Why Enthusiasm Is the Basis of Devotional Service
Devotional service is often misunderstood as a passive state of cessation from activity, but Śrīla Prabhupāda clarifies that it is actually the most dynamic activity. The foundation of this activity is enthusiasm. Citing the authoritative instructions of Śrīla Rūpa Gosvāmī, Śrīla Prabhupāda teaches that utsāhāt, or enthusiasm, is the very first principle required for advancement. This article explores why this vibrant energy is the non-negotiable basis of a successful spiritual life.
First Principle of Success
Śrīla Prabhupāda emphasizes that without enthusiasm, spiritual life is impossible. He references the six favorable principles for devotional service, placing enthusiasm at the very top. This enthusiasm manifests as a strong determination to make one's life successful—to refuse to die like an ordinary animal and to ensure that one returns to Kṛṣṇa at the end of this life.
- Six principles will increase your devotional service. The first principle is utsahat. Utsahat means: Enthusiasm. One must be determined that, This life I shall not die like cats and dogs. This life I shall die in such a way that immediately I go to Krsna.
- One should accept this opportunity to return home, back to Godhead, very enthusiastically. Without enthusiasm, one cannot be successful.
Enthusiasm Means Action
A crucial definition Śrīla Prabhupāda provides is that "enthusiasm means action." It is not a sentimental feeling but a practical engagement of one's energy. However, this action must be properly directed. Just as a materialist is enthusiastic to earn money for sense gratification, a devotee utilizes that same natural drive for the satisfaction of Kṛṣṇa (kṛṣṇārthākhila-ceṣṭā).
- One has to be very enthusiastic in devotional service. Enthusiasm means action, but action for whom? The answer is that one should always act for Krsna - krsnarthakhila-cesta.
- Enthusiasm is a symptom of the living entity; it cannot be stopped. It is just like a powerful engine: if you utilize it properly, it will give immense production. Therefore enthusiasm should be purified.
Enemy of Lethargy
The opposite of enthusiasm is laziness, which Śrīla Prabhupāda identifies as a severe detriment to spiritual progress. He states that those who are lethargic cannot advance. Spiritual life requires a "cool head" but active labor; if one is indifferent or lacks the energy to execute the order of the spiritual master, they risk losing the golden opportunity of human life.
- Those who are not enthusiastic, lazy, lethargetic, they cannot advance in spiritual life.
- You should very seriously and with a cool head apply yourself to getting that place or some other place as soon as possible. Otherwise Krsna may take away this golden opportunity, being disappointed by our lack of enthusiasm and labor.
Conclusion
Enthusiasm is the life force of the devotee. Śrīla Prabhupāda teaches that whether one is young or old, this spiritual energy must be maintained. By remaining enthusiastic in following the regulative principles and executing the mission of the Lord, the devotee ensures their steady progress back to Godhead.
Dive Deeper into Śrīla Prabhupāda's Vani
Śrīla Prabhupāda lives within his instructions. This article is a summary of the profound truths found in the Vaniquotes category Enthusiasm. We invite you to visit this link to study the complete compilation and experience Śrīla Prabhupāda's teachings in their direct, verbatim form.