The Kātyāyanī-vrata, the Stealing of the Gopīs’ Garments, and Kṛṣṇa’s Teaching on Purified Desire
याताबला व्रजं सिद्धा मयेमा रंस्यथा क्षपा: । यदुद्दिश्य व्रतमिदं चेरुरार्यार्चनं सती: ॥ २७ ॥
yātābalā vrajaṁ siddhā mayemā raṁsyathā kṣapāḥ yad uddiśya vratam idaṁ cerur āryārcanaṁ satīḥ
Now go, girls, and return to Vraja; your desire is fulfilled. In My company you will delight in the nights to come—for this was the very purpose of your vow and your worship of Goddess Āryā Kātyāyanī, O pure-hearted ones.
This verse states that the gopīs’ vow and worship were successful, and Kṛṣṇa Himself confirms the intended fruit—attaining His association and loving service.
Kṛṣṇa reassures them that their spiritual purpose has been achieved and that He will reciprocate with them in future nights, removing anxiety and affirming His protection.
Undertake spiritual disciplines with a clear devotional aim—purity, sincerity, and remembrance of Bhagavān—rather than mere ritual, trusting that genuine devotion brings divine reciprocation.