Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 1.6.35 · one of the 108 chosen verses
Mukti· LiberationEngage the Senses in Devotional Service
“It is true that by practicing restraint of the senses by the yoga system one can get relief from the disturbances of desire and lust, but this is not sufficient to give satisfaction to the soul, for this [satisfaction] is derived from devotional service to the Personality of Godhead.”
What the purport teaches
- The yoga system can restrain the senses and relieve disturbances of desire. Yet restraint alone cannot give the soul the satisfaction that comes from devotional service.
- The senses need engagement and may seize opportunities for enjoyment when merely checked. Loving service to Mukunda engages them transcendentally and is more effective and practical.
- Pure devotional service is the foremost process for self-realization. Yoga and philosophical speculation are subordinate to it and cannot succeed without devotional service.
Try this today
Choose one sense-driven habit to pause today, and use that time for a small act of service to the Lord.
Ask yourself
How can I replace mere restraint with a positive act of service to the Lord?
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.