chants with faith and devotion, not caring for karma, jnana and yoga. The jiva quickly and easily ascends to the highest perfection by following the method of nama-bhajana already described This method is the best of methods, even better than other methods of bhakti. The basic requirement for successful accomplishment of nama-bhajana is that the sadhaka must totally shun bad association and engage in the practice of devotional service in the company of saintly devotees of the Lord. Pure love of Krsna is the expression of unalloyed devotional service. Only a pure devotee's heart has the inclination and capability of receiving prema; the non-devotee's heart denies it. Prema refuses to enter the heart of one who does not keep the company of pure devotees, the jiva's decision to accept either good or bad association has a powerful and lasting influence on his destiny.

"There are three essential traits that must be cultivated to obtain success in chanting: saintly association, isolation from the disturbances of mundane life, and determined, confident enthusiasm." After saying this, Srila Haridasa Thakura declared himself to be very low and materially engrossed, bereft of good association and always engaged in self-deception. Although Srila Haridasa is himself a nitya-siddha associate of the Lord, he expressed himself in this humble way. Humility is the ornament of prema.

The Lord's special favor upon Haridasa Thakura

Srila Haridasa continued, "O Lord, kindly shower upon me Your causeless mercy (ahaituki-krpa). I pray that You grant me entry into the realm of bhakti-rasa" Saying this, Srila Haridasa fell unconscious in loving ecstasy, fully self-surrendered-at the Lord's lotus feet.

Ahaituki-krpa means 'causeless mercy'. By saying this, Srila Haridasa implied that he was spiritually unaccomplished and therefore had no hope for the kind of mercy Lord Krsna bestows upon His pure devotees. In his mood of utter helplessness he simply prayed for Lord Caitanya's unconditional grace.

Srila Haridasa Thakura is famous for nama-bhajana and teaching the glories of the holy name, yet he is also the recipient