api chet su-durāchāro bhajate mām ananya-bhāk
sādhur eva sa mantavyaḥ samyag vyavasito hi saḥ
api — even;
chet — if;
su-durāchāraḥ — the vilest sinners;
bhajate — worship;
mām — me;
ananya-bhāk — exclusive devotion;
sādhuḥ — righteous;
eva — certainly;
saḥ — that person;
mantavyaḥ — is to be considered;
samyak — properly;
vyavasitaḥ — resolve;
hi — certainly;
saḥ — that person
In this verse, we learn something important about how we should view others, especially those who try to worship or serve God, even if they seem to make serious mistakes. The words 'sudurachara' reference someone who behaves very poorly or commits bad actions. However, this verse tells us that if such a person is sincerely devoted to God, they should be seen as good people.
To break this down further, let’s think of everyone, including ourselves, as being on a journey. Each person has their unique struggles and experiences, which influences their actions. Sometimes, people mess up, and their actions do not reflect their true intentions or the good in their hearts. In the context of spirituality, even those who genuinely strive to connect with God may sometimes behave in ways that are not ideal. This is known as living in a 'conditioned state,' where life’s circumstances and our surroundings affect how we act.
A devoted person knows deep down that their true self is spiritual and connected to God. They engage in 'devotional service,' which means they dedicate themselves to loving and serving God through their thoughts, prayers, and actions. This spiritual work comes from their true identity and is very close to their heart.
However, while trying to balance their devotion and the daily demands of life—like jobs, family, and social rules—sometimes their actions can clash. Imagine someone who believes in kindness and compassion but, under stress, might lose their temper and act unkindly. Even though their outburst is not ideal, their overall dedication to being a good person (in this case, being devoted to God) is what truly matters.
Now, the verse teaches that if someone is genuinely trying to serve and loves God, even if they make mistakes along the way, those mistakes don't define who they are. If they turn to God with sincerity, asking for help and forgiveness, God supports them. Just as a parent loves a child, guiding them when they stumble, God understands our struggles and guides us back on track.
Finally, it’s crucial not to judge someone for their occasional mistakes. What matters is their heartfelt dedication to God. Over time, as they keep practicing this devotion, they will grow stronger and less likely to make those mistakes. The journey of love and devotion is one that leads them to a better place, reflecting their growth as individuals.