Bhojanam

Let’s look at the meaning of the 144rd divya nama of Vishnu Shasranama - Bhojanam (भोजनम्) from -

भ्राजिष्णुर्भोजनं भोक्ता सहिष्णुर्जगदादिजः ।

अनघो विजयो जेता विश्वयोनिः पुनर्वसुः ॥

1. Bhagavan as the Ultimate Object of Enjoyment
   ‘Bhojanam’ is what we enjoy or consume, often referring to food. However, in devotion, Bhagavan becomes the ultimate bhojanam for his devotees. When a devotee moves beyond material desires, Bhagavan alone brings true joy. Thus, Bhagavan becomes the highest source of fulfillment and enjoyment for the devoted, offering joy beyond worldly pleasures.
2. Bhagavan as the Giver of All Enjoyment
   Bhagavan is the source of all forms of enjoyment experienced through our senses. Every joy or pleasure we feel through taste, sound, touch, sight, and smell comes from his blessings. He fills the world with things that satisfy our senses and mind, giving us what we need to experience happiness and contentment in life.
3. Bhagavan as the Provider of Food
   Bhagavan provides food for every being in the universe, from the smallest creature to the greatest. All nourishment ultimately comes from him. As the sustainer, he ensures that everyone has what they need for survival, thus holding the responsibility of feeding all, just as he creates every other resource for life.
4. The Cycle of Consumer and Consumed
   In the world, life sustains itself through a cycle where one becomes the food for another. Plants feed animals, animals feed other animals, and so forth. This balance of consumer and consumed keeps the world going. Bhagavan, as the sustainer, has created this system so that life continues, each being dependent on another for survival.

Knowledge Bank

What is Sage Shandilya's view on bhakti?

According to Narada-bhakti-sutra.18, Sage Shandilya identifies Atman with Bhagavan. Uninterrupted absorption in the bliss of one's own Atman is supreme devotion towards Bhagavan.

Lord Rama's Commitment to the principle of 'One Wife'

Rama's vow was that besides Sita, any other woman would be equivalent to his mother, Kausalya. He promised that he would not marry another woman, nor would he even think about it. Even when required for yajnas, Rama did not choose another wife; instead, Sita's golden statue was placed by his side.