Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 1.19.40
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesAsk Gently and Learn from the Wise
“Śrī Sūta Gosvāmī said: The King thus spoke and questioned the sage, using sweet language. Then the great and powerful personality, the son of Vyāsadeva, who knew the principles of religion, began his reply.”
What the purport teaches
- The King spoke to the sage and asked his questions using sweet language. His manner shows respect in seeking instruction.
- The son of Vyāsadeva knew the principles of religion. The verse describes him as a great and powerful personality.
- After hearing the King’s questions, the sage began his reply. The exchange shows respectful questioning followed by instruction from one who knows religious principles.
Try this today
Today, write down one question about spiritual life, phrasing it gently and respectfully for someone qualified to guide you.
Ask yourself
How can I make my questions more gentle and respectful when seeking spiritual instruction?
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.