Bhakti Sandarbha, which is the fifth volume in the anthology, deals with abhidheya, the prescribed method to actualize our relation with Bhagavān. He discusses the practical aspect of bhakti, focusing primarily on bhakti as a method and thus specifying its nature and practice.
He demonstrates that although there are descriptions of karma, yoga, and jñāna in Bhāgavata Purāṇa, it is ultimately bhakti alone that is identified as the true and complete method.
In Śrī Jīva’s ordered exposition, Bhakti Sandarbha stands out as the pivot or the center of all the Sandarbhas. The first four provide the theoretical underpinnings that lead to it, and the last one elucidates its outcome in the form of divine love (prīti). Bhakti Sandarbha is also the most practically oriented out of the complete set because it provides the method to be followed in one’s life. As far as a sādhaka is concerned, the other five offer only a theoretical understanding, which is however essential for authentic practice. Thus, although each of the other Sandarbhas have their own specific role and importance, ultimately it is only Bhakti Sandarbha that is the beacon light in one’s day-to-day life. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance for a sincere sādhaka. Anyone who is serious about becoming a pure devotee of Bhagavān, especially of Śrī Kṛṣṇa, must study Bhakti Sandarbha thoroughly.
Bhagavatam is the top most Purana. It is called Bhagavat Purana because it is Bhagavan himself. It comes from him directly. This Bhagavat Purana is Krishna. It is he himself. That is why Jiva Gosvami is trying to establish this fact that to understand the supreme goal of life, you should study this book.
