5 factor approach to access nectar beyond the three modes

Beyond the Modes: Journey to True Nectar

The spiritual journey requires understanding the subtle layers of the self: ego, intention, feelings, thoughts, and actions. Krishna consciousness teaches that these layers, when purified, lead one beyond the material modes of nature (gunas) into the realm of true nectar—divine bliss.

**Ego (Ahamkara):** In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna says, "The living entity in the material world carries his different conceptions of life from one body to another, as the air carries aromas" (Bhagavad Gita 15.8). This indicates the pervasive influence of the ego. The first step in spiritualizing the ego is to recognize that we are not the doers. Ahamkara, the false ego, is the identification with the body and mind. To transcend this, we must see ourselves as eternal servants of Krishna, dissolving the false ego into our true identity as souls.

**Intention (Sankalpa):** Krishna advises, "Abandon all varieties of dharma and just surrender unto Me. I shall deliver you from all sinful reactions" (Bhagavad Gita 18.66). Our intentions should be aligned with surrender to Krishna's will, not motivated by personal gain or material desires. By setting intentions rooted in devotion, we begin to rise above the modes of nature. The intention to serve, without any material contamination, purifies the heart and aligns us with divine will.

**Feelings (Bhava):** "O son of Kunti, the nonpermanent appearance of happiness and distress, and their disappearance in due course, are like the appearance and disappearance of winter and summer seasons" (Bhagavad Gita 2.14). Emotions are transient and influenced by the gunas. By developing divine feelings, such as love for Krishna, compassion, and humility, we transcend the dualities of material emotions. This bhava, when cultivated with sincerity, helps us navigate beyond the modes.

**Thoughts (Vritti):** Krishna instructs, "Whatever state of being one remembers when he quits his body, O son of Kunti, that state he will attain without fail" (Bhagavad Gita 8.6). Thoughts shape our consciousness. By constantly thinking of Krishna and remembering His pastimes, we spiritualize our mental landscape. Meditation on the divine names, forms, and qualities of Krishna purifies the mind, taking us beyond the influence of the gunas.

**Action (Karma):** "You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of action" (Bhagavad Gita 2.47). Actions performed without attachment to results, as an offering to Krishna, become acts of devotion (bhakti). This karma-yoga, when practiced consistently, frees us from the binding effects of karma and elevates us beyond the modes of nature.

In conclusion, the true nectar lies beyond the modes of nature, in the realm of pure devotion. By spiritualizing ego, intention, feelings, thoughts, and actions, we gradually ascend to this divine state, where the soul experiences eternal bliss in Krishna's service. As Krishna assures, "One who engages in full devotional service, unfailing in all circumstances, at once transcends the modes of material nature and thus comes to the level of Brahman" (Bhagavad Gita 14.26).