Which Descension Should I Meditate Upon?
This question often arises in the minds of people. Most followers of Hinduism today are generally followers of either Shri Ram or Shri Krishna. This does not mean, however, that these two descensions of God are somehow superior to others. Any question of greater or less in this regard is totally wrong. The main reason for the prominence of Shri Ram and Shri Krishna is that they performed many more divine pastimes than other descensions. These loving pastimes help aspiring devotees attach their mind to God. It is only from the point of view of engaging the mind that these two descensions have been given special importance. But there is no imperfection in any descension.
On certain festive occasions, sweets in various shapes like horses, elephants, dogs, deer and so on, are made for children. Being innocent at heart, children see them and may quarrel among themselves. One says, “I want the horse,” and another says, “I want the dog.” Their parents of course know that whether their child has the horse or the dog, the sweetness in both is the same. The difference lies merely in the external appearance of each sweet. In the same way, every descension of God possesses infinite qualities and powers. There is no difference in their divinity at all, no matter what descension you love.
Someone might say, “The scriptures have mentioned up to twenty-four prominent descensions. What do I do if I like a form of God that is apart from these?” Well, you are free to accept any form that pleases you, because innumerable descensions are manifesting at every moment in innumerable universes. Veda Vyasa has clearly stated this in the Bhagavatam, 1.3.26. There have been countless descensions. If you desire to worship God in a form that has not been referred to in the scriptures, you are free to do so. God will have to assume the form of your choice. He can effortlessly assume any form. You are completely free to visualise Him in any form, with any complexion and in any dress. God is so merciful that He has not made any strict rules or restrictions that could limit the devotional practice of any individual soul. This is the reason why God has been referred to as,
ananta naam rupaya … “The one who has unlimited names and forms.”
It is only our ignorance that binds God, who has countless powers without limit. We have been given complete freedom of choice in our devotional practice. The main point to remember is that God has infinite forms, names, attributes, pastimes, abodes, and associates (Saints). They are all one and reside within each other. You can accept any of these and devote yourself to whatever attracts you from the divine realm and attain your spiritual goal.
Spirituality in Daily Living, Volume 3, p34–36
Kripalu Bhaktiyoga Tattvadarshan, Vedic knowledge revealed by Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj and presented in English by Dr Vishakha Tripathi, president of Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat.
https://www.jkpliterature.org.in/en/product/spirituality-in-daily-living-set-of-4
