How are devotion and knowledge related in the path to spiritual realization? Are they independent or connected?

According to Chapter 50, devotion and knowledge are deeply interconnected and sequential. The text explains that the mind is initially soiled by ignorance (Avidya), and it cannot be cleansed without devotion to God. This cleansing is the essential prerequisite, as the chapter states, "without devotion, knowledge is not born." Devotion acts as the catalyst that removes ignorance, allowing knowledge to dawn. Therefore, while knowledge is described as more purifying than even holy places, it cannot arise without the foundational practice of devotion. Bhajan and worship are considered meaningless without the ultimate goal of Brahman-knowledge, yet that very knowledge is unattainable without first cultivating devotion.