Question: Srila Bhaktivinode often speaks of samadhi as the only path to actual realization. What is the process or essence of that samadhi? I've not found a direct explanation as yet, in his writings. I'm reminded of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta's explanation quoted by Srila Prabhupada in NOI. (progressive absorption in Nama)

Vaisampayana said, "After those brahmanas and the illustrious sons of Pandu took their seats, Draupadi and Satyabhama entered the hermitage. With joyful hearts the two ladies laughed merrily and comfortably seated themselves. O king, those ladies, who always spoke sweetly to each other, having met after a long time, began to speak about various delightful topics arising from the histories of the Kurus and the Yadus. In private, the slender-waisted Satyabhama, the favorite wife of Krishna and daughter of Satrajit, asked Draupadi these questions.

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Summary:  Sometimes we may feel despondent that our material conditioning is an impediment to our devotional service. Kaliya’s prayer to Lord Krsna gives us inspiration to continue despite whatever our material conditioning might be.

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How can one actually see the Lord?  The cause must be found. If one proposes that the Lord's mercy is the first cause, it can only be considered a secondary cause.  That mercy is not bestowed independently by the Lord to material persons suffering unlimitedly in samsara.  That is impossible.

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