Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 1.16.20
Manvantara· The Manus and right dutyA Life of Sacrifice Amid Decline
“I have lost my three legs and am now standing on one only. Are you lamenting for my state of existence? Or are you in great anxiety because henceforward the unlawful meat-eaters will exploit you? Or are you in a sorry plight because the demigods are now bereft of their share of sacrificial offerings because no sacrifices are being performed at present? Or are you grieving for living beings because of their sufferings due to famine and drought?”
What the purport teaches
- In the Age of Kali, duration of life, mercy, recollection, and religious principles gradually diminish. As irreligion increases, animals suffer greatly, especially through the exploitation of bulls and cows.
- Spiritual qualifications depend on one’s efforts, association, and relationship with the Supreme Lord—not on birth or community. The prescribed sacrifices help turn living beings toward the Lord.
- The very life of one consciously engaged in devotional service is a sacrifice. Lord Caitanya recommended saṅkīrtana-yajña, the chanting of Hare Kṛṣṇa, in which everyone can take part.
Try this today
Set aside two minutes today to chant Hare Kṛṣṇa attentively.
Ask yourself
How can I make my daily life more a life of service and less a pursuit of sense enjoyment?
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.