Jeeva Ashtakam- In English Transcription

Jeeva Ashtakam: The Eternal Nature of the Soul and Its Devotion to Lord Shri Krishna

The Jeeva Ashtakam begins with the profound truth that the soul (jeeva) is unthinkable and eternal, sharing the same essence as the Supreme Truth, Lord Shri Krishna. The opening verse reflects on the eternal nature of the soul, which is unburnable, unwettable, and cannot be dried or destroyed. The realization that the soul is a part of Krishna reveals that it carries the same eternal qualities, untouched by the material elements. The essence of the soul is its servitude to Lord Krishna, which remains its ultimate purpose and identity.

In the second verse, the soul distances itself from identification with the various demigods like Brahma, Vishnu, Rudra, the Vasus, Adityas, Marutas, Yakshas, or even Devas. It is not associated with any physical form, whether as a child, an elder, a man, or a woman. The soul transcends all these designations, firmly proclaiming its eternal status as a servant of Lord Shri Krishna, beyond any temporary, material role or identity.

The third verse brings a deeper understanding of the soul’s immortal nature. Since the soul is never born, it never dies, nor can it be spent or diminished. It is free, untouched by worldly afflictions, and eternally fixed in truth. The soul is a direct manifestation of Krishna’s energy, reinforcing the concept of Krishna's inseparability from the individual soul. The soul’s real freedom lies in its eternal servitude to Krishna.

In the fourth verse, the soul declares that it is not the body, nor is it any part of the body. The soul is neither attached nor detached from anyone or anything in the material world. This verse emphasizes the complete freedom of the soul from material existence. It transcends the five pranas (vital life forces) and the five sheaths (koshas) that make up the physical and subtle body, confirming that the soul’s only identification is its servitude to Lord Krishna.

The fifth verse takes the soul beyond the influence of the three modes of material nature (sattva, rajas, and tamas), beyond time itself. The soul exists in a state of bliss, auspiciousness, and truth, free from any limitations imposed by the material world. This verse affirms that the soul's eternal bliss comes from its service to Lord Krishna, remaining ever joyful and connected to the divine source of all joy.

In the sixth verse, the relationship between the soul and Krishna is described as "inconceivable." The soul is like Krishna, yet distinct from Him. It shares qualities with Krishna but remains separate as an individual entity. This verse beautifully expresses the unique relationship between the individual soul and the Supreme Lord, grounded in love and devotion. The soul is a servant of Lord Krishna, eternally bound in a relationship that transcends material comprehension.

The seventh verse offers a heartfelt reflection on the soul’s forgetfulness of its true nature. Entangled in the material body and caught in the fire of illusion (maya), the soul has become oblivious to its real, pure form. The verse acknowledges that the soul, once lost in desires and material distractions, is bound by the shackles of worldly attachments. However, even within this state of bondage, the soul realizes its true identity as the servant of Lord Shri Krishna, yearning to return to that pure state of devotion.

Finally, the eighth verse serves as a powerful affirmation and prayer. The repeated declaration, “I am a servant of Lord Shri Krishna,” reflects the soul’s ultimate realization and surrender. This verse emphasizes that the essence of the soul, its eternal purpose, is to serve Lord Krishna. By continually reminding itself of this truth, the soul seeks liberation from the illusions of the material world and reaffirms its devotion to Krishna.

Jeeva Ashtakam presents the timeless wisdom of recognizing the soul’s eternal relationship with the Supreme Lord, Shri Krishna. The stotra emphasizes the transcendental nature of the soul, its freedom from material designations, and its ultimate fulfillment in loving service to Krishna. By meditating on these verses, devotees are encouraged to transcend the limitations of the physical world and cultivate their devotion, realizing that their true identity lies in being eternal servants of the Lord.

The verses of this stotra invite reflection on the soul's journey through samsara (the cycle of birth and death), highlighting the realization of its divine nature and the path to liberation through unflinching devotion to Krishna. The Jeeva Ashtakam beautifully conveys that while the soul may experience temporary entanglement in the material world, its true essence is eternal servitude to Krishna, the Supreme Purusha, who resides within every heart and is the source of all creation.

In essence, this stotra encourages the devotee to rise above material distractions, reaffirm their eternal connection with Krishna, and embrace their true nature as His loving servant, free from the confines of time, space, and bodily attachments.