Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 1.17.38 · one of the 108 chosen verses
Manvantara· The Manus and right dutyRestrain Harmful Habits, Cultivate Devotional Service
“Sūta Gosvāmī said: Mahārāja Parīkṣit, thus being petitioned by the personality of Kali, gave him permission to reside in places where gambling, drinking, prostitution and animal slaughter were performed.”
What the purport teaches
- Kali was allowed to reside where gambling, drinking, prostitution and animal slaughter occurred. Irreligious habits oppose austerity, cleanliness, mercy and truthfulness.
- Scriptural concessions for those attached to material enjoyment are meant to regulate their habits gradually toward liberation. They are not encouragement to continue irreligious activities.
- The purport recommends acting for the Lord’s satisfaction, hearing Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, chanting His glories and serving those who teach it. These practices help create an atmosphere of God consciousness.
Try this today
Spend five minutes today hearing Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam from an authorized teacher.
Ask yourself
Which habit or influence could I replace with an activity that nourishes devotional service?
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.