During Treta Yuga, when Narada asked Sri Ramachandra about the nature
and characteristics of His Dasas and of the Sadhakas or spiritual aspirants,
He answered as below:
"Listen, O Narada! Men who are my Dasas are full of Love; they always
stand by Dharma or Righteousness; they speak the Truth; their hearts
melt with mercy; they are devoid of wrong; they avoid sin; their nature
is wellfounded; they will renounce everything gladly; they eat in moderation;
they are engaged in doing good to others; they have no selfishness,
they are worried by no doubts; they will not lend their ears to flattery.
They are eager to listen to the praise of the good nature of others.
They have beautiful, strong and holy character. Sadhakas are those who
endeavour to acquire such qualities and possess such a character. Now,
I shall tell you about those who are Priya to me. Any one who is engaged
in Japa, Tapas and Vratha, who has Samyama or self-control, Niyama or
discipline, any one who has Faith, Patience, Comradeship, Kindness and
Joy as well as unalloyed Prema towards Me, is Priya to Me."
"Now, about My real Bhakthas. Whoever, with Viveka and Vairagya, and
Vinaya and Vijnana, with discrimination and renunciation, with humility
and wisdom, are aware of the knowledge of Reality, whoever are always
immersed in the contemplation of my leela, whoever dwell on My name
at all times and under all conditions, and who shed tears or love whenever
the Lord's name is heard from any lip, they are My genuine Bhakthas."