Krishna’s Test: The True Devotion of the Gopis

To test the devotion of his followers, one day, Lord Krishna pretended to suffer from a severe headache. When Narada, his devoted sage, asked how to relieve the pain, Krishna suggested an unusual remedy: only the dust from the feet of his true devotee, smeared on his forehead, would cure his headache.

Shocked by the remedy, Narada went to Krishna’s queens and explained the situation. The queens were horrified at the thought of putting the dust from their feet on Krishna’s forehead, fearing that such an act would be disrespectful and might even bring them a curse.

Narada then approached the gopis, Krishna’s devoted cowherd maidens in Vrindavan. When the gopis heard that the dust from their feet could cure Krishna, they immediately began collecting it, without a second thought for any consequences. They cared only for Krishna’s well-being, willing to bear any punishment if it meant bringing relief to their beloved Lord.

Krishna smiled, revealing that this was indeed a test of devotion. The gopis’ selfless love and complete surrender proved their devotion, showing that true love is marked by a willingness to sacrifice without fear or hesitation.

**Moral:** True devotion is selfless and fearless, prioritizing the well-being of the beloved above personal consequences. Genuine love and devotion come from a place of sacrifice and surrender, without any attachment to the results.