Remembering God at Life’s End
In the journey of human life, we engage in various pursuits: acquiring knowledge, performing duties, or developing skills. Yet, as revealed in Srimad Bhagavatam (SB 2.1.6), the ultimate goal—the highest perfection of human life—is to remember the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Nārāyaṇa, at the end of life. This remembrance, known as nārāyaṇa-smṛti, transcends all material achievements, and by attaining it, we achieve the pinnacle of spiritual success.
The Essence of Nārāyaṇa-Smṛti: Beyond the Material World
The purport highlights an essential truth: Nārāyaṇa, or God, exists beyond the material creation. The material world operates within the realm of mahat-tattva (material principle), where everything goes through the cycle of creation, sustenance, and destruction. Nārāyaṇa, however, remains untouched by these changes. His nature, attributes, and form are beyond the reach of material perception and scientific inquiry.
Our journey toward nārāyaṇa-smṛti requires us to move beyond material attachments and recognize the spiritual reality that lies beyond them. Achieving this remembrance is not just a momentary act at life’s end; it’s the culmination of a life lived in spiritual awareness.
Paths to Perfection: Knowledge, Mystic Powers, and Duty
Throughout history, humanity has sought fulfillment in three primary pursuits:
- Knowledge of Matter and Spirit: Jñānīs, or those who pursue knowledge, aim to discern the difference between matter and spirit. Their journey of intellectual understanding seeks to understand life’s ultimate truths.
- Mystic Powers: Yogīs engage in practices that harness spiritual and physical energies, sometimes achieving extraordinary abilities or traveling to higher realms within the universe.
- Occupational Duties: Karmīs, or those devoted to their duties, perform work as prescribed by the scriptures. Their aim is to live responsibly, serving society and fulfilling obligations.
While each of these paths offers progress and insights, the highest attainment on all paths is nārāyaṇa-smṛti. This is the stage at which all material knowledge, powers, and duties find their ultimate purpose. Regardless of our path, the Bhagavatam directs us to mold our lives in such a way that we naturally cultivate remembrance of Nārāyaṇa.
The Role of Devotional Association in Attaining Perfection
The purport explains that the stage of nārāyaṇa-smṛti is achieved most effectively through the association of a pure devotee. Such association brings a “finishing touch” to any spiritual endeavor—whether one is a jñāni, yogī, or karmī. Through the guidance and influence of those who are deeply devoted to God, our understanding of life’s purpose becomes clarified, and we are inspired to deepen our devotion.
Historical examples show us that the greatest sages and yogis achieved true spiritual success only through devotion to the Lord. The Sanakādi Ṛṣis (four great sages) and the Yogendras (nine celebrated yogis) reached the peak of their spiritual journeys through their association with pure devotees, which elevated their knowledge and practices into devotion.
Life as a Preparation for Nārāyaṇa-Smṛti
To ensure that we remember Nārāyaṇa at the end of life, we must prepare throughout our lives. The Bhagavatam suggests we live in a way that nurtures God-consciousness in every step. This involves creating habits, routines, and associations that support spiritual growth and gradually bring us to a state of constant remembrance.
Let’s explore some practical ways to shape life toward this goal:
- Daily Spiritual Practice: Setting aside time each day for prayer, chanting, or scriptural study strengthens our remembrance. These practices help us focus on Nārāyaṇa and bring peace, clarity, and joy into our daily lives.
- Surrender of Results: Instead of being attached to our achievements, we can dedicate our successes to God. This attitude aligns our actions with devotion, ensuring that every accomplishment brings us closer to nārāyaṇa-smṛti.
- Associating with Devotees: Surrounding ourselves with those who genuinely practice and cherish devotion strengthens our own spiritual path. Devotees inspire us by sharing wisdom, reminding us of our ultimate goal, and encouraging us in our journey.
- Gratitude in Daily Life: Practicing gratitude for every experience—good or challenging—instills a sense of surrender. By acknowledging that each moment is a gift from God, we gradually develop the habit of seeing His presence in all aspects of life.
- Reflection on Mortality: Contemplating the temporary nature of life can deepen our commitment to spiritual pursuits. Instead of fearing life’s end, we can use it as motivation to cherish each moment and prepare to leave the world with a heart full of divine remembrance.
The Transformative Power of Nārāyaṇa-Smṛti
As we gradually establish nārāyaṇa-smṛti, life takes on new meaning. Our actions become more purposeful, our relationships grow deeper, and we find inner peace beyond worldly achievements. Living with God-consciousness is not restrictive; it brings profound freedom from material anxieties and desires, as we place our faith in something eternal.
When we nurture nārāyaṇa-smṛti, even the simplest of acts—working, caring for family, enjoying nature—become offerings of devotion. In this way, life transforms into a continuous act of remembrance, where every step takes us closer to the Supreme. At life’s end, this practice of remembrance enables us to depart peacefully, with a heart connected to Nārāyaṇa.
Conclusion: Shaping a Life of Remembrance
The Bhagavatam encourages us to strive for the highest perfection of life by cultivating nārāyaṇa-smṛti, remembering God at every moment, especially at the final moment of life. Achieving this state requires dedication, but it is accessible to all—whether through the path of knowledge, mystic practice, or dutiful service. The key lies in associating with pure devotees, practicing daily remembrance, and gradually making God-consciousness the center of our lives.
As we move forward on our spiritual journey, let us remember that the ultimate success is not in worldly achievements or mystic powers but in a heart full of divine remembrance. By shaping our lives with devotion, gratitude, and reflection, we ensure that at life’s end, our mind rests on Nārāyaṇa, leading us to our eternal, blissful home.
Let us strive to live in a way that every thought, word, and action brings us closer to nārāyaṇa-smṛti—the true perfection of human life.
