Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 10.48.15-16
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesServe the Lord with Humble Care
“O King, Akrūra bathed the feet of Lord Kṛṣṇa and Lord Balarāma and then poured the bath water on his head. He presented Them with gifts of fine clothing, aromatic sandalwood paste, flower garlands and excellent jewelry. After thus worshiping the two Lords, he bowed his head to the floor. He then began to massage Lord Kṛṣṇa’s feet, placing them on his lap, and with his head bowed in humility he addressed Kṛṣṇa and Balarāma as follows.”
What the purport teaches
- Akrūra bathed the feet of Kṛṣṇa and Balarāma and poured the bath water on his head. His worship expressed deep reverence for the two Lords.
- He offered fine clothing, aromatic sandalwood paste, flower garlands and excellent jewelry. After worshiping Them, he bowed his head to the floor.
- Akrūra placed Kṛṣṇa’s feet on his lap and massaged them. With his head bowed in humility, he began to address Kṛṣṇa and Balarāma.
Try this today
Offer a flower to Kṛṣṇa today with a humble bow.
Ask yourself
What can I learn from the care and humility in Akrūra’s service?
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.