Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 11.17.40
Manvantara· The Manus and right dutyShared Duties and Qualified Spiritual Guidance
“All twice-born men — brāhmaṇas, kṣatriyas and vaiśyas — must perform sacrifice, study the Vedic literature and give charity. Only the brāhmaṇas, however, accept charity, teach the Vedic knowledge and perform sacrifice on behalf of others.”
What the purport teaches
- Brāhmaṇas, kṣatriyas and vaiśyas must perform sacrifice, study Vedic literature and give charity.
- Brāhmaṇas are specifically entrusted with teaching Vedic knowledge, performing sacrifices for others and accepting charity.
- The purport emphasizes the assistance of qualified brāhmaṇas in properly carrying out these duties. When kṣatriyas and vaiśyas take their guidance, society functions smoothly and efficiently.
Try this today
Spend a few minutes studying Vedic literature today, and note one question on which you need qualified guidance.
Ask yourself
How willing am I to seek qualified guidance in spiritual study and practice?
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.