Chapter 9 Verse 30
Rāja Vidyā Yog
अपि चेत्सुदुराचारो भजते मामनन्यभाक्। साधुरेव स मन्तव्यः सम्यग्व्यवसितो हि सः।।9.30।।
api chet su-durāchāro bhajate mām ananya-bhāk sādhur eva sa mantavyaḥ samyag vyavasito hi saḥ
Word Meanings
| api | even |
| chet | if |
| su-durāchāraḥ | the vilest sinners |
| bhajate | worship |
| mām | me |
| ananya-bhāk | exclusive devotion |
| sādhuḥ | righteous |
| eva | certainly |
| saḥ | that person |
| mantavyaḥ | is to be considered |
| samyak | properly |
| vyavasitaḥ | resolve |
| hi | certainly |
| saḥ | that person |
Translation
Even if the most sinful worships Me, with devotion to no one else, he should indeed be regarded as righteous, for he has rightly resolved.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse says that sincere turning toward the Divine changes a person more than past wrongs. If even a deeply flawed person devotes themselves to God alone, their inner resolve makes them truly righteous. The heart’s honest choice matters more than a record of mistakes.
Philosophically, it highlights grace and inner transformation. Moral worth is measured by the direction and firmness of intention. True devotion is not a cover for bad behavior; it is the beginning of real change that reshapes how one lives.
Life Application
- Start where you are: a sincere small practice (prayer, meditation, honest vow) can begin deep change, no matter your past.
- Look for inner resolve, not perfect behavior; encourage people who try to change instead of labeling them by past mistakes.
- Let devotion guide action: pair honest intention with gradual, practical steps to improve your behavior.
Reflection Question
What one sincere step can I take today to turn my heart toward what truly matters?