COMMENTARIES

Bhakti Sutras

The Aphorisms of Love

What are Bhakti Sutras?

Life springs from love – the origin is love and life seeks love. The goal of life is also love, and in between, life is sustained by love.There is not a single creature or living entity on this planet that has not known love or is devoid of love. Since time immemorial Narada and Bhakti (devotion) have been synonymous. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar gives an inspiring discourse on the Bhakti Sutras of Narada – Aphorisms of Love.

Commentary by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

If we are made up of a substance called love, then why don't we experience it? Why is there so much misery? If love is everywhere in creation, why is there a seeking for love? Why do we seek love?

When these questions start bothering the human mind, one's spiritual journey has begun. What is love? Rishi Narada brought out these Bhakti Sutras- aphorisms on love.

A discourse by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar on the writings of Rishi Narada - the sutras a dedication to Bhakti (devotion), the culmination of Love.

Excepts from Sri Sri's Commentary

“In the world, as well as in spiritual matters, act towards that which nourishes this love, accept that which nourishes this love, accept that which moves you in the direction of this love and be indifferent to that which is not supporting this love, because life is full of opposites.” Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
“If even the slightest desire to be free has arisen in you, you should pat yourself on the back, you are very lucky. Billions of lives on this planet don’t have this blessing. They do not even live. They exist, die and dissolve. They are not bored. Even if they are bored, they’re bored about something very small. A little change can make them very comfortable again. So, blessed are those who get bored!” Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
“Do not hurt anyone with your speech, for the Divine dwells in every heart.” Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
WHAT READERS SAY

Watch an Excerpt on "Desires" from Bhakti Sutras

 

Bhakti Sutras Wisdom Groups

There is a great benefit to watching Bhakti Sutras in person with a group. Through the group sharing the meaning of the knowledge unfolds and can be looked at through multiple viewpoints.

There are 84 sutras (aphorisms). These aphorisms are referred to as ‘Narada Bhakti Sutras’. The Bhakti Sutras of Sage Narada, considered to be the best guide on the path of devotion, stand out for their clarity, simplicity and internal coherence.

  • The first 24 sutras deal with the nature of bhakti
  • Next 9 sutras (25-33) explain why the path of bhakti is superior
  • Next 17 sutras (34-50) describe the methods by which bhakti can be cultivated and practiced
  • Next 16 sutras (51-66) gives the sign of true devotion
  • Last 18 sutras (67-84) glorify those who have reached the pinnacle of devotion

During each knowledge session, you will watch a video talk and there will be a discussion of the knowledge with the group.You will have fun and get to know the other participants.