Slokam - 1

In this slokam, Sri Bhattadri assigns a visual orientation to Bhakthi Yoga and fixes the mind on the physical form of the Paramathma.  The description includes the blue hue that emanates as well as the ornaments that adorn the physical body. Contemplating on the physical aspects which are truly charming helps fix the mind on the divine form, which in turn gives, peace and tranquility and removes anxiety and fear.

The form is such a compelling magnet for the mind that it is locked in sheer respect, awe and devotion.  The mind is not still or steady. Its primary characteristic is to fly hither and tither like a bird that has to look for food, security and home.  The slokam describes the Paramathma’s hue, the various ornaments and facial features, so even if the mind continually jumps around, it can jump from one feature to another, while still remaining transfixed on the Paramathma.  

Facial expression is described as an amused benign smile, merciful look.

Ornaments include a

• studded crown, symbolizing complete Lordship over the Universe – inner and outer, material, and spiritual. Incidentally, as the most powerful creature on this planet, how much can we claim Lordship over?  Probably nothing. The Lordship that we should aim for is our own inner self.
• Kausthubha Gem.  Worn on the neck of Sri Krishna. Devas and Asuras performed the "Churning of the Ocean of Milk" (Samudra manthan), in order to get Amrita (Devanagari - अमृत). In this process, the fourteen treasure jewels (Ratnas) emerged from the ocean. The fourth Ratna that emerged is known as Kaustubha. It represents pure consciousness shining in all its luminous manifestations. This we possess as the awareness of the self, but are not able to sustain for long. The objective of life is to remove the forces of conflict and wear this jewel eternally.
• Ear Drops – Fish/Crocodile, that symbolizes the Paramathma’s Matsya Avatar.
• String of Pearls – These can be thought of as representing those of us who have attained emancipation by following the Paramathma’s teachings.
• Flower garland – KADAMBA Flowers are our tribute of respect to the Lord.  When we visualize His Image, He must be mentally garlanded as a mark of our Pranam to the highest attainment.

Marks include;

• Srivatsa.  This is a mole on Sri Krishna’s broad chest. It is a mark on the chest where his consort Lakshmi resides. This essentially symbolizes His influence over the (feminine) force of material prosperity.  Goddess Lakshmi is the custodian of material wealth and the Paramathma uses the storehouse to endow on appropriate individuals.
  
• Tilak – The Tilak on the forehead symbolizes and displays one’s religious affiliations. It is a mark if devotion and a public  acknowledgement of faith.  The tilak on Sri Krishna’s forehead is symbolic of His eternal love for His devotees.  This is to symbolize that He is always at the “beck and call” of His devotees as they are to Him.

May our physical and mental well being be strengthened by the unending focus on the supreme form of the Paramathma