Question: As I meditate on the process of receiving mercy from the disciplic succession and receiving the Holy Name, I realize that I am not certain what it means to receive. May I please request your explanation for the same?
What does it mean to receive the love Guru and Krishna are giving? How do I know if I am receiving it, and the mood in which I am doing? What does it mean to receive the Pure Holy name?
Answer by Romapada Swami: Krishna is equal to everyone (samo ‘ham sarva bhutesu) – just like a cloud which pours water all over, regardless of whether it is rock or land or sea. In turn, a fertile land becomes nourished, whereas some other places remain barren. The difference is due to the quality or capacity of the receptacle. In the same way, those who keep their heart fertile by cultivating proper submission, service attitude etc are able to receive mercy and benefit from it. Mercy is effective in such a fertile heart.
Although the Holy Name is freely available to everyone, one can receive the Holy Name by a humble, prayerful or petitioning/begging mood only. Although the Lord is equal to all, the relationship is reciprocal. The more a living entity anticipates and reciprocates with the Lord’s mercy, the more one receives of the mercy.
Another example: The sun rays are open to everyone, and sometimes even stones become valuable by utilizing it, but some prefer to remain in darkness. Similarly even if one lacks good qualities, if somehow or other one places oneself before Krishna with a favorable attitude, one is sure to benefit sooner or later.
