Nam Sankirtan, best among all forms of Bhakti

June 30, 2005

All Glory to Sree Sree Guru and Gauranga!

In Padma puran it is instructed what is to be done and what is not to be done. What we have to do? That which reminds us of Sri Krishna. Always we must remember Sri Krishna, Vishnu. Whatever action reminds us of Sri Krishna that is allowed. And what not to do? - by which we forget Sri Krishna. We should never forget Sri Krishna. If any action makes us forget Sri Krishna that is a crime. That we should not do.

Chaitanya Mahaprabhu has said five forms of principle devotion - Sadhu Sanga, Nama Kirtan, Bhagavat Sravan, Mathuravas, Sradhaya Sri Murti Seva. Association of bonafide sadhus, sadhu sanga, is the first one. Nama Kirtan, chanting of the Holy name of Sri Krishna. Bhagavat Sravan, listening to Srimat Bhagavatam from a Bhagavat, from a sudha bhakta. Sudha bhakta is also designated as Bhagavat. You will have to hear Bhagavatam from a Bhavagat, vaishnava - Bhagavat Sravan. Mathuravas - where shall we stay? Holy place of pastimes of Sri Krishna. We have to stay in the transcendental realm. Wherever devotees sing the glories of Supreme Lord that is also considered as transcendental realm, you are to stay there. And with faith, firm faith you worship Sri Krishna. Among these 5 principle forms of devotion He has given foremost emphasis to Nam Sankirtan. Nam Sankirtan is the best. If anybody can perform Nam Sankirtan, chanting of the holy names without offences, it is the best. It removes all afflictions.

-- His Divine Grace Srila Bhakti Ballabh Tirtha Goswami Maharaj