Mahatamas — Those who do accept Krishna as He revealed Himself (c.f. Duratmas Bg. 9.12)
PLEASE NOTE — All signs and symptoms of ‘Mahatmas’ as given in the translation are included under various themes of the ‘Focus of Learning’ section for these verses
aVarious signs of ‘Mahatmas’
He is already situated in the protection of the Divine Nature
By surrender unto Supreme Personality of Godhead, one is situated in the divine nature (Ref. Bg. 7.14)
‘Guidance of spiritual nature’ is called ‘Daivi-prakrti’
Does not divert his attention to anything outside Krishna. How?
Because he knows Krishna to be original Supreme person
Attracted by His two-handed form – Performs unswerving service – may not even be interested in four-armed Vishnu form FOCUS OF LEARNING: PURPORTS 9.13 – 9.14 continued…
bFurther symptoms of ‘Mahatmas’ (9.14):
Always engaged in chanting the glories of the Lord
Refutes impersonalism – Because mahatma is attached to the personal form of the Lord and glorifies personal attributes
Endeavouring with determination
Determined to achieve Lord’s association in one of five rasas
Engaged in certain activities called “Determined” e.g. fasting on Ekadasi’s, Appearance days etc.
Following the rules and regulations of great acharyas
Always bowing down before Me
No severe austerity or penance required
Can perform “in any social condition or ashram”
“Only thing” is under the guidance of expert spiritual master
Perpetually worshiping Krishna with devotion
Implies engaging all mental, bodily and vocal functions in service of the Lord
By the nine processes of devotion (devotion means activity)
cHow do ‘Mahatmas’ develop — By association with other Mahatmas
LINK BETWEEN TEXTS 9.14 & 9.15 — Now Krishna mentions three types of worshipers who worship Him indirectly