Chapter 9 Verse 26
Rāja Vidyā Yog
पत्रं पुष्पं फलं तोयं यो मे भक्त्या प्रयच्छति। तदहं भक्त्युपहृतमश्नामि प्रयतात्मनः।।9.26।।
patraṁ puṣhpaṁ phalaṁ toyaṁ yo me bhaktyā prayachchhati tadahaṁ bhaktyupahṛitam aśhnāmi prayatātmanaḥ
Word Meanings
| patram | a leaf |
| puṣhpam | a flower |
| phalam | a fruit |
| toyam | water |
| yaḥ | who |
| me | to me |
| bhaktyā | with devotion |
| prayachchhati | offers |
| tat | that |
| aham | I |
| bhakti-upahṛitam | offered with devotion |
| aśhnāmi | partake |
| prayata-ātmanaḥ | one in pure consciousness |
Translation
Whoever offers Me with devotion a leaf, a flower, a fruit, or a little water, that, so offered devotedly by the pure-minded, I accept.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse teaches that God values the heart behind an offering more than its size or worth. A simple leaf, flower, fruit, or a cup of water, if given with true devotion, is fully accepted by the Divine.
What matters is inner purity and sincere intention. The act of offering turns ordinary things into signs of love and trust, showing that devotion is measured by feeling, not by wealth or display.
When we offer from a humble, steady mind, we loosen attachment and grow closer to God. Small, honest offerings help make everyday life a practice of devotion and care.
Life Application
- Before eating, mentally offer your food with gratitude and say a short prayer or intention.
- Dedicate one daily task (work, cleaning, caregiving) as an offering, doing it with full attention and goodwill.
- Give small acts of kindness (a flower, water, a thoughtful message) honestly and without expectation.
Reflection Question
What simple thing can I offer today with a pure and thankful heart?