Satsang Opens into Hari-Katha, and Hari-Katha Opens into Love
Uttara Kanda, Doha 61
Doha 61 · Movement 2 of 2
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Shiva lays out the inward sequence with luminous simplicity. Without satsang, Hari-katha is not truly received. Without Hari-katha, delusion does not leave. Until delusion leaves, steadfast love for Rama's feet does not arise.
Each movement opens the next. Sacred company gives the story a living body. The story cleanses the vision through which the Lord's deeds are seen. As false seeing recedes, devotion becomes firm rather than dependent upon whether the lila agrees with expectation.
Garuda came seeking an explanation for one battlefield paradox. Shiva gives him a path that transforms the whole field of perception. The answer will not be a sentence placed beside the serpent-noose. It will be companionship, listening, release from delusion, and love. What the intellect tried to seize at once must ripen through a chain of grace, one link received fully before the next can shine.
The road from doubt to love passes through the gathered saints and the ceaseless river of Hari's story.
Read the passage from the Manas
बिनु सतसंग न हरि कथा तेहि बिनु मोह न भाग। मोह गएँ बिनु राम पद होइ न दृढ़ अनुराग।।61।।
Without satsang there is no Hari-katha. Without Hari-katha, delusion does not depart. Without delusion departing, firm love for Rama's feet does not arise.