Shloka 37
The Pracetās Meet Lord Viṣṇu—Benedictions, Pure Prayer, and the Birth of Dakṣa
तेषां विचरतां पद्भ्यां तीर्थानां पावनेच्छया । भीतस्य किं न रोचेत तावकानां समागम: ॥ ३७ ॥
teṣāṁ vicaratāṁ padbhyāṁ tīrthānāṁ pāvanecchayā bhītasya kiṁ na roceta tāvakānāṁ samāgamaḥ
तेषां तव पार्षदानां पद्भ्यां विचरतां तीर्थानि पावयितुमिच्छया; भवभीतस्य जनस्य तावकानां समागमः किं न रोचेत?
There are two kinds of devotees: one is called goṣṭhyānandī and the other bhajanānandī. The word bhajanānandī refers to the devotee who does not move, but remains in one place. Such a devotee is always engaged in the devotional service of the Lord. He chants the mahā-mantra as taught by many ācāryas and sometimes goes out for preaching work. The goṣṭhyānandī is one who desires to increase the number of devotees all over the world. He travels all over the world just to purify the world and the people residing in it. Caitanya Mahāprabhu advised:
FAQs
This verse teaches that association with the Lord’s devotees is naturally pleasing and purifying—so powerful that even a fearful person finds comfort and attraction in such company.
In the context of instructing the Pracetas, Lord Shiva highlights that true purification is not only through visiting holy places, but especially through meeting and associating with devotees of Lord Vishnu.
Seek regular satsanga—spend time with sincere devotees, hear Hari-katha, and serve—because such association purifies the heart and reduces fear, anxiety, and confusion.