Letter No. 4

To, Shyamlal Goswami:

     Imagine the pleasure of watching the movement of wild animals from the top of a high-rise building in a thick jungle. While secure in such a place, one is free from fear of attack from the wild beasts, and may even harass them. Similarly those who have taken refuge in Krishna’s feet amidst the worldly jungle where Maya prowls, are delighted by watching the pleasant spectacle of Maya’s wanderings. They can sometimes lead Maya into pitfalls and enjoy the fun. Spirits dissolve into nothingness at the very sight of Rama and scamper away at the mere mention of His name. Likewise Maya scampers away at the mention of Krishna. Until one is secure at the impregnable feet of Krishna, it is everyone’s clear duty to hold fast body and soul to Krishna’s name. The only means of eluding Maya is Krishna’s Name. Krishna’s abode is devoid of Maya. Krishna is present where His Name is repeated. Those who repeat Name always live in the kingdom of Krishna. All the holy places rest in Krishna and so these congregate together wherever Krishna’s name is taken. The Sastras therefore say that those who take Krishna’s Name bathe in all the holy places every moment.

     No sooner than you take Name, Nitai who stands guard at the fort of Krishna will show mercy on you and you will be taken into the arms of Gouranga. In ancient times, some reached the desired end by practising austerities for sixty thousand and even hundred thousand years. Now we do not spare even sixty minutes. Hence Nitai has given us the secret of attaining the kingship in a trice.

     When your minds go out of gear you should all congregate together and talk of His words. Thus your minds will reach the proper destination and you will be free from any misgivings. Great is the mercy of Nityananda, for, He gives love without solicitation. You should not therefore delay further in taking refuge at His feet.

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