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How Am I a Devotee? — A Question

Understanding how great saints became true devotees is essential. In the Nath tradition, the guidance of Gorakshanath holds extraordinary importance. The Nath Sampradāya is itself part of the cosmic plan of creation, and every Nath has worked according to the divine principles of this lineage. Among them, Gorakshanath shines brilliantly in public memory.

The Divine Training of Gorakshanath

At Kanakgiri, Guru Matsyendranath blessed Gorakshanath with:

Once, when Matsyendranath tested him, Goraksha even plucked out his own eye and offered it. The Guru restored it instantly — proving Goraksha’s absolute surrender.

The Episode of Jalandharnath

While wandering, Goraksha reached Helapattan. Calling “Alakh!” as he begged, he suddenly heard a response from beneath the earth — it was Jalandharnath, meditating underground.

Goraksha introduced himself: “I am Gorakshanath, disciple of Matsyendranath.”

Since Matsyendra and Jalandhar were Guru-brothers, their meeting held tremendous spiritual significance.

When the Disciple Awakens the Guru

In Strirajya, Goraksha played the mṛdanga and sang:

“Chalo Matsyendra, Gorakh āyā!”

Hearing this, Matsyendra awoke from worldly illusion. Goraksha reminded him of his yogic duty. The Guru accepted and promised to return. This rare incident shows the power of a true disciple.

Miraculous Acts Rooted in Karma

Many miracles followed:

The Meaning Behind These Miracles

Nath yogis accomplish the impossible: “Aśakya te Tumhā Nārāyaṇa.”

Yet no miracle appears without the foundation of karma and disciplined spiritual effort. A Guru always examines:

Therefore:

Only one who performs karma is a true devotee. A devotee obeys the Guru, practices sincerely, and accumulates merit continuously.

Gorakshanath’s Classification of Devotees

Uttama (Highest) Devotee

Madhyama (Middle) Devotee

Kanistha (Lowest) Devotee

Why This Teaching Matters

The Nath tradition has bestowed immense spiritual power upon humanity. Even today, countless seekers receive blessings from Yogeshwar Gorakshanath.

Goraksha teaches:

“To perform extraordinary spiritual work, one must first become an extraordinary devotee.”