Futility of mythological traditions

Prannath Leelaamrit - Chapter 13

According to mythological tradition, on Ekadashi, the eleventh day of the lunar fortnight, the Bhaagwat Puran was recited for an extended period and a fast was observed. On the twelfth day, Dwadashi, instead of the recitation, a community feast was held. However, Devchandra acted contrary to this tradition. He ate a full meal after the Ekadashi recitation and fasted on Dwadashi.

When people learned of this, they began to criticize Devchandra. They complained to Kanhji Bhatt. When Devchandra arrived, Bhatt asked him in front of everyone if this was true. Devchandra admitted that it was.

The listeners now demanded an explanation from Devchandra. In a sarcastic tone, they said, "We don't know why you do this. But we do know that if the Bhaagwat is a tree, only a few can reach its branches. Yet you are present in every leaf and vein of this tree. How can anyone else have thoughts like yours?"

Devchandra replied, "I have taken a vow not to eat until my soul is nourished by the Bhaagwat narration. Since there is no narration on Dwadashi, I do not feed my body either. The Bhaagwat is recited on Ekadashi, so I eat on that day. Some believe that observing millions of Ekadashi fasts leads to heaven. However, this achievement is not equal to even a single particle of the Supreme God's food. The Bhaagwat scripture provides us with the joy of the Supreme God's divine play. Why, then, do you neglect this and chase after means like fasting on Ekadashi?"

Then Kanhji Bhatt said to everyone, "Now, answer this question."

No one had an answer. Instead, they all began to praise Devchandra.

Meanwhile, Devchandra remained engrossed in the joy of the Bhaagwat narration. Tears would well up in his eyes when he heard the sweet words of the narration. He diligently absorbed the knowledge of the Bhaagwat for fourteen years in this way.

Next: Final test of Devchandra