Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 10.35.14-15
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesGreat Learning Bows Before Kṛṣṇa
“O pious mother Yaśodā, your son, who is expert in all the arts of herding cows, has invented many new styles of flute-playing. When He takes His flute to His bimba-red lips and sends forth the tones of the harmonic scale in variegated melodies, Brahmā, Śiva, Indra and other chief demigods become confused upon hearing the sound. Although they are the most learned authorities, they cannot ascertain the essence of that music, and thus they bow down their heads and hearts.”
What the purport teaches
- The words “your son, O chaste lady” show that mother Yaśodā is present as the gopīs earnestly describe Kṛṣṇa’s glories.
- Kṛṣṇa is expert in herding cows and has invented many styles of flute-playing. He brings forth varied melodies from the harmonic tones.
- Even the best collective intelligence in the universe cannot definitively analyze the Supreme Lord’s enchanting music. Brahmā, Śiva, Indra and the other chief demigods bow their heads and hearts.
Try this today
After reading these verses, bow your head and offer Kṛṣṇa a moment of heartfelt respect.
Ask yourself
How might the demigods’ response help you approach Kṛṣṇa with humility rather than a need to explain everything?
Carry the question through the day, then answer it in your own words before sleep.
From Canto 10, chapter 14 onward, the translation and purports were completed by Śrīla Prabhupāda's disciples after his departure, and published by the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust.