Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 10.87.37
Āśraya· The supreme shelterTemporary Forms Depend on the Eternal Lord
“Since this universe did not exist prior to its creation and will no longer exist after its annihilation, we conclude that in the interim it is nothing more than a manifestation imagined to be visible within You, whose spiritual enjoyment never changes. We liken this universe to the transformation of various material substances into diverse forms. Certainly those who believe that this figment of the imagination is substantially real are less intelligent.”
What the purport teaches
- This world is called unreal because it is temporary. Before creation and after dissolution, the Supreme Lord, His abode and His entourage continue to exist.
- Objects made from clay or metal differ from their basic substance only in name and form. Similarly, the things of this world are transformations of the Lord’s energies, not ultimately separate from Him.
- There is no convincing evidence that material forms are eternal or substantial. Wisdom means recognizing their temporary nature rather than treating them as lasting reality.
Try this today
Look at one clay or metal object today. Reflect on how its form can change, while the Supreme Lord’s spiritual existence continues.
Ask yourself
Which temporary thing am I treating as though it could give me lasting security?
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.