Commentary

Commentary

From Vedic literature we know that the Supreme Person, Narayana, dwells both outside and inside every living being. He is present in both the physical and spiritual worlds simultaneously. Although He is very far away, He is also very near to us. These are the statements of Vedic literature.

The Kathopanishad (1.2.21) states: aaseeno door vrajati shayaano yaati sarvatah — though seated far away, He goes everywhere; though lying down, He moves in all directions. We cannot understand how such transcendental opulence is possible through our material senses — we can neither see nor comprehend His workings through these limited instruments.

The Vedic language tells us that our material mind and senses are incapable of understanding Him. But one who has purified his mind and senses through the practice of devotion (bhakti) in Krishna consciousness can see Him constantly within his heart. The Brahma Samhita confirms that for the devotee in whose heart love for God has arisen, the Lord is always visible.

And in the Bhagavad Gita (11.54), it is confirmed that He can be understood only through undivided devotional service. Therefore, the apparent contradiction of being far and near, outside and inside, is resolved through bhakti — the path of loving devotion that purifies the heart and allows one to perceive the Lord everywhere at all times.