Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 1.5.11 · one of the 108 chosen verses
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesGlorifying the Lord Can Transform Lives
“On the other hand, that literature which is full of descriptions of the transcendental glories of the name, fame, forms, pastimes, etc., of the unlimited Supreme Lord is a different creation, full of transcendental words directed toward bringing about a revolution in the impious lives of this world’s misdirected civilization. Such transcendental literatures, even though imperfectly composed, are heard, sung and accepted by purified men who are thoroughly honest.”
What the purport teaches
- Literature describing the Supreme Lord’s name, fame, forms and pastimes can change the polluted atmosphere of the world. Honest, purified people accept it even when its language is imperfect.
- The spiritual message matters more than literary polish. An honest attempt to glorify the Lord deserves serious attention and cooperation.
- Reading Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam and Bhagavad-gītā can revive God consciousness. As a taste for this literature develops, attraction to writings meant for sense gratification diminishes.
Try this today
Spend five minutes reading Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam aloud, giving attention to its glorification of the Lord.
Ask yourself
When I read spiritual literature, do I look for its message rather than its literary faults?
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.