Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 1.19.28
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesRecognize Greatness Even When It Is Hidden
“He was blackish and very beautiful due to his youth. Because of the glamor of his body and his attractive smiles, he was pleasing to women. Though he tried to cover his natural glories, the great sages present there were all expert in the art of physiognomy, and so they honored him by rising from their seats.”
What the purport teaches
- He was blackish and beautiful in his youth. His bodily beauty and attractive smiles were pleasing to women.
- He tried to cover his natural glories. Nevertheless, the assembled sages recognized his distinguishing signs.
- The sages were expert in understanding bodily features. They rose from their seats to honor him.
Try this today
Offer a simple, respectful greeting today to someone whose good qualities are quietly expressed.
Ask yourself
Am I ready to offer respect to someone who does not advertise their own greatness?
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.