Union and Separation

In Sanatana Dharma, Brahman represents the ultimate truth - eternal, unchanging, and limitless. Brahman is the foundation of all existence, consciousness, and bliss, also known as ‘Sat-Chit-Ananda’ (सच्चिदानंद). Despite its unchanging and formless nature, Brahman can be experienced by humans through Rasa (रस) - the aesthetic flavors or emotions that bring about a sense of the divine. This appearance of Brahman in a perceivable form as Rasa is a Lila, the divine play, which makes Brahman accessible to our experience while preserving its transcendence. By manifesting through Rasa, Brahman allows devotees to connect with the divine on a personal, emotional level, encouraging spiritual growth and understanding.

Shringara Rasa: The Supreme Rasa

Among the various Rasas, Shringara Rasa - the sentiment of divine love or romantic love - is considered the most exalted. This love transcends worldly affection, embodying pure devotion. Shringara Rasa divides into two expressions:

• Union (Samyoga): The joy and fulfillment in the beloved’s presence.
• Separation (Viyoga): The intense longing and deep devotion felt in absence.

Radha and Krishna together symbolize complete joy. When they are in each other's presence, there is pure happiness. This love is seen in their playful moments in Vrindavan. Radha’s heart fills with bliss, and Krishna feels deep joy. This is the feeling of unity - of being together.

When Krishna leaves Vrindavan for Mathura, Radha feels deep sadness. She misses Krishna deeply and constantly thinks of him. This separation brings intense longing. Radha’s love becomes even stronger, showing her deep devotion. Krishna, too, feels Radha’s absence and remembers their moments together, showing his love for her.

In this divine relationship, Radha and Krishna feel both union and separation at the same time. Even though they are apart, their souls are united. This shows a divine mystery: their love is so pure that it goes beyond our understanding of being together or apart. This love is eternal, beyond opposites, and shows the divine nature of their bond.

Knowledge Bank

Rewa in Mahabharata

Rewa city of north-eastern Madhya Pradesh was the captal of a kingdom called Karusha during Mahabharta times. Its king, Dantavakra was killed by Krishna. Sahadeva has also conquered Rewa.

Where is the real copy of Vedas?

Vedas are eternal. They exist in the form of sound and are hence called Shabda Brahma. Vedas have always been taught orally and not using a book. Vedas do not have an author. A more appropriate question would be when Vedas were written down first or when Vedas were printed first.