Understanding Uttama Bhakti - 3: What Uttama Bhakti Is NOT

The definition of Uttama Bhakti given by Śrī Rūpa Gosvāmī serves to uproot numerous misconceptions that are popularly spread in contemporary spiritual circles. Understanding what Uttama Bhakti is not is equally important as understanding what it is.

The Defining Verse

anyābhilāṣitā-śūnyaṃ jñāna-karmādy-anāvṛtam |
ānukūlyena kṛṣṇānuśīlanaṃ bhaktir uttamā ||1.1.11||

To properly understand the definition of Uttama Bhakti, please refer to the previous articles in this series:

• Understanding Uttama Bhakti - 1: The Definition
• Understanding Uttama Bhakti - 2: Discussion

Go through these blogs for a comprehensive explanation of the verse and its meaning.

Common Misconceptions About Uttama Bhakti

Based on the proper understanding of this definition, here are common misconceptions that need to be clarified:

• Primarily desiring to go back to Godhead
• Desiring to have mañjarī-svarūpa
• "No desire" means even natural bodily maintenance is against bhakti

• Navadha bhakti equals Uttama Bhakti
• Sādhana bhakti is not Uttama Bhakti
• Chanting 16 rounds, following 4 regulative principles & maṅgala-āratī is Uttama Bhakti

• Jnana is deterimental to Bhakti
• You must pass through jñāna/karma or varṇāśrama preliminaries to qualify for Uttama Bhakti
• Working to earn a livelihood makes bhakti mixed and not Uttama Bhakti

• Preaching is a limb of Uttama Bhakti
• Samāja sevā is Uttama Bhakti
• Following nitya-karma is essential part of Uttama Bhakti

• Bhakti to avatāra of Kṛṣṇa is not Uttama Bhakti
• 50% / 70% surrender is Uttama Bhakti
• Uttama bhakti is only done by liberated or Premi Bhakta

[although these points below are not discussed in the defintion, it is only mentioned ane will be taken on upcoming articles]

• Vaidhi Uttama Bhakti = Raganuga uttama Bhakti
• Vaidhi will turn into Raganuga bhakti

The Importance of Proper Understanding

These misconceptions arise from:

• Not Studying it under a bonafide guru

Understanding these misconceptions helps us approach Uttama Bhakti with clarity and prevents us from falling into common philosophical traps that can hinder our spiritual progress.

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Note: This article will continue to be updated as we explore more misconceptions and their clarifications based on this verse.