Devotion and purity

Krishn reveals Himself in the devotee's heart like an engraved image, shining within with transcendental beauty. Vishuddha-sattva is not the existence of the body but of consciousness. It means purity. In this state, the devotee perceives Paramatma, the Supersoul, within the heart. The same Lord who is seen externally in the temple through deity worship manifests internally.

Just as we worship the Lord externally with Tulsi leaves and flowers, we must offer our purified consciousness internally. The heart, like Tulsi, must be pure, fragrant and pleasing to Krishn. Tulsi represents unalloyed devotion. Tulsi's presence in our homes and temples is a constant reminder that devotion is accepted not because of grandeur or intelligence but because of purity. A simple Tulsi leaf offered with love is more pleasing to Krishn than opulent offerings. Krishn does not reveal Himself to an impure, distracted mind. He reveals Himself in a heart that has become pure like Tulsi.

Srila Prabhupada says, 'It is a matter of revelation, not imagination.' So, we do not see Krishn by forcing our mind. When one chants Hare Krishna purely, concentrating on the sound vibration, the Lord's form - lotus eyes, flute and smile - is naturally revealed within.


Tulsi, therefore, serves as an example of what our consciousness should become: steady and fragrant with faith, and dedicated totally to Krishn's pleasure. The devotee seeks to emulate this surrender in the inner heart by performing every act of life, work, prayer or service as an offering, utterly free from selfish motive.