Significance of Eternal associate
Eternal associates in Vaishnavism refer to the devotees and divine beings who maintain a timeless and unbreakable relationship with the Supreme Lord. These companions, also known as parshadas, reside in Vaikuntha and are vital for the practice of spontaneous devotional service. They embody divine qualities and participate in the Lord's pastimes, supporting and serving Him in various forms. This concept emphasizes their profound spiritual connection, highlighting their role as constant companions who share a deep commitment to the divine.
Synonyms: Everlasting companion
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Eternal associate'
In Hinduism, "Eternal associate" denotes souls free from material existence who maintain a permanent, devoted connection with Lord Vishnu. These beings serve Him timelessly, embody divine qualities, and participate in His pastimes, reflecting profound spiritual companionship.
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) referring to beings who have a perpetual relationship with the divine, emphasizing their significance in the spiritual context described.[1] (2) the divine beings from Vaikuntha who are eternal in nature[2] (3) The everlasting companions and servants of Bhagavan who serve Him in various capacities in His divine realm.[3] (4) Beings who are perpetually connected and loyal to Shri Nrisimhadeva, exemplified by Jaya and Vijaya.[4] (5) Spiritual companions who are always in the presence of the Lord, suggesting a bond that transcends time and existence.[5]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Souls who have reached a state of liberation and maintain a continuous relationship with Lord Vishnu, serving him beyond the limitations of material existence.[6] (2) Devotees who are eternally connected to the Supreme Lord.[7] (3) A term referring to someone who has a permanent connection or bond with another, particularly in the context of spiritual companionship.[8] (4) The eternal associates are those soul companions of the Lord who exist in a close, unbreakable relationship with Him, yet during certain pastimes, are unable to comprehend His true identity.[9] (5) A term used to describe someone who is always with the Lord across different lifetimes or realms.[10]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) A soul who serves in a divine capacity eternally, particularly within the context of Vrindavana service.[11] (2) Souls who are eternally connected to the Divine Couple, engaged in service and devotion within the context of divine pastimes.[12] (3) The jiva is described as the eternal associate of Lord Shri Hari.[13] (4) A concept indicating a deep spiritual connection with Shri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and the Divine Couple Shri Shri radha-Krishna, attributed to Shrila Gurudeva.[14] (5) Devotees and beings who serve and glorify the Supreme Lord in the liberated realms.[15]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) The divine companions who accompany the Lord in His earthly pastimes, fostering a deeper connection with His activities.[16] (2) The divine companions and followers of Sri Chaitanya, who accompany Him in His earthly ministry.[17] (3) An individual like Thakur Haridas who remains in close spiritual companionship with the Supreme Lord, participating in divine activities.[18]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A devoted being who accompanies the Lord and helps in His divine pastimes, like Shrila Rupa Gosvami with Lord Caitanya.[19] (2) The Yadavas, known as the cowherd people, are recognized as eternal companions of the Lord.[20]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The perpetual companions of Shri Krishna who reflect divine moods and emotional states in their devotion.[21]