Aranya Kaanda
122 - Grace on Sabari; a discourse on the nine forms of Devotion and departure for the Pampa lake
Chaupais
Description
Joining her palms she stood before Him; as she gazed upon the Lord her love waxed yet more ardent. "How can I extol You, lowest in descent and the dullest of wit as I am ? A woman is the lowest of those who rank as the lowest of the low. Of women again I am the most dull-headed, O Destroyer of sins." Answered the Lord of Raghus: "Listen, O good lady, to My words I recognize no other kinship except that of Devotion. Despite caste, kinship, lineage, piety, reputation, wealth, physical strength, numerical strength of his family, accomplishments and ability, a man lacking in Devotion is of no more worth than a cloud without water. Now I tell you the nine forms of Devotion; please listen attentively and cherish them in your mind. The first in order is fellowship with the saints and the second is marked by a fondness for My stories.