The Śāṇḍilya-bhakti-sūtra, compiled by Sage Śāṇḍilya, is an essential text in the bhakti tradition and Vaiṣṇavism at large. Its ontological exploration of bhakti helps the seeker map out the process by which bhakti emerges, grows and, ultimately, leads one to the absolute peak of spiritual experience.

Given Sage Śāṇḍilya’s more pragmatic, philosophical leanings, Paramahamsa Vishwananda’s commentaries serve as a perfect balancing act. Focusing on the experiential and emotional dimensions of the sūtras, what we are left with is an impeccable combination of intellectual and experiential nourishment.

The transcendent world of the Lord, of true love, and bliss is impossible for the mind to fully grasp, but this book aims to serve as a compass pointing in its direction. The journey will always be unique and ours to undertake, but the guidance and framework gifted to us by the joint efforts of Sage Śāṇḍilya and Paramahamsa Vishwananda will surely help make it as smooth a ride as it could ever possibly be.

Stefan Koschel

Book translations