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## English Translation:
42
Devotion to the Sadguru (true teacher) and devotion to the Shrutis (sacred scriptures) are the primary means to attain liberation (Moksha). Because the Lord, the ultimate goal, who is the embodiment of perfection, always resides in the heart, constantly reminding the soul of its true nature and its ultimate goal. The Sadguru, the perfect guide, the embodiment of the path to liberation, is a virtuous soul, a true sage, a living embodiment of the awakened state, a living Yogi, who inspires the soul to become its true self. And in the absence of such a Sadguru, or in accordance with their teachings, the scriptures also become the ultimate guide, benefiting the soul that is worthy and capable of receiving their teachings. These two forms of devotion, like a stream of pure, detached consciousness, nourish the soul, leading to its gradual development and ultimately, to the attainment of liberation.
Just as a branch cannot exist without a root, a tree cannot exist without a trunk, and a building cannot stand without a foundation, similarly, the edifice of liberation cannot be built without the foundation of devotion. This foundation is the "abhaya, advesha, akheda" (fearlessness, non-hatred, non-attachment) which is the first step in the path of liberation.
If we wish to build this magnificent edifice of liberation, we must lay a strong foundation of universal compassion, and upon this foundation, we must plant the seed of devotion, which will grow into a strong pillar. Only then can the edifice be built, and only then can the higher stages of liberation be attained. Otherwise, it would be like building a house in the sky, without any support or foundation.
Therefore, O noble souls, O seekers of liberation, first build this foundation of devotion, which will lead to the construction of the magnificent edifice of liberation. Then, you will be able to place the pot of liberation upon it, and achieve the ultimate goal of realizing your true nature. You will then be able to reside permanently in this magnificent abode of liberation.
Thus, the scriptures, like a wise sage, are urging the seekers to embark on this journey of devotion.
Bhakti Yoga (the path of devotion) is the best and the first among all paths to liberation. Bhakti Yoga, Karma Yoga (the path of action), and Jnana Yoga (the path of knowledge) are not truly different or contradictory, but rather three facets of the same path, interconnected and complementary to each other.
Because, devotion with understanding of the ultimate reality is Bhakti Yoga, action with devotion to the ultimate reality is Karma Yoga, and the practice of self-realization, which is the path to liberation, is Jnana Yoga.
Jnana Yoga is the practice of knowledge, which is the ultimate realization of the self, achieved through devotion and action.
Devotion without understanding is like a ritual without meaning.