Light of the Bhagavata, Srila Prabhupada’s evocative prose and Madame Li’s graceful paintings in the classical Gongbi style combine to provide a fresh and revealing insight into the vital and enduring truths of the world’s oldest spiritual tradition.
Light of the Bhagavata
By His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
Illustration by Madame Li Sheng
Illustration 42
At night in autumn the atmosphere is pleasant because it is neither very hot nor very cold. The mild wind blowing through the gardens of fruits and flowers in Vṛndāvana appeared very much pleasing to all—all but the gopīs, who were always overtaken by heartfelt sorrow in the absence of Kṛṣṇa.
Lessons from the picture
There are two kinds of transcendental feelings for those engaged in the worship of the Lord. One is called sambhoga, and the other is called viraha. According to authorities in the disciplic line, viraha worship is more palatable than sambhoga worship. Sambhoga takes place in direct touch, whereas viraha takes place without such direct contact. Lord Caitanya Mahāprabhu taught us to accept viraha worship. In the present state of affairs we cannot make any direct touch with the Personality of Godhead. But if we practice the viraha mode of worship we can transcendentally realize the presence of the Lord more lovingly than in His presence.
The Hare Krishna Movement 