Jayadeva Goswami

On a certain day, the King of Kraunch ventured into the forest for a hunting expedition. As night fell while he was still wandering, he noticed a light emanating from a pit. Intrigued, the king hurried towards the light to investigate its source. To his surprise, he discovered a devout worshipper of Vishnu, sitting in a posture of deep contemplation, radiating an extraordinary brightness. The worshipper was fervently chanting the names of God - 'Ram, Krishna, Govinda!' Overwhelmed by the sight, the king prostrated himself before the worshipper. Upon closer examination, the king noticed that the worshipper's hands and feet had been severed. Filled with concern, the king asked Jayadev, "How did you come to be in this condition?" Jayadev replied, "I was born without hands and feet. I exist independently of my physical body and its organs." The king marveled at Jayadev's profound wisdom and decided to escort him back to the city. Seating him on a magnificent golden throne, the king worshipped Jayadev with deep affection. Humbly approaching Jayadev, the king requested to become his disciple, receiving the sacred mantra. Placing Jayadev on his throne, the king commanded his attendants, "You must fulfill my order and serve the Swami diligently every day." The attendants rejoiced, recognizing their good fortune, and eagerly awaited the opportunity to listen to the divine songs and stories of God's exploits.

One day, the king pondered, "Let me ask the Swami today for guidance on the path to my salvation." When Jayadev was seated on the throne, the king joined his palms and humbly implored, "Please instruct me on how I can be of service to you." Jayadev replied, "O King, you should worship saints. There is no better means to attain the ultimate goal. When saints or other virtuous individuals visit your home, you should provide them with the food they relish. Give them the clothing, money, and gold ornaments they ask for. If you serve the saints in this manner, God will be pleased. He holds those who serve His saints in higher regard than even the goddess Lakshmi." The king inquired, "How can I recognize saints? I am ignorant and lack knowledge in this matter." Jayadev answered, "Listen to the distinguishing characteristics of a saint. They bear three vertical marks on their foreheads and twelve other marks on their bodies. They wear a sacred tulsi garland around their necks. These are the external signs of a devotee of Vishnu. Approach them alone and as a humble supplicant." The king assured Jayadev, "I shall certainly do as you have advised. I will honor your command and serve the saints." Word spread of the king's devotion, and Vaishnavas (followers of Vishnu) flocked to his residence. Like weary travelers seeking shade under a tree, birds gathering around food, beggars rushing to a generous donor, or ants running toward sugar with delight, these righteous individuals came to witness the king's devotion. They first met Jayadev and then proceeded to the king's presence. When the king encountered these saints, he prostrated himself before them, extending his full respect. During four months of the year, the king welcomed the saints into his home and wholeheartedly catered to their preferences. Whatever the Vaishnavas requested, the king readily provided. He showered them with abundant clothing, ornaments, and money, fulfilling their every desire.