You, O invulnerable, become vulnerable to reveal what is supremely valuable

namo deva dāmodarānanta viṣṇo

O boundless Vishnu, O supremely bright,
O Dāmodar, of matchless light.
To you I bow; my soul’s desire,
To be lit forever by love’s pure fire.

(Damodarashtakam — Verse 6, Line 1)

My dear Lord, the concept of God is astonishing when contemplated in its abstract glory—the idea of a single supreme reality that unifies and underlies all existence as its origin, sustainer, and destination. Such a notion can leave any thoughtful, open-hearted person awestruck. Yet moving from abstraction to the personhood of divinity is even more astounding. That one being can be both all-pervading and personal—both infinite and intimate—fills the mind with wonder.

Yet, O enchanting Lord, what is even more inconceivable is that this supreme person—the ultimate reality—is not a distant monarch enthroned in majestic aloofness, but a small, tender child—running in fear, trembling, and shedding tears. Such a vision surpasses the grasp of intellect; it can be approached only through love. It is only the heart, softened by affection, that can appreciate the mystery of your duality—how the infinite manifests as an innocent child.

You, O all-attractive Lord, long for intimate exchanges of love and therefore create settings where such uninhibited reciprocation can unfold. You let your mother love you fully, fulfilling her need to be needed. Thus, you—O supremely invulnerable Lord—become endearingly vulnerable.

O supreme connoisseur of love, may my heart be churned and charmed by memories of your love for love.