Jaiva-dharma
(The Universal Religion)
by
Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur

Chapter One

Jiver Nitya O Naimittik Dharma

The Soul's Eternal and Temporary Natures

Of all earthly realms, Jambudvipa is the best. Of all places in Jambudvipa, Bharata-varsa is the best. Of all places in Bharata-varsa, Gauda-desa is the best. Of all places in Gauda-desa, Sri Nabadwip-mandala is the best. In one part of Sri Nabadwip-mandala, on the Ganga shore, the beautiful village of Sri Godruma is splendidly manifested eternally. In ancient times many bhajananandi devotees made their homes in the gardens of Sri Godruma.

In that place, in a cottage of vines, a surabhi cow once worshipped Lord Gaurasundara, the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Not far from that place was a bhajana-kutira named Pradyumna-kunja. In that bhajana-kutira thick with vines, a paramahamsa babaji, who was an initiated disciple of the Supreme Lord's personal associate Pradyumna Brahmacari, always stayed, rapt in the bliss of worshipping the Lord (bhajanananda).
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This is a truly beautiful exerpt from a gifted author and a very deep book. I thank you for posting it here.