Page 253 - Complete Works of Dr. KCV Volume 1

Similarly, Karmayoga insists on the strict detached performance of works according to dharma which leads not only to purification of mind, but develops that one pointedness of purpose in doing one's duty which is almost so intense on certain occasions as to stimulate samadhi - engrossment.
Similar also is jnana-yoga when it leads up to that perception of oneness of the ego with the Ultimate Self, be this construed as its body or power or part or even as complete losing of itself in it in deepest moments of absorption (dhyana) or Tanmaya.
All these methods are counselled, but the primary one is the condition of surrender, or self-giving or offering to the Ultimate. This condition prepares for all the rest. So much so, acaryas of the path of realisation had insisted on seeing the individual and his condition of preparedness to surrender himself, his ego, his possessions, and all including life itself to the Will and guidance of the Master. This is not as ridiculous as it might seem. Most individuals do sign away their lives or execute a bond or give an undertaking not to bring any action against the doctor if the patient dies on the operation table, or as a consequence of it, under any circumstances. The doctor gets immunity from prosecution if the case goes wrong, or death ensues. Similarly, the individual must be willing to run the risk of complete dependence and reliance on the Master or Guru in his spiritual efforts.This total or integral surrender (prapadana or prapatti) alone makes for the evolution of the individual, and gives meaning and power to the practices of bhakti, karma and jnana. This is what Sri Krsna has emphasized in the famous concluding advice: Giving up all dharma surrender to Me. I shall save you from all sins - Do not grieve. The exclusive devotion and belief in the power and wisdom of the Master, or God, is the essential feature of faith. It transmutes itself into love as it matures, which means a total self- giving to the Beloved even up to death. Life becomes unbearable without the presence of, and union with, the beloved, the Master or God.
This important aspect of spiritual dedication cannot be developed through habit of mind or even by tendencies developed by constant reiteration or performance. As we know full well, the most emotional observances cool down into arid habits; meaning seems to get lost in the doing of acts, even