Sadhaka - devotee

Expressions researched:
"sadhaka" |"sadhakas"

BG Chapters 1 - 6

One who has understood this—that only by Kṛṣṇa consciousness is one really established in intelligence and that one should practice this art under the guidance of a bona fide spiritual master—is called sādhaka, or a suitable candidate for liberation.

BG 2.68, Translation and Purport:

Therefore, O mighty-armed, one whose senses are restrained from their objects is certainly of steady intelligence.

One can curb the forces of sense gratification only by means of Kṛṣṇa consciousness, or engaging all the senses in the transcendental loving service of the Lord. As enemies are curbed by superior force, the senses can similarly be curbed, not by any human endeavor, but only by keeping them engaged in the service of the Lord. One who has understood this—that only by Kṛṣṇa consciousness is one really established in intelligence and that one should practice this art under the guidance of a bona fide spiritual master—is called sādhaka, or a suitable candidate for liberation.

CC Adi-lila

Pure devotees are of two types: personal associates (pāriṣats) and neophyte devotees (sādhakas).

CC Adi 1.64, Translation and Purport:

Such pure devotees are of two types: personal associates (pāriṣats) and neophyte devotees (sādhakas).

Perfect servitors of the Lord are considered His personal associates, whereas devotees endeavoring to attain perfection are called neophytes. Among the associates, some are attracted by the opulences of the Personality of Godhead, and others are attracted by nuptial love of Godhead. The former devotees are placed in the realm of Vaikuṇṭha to render reverential devotional service, whereas the latter devotees are placed in Vṛndāvana for the direct service of Śrī Kṛṣṇa.