardha
10th
skandha and
52nd
the
Rukminisvayamvara

The Story

Marathi poets.

is

In brief,

by

one that has attracted many

it is that of Rukmini, a king's

daughter, hearing of the virtues and charms of Krishna,

herself choses

him to be her husband.

A very interesting historical note, supposedly by

Eknath himself, appears at the close of the work. " This
book was completed in the great city of Benares, on the
banks of the Manikarnika, during the celebration of the
birth of Rama in the saka era, fourteen hundred and
ninety-three (A.D. 1571), in the samvatsara Prajapati,
in the

month of

Chaitra, during the festival of the

Ram-

navami, the Rukminisvayamvara was completed."

THE EKNATHI BHAGAVATA.

The Eknathi Bhagavata is the commentary made by
Eknath in the Marathi language on the 31 chapters of the
11th skandha of the Bhagavata Purana.
This and his

EKNATH
Ramayana

are his largest works.

At the close of
and when it was completed.
tant work.

this

255

most imporwork he tells us where

This

is

his

"At Varanasi

((Benares),

the great sacred place for salvation, in the Vikrama era in

the varsha sanvatsara 1630 (A.D. 1573) this commentary

was completed through the favor of Janardan. It was in

the auspicious month of Kartika in the fortnight of the
bright half of the moon, on the day of the full moon, on a

Monday,

this

pleted."

Chapter 31,552-555.

commentary of the eleventh skandha was

completed.
But listen to the date in the era and san
vatsara used in my own land at Pratishthana, on the bank
of the Godavari river, in the Sri Rama kshetra, and
Dandaka forest.
In the Salivahana era 1495 (A.D. 1573)
in the Srimukha sanvatsara his commentary was com-

The

full

account of the writing of this commentary,

and the persecution which

it

ever ultimate triumph,

found

is

brought upon him, withi howin the 22, 23,

and 24th

chapters of Kesavasvami's Eknatiha charitra, and the same

in the Bhaktalilamrita Chapter 21, 37 to Chapter 22, 44.

The Bhatavijaya and Bhimasvami's account are

on
According to the above
written at Paithan and the
silent

the history of this commentary.

accounts

five

chapters were

remaining twenty-six at Benares.

Contents of the Ekn&thi Bhtigavato.

As

the Eknathi

Bhagavata

is

a commentary,

it,

ol

course, follows the original Sanskrit text.

No

system seems to govern the original

and therefore

text,

particular

none is to be found in the commentary.

It, however,
embraces almost every conceivable subject connected with

EKNATH

256

the Vedantic philosophy, with practical religion, theology,

social relations, eschatology, soteriology, indeed the

range of man's religious, social and ethical

whole

life.

In Mr. Pangarkar's edition (Nirnayasagar Press

1915) Mr. Pangarkar has inserted a very detailed table of
contents.
If Eknath's point of view is desired on any
particular subject it will not be found difficult to go through
the Table of Contents with the subject in mind, noting
the references for after study.

it is

In studying the contents of the Eknathi Bhagavata,

necessary to bear in mind that Eknath was a firm be-

liever in the divine inspiration of the Vedas, the Upnishads,

the Mahabharata, the Ramayana, and Purans.

His philosophy was that of the Vedanta. He believed in the Indian

The
social system of Caste, placing the Brahman first.
ordinary social customs of the time in which he lived were
the accepted customs of his own life. He was an idolater.
He was a strict monotheist, however, in that the whole

was but the manifestation of the One Supreme

God, all Gods being manifestations or avatars of the Supreme sagun God, and God in all creatures, Janijanardan, is a
conception that pervades his thought. Eknath was not a
Reformer, he had no new doctrines to preach, but what
especially marks his Bhagavata, and makes it unique in
Marathi literature is its emphasis on universal moral truths.
Did he believe in Knowledge as a way of salvation? Yes,
but it must be sincere, without hypocrisy. Did be believe
in Bhakti as a way of salvation?
Yes, but it must mean
true love of God, and sincere. Did he believe the Brahman
held the first place in the social system ? Yes, but a Brahman,
universe

without true devotion to God, would go to

Hell,

and the

EKNATH

257

Sudra with true devotion would be found in Heaven. Did

he believe in Caste ? Yes, but his firm conception that God
was in all men, Brahmana or Sudra, and even Mlenchha*
(foreigners)

made him,

if

the traditional stories of

him

can*

be believed, disregard the rules of caste when the needs

of humanity demanded it; as for example, the carrying of
a suffering Mahar boy on his shoulder, giving refuge to a

own home,
and even dining at the house of a pious Mahar couple, to*
whom he had preached the oneness of mankind, God being:
starving

Mahar

thief,

feeding

Mahars

at his

His Comments on the Bhikshugita, the life of a

converted miser, brings out very strongly how Eknath was;
impressed by high moral ideals.
in

all.

While the thoughts that Eknath brings out in the

Bhagavata are based on his belief in the Scriptures, the
Vedantic philosophy, the three ways of salvation, and the
then current religious and social life and customs, it is
not a book with the purpose of teaching those doctrines.
It is rather the

true love of

thought

o:f

sincerity,

God and man,

honesty, purity of

life,

absence of hypocrisy,

moral ideals of truth and

sacredness of marriage, condemna-

tion of immorality, selfishness, avarice, drunkenness,

other forms of vice, in all phases of

the book and gives it its distinction.

life,

and

that runs through

In brief, Eknath uses

his opportunity of
commenting on this passage in the
Bhagavata I'urana for impressing on his readers and
hearers the absolute importance of high moral ideals and
sincerity, in all their divine

The work

is

and human

relationships.

too large, the subjects too varied, for any

But it is in Marathi literature a

unique book and worthy of study, for its presentation of
detailed analysis here.

17

EKNATH

358
moral

as they appealed to that great religious

ideals,

teacher, to

whom

the trueness of the inner spirit

was more

than any outer form.

The

edition of

the Eknathi Bhagavata most useful

by Lakshmana Ramchandra
Pangarkar, and published by the Nirnaya Sagara Press,

to the student

Bombay
and

is

1915.

It

that edited

contains a valuable table of contents

in foot notes a useful glossary of difficult words,

and

various readings.

BHAVARTHA RAMAYANA.
According to tradition Eknath's Marathi version of
Ramayana was his final work. Tradition ascribes the final chapters to a
disciple, Gavaba, Eknath
being an old man when he began the work, and his death
prevented his completing it. This and the Eknathi Bhagathe Valmiki

vata, are Eknath's great works.

As

is

well

known

to scholars, there are in India at

least three recensions of the Sanskrit text of the

commonly known

as the

Ramayana,

Bengal recension, the Bombay

and the Western recension.

These differ considerably from one another. The Sanskrit text that is imbedded in Eknath's Ramayana, as published at Pandharpur by
Ganesa Supekar in 1914, follows, neither the Bengal nor
the Bombay recension. The Western recension has only
recension,

have not as yet

had the opportunity of examining it, and hence cannot
pronounce on the text which Eknath presumably followed
in composing his version of the Ramayana.
That he did
not have before him, either the Bengal or the Bombay
lately

become

available for scholars.

EKNATH
recension

perfectly evident.

is

259

have no means of know-

Sanskrit text, that

is

printed in

Eknath's Ramayana, presumably, however,

it

has come

ing the history of the

down from Eknath's time

in the various copies of

manu-

scripts.

Ramayana

Eknath's

is

a complete work, covering

So

the seven great divisions (Kanda).

of

Rama

expanding

rhetorical

in

scenes,

touches,

Eknath uses

adding

For the
its

his poetic liberty

vividness

by

skilful

and thus creating a very readable

Marathi version of the great Indian

and

far as the story

concerned, Eknath follows closely the Sanskrit

is

text before him, but in details

in

all

epic.

traditional story of the inception of the

work,

completion by his disciple Gavaba, see Kesava-

svami's Eknath charitra the 29th and 30th chapters, and the

same only

words by Mahipatt in the 24tfc

chapter of the Bhaktalilamrita.
Eknath is said to have
cared for an apparently idiot boy, whose parents knew not
what to do with him.
Eknath with his characteristic
sympathy for any one in distress, received Gavaba into his
home, and little by little accomplished the miracle of stimutold in different

lating his intelligence,

and developing

his

moral character,

when
the guru from age, sickness and death had to lay down his
pen.
Eknath is said to have composed his Ramayana as
far as the forty-fourth chapter of the Yuddhakanda. The
so that he could complete the great work of his guru,

remaining chapters of the Yuddhakanda, and the final

Uttarakanda are ascribed to Gavaba.

<Ke. Ek. Ch. 29, 105).

(Bh. L. 24, 78) also

EKNATH

260

NOTES ON THE LIFE OF EKNATH.

Sources of Information.

own

In Eknath's

1.

writings there are occasional

references to himself and his family line from his Great-

These references are very

grandfather, Bhanudas.

and give us very

little

brief,

information, but their historic value

is,of course, great.

Muktesvara, grandson of Eknath and in

2.

ways considered the

greatest poet of Maharashtra,

generally accepted dates are,

(M.

S.

page 145)

many
whose

born 1599 and died 1649,

the author of Sri Khandyakhyan, a

is

story in the life of Eknath, where Krishna, in the form

of a Brahmana, serves Eknath for twelve years, and bis

by the coming otf a Brahman

(Ke. Ek. Ch. Chapter 19 and Bh. L.

identity is finally revealed

from Dvaraka.

Chapter 20, 61-150.)

Kesavasvami,

3.

death

whose

date

is

uncertain,

placed by Mr. Bhave about 1684,

is

is

whose

the author of

an Eknathcharitra. A comparison of this life of Eknath,

in its chapter on Sri Khandya, with the same story as told
by Muktesvara, makes it perfectly evident that the two
accounts are related to one another.

comparison makes

is

The impression the

very strong that Kesavasvami had

Muktesvara's version before his eyes when he wrote his

own

account, or that both

4.

drew from another account.

Mahipati, born 1715, died 1790, in his Bhaktavia short and incomplete account of Eknath, chap-

jaya, has
ters

45

and

46.

When

compared with

Muktesvar's

EKNATH

261

chapter on Srlkhandya, and the same in Kesava's account,

it would almost seem as though Mahapati had both before

him as he wrote

that story in his Bhaktavijaya, but as a

whole the Bhaktavijaya differs in so many important points

from Kesava's charitra, that one is rather forced to think

on some other account than that

that Mahipati depended

I cannot but ask the question whether there

have
been a complete life of Eknath written by
may not
Muktesvara, which is lost, only one chapter being now pre-

of Kesava's.

served,

the

entitled

usually bears the

*Srikhandyakhyana,

name of

Kknfith charitra.

this

fragment

It not,

such

aa account by Muktesvara, there would appear to be such

an one by some other author, but who could it be? The
Bhaktavijaya was completed in 1762.
5.

Mahipati,

born

1715

Bhaktalilamrita in 1774.

from

account, but

is

1790,

completed

his

full

account of Eknath

is

not an independent

It

a reproduction of Kesavasvami's account

only in Mahipati's
this

It is

his birth to his death.

died

own

words.

When

dependence on Kesav's account

is

placed side by side,

clearly evident, not

only in the details of the stories, told in the same order,

but in parallelisms of words and phrases. There can be

bo doubt that when writing the Bhaktalilamrita Mahipati

had before his eyes a copy of Kesavasvami's Eknath

charitra.
That Eknath had not f ogotten that he wrote an
Eknath charitra in his Bhaktavijaya, twelve years previously, is also evident, because certain portions

Bhaktavijaya

are

bodily

copied

in

his

from the

Bhaktalilamrita

(Compare Bh. Lil. 20, 79-87 with Bh. Vij. 46, 24-33). It
would seem as though when Mahipati wrote his account of
Eknath in his Bhaktalilamrita, he felt that Kesavasvami's

EKNATH

262

complete account of Eknath, was a better authority than

the one he possessed

when he wrote

He, therefore, comdiscarded his former authority and closely followed

plete account in his

pletely

the short and incom-

Bhaktavijaya.

Kesava.

Bhimasvami Shirgavkar wrote a Bhaktalilamrita

It is
in 1797, in which is included a Life of Eknath.
rather apparent that when he wrote this he had before him
6.

the Bhaktavijaya

He

Mahipati

of

includes, however,

many

seem to have come

Bhaktalilamrita.

stories not told

him through

by Mahipati
stories

would

oral tradition, in circula-

among

the followers of Eknath, for at the close of his

account he says, " I have in my slight knowledge

Eknath
sung the
from the
in

to

the

These additional

in either of his works.

tion

not

my

life

of Eknathsvami.

lips

of the saints, and only those have I written

devotion to him."

Some

have heard the

stories

of the stories in Mahipati 's

Bhaktavijaya differ in very important matters from those

told in his Bhaktalilamrita,

with Bhimasvami's account,

and when these are compared

it is clear that Bhimasvami

follows the Bhaktavijaya account, rather than the Bhaktalilamrita version of the

account

may

same

not seem to have

story.

much

While Bhimasvami's
value, nevertheless

it

preserves traditional stories current In 1779, and cannot be

a study of Eknath's life. It may be

same stories may yet be found in some now
manuscript, in some collection at present

entirely neglected in

that those

unknown

unavailable.
7.

sion

on

Eknath's name and fame have made a deep impresthe religious teachers of Maharashtra, and

of the poets, though in brief words,

many

sing his praise*

EKNATH
Among

those previous to Mahipati,

Eknath

in their

chidghana,

writings,

Ranganath,

Siddhachaitanya,

may

263

who

thus honoured

be mentioned, Uddhava-

Sivaramasvami, Ramavallabhadas,

Mukund,

Tayarlmasuta,

Uddhavasuta,

Khandcraya, Muktesvara, Dasopant, Tukaram, Niloba,

Krishnadayarnava, Sridhar, Devadas, Ekeshvaravadhuta,
Amritaraya, Atmaram Ramdasi, and Moropant, the latter
None of these admiring
in his well known Sanmanimala.
poets add, however, to our knowledge of the life of Eknath.

They

do, however, emphasize

Eknath

left

Tukaram

behind him.

that he

It

owed much

the

strong influence that

appears from the

life

of

of his inspiration, and his

ideas to the great Eknath.

The Relation of

these Original Sources to

The problem of

One

another.

determining the written source or

sources from which Muktesvara, Kesava and Mahipati, in

his Bhaktavijaya, obtained their information,

stated in the

may

confirm or disaffirm.

the death of

can only be

form of a theory, which future discoveries

Eknath

My

present belief

is

that after

in 1609, oral tradition preserved the

when some one, or

One collection
of traditions, which I shall call, Tradition A, was reduced
to writing somewhere about 1640.
From this written
account Muktesvara drew his ri Khandya story, unless
it may prove true that he himself was the author, who first
stories

of his life until about

1640,

several, reduced those stories to writing.

reduced to writing the traditions of his distinguished grandEknath.

From this same source Kesavasvami
drew his account sometime before 1684.
Kesavasvami's
father

account was almost slavishly followed by Mahipati in his

Bhaktalilamrita completed in 1J74.

EKNATH

364
Another

collection of

which

traditions,

shall

call,

Tradition B, was also reduced to writing and became the

when

authority from which Mahipati drew his information,

writing his Bhaktavijaya, completed in 1762, later followed

may

This unknown hypothetical writer

by Bhimasvami.

however, be identical with the one

A to writing, possibly
the difference in the

who

reduced Tradition

Muktesvara himself, and in that case

two

lines of accounts

would have to

be explained on the principle of selection, two differing

streams from one source.

double authorship seems,

however, the more probable; for the writing of the

lives

of the saints was at that period a frequent undertaking by

the poet-saints of Maharashtra.

If this relationship of the

original sources to one another should

seem to some to be

too hypothetical, and lacking sufficient evidence, I trust

that at any rate

it

be a stimulous to a more thorough

will

study of the subject than I have been able to give

that some scholar will more accurately
of their relationship.

In the meanwhile

tion of their relationship

may

settle

it,

the problem

my own

concep-

that as described above,

is

and

which

be graphically represented as follows.

EKNATH

Varying

Oral Traditions

Tradition

Unknown Redactor of Tradition A

About 1640
Unknown Redactor of Tradition B
About 1640 Muktesvara, c. 1649 One chapter Sri
Tradition

Khandyakhyana

Kesavasvami,

Mahipati's Bhaktavijaya

Bhimasvami Shirgavkar
Mahipati's Bhaktalilamrita

c.

Eknathcharitra,

1762

Bhaktalilamrita
c.

c.

1774.

c.

1797

1684

EKNATH

265

Dates of Eknath's Birth and Death.

The whole

subject of the dates of the Maharashtra

poet-saints needs

more research work, and more

handling than

has yet received.

weary

the

it

scientific

do not propose to

reader with a discussion of the subject here.

It is sufficient to say that

Mr. Pangarkar,

in his

Eknath

charitra gives the birth of Eknath as in 1528, and his

-death in 1599.

In

this

he depends on an inscription over

the building containing the sam&dhi of Eknath, the verse

being, he says by

Kesava (died about 1684).

Also on a

verse by Krishnadayarnava, (born 1696), which he found

at Paithan in an old bad; a collection of poetry in

Raghava

cript.

manus-

same date for the death of

also gives the

Eknath, 1599. The distance between the death of Eknath and

these poets, cited as authorities
evidence

is

is

and their
Mr. Bhave in his

considerable,

not altogether convincing.

Maharashtra Sarasvata. (First Kdition, Pas^e 113, note.)

Mr. Pangarkar's opinion, and decided for 1599,

as against the commonly held date of 1609.
In his Second
Edition, however, Mr. Bhave
(page 245 note) accepts,
without question, 1609 as the date of Eknath's death. His
accepts

birth he places in 1648.

evidence
the

is

As

do not think Mr. Pangarkar's

conclusive, I shall follow for convenience sake

commonly accepted

dates,

1548 for the

birth,

and 1609

for the death of Eknath.

EKNATH'S
As
mrita,

the story of Eknath's

is

practically all

LIFE.

life,

we know

told in the Bhaktalila-

of him, the translation

EKNATH

266

which follows
It is well,

man makes a

ration.

The

mouth

to mouth.

stories

his life unnecessary.

remember the law

however, to

tradition.

makes a resume of

this

that governs

certain impression

of his

They may

life

on

his gene-

down from

are handed

vary from the actual

in time

facts of his life, but that variation will be in the line of

the impression that

man made.

Whether the

stories told

and handed down about Eknath are the exact

matters

little,

compared with the undisputed

liteiary

It

is

interesting also to

it

fact of the

Eknath made on

great and noble impression which

generation.

truth,

his

observe that the

works of Eknath show him to be a man of the

man

highest ethical standard, besides being a

And

religious devotion.

this

works corresponds, one might

sion gained

from the

of intense

impression from his actual

with the impres-

say, exactly

stories, tradition

has handed down.

made upon one

by the reading of Eknath's works, and the impression made
by the traditional stories of his life, it is evident that he
was a man of very high and noble character, with high
Putting together, then, the impression

ideals of

life.

Of

necessity his birth, his education, his

environment, his intellectual beliefs, his forms of worship,

his

Brahmanhood,

his caste ideas, all

in the outer manifestations of his

life.

these outer manifestations to which

look, but to the spirit behind them,

marvellous purity.

No

made themselves

we

But

it

is

felt

not to

should especially

which shines out with

one can read the

life

of Eknath

without receiving an inspiration for a higher and better

life.

EKNATH

267

EKNATH'S FAMILY LINE.

The
his

great

Faithan.

ancestor

first

grandfather.

The

Bhaktavijaya,

Eknath was Bhanudas,

Presumably he was born at
of

interesting story of his life

by Mahipati.

told

found in the

is

Kesava-

Vitthalkavi,

svami, and Mahipati in the Bhaktalllamrita,

tell

the story

of his bringing back to Pandharpur the idol of Vitthal,

had been taken away by the king of Vidyanagara.

Bhimasvami Shirgavkar covers practically the same ground
that

as the Bhaktavijaya.

It is

however, to the Bhaktavijaya

of Mahipati that

we owe

though, nothing

told of his death.

is

the fuller story of Bhanudas,

(See the translation

of the Bhaktavijaya account by Justin E. Abbott in the

Poet-Saints of Maharashtra Series, No.

and the Introduction to

1,

on Bhanudas,

his life.)

His story in brief is an early inclination to the religious

Family necessities made him yield to pressure from
life.
He infriends, and he became a petty cloth merchant.
sisted

on

telling the truth in his selling of goods,

merchant to adopt the system of fixed

and he deserves to be remembered and honored as

the world's
prices,

he wa9

first

the father of that system.

was not on worldly

and devoted

it

goods.

He prospered,
He gave up his

but his heart

merchant

The

entirely to the religious life.

that has, however,

made him

especially

famous

is

Bhanudas

Eknath himself

lived until the birth

named Surya, and then

died.

story

his bring-

ing back of the idol of Vitthal from Vidyanagara.

the authority of

life,

On

Eknath i Bhagavata 1,33)

of his grandson, whom he
(

EKNATH

268

Bhanudas and grandfather to

Eknath, together with his good wife, had the sorrow of
To them
losing their son Surya after the birth of Eknath.
Chakrapani,

therefore

fell

son

of

whom

the care of Eknath,

during his infancy and boyhood.

they dearly loved

These loving grand

parents recognized Eknath's inclination to serious things,

and provided accordingly for his religious and intellectual

training.
They provided a pandit to teach him Sanskrit.
and were proud of his attainments. It was a great blow
to them to have Eknath suddenly disappear, without taking
leave of them.
(See Bh. Lil. 13, 62 and 15, 8-54). They
knew not what had become of the boy, nor where he had

When

Eknath in
the youthful ascetic, their joy was great.
Again they
cared for him and had the joy of bringing about his mar-

gone.

at last they recognized their lost

They

riage to a very helpful wife.

with

the

happiness

honored and loved.

and repeated

of

seeing

Such

is

lived to

their

an old

beloved

age,

grandson

the story told by Kesavasvami

in the Bhaktalilamrita.

Surya, also called Suryanarayana, and his wife Ruk-

mini were the

parents

Eknath.

of

differs in its story of the

childhood of Eknath, from that

In the Bhaktavijaya

told in the Bhaktalilamrita.

parents

who

The Bhaktavijaya
it

is

brought up their son, mourned over his

the

loss,

Bhimasvami following
the Bhaktavijaya also narrates the same version of the

and rejoiced

him

at finding

again.

story of Eknath's parental relations.

45, 10-19; 45, 68, 69).

The

(See Bhaktavijaya

fact that Mahipati in his

Bhaktalilamrita follows so closely the story, as told by Kesa-

vasvami, and discards

fcefore,

related in his

many

particulars, he, twelve years

Bhaktavijaya,

it

may

perhaps be

EKNATH

269

temporarily accepted as evidence that to Mahapati Kesava

svami was a better authority for the details of Eknath's

life.
We may, therefore, with Mahipati think of Eknath
as having been brought

up by

grandparents after the

his

death of his parents.

EKNATH'S BIRTHPLACE.
Paithan, called in ancient times by
tishthana,
career,

long

was Eknath's

and the place of

and

its

distinguished

industrial centre for cotten

skill

Pra-

Pratishthana has had

his death.

history.

It
It

capital of the Salivahana dynasty.

for the

title,

birthplace, the scene of his life's

Ptolemy, the Greek geographer.

known

Sanskrit

and

It

silk

is

has figured as the

was long an important

It is still well

goods.

(Those

of her weavers.

mentioned by

who may

wish

with the
very ancient history of Paithan, may consult the Early
History of the Deccan by the late Sir Ramkrishna Gopal
to acquaint themselves with discussions connected

Bombay Gazetteer
the Bombay Branch of

Bhandarkar,
Journal of

Vol.
the

Part

11,

The

Royal Asiatic Society

Vol. VI11 page 239, and the Indian Antiquary Vol.

XX pp.

240-248).
Paithan, or Pratishthana,

of the Godavari.

This river

is

is

situated

on the

left

bank

often called the Ganga.

Hyderabad State, about 56 miles easterly of

A good motor road extends from Ahmednagar to Paithan. A good motor road extends also from
Paithan to Daulatabad, some 40 miles to the north
Devagiri,
where Eknath's Guru, Janardan,
the
old
lived,
and where Eknath spent the early years
It is

in the

Ahmednagar.

EKNATH

270
of

his

discipleship

with

his

beloved

Guru.

Eknath's

mandir are still there, renewed, however,

and his samddhi by the river side.
The annual
pilgrimage to Paithan, in honor of Eknath takes place on
the sixth of the month of Phalgun (February and March)
house

Vadya.

and

EKNATH

271

GLOSSARY OF MARATHI WORDS USED

THE

IN

TRANSLATIONS AND OF WORDS WHOSE

TRANSLATION

PRESENTS

might have been

It

Marathi words

possible

DIFHCULTIES.
to

fewer

have used

in these translations but

where there

is

no

English word that exactly expresses the Marathi word,

or where

it

requires

a .whole English phrase

the meaning of a simple Marathi word,

me
and

better to

or by the following glossary.

enriched by
it

should not

has seemed to

keep the Marathi word, so familiar to India,

the English reader learn

let

it

to express

many Marathi
still

its

meaning by

its

English literature

words.

further enrich

I see

context,

already

is

no reason why

itself.

There are certain words, that are untranslatable except

by a long explanation;

where even the English

others,

word conveys only a part of the Marathi meaning.

translated these words and expressions as best
but

it

I
I

have

could,

seems worth while to include some of these words,

in a glossary in order that the reader, familiar with both

languages,

may understand why

have used and the special

English word or words, sometimes in opposition to Diction-

ary authorities, even Molesworth.

Usage has

to be consi-

The

glossary will

dered, as well as etymological meaning.

furnish

remarks.

the

examples

that

have

suggested

the

above

I have used Moleswortb/s definitions freely, as

carrying authority.

EKNATH

272

A
"A

Abhahg.

particular metrical composition in praise of

the Deity."

It is

the popular meter of the poet-saints

hymns of praise;
abkaitgs of Tukaram etc.
in their

Abheda-bhakta.
difference

bhakta

who

has the conception of no-

{abheda) between the paramStmS and the

Abheda-bhakti

individual atma.

God

the abhangs of Eknath, the

is

the worship of

harmony with the conception of the identity of

the paramStma and the soul (attntf) of the worshipin

per.

Head of a

Acharya.

Adhela.

copper coin worth half a pice.

The

Agnihotri.

Anushthana.

works
Arati.

religious order or sect.

priest

who

fire.

"Performance of certain ceremonies

i
propitiation of a god.

"The ceremony

etc.,)

maintains the Sacrificial

of (waving around an

idol,

a platter containing a burning lamp.

and?

guru

2 The

and lamp waved."

3 The piece of poetry
an
the
of
the
ceremony of waving
chanted
occasion

platter

expressing praise or worship.

A&rama.
is

1.

also

The abode of
applied

to

saints

four

and

rishis.

conditions

2.

of

The word
living,

the

Brahmacharya, or the period of chaste youth, and

study; The grahastha, the householder in his married

and secular life; The v&naprestha, who as age comes

on passes his worldly cares over to others, and goes

EKNATH
into the

forest

Sannyasi,

who

delights

and

templation

for meditation, and the fourth' the

abandons

entirely

passions,

or

278

the

and

is

The

worship

soul, the soul

worldly cares,

wholly absorbed in con-

These four
for a Brahman.

God.

of

asramas are considered the ideal

Atmd.

all

life

human

of the universe, the

For

the vivifying principle, the self, the ego.

ness the soul of the universe

is

(supreme) dtrna, to distinguish

soul,

clear-

spoken of as parama

from the individual

it

&tma, the two, however, in Vedantic philosophy being

identical.

Brahma,

or

Parama-atma,

the

partially

defined as satchidananda (Existence, intelligence, joy)

is

the sole existing substance.

The

universe, as

it

appears in animate and inanimate forms, with their

special

names,

is

but the form in which the atm&, the

paramatmQ, or Brahma manifests

soul, or atma,

The human

itself.

form

which the
paramatma appears.
The "great sentence" ahambramhdsmi, I am Brahma, is the conscious acceptance
is,

therefore, only a

in

of the philosophic postulate of the oneness of the soul

of the universe with the individual soul.

means "one who has descended." A divine avatara is the coming down to earth
of such a divine being, as for example, Vishnu in the
form of Krishna, or Rama.
In Indian mythology, as

Avatara.

Etymologically

well as in

all

it

popular conceptions, these avatars are for

the sake of combating

some

evil condition

tions in this world, or, "to save the

and misery."
18

or condi-

world from

its

sin

EKNATH

274

Human

avatars are also recognized (manava avatard),

that

a good

is,

man who

has died, reappears later in

some other good man, to carry on, or to complete, the

work of the former. Eknath is spoken of as an avat&r
of Dnyanadeva, and Tukaram as an avatara of
Namadeva. Or Eknath, for example, is spoken of as
an avatar of God, making him, therefore, both divine
and human.
Bachnag.

Poisonous root of the Gloriosa Superba.

B
Adoration or worship. 2 Repeating the names
of God as an act of worship. 3 A hymn, or verses

Bhajan.

sung
Bhakta.

in the

"

worship of God.

worshipper,

votary,

or

follower

of ;

one

While the above definition is

usage, by the poet-saints,
etymologically correct, in
there is connected with it a moral idea.
A bhakta
implies a really pious man.
A hypocrite is not a
bhakta, though technically
and outwardly he might
devoted or attached to."

appear to be one.
to the religious

As

2.

A special religious class devoted

life.

the different manifestation of God, and the various

avatars appeal differently to different minds, there

a personal choice as well as the

traditional, or

choice of the special manifestation of God.

thtrefore,

Vishnubhakta,

a Sivabhakta,

is

family

There is
a Hari-

bhakta, a R&mbhakta, a Vitthal bhakta, and so forth.

worship or adoration. It is the attitude

of the bhakta towards God.
It always implies a

Bhakti.

Literally,

EKNATH

275

moral idea of sincerity and purity of worship, accomAgain and again the poet-saints
panied with love.
affirm that there can be no bhakti without sincerity
Bhakti is, therefore, more than mere
and love.
worship, which can be so easily a mere outward form.

Bhakti must be the true feeling of the heart, of reverence,

and love of God, whether expressed

forms of worship, or

Ehaktimdrga.

in the

in outer

mental worship (Manas

way

Three
ways are recognized for the deliverance of man from
the succession of births and deaths, with their sins and
sorrows, and with their good deeds and joys, as well.
The Dny&namSrga (The Way of Knowledge) holds the
highest place in the minds of philosophers, because,
Bhakti-marga, the

when by

of Bhakti.

Knowledge Ignorance disappears,

true

causes of sin and sorrow disappear.

marga or

Way

of

Works

is

all

The Karma-

recognized by the poet-

hard way, and a very

dangerous way. In the case of both, of the above
ways the danger is pride, and with pride comes a fall.
saints as a way, but a very

The

safe way, the sure way, the easy way, for

high or low,

is

the

bhakti-marga, in which a

all

man

throws himself on the mercy of God, bhakti on man's

and mercy, forgiveness, and salvation, on God's
part.
With bhakti sincere, and the consequent gift

part,

from God of moksha

to this earth

presence of

way

for

all,

is

(salvation, deliverance), a return

avoided, and there

God.

Because

it

is
is

eternal life in the

a sure and

easy

the poet-saints give the BJwkti-marga the

highest preference.

Although, the word etymologically

EKNATH

S76
does not imply

it,

the

usage of the poet-saints in

strongest terms emphasizes the moral side of Bhahti,

not only sincerity in Bhakti, but a pure ethical life

Eknath's
is essential to the very idea of Bhakti.
writings are especially emphatic on this importance of
internal

and external moral

purity.

The One substance of which all existing things

Brahma is the substance of which all things
consist.
Existing things have forms and names (n&ma
exist.

Brahma.

and have forms and

Brahma. To
consider these forms however, as different from
Brahma, making a duality, is due to ignorance, that
Ignorance personified being called maya.
(which see.)

That they

and rupa).
names is as

Brahmachari.

exist

real as is the real substance

Brahmana who observes

chastity for a time or for life

Chakor.

This idea

bird that
is

is

from a

the

strictest

religious motive.

on moonbeams,
poetic figures and

said to eubsist

very frequently used in

illustrations.

Chdtaka.

A bird said to drink only

from the

clouds, hence
always eager for the rain. The idea is very frequently
used in poetic figures and illustrations.

Chiil.

fireplace.

In

its

simplicity

it

may

be three stones

so arranged as to have the fire between them, and the

pot or pan resting on them, or a semicircular erection
of earth to contain the fire in its cavity, and support
the cooking vessel on its rim.

EKNATH

277

D
Darsana.

In the religious

Literally, sight, seeing, looking.

usage of the word there

is,

however,

much more than

There

the physical sight, seeing or looking.

implication of respect, reverence

and worship.

no English word corresponding with

is

this

an
There
is

use of

darsana.

commemorating the period of the year

when the Maratha Kings started out on their campaigns.

Dasara.

festival

The garment worn by men, consisting of a long

piece of cloth wound around the body, tucked in front

Dhotar.

at the waist

European

and also behind taking the place of the

trousers.

The annual

Divali.

festival of lights.

2 Knowledge of a
Knowledge in general.
and religious kind. that which is derived from
meditation and the study of philosophy which teaches
man the divine origin and nature of his immaterial
portion, and the unreality of
corporal enjoyments,
sufferings and experiences, and the illusoriness of the
external and objective universe; and which sanctifying
him during life from earthly attachments and fleshly
affections, accomplishes for him after death emancipation from individual existence and reunion with the

Dnyana.

specific

universal spirit.
is

In some parts of India the

word

pronounced gy&nd.

Dnyanam&rga.

The Way of knowledge.

(See Dnyana).

EKNATH

278

Gdyatri.

scared verse from the Vedas, repeated by

Brahmans

Ghatika.

Ghat.

or

at their

morning and evening devotions.

period of twenty-four minutes.

mountainous range dividing countries. 2

passage over a

difficult

A pass

3 quay, wharf, stairs,

hill.

landing place (on banks of rivers or tanks).

applied

Hence

by washermen, tanners, dyers, Bi-ahmans,

etc.,

to their respective places of resort.

Ghi.

Clarified butter, also

known

as tap.

melted, thus removing the water that

and then preserved

Gitnd.

butter

may

be in

is
it,

in jars.

A quality, attribute,

of matter or mind

The

affection,

or property whether

a power, faculty, excellence, virtue

a property inherent or an affection supervenient in

2 The constitution

the most comprehensive sense.

of created things, as comprised

(existence

truth,

ignorance

etc.)

gunas; satva

brightness

goodness,

(energy, passion, action

in three

etc.,)

tama

(evil)

etc.)

raja

darkness,

All created thing's are a mixture of

and tamoguna, and

therefore, are spoken of as Saguna (possessing these
gunas), and Brahma, the paramdtmd is nirguna (unpossessed by these qualities). In God, in good men,
in good things the satva predominates.
In evil men
the three, Satvaguna, rajoguna,

or spirits or demons the tama predominates.

rajoguna
or the

is

evil,

in all as the activity of either the

or both.

In

God

all is

satva, because

The
good
it is

EKNATH
satva

the

that

is

in

279
(rajoguna).

activity

In

man

a mixture of the satva and tanto, and the

activity (rajoguna) makes man a mixture of good and
evil, sometimes the good predominating, sometimes the
there

is

evil.

Guru.

religious

who

one

teacher;

instructs

in

the

Sastras.

H
A

Harbara.

Japa.

The

rosary

vetch, gram.

Cicer arientinum.

repeating of mantras or the

may

know

be used so as to

names of God. A
number of times

the

names have been used. As this outer

form requires an inner reality, japa stands also for

the mantra or

meditation,

for worship,

for prayer, indeed for the

true spiritual life of a man.

is
is

tapa (which see).

Tapa,

and tapa

correlative of japa

literally religious austerity,

meaning
of a man. Japa,

also extended in

religious life

The
to

comprise the outer

his inner religious life

his outer religious life.

When

Jiva and Siva are thus used together

Jiva stands for the individual atma, and Siva for the

Jiva, Siva.

Universal atma.
Jondhala.

cereal plant or

its

grain.

Hulcus sorghum.

K
Kadaba.

The

stalks

with their leaves of the jondhala, or

jvan, Hulcus sorghum, used for fodder.

EKNATH

980

K&kini.

weight of shells equal to 20 cowries.

The

Kaliyuga.

present, fourth age of the world, the evil

Its duration is

age.

after

which the world

considered to be 432,000 years,

is

The present

to be destroyed.

year A.D. 1926 corresponds with the Kaliyuga 5027.

year is 3101 B.C. The four yugas are the

Kritayuga, Tretdyuga, Dv&parayuga and the Kaliyuga.

The

initial

The four yugas

make a MahSyuga (Great

together

yuga, 4,320,000 years.

It

this evil kaliyuga that

is

has necessitated the frequent avatars to check

and to save mankind from

Karma.
fice,

An

act or a deed.

ablution

etc.,

evil

its effects.

2 Religious action, as sacri-

3 Destiny; destiny being only the

allotment, to be enjoyed or suffered in the present life

of the fruit of good and evil actions performed in

former

lives.

4 Deed or

action.

through the laws of cause and

actions in the next

life.

Karma

As

effect
is

all

actions

determine the

equivalent also to

fate.

The law of works;

Karmam&rga.

the road to heaven

and ceremonies and performance of virtuous deeds.

(See Dnyanamarga,
Knowledge,
and
Bhaktimarga,
Way of DevoWay of
"The way of deeds". One of the three ways
tion).
of Deliveranc: Dnyanamarga, Karmamarga, and
through observance of

rites

Bhaktimarga.

K&vad.

bamboo

in order

to*

the shoulder.
etc.

lath provided with slings at each

contain baskets, jars etc. and carried

Used for carrying

end

on

water, vegetables

EKNATH

Kavadi.

cawrie.

shell

281

used in making small change.

Celebrating the praises of a god with music and

Kktan.

Reciting the names of the deity.

singing.

In prac-

a religious service of song. The

leader has a topic which he delivers in song. He is
accompanied with a chorus leader, and musical inshowever,

tice,

it

is

Following their leader the audience may

break out in ecstatic repetitions of the names of God,
or of the lines of a chorus.
truments.

Kshetra.

mage

sacred spot, a sacred

human

also the

city,

a place of

pilgri-

form.

M
Mahant.

The

1.

Bairagis

etc.,

an order of Gosavis,
superior.
2 Applied to the

chief or head of

a religious

head or leading

man among

pandits, devotees etc.

Mandap. An open temporary

bamboo or other poles, with
erected

for

festal

occasions,

structure,

made

with

and

sides,

cloth roof

for marriages,

kirtans

etc.

Mana.
is

According to Western psychology the mind

the soul itself viewed as thinking or imagining. Mana,

Mind.

however,

is

regarded as an organ (indriya) of thinking

and imagining and not a part of the pure Atma (Soul).

This word is usually translated "Illusion," but
this is not a satisfactory translation.
Vedantic philo-

Mdyd.

sophy postulates that there

is

but one substance, called

Brahma, or paramStmd, or atma.

This substance
appears in the form of the universe, and to the various

EKNATH

982

forms there are names (nama-rupa). These forms are

temporary and changeable, and with the change of
It is due to Ignorance
form the name disappears.
that these forms are supposed to be distinct from the

One

The

Substance.

reality of these

forms

is

not

from the One sub-

denied, but that they are distinct

That they are distinct i.e., that there is

form of illusion which is
indicated by the word Maya.
In usage Maya becomes
stance

is

denied.

a duality,

is

the particular

(adny&na)

personified as the cause of the Ignorance

which sees duality where

illustrations

is

One

is unity.

of the stock

form of various
own name. That the gold

that of gold in the

ornaments, each with

its

appears in the form of various ornaments

is

not denied,

but that those ornamental forms are permanent and'

distinct

from the gold

is

The ornaments can

denied.

be melted; they disappear as ornaments, but the gold

To

remains unchanged.

think the ornaments were

from the gold would be through Ignorance

(adnyana), and the cause of the ignorance, by a sort

distinct

of personification

Modi.

is

rnaya.

Is the cursive writing of the Marathi.

Asoka alphabet of the

inscriptions,

The

old'

250 B.C., gradually

developed in time into the Devan&gari, used in transcribing Sanskrit literature, as also Marathi literature.

In

business writing however, haste being important,

and

from the paper as little as possible, it led to a change in the form of the Devanagari
letters, which to the casual observer seem a different
character, but which can be most easily traced back
the pen being lifted

to the Devanagari origin.

The

tradition that

Modi

EKNATH

283

was brought from the south, or that it was the invention of Hemachandra in the 13th century, may be due
to the character of the southern cursive writing, and it
Hemachandra adopted it as the
could well be that
form for official documents. There is no doubt, however, that the Modi has developed from the Devandgari simply by rapid writing, with the lifting of the

pen from the paper as

little

as possible.

Exemption of the spirit from further migration

and the reabsorption of it into its source, the divine
monad, Brahma, the substratum and substance of universal being. This deliverance from births and deaths,
must be understood to include in the idea the deliverance from the sins and sorrows, even from the good
deeds and joys of life, for each life is made up of

Mukti.

The four forms

these.

salokata, samipatd

of

mukti are sdyujyatd,

and sarupatd, (see sayujyata).

N
Namaskdra.

Worship, obeisance, reverential or respectful address or salutation.

It is performed by joining

and pronouncing the word

namaskdra.
A sdshtdnga namaskdr is the prostration
on the ground, so that eight parts (ashta) of the body
touch the ground, and is the most profound method
of showing reverence to God or man.
the palms, inclining the head

Nirguna.

Nir-guna, Literally without a quality.

Brahma,

or atmd, paramatrnd the one substance which appears to

us as the universe, cannot be described in

It is indescribable

(avachya.)

human words.

While the one substance

EKNATH

384

cannot be described the forms in which it appears can

be described, and their qualities determined.
The

forms with! their names are, therefore, saguna,

(Sa-guna) with quality.
God, as a personal being,
creator of the special form, in which the universe
appears,

One

recognized as one of the forms in which

is

God, therefore, is
saguna, that is, he has qualities which can be described
in human understandable words.
Brahma is nirguna;
the

God

eternal substance appears.

The

(ifvara) is saguna.

gods,

all

avatars, idols,

and the visions of God, are all saguna manifestations

of the Nirgun Brahma, or nirguna atma. The saguna
isvara, being but the one of the many forms in which
the nirguna isvara appears, are, of course, to be identified as the

of which
their

and

golden bracelet

it

hymns

consists.

is

The

identified with the gold

poet-saints therefore in

of praise, their invocations, their worship,

They are
make no distinction.

their prayers,

addressed as well to the nirguna God as to the saguna

God. This identity of the saguna and the nirguna is
often asserted very definitely.
Nivritti.

Cessation from worldly concerns and

engage-

ments; also Absorption into Brahma.

A stanza of a particular metre

Ovi.

Pada.

of Marathi verse.

A variety of metrical compositions, used in hymns

or anthems.

Very many of the

poet-saints have written

EKNATH
in this metre.

285

(See the Padasangraha in the Kavyas-

angraha Series for examples).

Paduka.

An

impression of a foot on stone, worshipped

some god or guru. s

as the trace of

Psp.

Sin in the abstract, or an evil deed.

negative correlative of the

It is the

exact

word punya, goodness or

good or holy deed. That

and good deeds must receive a

holiness in the abstract, or a

pap and punya,

evil

future reward of suffering or happiness

is

a part of

Hindu philosophy, but this idea does not belong to

the words themselves. Molesworth's Marathi English
Dictionary of 1831, founded on the Marathi-Marathi

Dictionary of 1829, rightly defines these words.

from the Notes on these words

Molesworth's Second Edition of 1857, and from its
definition of the word punya as " merit," a meaning
it never has had in Sanskrit, or in the whole course of
Marathi literature, until influenced by Molesworth's
second edition. See further discussion under punya.

differ absolutely

Pdnsupari.

roll

in

of the Piper-betel leaf with Areca nut,

cloves, lime etc.

Pradakshina.

(See Vida).

Circumabulation of an object, keeping the

right side towards

sacred trees, the

it

These objects may be

tulsi plant,

a temple, even a sacred

Keeping the object to the

city.

idols,

left

would imply

irreverence.

Prahar.

An

prahar

is

eighth! part

of the day of 24 hours.

therefore a period of three hours.

A
The

EKNATH

286

prahars begin at sunrise, at

praharas)

is

six,

hence Donprahar

(two

noon.

In philosophy prakriti and purusha are words

Prakriti.

that denote the material

and the immaterial universe.

(Nature, matter phenomenon) conceived as

Prakriti

Purusha (male, the soul, life, activity)

union makes the whole universe, an anthro-

female, and

by their

pomorphic expression of the idea expressed in English

as "matter and mind."

In the usage of the Maratha poet-saints the

Pr&krit.

As

Pr&krit language means the Marathi language.

from the Sanskrit (the polished language), it means the common vernacular of the people.
As may be seen from the lives of the poet-saints and
their works, they had to encounter a certain amount
distinguished

of opposition against their Marathi, or Prakrit versions of the sacred Sanskrit texts.
life,

(See Eknath's

Bhaktalilamrita Chapter 21).

Deeds

Pr&rabdha.
of one's

in

life in

former births determined the course

Deeds

the birth previous to this.

in

the previous life have determined the course of one's

present

life.

Deeds

in the present life will determine

the life in the next birth. This

Pras&d.

is

the law of prarabdha.

Favor, graciousness, propitiousness.

Any

thing (a fruit, flower, rice etc.) given by an idol,

guru, a saint, as a blessing or a

Food

etc.

mark of

favor."

a
3

presented to an idol or a holy person to be

distributed, thus honored,

among worshippers

etc,

EKNATH
The sweetmeats and
audience at the

among the

distributed

fruit

conclusion

287

of

a katha,

kirtcm,

or

puranic reading.

Goodness or holiness in the

Punya.

Its negative is pap,

or holy deed.

or an evil deed.

abstract, or

a good

or sin in the abstract,

In the definition of this

word as also

word pap I differ absolutely

from Molesworth's Marathi and English Dictionary,
second edition of 1857. In a note it says, " The word
in the definition of the

bears not the feeblest implication of holiness, godliness

or purity of

And by

three.

On

spirit."
its

the contrary

it

implies all

using the definition of "merit"

(not found in the edition of 1831) an idea foreign to

the

word has

since then been attached to this noble

" Merit,"

word.
deed,

is

which

is

meaning a future reward of a good

no part of the meaning of the word Punya,
simply goodness or holiness in the abstract

or a holy or good deed.

The

idea of merit belongs to

Indian philosophy, but not to the word punya.

punya

will

have

its

pap, but this idea

The

first

is

reward

in the future, as will

not in the

word

Every
every

itself.

Molesworth of 1831, founded on the

Marathi-Marathi edition of 1829 has the

edition of

pandit's

See also Monier-Williams Sanskrit

dictionary under punya and p&p. The word punya,

correct definition.

twice used in the Rigveda,

many

times used in the

Upanishads, and Bhagavadgita, and

Marathi
in

no

literature,

is

single instance,

future reward.

all

through old

the exact negative of pap.

It,

means "merit" as implying a

EKNATH

988

A wheaten cake with stuffing of

Puranpoli.

pea flour
PurSna.

coarse sugar,

etc.*

particular class of

Hindu sacred

literature,

They

generally regarded as eighteen in number.

deal

with stories of the creation of the world, its destrucrenewal, of gods, goddesses, and heroes. The
eighteen are Brahma, Padma, Vishnu, Siva, Linga,
Garuda, Narada, Bhagavata, Agni, Skanda, Bhavishya,
tion, its

Varaha,
Markandeya,
Vamana,
Matsya, Kurma and Vayu, but there are other lists
of 18, slightly varying from this. Of the Purans the
Bhagavata, giving the life and teachings of Krishna,
has had the greatest influence on the thought and life
of the Maratha poet-saints.
Brahmavaivarta,

Puranik.

"

A Brahman well

expounder of them."

A public

read in the Purans.

On

account of the vast extent

of Sanskrit literature those

who expound

the sacred

books have to specialize. There are those who make

a speciality of expounding some Puran and are known
as Puraniks.

Purusha.

See

Sadguru.

Literally

Prakriti.

a true,

or good guru

While primarily the word

applies to

or gurus, the poet-saints even applied

sadguru

is

(see

human
it

Guru).

teachers,

to god, for a

regarded as a manifestation of God.

The

Maratha Poet-saints frequently refer to the high moral

EKNATH

289

qualities, the sincerity, the unselfishness, the

tical spirit, that

marks a sadguru,

unhypocri-

as distinguished

from

to obtain deliverance

from

a false guru.
Sadhana.

The means employed

and deaths and all that

and sorrows and even joys.

births

life implies in its

See Nirguna.

Saguna.

Santa.

saint, practically

He

see).

is

one

synonymous with sadhu (which

who

has lost worldly desires and'

But whatever

devotes himself to the worship of God.

he

sins

may appear

outwardly, no one

purity of heart and

life.

The

is

appellation Kavisanta,

or poet-saints, designate those saints

The Maratha

begin

poet-saints

a santa without

who were

with

poets..

Dnyanesvara,.

about A.D. 1290, so far as their works are known, and

continue to the present day.

The world, mundane existence, human life,

state.
2 The affairs of life; worldly
business ; the vocations and engagements, the cares and

Sansdra.

man's mortal

troubles of secularity.

Sannyasi.

One who has

and carnal or natural

cast off all worldly possessions,

affections,

an

ascetic.

The

poet-saints distinguish between the hypocritical, formal

Sannyasi,

who outwardly

appears only to have given

up all, and the true and sincere

up of the world is genuine.
Satchidananda.

sannyasi,

whose giving

Existence-intelligence-joy.
Although
Brahma, or the param&tma~ cannot be described in
19

EKNATH

290

human words

(avachya), yet because,

form of

to exist, to be that which takes the

beings,

and

being the substrate of these

is

believed

intelligent

to express itself in beings feeling joy

Brahma
Brahma

is

it

this definition

very frequently employed.

It

of

should be

noted that these three words, existence, intelligence

ad joy are not

connote that

They do

adjectives, but nouns.

not

Brahma exists, is intelligent and happy,

One substance, Brahma in taking form,

but that the

appears in the form of existing things, in the form

and those possessing joy and

of intelligent beings,
goodness.

Sadhu.

man; a

holy

passions and of
saints give the

one of subdued

saint or sage;

contemplative habits.

word a moral emphasis,

The poethence a sadhu

a man of pure character, one truly devoted to God,

minded man; a good man. A man can
appear hypocritically a sadhu, and not be a s&dhu, for
a sadhu must be pure in heart and life. The wandering
is

spiritually

professional s&dhu, called such,

sincere, but

he

is

purity of heart and

S&shtanga-namaskara.
Sayujyata.

mukti
tion

The

may

or

may

life.

See Namaskara.

fourth

of

the

four

states

in

(final deliverance) is distinguished, viz.,

into

not be

not considered a true sadhu without

the essence

of

Brahma.

which
absorp-

The four

are

Sayujyata (absorption into the essence of Brahma;)

Salokata
deity);

(residence

in

the

Samipata (Nearness

heaven of a particular
to the Deity);

pata (Bearing the likeness of God).

and Saru-

EKNATH
S&vadhana.

Literally

moment

291

"heed."

"attention,"

At

the

of marriage, the priests in solemn tone repeat

the words " Savadhanam,

savadhdnam " and at that

moment the curtain between the bride and bridegroom
is removed, and the marriage is complete.
"

Siddhi.

be

supernatural power or faculty supposed to

acquirable

magical,

through

mystical,

alchemical

or

Eight are enumerated,

lafjhimd, prdpti,

performance of

the

or processes.

rites

anima, mahima, garima,

vis.,

prakamya,

certain

ishitva,

and vasitva."

The

powers or siddhis are personified as female beings, or

siddhis,

who come and

serve those

who by

their austeri-

or otherwise gain those powers.

ties

Srdddha.

kind of funeral

rite

or ceremony in honor of

the departed spirits of dead relatives, observed with

great strictness at various fixed periods, especial honor

being given to paternal and maternal ancestors.

JSudra.

The fourth grand

an

also

individual of

are Rrdhmana,

oif the Hindu body;

The four grand divisions

division
it.

(the priestly caste)

warrior, military, governing class)

Kshatriya,

(the

Vaisya (agricul-

and mercantile class) and Sudra (the servile class,

whose duty is to serve the upper three). The atisudra,
also called anQmik, antyaja, are those still lower than
the sudra, and outside of the four grand divisions.
tural

Hence they are asprisya (Untouchable) or mdmika

Unmentionable)
S&nti.

Peace.

Unruffled mind.

EKNATH

292

Sloka.

a stanza, a quantity of four lines.

In the Marathi commen-

verse,

particular metre; praise.

taries the

SruH.
is

Sloka commented on

The Vedas

is

the Sanskrit text

The word

severally or collectively.

from the Sanskrit, meaning "hearing."

Skandha.
Stotra.

section of a hook, a hook, a chapter.

A book

Praise, panegyric, eulogium. 2

in celebration of the praises; also a

Svdmi.

or writing

hymn.

master or lord, the master or lord

the proprietor or

owner

of,

also

Applied to the Deity, a

of.

god, a king, or prince, a spiritual preceptor, a husband,

a holy

personage,

Sannydsi

etc.

It is

a learned Brahman, a Gosavi,

used also as a title, as Kesava-

svami.

Tapa.

Religious austerity, pious mortification of the

body.

It

is

especially

system, and the yogis carry

it

to its

with

the

extreme

limit.

yoga
But

meaning the duties of

duties of Brahmans, Kashatriyas,

also has less austere usage,

life,

the special

Vaisyas and Sudras.

tive

of Japd.

and tapa
Tttak.

connected
it

The

JapS

It

is,

therefore,

the correla-

signifying" the inner spiritual life,

the outer religious

spot or line

made with

unguents upon the forehead.

(See Japa).

life.

coloured earths or

It is

considered

as an ornament or as a sectarial distinction.

either,

EKNATH
Tirtha.

293

holy or sacred place, any place of pilgrimage,

spots along the course of

but especially particular

sacred streams or in the vicinity of sacred springs.

holy stream, or water brought from one. Water

which a Brahman, sannyasi etc., has dipped his
foot, which has been poured over an idol; holy

in

water.*

Tutsi.

plant venerated by the Hindus,

Ocymum

sanctum.

usually

It is

grown

Holy

in

Basil,

an earthen

altar before the door of the house, or in the garden

behind the house.

garlands, and

its

Its

leaf is

stalks also

have sacred uses.

worshipping the plant go around

right

used in offerings, in

it,

keeping

it

Those
to the

(pradakshina) with palm to palm, repeating a

mantra, or prayer.

U
Worship or

Upasand.

Vida.

roll

religious service.

of the leaf of Piper-betel with Areca-nut,

chewed after a meal.

It is distributed to an audience after a kirtan, or any
public assembly, and is the final act. It is believed to
be a digestive, and also as purifying the mouth. It
cloves, lime etc.

is

It

is

usually

generally called pan-supari (leaf supari nut).

have the habit of chewing

it

Many

constantly.

one without a body (vi-deha). In usage

permanent absorption of the mind in a way to make one unconscious of

>Videhi.

Literally,

however,

it

implies a temporary or

EKNATH

$94

the possession of a body, as

listening to

Or when

kirtcm,

through a

he

is

when one

intensely

is

for the time being a videhi.

of constant contemplation of

life

the Stmd, or of Go4, the ascetic or devotee loses

thought of his body, of cold or heat, hunger or

desires or passions, he

when

is

a videhi.

is

thirst,

a videhi

the spiritual completely dominates the physical.

An

Vairdfji.

ascetic or devotee;

his worldly desires

one

who

has subdued

The word is also

The word
mendicants.
The poet-saints disting-

and passions.

applied to a class of religious

is

A man

all

also pronounced bairdgi.

uish between the true and the hypocritical vairdgi.

Vair&gya.

Popularly,

Absence of worldly desire or passion.

Renunciation

of

all

sensuous

delight

or gratification.

W
Wddd.

edifice, a mansion or palace.

2 A division of a town, a quarter, a ward, as Brahmanwada, Maharwada."
1

stately

or large

Wddd. 1 An enclosed
ground an enclosuere.
;

turists,

piece of meadow-field, or garden

A cluster of huts of agricul-

a hamlet.'

Y
Yatna.

The god who

rules over the spirits of the dead.

Spiritual or abstract devotion ; union with Brahma

through abstract meditation, or contemplation also the

Yoga.

practice or exercise of this sort of worship.

EKNATH
One who was

Yogabhrashta.

295

interrupted in his preced-

ing birth during ihe performance of

meditation upon Brahma):

outcaste, devoted to Eknath,

Yoga

(abstract

As an
is

example, a pious
called a Yogabhrashta.

In the Autobiography of Bahinabai, a calf, because of

its peculiar pious actions, is called a yogabhrashta.

Indeed any pious person can be described as a yogabhrashta, as one whose pious life in a former birth
was accidentally interrupted and has now a further
opportunity.

Yogi.

yoga.

performer of the abstract meditation called

An

ascetic or devotee in general.

Popularly

a yogi is supposed to be able to gain extraordinary

powers through his practice of yoga, called siddhis
(which see), and the ash-covered yogi is able to instil

much

fear in the minds of the ignorant.

The

poet-

between the hypocritical

yogi and the true yogi whose heart and life must be

saints, of course, distinguish

pure.

measure of distance
roughly about eight miles.

Yojana.

equal

to

four

Kos