Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 1.9.12
Poṣaṇa· The Lord's protectionShelter Amid Injustice and Suffering
“Bhīṣmadeva said: Oh, what terrible sufferings and what terrible injustices you good souls suffer for being the sons of religion personified. You did not deserve to remain alive under those tribulations, yet you were protected by the brāhmaṇas, God and religion.”
What the purport teaches
- Bhīṣmadeva understood Mahārāja Yudhiṣṭhira’s distress and acknowledged the terrible injustice the Pāṇḍavas had suffered.
- The Pāṇḍavas were always protected by the brāhmaṇas, the Lord and religious principles. Bhīṣmadeva reminded them of this shelter to dispel their despondency.
- One who cooperates with the Lord’s wishes, accepts guidance from bona fide brāhmaṇas and Vaiṣṇavas, and follows religious principles has no cause for despondency, however trying life becomes.
Try this today
Recall one religious principle you have learned from genuine spiritual guidance, and consciously follow it in one decision today.
Ask yourself
When circumstances are difficult, how can I remember the shelter of the Lord and His genuine guides?
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.