Acharya Prashant explains that the word 'Bhakti' (devotion) originates from the root 'Bhaj', which means 'to be divided'. Devotion is the love that arises from knowing one is incomplete and divided. It is the mind's deep yearning for completeness ('purnata'). He clarifies that this is a simple, straightforward truth, and one should not seek complex, lengthy descriptions, as truth simplifies things, it does not complicate them. A devotee ('bhakt') is one who is incomplete ('apurna'), and the object of their devotion, 'Bhagwan' (God), is the Complete ('Purna'). The most fitting name for this completeness is the Self ('Atma'). Therefore, 'Bhakti' is the firm resolve of the incomplete to not remain incomplete and to move towards completeness. This is why devotion is called the mother of knowledge ('Gyan'), as this resolve is what leads one to the path of Self-knowledge ('Atma-Gyan'), the only way to attain completeness. Since the devotee is incomplete, their expressions will have a dual nature. They will cry out in the pain of separation ('viyog') from completeness, and at other times, they will be ecstatic with the hope of union ('yog'). This is why the verses of saints like Meera Bai often contain a rainbow of emotions, from deep sorrow to immense joy. The speaker advises to choose the right master, which is the ultimate goal, and to place this goal above personal comfort. The status of love should be much higher than happiness; even if one faces pain or has to give up their life in its pursuit, it should be acceptable. A simple intellect is one that gives more importance to facts ('tathya') than to logic ('tark'). The intellect's natural tendency is to invent logic to justify the ego's desires. A simple mind, like a child's, observes things directly without the mediation of thought. This is 'darshan' (direct seeing), which Indian tradition has always held higher than 'vichar' (thinking). A thinker closes their eyes to the facts and gets lost in their own thoughts, but a simple person keeps their eyes open to reality. The intellect can be used to find ways or to make excuses. If one's intention is pure, the intellect will find a way. If the intention is weak, the same intellect will provide a thousand reasons not to. Therefore, the purity of one's intention is paramount.
