Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 1.12.5
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesHigher Destinations Require Genuine Qualification
“News even reached the celestial planets about Mahārāja Yudhiṣṭhira’s worldly possessions, the sacrifices by which he would attain a better destination, his queen, his stalwart brothers, his extensive land, his sovereignty over the planet earth, his fame, etc.”
What the purport teaches
- Mahārāja Yudhiṣṭhira’s fame reached the celestial planets. His good administration, possessions, family and sovereignty were widely known.
- One reaches higher destinations according to one’s work in this life. Entrance cannot be forced through material vehicles; one must become qualified through sacrifice and service.
- Yudhiṣṭhira’s sacrifices and qualifications were so lofty and virtuous that residents of the higher celestial planets were ready to receive him. His example emphasizes qualification rather than forceful entry.
Try this today
Choose one opportunity today to serve rather than seek recognition.
Ask yourself
Am I paying more attention to outward achievement or to the quality of my actions?
Carry the question through the day, then answer it in your own words before sleep.
The study points, practice and question are short summaries drawn from Śrīla Prabhupāda's translation and purport. Read the full purport to go deeper.